The days of navigating the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands without a dedicated test standard are numbered. On February 10, 2025, IFETEL published Disposición Técnica IFT-017-2023. This crucial standard for WLAN devices will officially become mandatory starting November 7, 2025.
From Expert Opinion to Standardized Testing
For years, gaining market access for devices in these higher frequency bands often meant a “Type B Homologation.” This process relied on a technical review by an authorized expert, or “perito,” in the absence of a formal test standard.
IFT-017-2023 changes the game. It introduces a formal, unified framework with specific technical specifications and test methods for all radiocommunication systems using digital modulation in the following bands:
- 5150-5250 MHz
- 5250-5350 MHz
- 5470-5600 MHz
- 5650-5725 MHz
- 5725-5850 MHz
- 5925-6425 MHz
What Happens to My Existing Certificates?
- No Immediate Invalidation: Your existing Type B and Type C Homologation Certificates (CoHs) are not instantly voided. They will remain valid under the terms they were issued.
- The Two-Year Renewal is Key: These certificates are typically valid for two years. To achieve indefinite validity, a review was required.
- The New Rule for Indefinite Validity: If your certificate’s two-year review date falls before November 7, 2025, you can proceed with the old “perito” review. However, if your review is due after the enforcement date, you will need to demonstrate compliance through testing to the new IFT-017-2023 standard to obtain indefinite validity. Certificates that have already been granted indefinite validity will maintain it.
Transition
As IFT-017-2023 steps into the spotlight, it will also officially replace the digital modulation portions of the older IFT-008-2015 standard for the 5725-5850 MHz band.
Any homologation applications started before the November 7 enforcement date will be finalized under the old procedures. However, all new applications submitted on or after this date must meet the requirements of IFT-017-2023.
