Differences in Wireless Technologies
Your family has recently decided to purchase a laptop. One of the things that is most exciting is that you will now have the ability to connect to the internet wirelessly! You go to your local computer store and are taken aback by the amount of Wireless technologies there seems to be. It is like a alphabet puzzle with Wireless B, Wireless G, and Wireless N technologies all available. Here is some background information on the different wireless family standards:

Wireless B
Wireless B, or 802.11b, is a technology that is no longer produced. It was one of the first technologies to utilize wireless networking and wifi access. Although it is very inexpensive compared to more sophisticated technologies, it is also the slowest (11/Mbs) and covers the least amount of range.

Wireless G
Wireless G, or 802.11g, is considered to be the market standard. It is a significant upgrade to Wireless B in both speed (54/Mbs) and signal strength. It allows for fast internet access, high download speeds, and long distance coverage throughout a home or office network. Wireless G routers and networks card are relatively cheap and can be found at most local computer stores. It is also backwards compatible with Wireless B technology, although it will not run at its capable speed.

Wireless N
Wireless N, or 802.11n, is considered to the future of wireless technology. It is capable of produced speeds of up to 4 or 5 times faster than the its predecessor Wireless G. Speeds may vary but is quite possible to achieve transmission speeds of 100/Mbs. Because Wireless N routers and wireless cards have enhanced antennas, the coverage is unparalleled.
Which One is Right for Me?
When deciding which technology to equip your home network with you must consider a few things such as location and cost. If you have a relatively large home and only one router present, the Wireless N technology will certainly be the best fit. Of course, if you live in an apartment or a smaller home, the added signal coverage that Wireless N may offer may not be conducive to the price. All in all, it will come down to each individual consumer’s needs. As of right now, Wireless N technologies are appearing on store shelves across the country. All you have to do is determine if the added advantages warrant the added price.