Bandwidth is a primary consideration where wireless protocols are concerned. The upcoming 802.11n, capable of actual throughput rates of over 200Mb/s, is capable of streaming high-definition video and audio. This development may be the final development that allows the entertainment industry to shift to wireless. WLAN is the obvious leader in this area.

Range is another important factor. Although it is nice to be able to walk around the house with a laptop without losing signal, the real range demand is for cellular devices. Because cellular phones do not require high-bandwidths, 3G has been very serviceable with ranges over a kilometer.

Thanks to incredibly high-bandwidth and improving range (current outdoor range is approximately three hundred meters), the 802.11 standard has become the wave of the wireless future.

References

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