Wireless Home Networking Simplified

Summary

There are several important factors to consider when choosing your wireless standard, including compatibility, security levels supported, and the performance you expect.

B, G, and N devices are compatible with each other and offer the most opportunity for compatibility outside your network as well, at wireless hotspots.

Standard A equipment works only with other A equipment. Unless you have an explicit need for wireless A, avoid building out an A network.

If you have typical requirements for speed and range, a G network usually is sufficient. If you need extra speed inside your home for streaming video, heavy gaming, or other wireless applications, or you need significant extra range, then an N network is probably a better bet.