Brazil has introduced an important change to the regulatory treatment of wireless broadband local area network systems operating in the 6 GHz band. Through Acórdão nº 203 and Ato nº 10.400, ANATEL approved new Brazil 6 GHz requirements that restrict qualifying WAS/RLAN equipment to the 5.925–6.425 MHz sub-band.
The decision directly affects the technical framework used for conformity assessment of restricted-radiation radiocommunication equipment in Brazil. Manufacturers and certificate holders should therefore consider the new frequency limitations when planning certification and ongoing certificate maintenance.
Brazil 6 GHz Requirements Limit WAS/RLAN Operation
Acórdão nº 203 approves the revision of ANATEL’s technical conformity assessment requirements for the 6 GHz band. Specifically, the decision restricts equipment classified as Wireless Broadband Access Systems for Local Area Networks to the frequency range 5.925–6.425 MHz.
The regulatory change follows the updated Brazilian Frequency Allocation, Destination and Distribution Plan, or PDFF. According to the Acórdão, the 6.425–7.125 MHz sub-band has been designated for services of collective interest, including the Serviço Móvel Pessoal (SMP). ANATEL’s technical studies, including laboratory testing, field testing and simulations, identified relevant performance degradation in co-channel coexistence scenarios involving IMT and Wi-Fi systems.
However, the decision does not create a general prohibition covering every restricted-radiation device operating between 6.425 MHz and 7.125 MHz. ANATEL expressly states that the restriction applies to equipment classified as wireless broadband access systems for local networks.
Technical Requirements Updated by Ato nº 10.400
Ato nº 10.400 amends the technical conformity assessment requirements established under Ato nº 14.448/2017. The revised definitions for client equipment, very-low-power equipment, indoor access points and subordinate access points now reference operation within 5.925–6.425 MHz.
Additionally, systems operating in this frequency range must comply with updated technical conditions. For example, RMS spurious emissions and emissions outside the 5.925–6.425 MHz band are limited to a maximum EIRP power spectral density of -27 dBm/MHz.
The Ato also maintains specific restrictions for indoor and subordinate access points on oil platforms, cars, trains, vessels and aircraft, subject to the exception described for operation inside large aircraft above 10,000 feet.
March 1, 2027 Becomes the Key Compliance Date
Ato nº 10.400 entered into force upon publication, while ANATEL established March 1, 2027 as the date from which its application becomes mandatory.
Furthermore, equipment whose Technical Conformity Certificates remain valid beyond March 1, 2027 must adapt to the newly approved technical requirements when undergoing their periodic maintenance.
Consequently, certificate holders should review affected 6 GHz products and upcoming maintenance cycles before the mandatory application date. The published Ato confirms the need to comply with the revised technical requirements, although it does not specify in these documents a particular firmware declaration, OTA mechanism or laboratory delta-verification process.
What Manufacturers Should Consider
For manufacturers planning new products or maintaining existing ANATEL certifications, the regulatory change makes the 5.925–6.425 MHz operating range a central consideration for affected WAS/RLAN equipment.
Moreover, companies should evaluate certificate validity dates and determine which products will undergo periodic maintenance after March 1, 2027.
Navigating changes to frequency requirements and conformity assessment can directly affect certification planning and product launch timelines. Entirety’s Product Certification Service supports manufacturers in managing certification and market-access requirements across global markets.
Impact Assessment
- Technical Standards?
Yes - Type Approval & Market Access? Yes
- Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance?
No - Spectrum Management? Yes
