Conclusion
As we reach the end of our journey, it's time to wrap up our thoughts. For SOHO and prosumer audiences in search of a business-grade wireless solution, the ECW536 Cloud 7 access point stands out. Its extended WiFi range is a notable highlight, along with a robust cloud-based management suite that simplifies operations. This device doesn't just perform; it excels, offering the possibility to fine-tune settings for even better coverage. Specifically, by tweaking the 6 GHz band, we found it possible to achieve impressive distances of up to 10 meters, even through obstacles. By the way, if you place your AP in the middle of your house on the ceiling that valued range then is 20 meters (10 to the left, 10 to the right and the same goes for upwards and downwards. While the 6 GHz band shows considerable promise with manual adjustments, remember that for broader coverage, the device will switch to the more common 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands. Nonetheless, the 6 GHz performance exceeded our expectations, showcasing the ECW536's potential when optimized.
If you work primarily on a PC or are a gamer and have that new WIFI7 compatible WLAN nic, then just hook into the 6 GHz frequency, enable MLO and make sure you activate 320 channels on that frequency. In the same room, you can achieve the results when above, but at the room next door you'll still be hovering in a 1500-2000 Mbps range. The product we tested of course is the 4x4x4 Cloud 7 flagship, and it certainly is proceed like a flagship at $1100 and similar prices in euros, a 2x2 version will also become available hopefully at better prices.
Final words
We believe EnGenius is offering additional weight thanks to the free usage of their cloud-based software suite; nonetheless, a licence for some advanced features is required. But in all reality, all you need is available for free already. Everything you have seen in this review is based on that free cloud suite. Security is an important thing for Engenius, the ECW536 features a Bluetooth antenna and an extra radio that is used to scan the region for both dangerous devices and to figure out how to improve the network. Once up and running, the device automatically upgraded its firmware, following which it presented us with so many monitoring options that we were perplexed. Once it's up and running, you'll never look back. I certainly appreciate the expanded WIFI range the AP brings. In our last WIFI6E AP review I write that whether or not I deem the 6 GHz band very important is another question. But after what we've seen today, well that is an argument that lies in the past. With 320 channels you're bound to see incredible performance values.
A word of advice, the AP seems to default towards a lower channel frequency; you should adjust the SSID settings for the 6Ghz radio to enable the 320MHz channel width. For the 5 GHz frequency opt 80 and for 2.4 Ghz configure 40 channels. After that, we breached 3 Gbps on shorter ranges, and even at 7 meters passing walls, we'd sit at 1500+ Mbps at seven meters. So yes, the hardware is sound but the configuration will require some exercise and expertise. Power consumption surprised us positively as well, when peaking with heavy congestion, you're looking at ~18 Watts power consumption. However, we're using it in a low-usage (wifi) office.
While I find the AP's $1,199.00 MSRP very steep, this product truly stands out in terms of performance, delivering exceptional WiFi coverage across all available frequencies. EnGenius has become a key player in our network setup, replacing our older switches and APs, and I've grown to appreciate its reliability. However, I must admit there's a significant learning curve when navigating the cloud-based interface—you need to know your stuff. But hey, you're a guru right. The EnGenius ECW536 is a top-tier access point that leverages the 5 and 6GHz band to push speeds beyond 2 and 3 Gbps at reasonable distance. This is especially beneficial for 6G-capable devices, helping ease the congestion on the crowded 2.4 and 5GHz band. While it's hard to say if small to medium businesses or private users are ready to make WIFI7 just because of the cost we do have to admit hat we feel it is pleasing and exciting us. For a small office owner the ECW536 is definitely worth considering if you're in a position to upgrade. We plan to continue using this device to test WiFi6E and WIFI7 adapters and motherboards, as the ECW536 has set an incredibly high benchmark for WiFi performance— and is an absolutely amazing piece of hardware.
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