Quantum-safe Wi-Fi needs both ends.

You upgrade every access point in the building.

Do the laptops connecting to them get the same protection?

In its November 9, 2026 networking update, Cisco detailed plans to introduce post-quantum protection over the air across its Wi-Fi 7 access point portfolio starting in January 2027.

The announced approach pairs Qualcomm-powered access points with compatible Intel Wi-Fi hardware and drivers, plus Microsoft Windows support on the device side. January is Cisco’s stated rollout target.

My takeawayMake device compatibility part of your next wireless purchase.

• Inventory the devices on your most sensitive networks.
• Ask vendors which combinations of access point, device hardware, driver, and operating system they support.
• Pilot with a mix of new and older devices. Verify which connections use the new protection and what happens when a device lacks support.

The measure I’d bring to a leadership review: how many priority devices connect with the intended protection enabled?