Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the different types of wireless network technologies?
A: Currently there are three options: 802.11b, 802.11a, and 802.11g. The sections below compare these technologies.
| Option |
Speed |
Pros |
Cons |
| 802.11b |
Up to 11 megabits per second (Mbps) |
- Costs the least.
- Has the best signal range.
|
- Has the slowest transmission speed.
- Allows for fewer simultaneous users.
- Uses the 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) frequency (the same as many microwave ovens, cordless phones, and other appliances), which can cause interference.
|
| 802.11a |
Up to 54 Mbps |
- Has the fastest transmission speed.
- Allows for more simultaneous users.
- Uses the 5 GHz frequency, which limits interference from other devices.
|
- Costs the most.
- Has a shorter signal range, which is more easily obstructed by walls and other obstacles.
- Is not compatible with 802.11b network adapters, routers, and access points.
|
| 802.11g |
Up to 54 Mbps |
- Has a transmission speed comparable to 802.11a under optimal conditions.
- Allows for more simultaneous users.
- Has the best signal range and is not easily obstructed.
- Is compatible with 802.11b network adapters, routers, and access points.
|
- Uses the 2.4 GHz frequency so it has the same interference problems as 802.11b.
- Costs more than 802.11b.
|
If you have more than one wireless network adapter in your computer or if your adapter uses more than one standard, you can specify which adapter or standard to use for each network connection. For example, if you have a computer that you use for streaming media, such as videos or music, to other computers on your network, you should set it up to use the 802.11a connection, if available, because you will get a faster data transfer rate when you watch videos or listen to music.
Note: This information provided by Microsoft.
