802.11ac: 7 Important Things You Should Know

As technology continues to evolve, so does the world of wireless connectivity. One significant advancement in recent years is the introduction of the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard. With its improved speed, range, and overall performance, 802.11ac has become the go-to choice for many individuals and businesses alike. In this article, we will explore some frequently asked questions about it to help you understand its features and benefits.

What is 802.11ac?

802.11ac, the succeeding Wi-Fi standard to 802.11n (the preceding Wi-Fi standard), provides WLANs with increased throughput. It was introduced by the IEEE in 2013. To establish its relation to the subsequent generation, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), the Wi-Fi Alliance rebranded 802.11ac as Wi-Fi 5. Wi-Fi 5 offers faster wireless speeds, improved capacity, and better overall performance compared to its predecessors. With support for higher data rates and wider channels, it enables more efficient and reliable wireless connectivity.

How Does 802.11ac Work?

Wi-Fi 5 uses several new technologies to improve performance over 802.11n:

• Increased spatial streams: While 802.11n utilized four spatial streams and 40-MHz channel widths for MIMO (multiple input, multiple output), 802.11ac employs eight spatial streams and wider channels of up to 80 MHz. This necessitates routers with multiple antennas to support MIMO, resulting in improved performance.

• Enhanced quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM): Wi-Fi 5 adopts 256 QAM, a significant upgrade from 802.11n's 64 QAM. This advancement enables 802.11ac to accommodate 256 signals on a single frequency through precise signal phasing. Theoretically, 802.11ac achieves four times the spectral efficiency of 802.11n.

• Beamforming: Unlike the conventional approach of transmitting signals in a 360-degree pattern, 802.11ac utilizes beamforming technology to transmit signals directionally. This is accomplished by employing multiple antennas on the router and adjusting their physical orientation for transmitting in specific directions. Beamforming enhances signal strength and coverage, contributing to improved overall performance.

Is 802.11ac Backward- and Forward-Compatible?

Each subsequent Wi-Fi standard incorporates and encompasses the functionality of its predecessors. Depending on the client hardware and network circumstances, Wi-Fi 5 seamlessly interacts with 802.11n and earlier versions of the 802 standard when required. This compatibility is not limited to the past; it extends into the future as well. Wi-Fi 6, for instance, maintains backward compatibility with 802.11ac, ensuring that performance adheres to the older standard.

How Fast Is the 802.11ac Standard?

Theoretical maximum internet speeds do not indicate real-world performance as they are based on ideal conditions without accounting for potential interference. In the case of 802.11ac, it has a theoretical maximum speed ranging from 1,300 Mbps (1.3 Gbps) to 2,300 Mbps (2.3 Gbps), making it the first Wi-Fi standard capable of achieving gigabit speeds instead of megabit speeds like 802.11n. However, the actual speed experienced in practical settings depends on various factors.

In reality, the speed of a Wi-Fi connection is subject to fluctuations due to environmental factors. Obstacles such as walls, doors, furniture, and building materials can interfere with the signal strength, leading to a decrease in speed.

According to Forbes, the fastest recorded real-world 802.11ac speeds reach approximately 720 Mbps (0.72 Gbps), whereas the maximum speed recorded for 802.11n was 240 Mbps (0.24 Gbps). While it is true that Wi-Fi 5 is three times faster than the previous generation (Wi-Fi 4), the actual speeds observed are significantly lower than the theoretical values.

What Are the Advantages of 802.11ac Over 802.11n?

• Faster Speeds: With its wider channels and advanced modulation, 802.11ac provides faster data rates, allowing for smoother streaming, faster downloads, and better overall performance.

• Improved Range: The use of MIMO technology and beamforming in 802.11ac enhances signal coverage, extending the range of Wi-Fi networks and reducing dead zones.

• Enhanced User Experience: The increased capacity and improved performance of 802.11ac enable multiple devices to connect simultaneously without sacrificing speed or performance. This is especially beneficial in environments with numerous connected devices, such as homes or offices.

How Does 802.11ac Differ From Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) presents a substantial enhancement compared to 802.11ac, delivering advancements across all performance metrics and introducing supplementary technologies.

What Will Come After 802.11ac?

The continual evolution of WiFi standards aims to enhance the wireless local area network (WLAN) experience for all Internet of Things (IoT) devices. WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, represents the upcoming iteration of WiFi, further building upon and enhancing the features provided by WiFi 5. These improvements include faster wireless speeds, increased throughput, reduced latency, and expanded bandwidth.

Conclusion

802.11ac represents a significant leap forward in wireless connectivity, offering faster speeds, improved range, and enhanced performance. Understanding the advantages of 802.11ac can help you make informed decisions when upgrading your Wi-Fi network. By embracing this new standard, you can enjoy seamless streaming, faster downloads, and a more reliable wireless experience in your home or workplace.