Need Help with Understanding 802.11n, and what Router to Choose

[andreab35]

Hey guys!

Alright, here are the devices in my house that use the internet:
- MacBook Air Rev. B (802.11n)
- 2 iPhones (1 1st. gen, and 1 3G)
- 1 Wii
- One USB printer (Canon Pixima MP480)
- One Gateway M275 Laptop (802.11g)
- One Emachines desktop (connects via ethernet)

Now, I've noticed a complete slowdown on internet connection, especially when my MacBook Air is wirelessly connected. When the MacBook Air is connected, everything comes to a complete drag in performance.
I currently have an Actiontec router that was supplied to me by Verizon DSL. Now I'm thinking that it can't handle all my devices in my home anymore. The router supports, a/b/g . The Gateway is a g wireless connection.

Now, is is the complete slowdown on my wireless network because of my MacBook Air, just because it has 802.11n technology? Because when I shut my Air off, the laptop and everything else is back to normal. Even my MacBook Air wireless speeds are extremely sluggish.

So, I think I will be buying a new router. It is either between the choice of an Airport Base station that plugs into the wall, or an Airport Extreme.

Which do you recommend? I was chatting online with an Apple Store representative and they recommended the Airport Extreme.

I just want to make sure I'm making the right move here so I do not purchase a router for nothing.

Thanks for all the advice! I really appreciate it a lot!

 

[crazzyeddie]

Airport Extreme.

Since you have a wired computer and a printer, the Airport Extreme will allow you to connect these devices. The printer will be shared over the network to all of your computers.