Exploring 802.11a & 802.11g: Frequency & Packet Size

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In summary, the main reason for the difference in permeability between 802.11a and 802.11g is the different frequencies they operate in. The 2.4GHz band used by 802.11g has less attenuation compared to the 5GHz band used by 802.11a. This is because as frequency increases, the ability to penetrate objects decreases. This is similar to visible light being unable to penetrate even thin paper due to its high frequency.
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jastewart
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I am looking into why 802.11a does not permeate as well as 802.11g. I know that they are different freq. Does this mean a different cell size per packet as well?
 
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Almost all of the extra range comes from the different frequencies, the 2.4GHz band that 802.11g operates in attenuates significantly less than the 5GHz band that 802.11a operates in. As frequency increases (wavelength decreases) the ability to penetrate objects goes down (generally, some exceptions).

As an extreme example, visible light is the same stuff as wifi signals (EM radiation), yet is unable to penetrate even thin paper due to its extremely high frequency.
 
  • #4
RFMatt said:
Almost all of the extra range comes from the different frequencies, the 2.4GHz band that 802.11g operates in attenuates significantly less than the 5GHz band that 802.11a operates in. As frequency increases (wavelength decreases) the ability to penetrate objects goes down (generally, some exceptions).

As an extreme example, visible light is the same stuff as wifi signals (EM radiation), yet is unable to penetrate even thin paper due to its extremely high frequency.
Thank you! Excellent!
 

1. What is the difference between 802.11a and 802.11g?

802.11a and 802.11g are both wireless networking standards, but they operate on different frequencies. 802.11a uses a frequency of 5 GHz, while 802.11g uses 2.4 GHz. This results in 802.11a having a higher data transfer rate, but a shorter range compared to 802.11g.

2. Why is frequency important in wireless networking?

The frequency used in wireless networking determines the range and speed of the network. Higher frequencies have a shorter range but can transmit data at a faster rate. Lower frequencies have a longer range but a slower data transfer rate.

3. How does packet size impact wireless networking?

The size of a packet refers to the amount of data that is transmitted at once. Larger packet sizes allow for more data to be transmitted, resulting in faster data transfer rates. However, larger packet sizes also increase the likelihood of errors and can cause slower network speeds if the data needs to be retransmitted.

4. Can devices using 802.11a and 802.11g communicate with each other?

Yes, devices using different wireless networking standards can communicate with each other as long as they are connected to the same network. However, the device with the slower standard may experience slower data transfer rates.

5. How does interference affect 802.11a and 802.11g networks?

Interference from other electronic devices can disrupt wireless networks, causing slower data transfer rates or even disconnection. 802.11a networks are less susceptible to interference since they operate on a higher frequency, which is less crowded. However, 802.11g networks can be more easily affected by interference due to their lower frequency.

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