Wireless Networking Is Due For A Big Jump In Performance

Just when we were getting comfortable with the 802.11n wireless standard, here comes a newer and better wireless solution - 802.11ac.  It will probably become the new standard in late 2013.



802.11ac is a brand new, soon-to-be-ratified wireless networking standard under the IEEE 802.11 protocol. It is the latest in a long line of protocols dating back to 1999.  Here's a brief recap of the previous wireless standards.

• 802.11b performed at up to 11 Mb/s per radio (1999)
• 802.11a jumped to 54 Mb/s per radio but wouldn't talk to the "b" standard and is generally not used anymore (1999)
• 802.11g provided up to 54 Mb/s per radio with the same range of 802.11b.  It's still used a lot!
• 802.11n kicked up throughput speeds to 600 Mb/s per radio and is the current standard.  It will talk to older standards devices but at their slower speeds.
• 802.11ac improves transport speed significantly to up to 1000 Mb/s

(Slide courtesy of Meru Networks)

What does this mean to your business?
The improvements of the new devices using this standard include better software, better radios and better antenna technology.  The improvement that has everyone excited is the huge increase in data throughput. Theoretically, it puts Wi-Fi on par with gigabit wired connections.

Another improvement is a feature call Multi-User MIMO. Before, radios could only talk to one client at a time. Now, two or more conversations can happen concurrently, reducing latency(lag).

If you're installing wireless in your business or upgrading you should be aware of the capabilities of this impending standard and plan your purchases accordingly.

Will you be compatible?
Relax, the new wireless standard will support older technology devices for the most part.  You just won't be able to perform at the better speeds if you're got a notebook that has an older adapter in it.  Keep in mind that mixing new and old equipment will give you mixed results as the systems will dumb themselves down to the lower standard when talking to each other.

However, if you're thinking of building a new wireless network or planning a major upgrade, this upcoming technology is something that should be on your radar.

A Word of Caution
While new wireless access points have begun to appear on the market, there aren't a lot of manufacturers putting the newer standard network adapters into their notebooks and other portable devices yet.  Plan your implementations of this new standard carefully.

Need help designing your new wireless network, call 847-639-7000 or e-mail security@act4networks.com to talk to an ACT Network Solutions advisor today.

If you'd like another article to read on the subject go to:
http://www.techradar.com/us/news/networking/wi-fi/802-11ac-what-you-need-to-know-1059194