 Wireless Technology Comparison Chart
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Wireless Standard |
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802.11b |
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802.11a |
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802.11g |
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Popularity |
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Widely adopted. Readily available everywhere. |
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| New technology. Limited adoption. |
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| New technology. Limited adoption, but rapid
growth expected. |
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Speed |
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| Up to 11Mbps (note: cable modem service typically
averages no more than 4 to 5Mbps). |
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| Up to 54Mbps (5X greater than 802.11b). |
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| Up to 54Mbps (5X greater than 802.11b).
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Relative
Cost |
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Frequency |
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| Crowded 2.4GHz band. May conflict with other
2.4GHz devices like cordless phones, microwave ovens, etc.
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| Crowded 2.4GHz band. May conflict with other
2.4GHz devices like cordless phones, microwave ovens, etc.
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Range |
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| Good Range. Typically up to 100-150 feet
indoors, depending on construction, building materials, room
layout. |
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| Limited range. Typically no more than 25 to 75 feet indoors.
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| Good Range. Typically up to 100-150 feet
indoors, depending on construction, building materials, room
layout. |
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Public
Access |
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| The number of public "Hot Spots"
is growing rapidly, allowing wireless connectivity in many airports,
hotels, college campuses, public areas, and restaurants. |
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| Compatible with current 802.11b "Hot
Spots" (at 11Mbps). Also, it is expected that most 802.11b
"Hot Spots" will quickly convert to 802.11g. |
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Compatibility |
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802.11b |
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802.11a |
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| Incompatible with 802.11b or 802.11g.
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802.11b
802.11g |
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| Interoperates with 802.11b networks (at 11Mbps).
Incompatible with 802.11a. |
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