We detect you are using an unsupported browser. For the best experience, please visit the site using Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. X
Maximize Your Experience: Reap the Personalized Advantages by Completing Your Profile to Its Fullest! Update Here
Stay in the loop with the latest from Microchip! Update your profile while you are at it. Update Here
Complete your profile to access more resources.Update Here!

Live Chat

Need Help?

Privacy Policy

Robust and Secure Wi-Fi® Modules and SoCs


Wi-Fi is one of the most widely used connectivity protocols, making it a good choice for IoT applications that need to transfer data to the cloud. Because Wi-Fi has been so widely adopted, the use cases and requirements are almost endless. To meet your diverse needs, we maintain a broad portfolio of Wi-Fi products that include:

  • Plug-and-play modules that offer optimal Radio Frequency (RF) performance and are controlled with simple text commands
  • Programmable modules that remove the need for RF expertise but allow for software customization
  • SoCs with robust performance that give you total control over your software stack 

Whether you're developing products for connected homes, smart cities or industrial automation, our Wi-Fi products are designed for seamless integration, enhanced security and robust connectivity.

Which Wi-Fi Product Type is Right for Your Project?


What is the difference between a Wi-Fi MCU, network controller and link controller? In short, they differ in functionality. To help you choose the right one, browse the tabs below to learn more about the benefits and applications for each.

Wi-Fi MCUs Provide Advanced Functionality

MCUs offer the most functionality by combining the capabilities of a microcontroller and a Wi-Fi module into a single integrated circuit. They provide the processing power and control capabilities necessary for managing and executing tasks, while also including Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Wi-Fi MCU chip is responsible for handling tasks such as data processing, storage and interacting with other peripherals, in addition to managing the Wi-Fi connection. It is commonly used in applications where a stand-alone device requires both processing capabilities and wireless connectivity, such as advanced IoT devices.

Wi-Fi MCUs Provide Advanced Functionality

Wi-Fi Plug-and-Play Modules Are the Easiest Way to Connect to the Cloud

Because they include a built-in network stack, plug-and-play modules function like network controllers with one major difference: plug-and-play Wi-Fi modules allow the device to send simple text (ASCII) commands to any MCU over UART.

As the name implies, plug-and-play devices require little to no wireless expertise or user setup. These easy-to-use modules eliminate the need for complex code, RF design, and antenna optimization and shorten the regulatory certification process. In short, they are the easiest way to add Wi-Fi to your design and create a secure cloud connection.

Wi-Fi Plug-and-Play Modules Are the Easiest Way to Connect to the Cloud

Wi-Fi Network Controllers Offer a Single-Chip Connectivity Solution

In terms of functionality, network controllers sit in the middle. Unlike MCUs, they do not support data processing or peripherals but do provide a single-chip solution for Wi-Fi connectivity and network management.

Because they handle networking functions like discovery, channel selection, data routing and security, they are a good option for connecting to SAM or PIC® MCU with minimal resource requirements. Network controllers are a good fit for applications where you already have an MCU and want to add Wi-Fi connectivity.

Wi-Fi Network Controllers Offer a Single-Chip Connectivity Solution

Wi-Fi Link Controllers Allow for Greater Customization

When compared to other Wi-Fi devices, link controllers are the simplest. They send and receive Wi-Fi signals but unlike network controllers, they do not have an on-board network stack. The network control functions are handled by an attached MCU or microprocessor (MPU).

Don’t be fooled by their simplicity—link controllers are often faster and cost less than network controllers and MCUs. They are the easiest and most cost-effective option for adding Wi-Fi to an advanced processor.

Our link controllers support RTOS and Linux® Operating System (OS), making them a good fit for industrial applications that are cost sensitive or require high data transfer speeds.

Wi-Fi Link Controllers Allow for Greater Customization

Why Choose Microchip for Embedded Wi-Fi?


Robust Wireless Icon

Wi-Fi Made Easy

When you choose one of our products, you get more than hardware. We also provide a comprehensive support including demos and design check services.

Robust Performance Icon

Robust Performance

Whether it’s noise, interference or temperature, our Wi-Fi products are built to thrive in all conditions. They are temperature tolerant and provide stable RF performance regardless of the conditions.

Interoperability Icon

Interoperability

In our lab, we test our products for against hundreds of Access Points (APs), providing you with confidence that your product will work wherever it’s deployed. Learn more about interoperability.

Wireless Security Icon

Security

We continuously improve our firmware with additional features and functions while keeping your designs protected from the latest security threats.

Demo and Evaluation Boards


Part Number: Quantity: Price per Unit (in USD): Total Amt:
EV68D28A

This full featured development board supports system level prototyping and makes it easy to create peripheral rich designs with IoT cloud connectivity and voice control.

EV72E72A

The RNWF02 Add-on Board makes it easy to add Wi-Fi® and connect your prototype to the cloud.. It is a low-cost platform that demonstrates the plug-and-play capability of the RNWF02PC module.

EV68G27A

The WINCS02 Add-on Board is easy to set up and connect to the cloud through a SPI-to-Wi-Fi interface. It demonstrates the capability of the WINCS02PC network controller module.

WILCS02 M.2 Wi-Fi Module Card

The WILCS02 Wi-Fi Link Controller M.2 Module Card adds is a compact platform for adding 802.11 b/g/n connectivity to a MPU using a M.2 interface over SDIO or SPI.

Design Resources


Wi-Fi to Cloud Demo

Plug-and-Play to Azure IoT Central

Create a secure connection to the platform in minutes using plug-and-play Wi-Fi modules. This demo shows how easy it can be to connect to the cloud. 

AIoT for Industry 4.0 Demo

AIoT Solutions for Industry 4.0

Apply the concepts of Industry 4.0 and learn how to build a secure and reliable Wi-Fi sensor network that controls a robot.

Wi-Fi Bridging Solutions for Industrial Applications

Wi-Fi Bridging Solutions

Explore our Wi-Fi bridging solutions, turn-key application examples and the tools you need to get your prototype up and running.

Matter Over Wi-Fi Lighting Control Demo

Connect to the Cloud Using Matter Over Wi-Fi

This demo walks you through building an application that controls a light via smart phone. It also covers setting up voice control and a cloud connection.

Wireless Documentation Icon

Wi-Fi Resource Library

Browse our library of resources to learn Wi-Fi fundamentals and how to implement them with MPLAB® Harmony.

Code Examples Icon

Wi-Fi Demos and Example Code

Explore our growing library of application examples and documentation and videos available through GitHub.

Design Validation Icon

Design Check Service

Our MicroCHECK design service is available at no charge to customers who have selected our wireless devices for their applications.