802.11n

[Mr. MacBook]

How does the 802.11n card work in a Mac?

I know i have the core duo model, but my friend has core 2 and is wondering.


I looked at specifications on the apple site, it says 802.11g.

Oh, do you need a specific type of router or something to use it?

 

[WildCowboy]

Your friend needs to purchase the 802.11n enabler and apply it to his machine. He will then be able to access the faster "n" speeds on any wireless router/access point (such as the new AirPort Extreme base station) he connects to.

 

[Mr. MacBook]

Oh... really?

I thought 802.11n was just an advanced wireless card for any router(like it gives longer range and faster speeds on any wireless network)

 

[matticus008]

Oh... really?

I thought 802.11n was just an advanced wireless card for any router(like it gives longer range and faster speeds on any wireless network)

No, 802.11n requires an 802.11n router (or peer connection). If you have an 802.11g network, there will be no benefit. Network speeds have to be matched to card speeds for optimal performance. You can usually use a lower standard (e.g. 802.11b on a g network) if enabled at your router, at the expense of higher overall latency for all users.

If possible, you should use the same network standard across the board. If you have an 802.11g router, adding a computer with an 802.11n card will not be a problem. But if you have an 802.11n router and leave b/g compatibility modes on unnecessarily, you will suffer a slight performance penalty (but unless you have all n-capable hardware, you have no alternative).