Common Wireless Standards

Some things that every wireless network user should know about their network adapters. If you are planing to buy a new machine and you want wireless capabilities, we will explain everything water-clear to you.

Every wireless adapter works based on IEEE 802.11 standards. Which is just a collection of rules for the creators, so they have a structure to work from. There are many 802.11 standards, most of the letters of English alphabet, just Google it if you are interested. However, most home wireless adapters use only a few of these. Only two, two and a half, the third is not yet complete.

First standard came in 2000, that was 802.11b. It had transfer rates of 11 Mbps and range rate of around 35 meters (100ft) and was operating on 2.4 GHz frequency. It wasn't a lot but was the first wireless standard used in mainstream PCs. Just after tasting wireless, the world wanted more speed, so they came up with 802.11g.

Second mainstream standard - 802.11g came in 2003. It offered same range range and frequency as the previous standard, but had high 54 Mbps speeds. The two standards are almost the same, so adapter manufacturers combined them and most adapters today support both.

The third standard 802.11n, which has already been adopted by most wireless adapter manufacturing companies. New adapters that support 802.11n are already in the shops and they offer speeds of around 250 Mbps and ranges of around 60 meters (200ft). This standard should come out in 2010, but for now these specs are more than enough.

To get the most speed and range from these standards use hardware that supports the same standard or more. If your wireless router supports only g and your computer supports only b or vice-versa, don't expect higher speeds.

Wireless connectivity, speed and range depend on how clear is the space for the signal to pass from your router to your computer. Which means anything that any other waves or objects can interfere with the signal. Remember that cordless phones, microwaves and blue-tooth devices operate on the same 2.4 GHz frequency so, don't be surprised if your Internet disconnects when you are heating up your dinner or get a phone call.

Do read our post about wireless setup and protection here

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