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What’s the difference between 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a,
and Pre-N?
Currently there are four levels of wireless networking standards, which
transmit data at very different maximum speeds. Each is based on the
designation for certifying network standards. The most common wireless
networking standard, 802.11b, transmits information at 11Mbps; 802.11a
and 802.11g work at 54Mbps; and Pre-N works at 108Mbps. Pre-N, the
precursor to the upcoming 802.11n release, promises speeds that exceed
802.11g, and up to twice the wireless coverage area. See the following
chart for more detailed information.
Wireless Comparison Chart
Wireless
Technology
802.11b 802.11g 802.11a Belkin Pre-N
Speed* 11Mbps 54Mbps 54Mbps
600% faster
than standard
802.11g*
Frequency
Common
household
devices such
as cordless
phones and
microwave
ovens may
interfere with
the unlicensed
band 2.4GHz
Common
household
devices such
as cordless
phones and
microwave
ovens may
interfere with
the unlicensed
band 2.4GHz
5GHz—
uncrowded
band
Common
household
devices such
as cordless
phones and
microwave
ovens may
interfere with
the unlicensed
band 2.4GHz
Compatibility
Compatible
with 802.11g
Compatible
with 802.11b
Incompatible
with 802.11b or
802.11g
Compatible
with 802.11g or
802.11b
Coverage*
Depends on
interference—
typically 100–
200 ft. indoors
Depends on
interference—
typically 100–
200 ft. indoors
Interference
range is
typically
50–100 ft.
Up to 800%
wider coverage
than standard
802.11g*
Advantage
Mature—legacy
technology
Common—
widespread
use for Internet
sharing
Less
interference—
great for
multimedia
application
Leading edge—
best coverage
and throughput
*Distance and connection speeds will vary depending on your networking environment.