Belkin Wireless G User Manual page 37

Troubleshooting
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
Speed
11Mbps
Common
household
devices such as
cordless phones
and microwave
ovens may
interfere with the
unlicensed band
2.4GHz
Compatible
with 802.11g
Depends on
interference—
typically
100–200 ft.
indoors
Mature—legacy
technology
*Distance and connection speeds will vary depending on your networking environment.
54Mbps
54Mbps
Common
household
devices such as
cordless phones 5GHz—
and microwave uncrowded
ovens may band
interfere with the
unlicensed
band 2.4GHz
Incompatible
Compatible
with 802.11b
with 802.11b
or 802.11g
Depends on
Less
interference—
interference-
typically typically
50-100 feet
100–200 ft.
indoors
indoors
Less
Common—
interference—
widespread
great for
use for Internet
multimedia
sharing
application
34 34
600% faster
than standard
802.11g*
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