Belkin F5D7234-4 Version 4xxx User Manual - Page 99

Troubleshooting Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 What is the difference between 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and Draft-N? Currently there are four levels of wireless networking standards, which transmit data at very different maximum speeds. Each is based on the designation 802.11(x), so named by the IEEE, the board that is responsible for certifying networking standards. The most common wireless networking standard, 802.11b, transmits information at 11Mbps; 802.11a and 802.11g work at 54Mbps; and Draft-N works up to 300Mbps. Draft-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 Draft-N Speed Frequency Compatibility Coverage Advantage 11Mbps 54Mbps 54Mbps 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 Compatible with 802.11g Compatible with 802.11b Incompatible with 802.11b or 802.11g Depends on interference- typically 100-200 ft. indoors Mature-legacy technology Depends on interference- typically 100-200 ft. indoors Common- widespread use for Internet sharing Interference range is typically 50-100 ft. Less interference- great for multimedia application Up to 300Mbps Common household devices such as cordless phones and microwave ovens may interfere with the unlicensed band 2.4GHz Compatible with 802.11g or 802.11b Up to 800% wider coverage than standard 802.11g Leading edge- best coverage and throughput Wireless G Router 97