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What's the difference between 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and
802.11n?
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 11 Mbps; 802.11a and 802.11g work at 54 Mbps; and Pre-N works at 108 Mbps. The
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.
*Distance and connection speeds will vary depending on your networking environment.
Specifications
Wireless
Technology
802.11b 802.11g 802.11a 802.11n
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-typicall
y 100-200 ft. indoors
Depends on
interference-typicall
y 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-widesprea
d use for Internet
sharing
Less interference-
great for multimedia
application
Leading edge- best
coverage and
throughput
Host Interface USB 2.0 interface
Power Consumption Tx/Re peak 510/250mA @ 3.3VDC (max.)
Operating Temperature 32 to 140° F (0 to 60° C)
Storage Temperature -4 to 176° F (-20 to 80° C)
Humidity Max. 90% (non-condensing)
Typical Operating Range 100–200 ft. (30–60 m) indoors