The new technology includes the following advantages:
- Higher effective data throughput 802.11n draft 2.0 includes a number of new mechanisms to significantly increase available bandwidth. Current wireless LAN standards based on 802.11a/g enable physical data rates (gross data rates) of up to 54 Mbps, which turn out to be approx. 22 Mbps net. Networks based on 802.11n currently achieve a gross data throughput of up to 300 Mbps (in reality approx. 120 to 130 Mbps net) – theoretically the standard defines up to 600 Mbps with four data streams. For the first time, maximum speeds exceed the 100 Mbps of cable-based Fast Ethernet networks, which are currently standard in most workplaces.
- Improved and more reliable wireless coverage The new 802.11n technologies do not just increase date throughput but bring about improvements in the range and reduce the wireless dead spots in existing a/b/g installations. This results in better signal coverage and improved stability for significantly better utilization of wireless networks, in particular for users in professional environments.
- Greater range Data throughput generally decreases when the distance between receiver and transmitter increases. The overall improved data throughput allows wireless LANs based on 802.11n to achieve greater ranges, as a significantly stronger wireless signal is received by the Access Point over a given distance than in 802.11a/b/g networks.