Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has adopted an updated standard for Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) testing of 5 GHz Radio Local Area Network (RLAN) equipment, and the transition period has now ended. As of 20 July 2026, new certifications must use the updated standard, ETSI EN 301 893 V2.2.1 (2024-11).
For manufacturers of Wi-Fi and other 5 GHz wireless products destined for Canada, this is the point at which the older test standard can no longer be used for new certifications.
What Has Changed
Through Notice 2025-DRS0006, published on 10 September 2025, ISED adopted ETSI EN 301 893 V2.2.1 (2024-11) — the harmonised standard for 5 GHz WAS/RLAN access to radio spectrum — as the test method for demonstrating compliance with its DFS requirements.
The updated version provides additional guidance for client devices with radar detection. DFS is the mechanism that allows 5 GHz wireless devices to detect radar systems and automatically move to a different channel to avoid interference, which is why the test standard behind it matters for both compliance and real-world performance.
The Transition Has Now Ended
To give industry time to adjust, ISED applied a six-month transition period during which either the older ETSI EN 301 893 V1.8.1 (2015-03) or the new V2.2.1 (2024-11) could be used to demonstrate compliance with DFS requirements.
That transition period has now closed. From 20 July 2026, new certifications must use ETSI EN 301 893 V2.2.1 (2024-11). The older V1.8.1 version is no longer an accepted basis for new certification.
Where This Applies
The requirement sits under RSS-247, ISED’s standard for Digital Transmission Systems, Frequency Hopping Systems, and Licence-Exempt Local Area Network Devices, covering the 902–928 MHz, 2400–2483.5 MHz, 5150–5350 MHz, and 5470–5895 MHz bands.
Under RSS-247, ETSI EN 301 893 is accepted as an alternative to the FCC’s KDB 905462 procedure for DFS testing — except in the 5600–5650 MHz band, where ETSI EN 301 893 is the only accepted method. This makes the updated standard particularly significant for devices operating in or across that band.
Products that can fall within scope include wireless routers and access points, mesh networking equipment, IoT devices, and other equipment with 5 GHz wireless functionality.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Manufacturers and importers of 5 GHz RLAN equipment for the Canadian market should ensure that new certification applications are based on ETSI EN 301 893 V2.2.1 (2024-11), as the previous version is no longer accepted for new certifications.
In practical terms, this means confirming that your chosen test lab is evaluating DFS performance against the current version of the standard, and reviewing any products in your certification pipeline to ensure they are tested to the correct requirements. Aligning early avoids delays caused by testing to a superseded standard.
To read the official documentation, access below.
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV helps manufacturers and importers achieve global market access for radio and wireless products, including certification for the Canadian market via ISED. Our team can test your 5 GHz RLAN and DFS-enabled products against the current ETSI EN 301 893 V2.2.1 requirements, carry out the associated radio and EMC testing, and prepare the technical documentation needed for a smooth ISED certification process.
Have questions? We’re here to help.