The highest internet download speed possible with Cable and DSL is 3 Mbps. Why do I need more than the 54 Mbps my 802.11g router provides to handle such traffic?
While the throughput of Cable and DSL connections is limited to a maximum of 3 Mbps, devices connected within a network have the throughput capacity of the devices themselves. The 54 Mbps physical rate delivered by 802.11g and 802.11a devices is more than enough to support standard internet activities such as web browsing, email and average data transfers. However, 54 Mbps physical rate translates into 24 Mbps of actual end-user throughput. This throughput level is not capable of supporting simultaneous; high-bandwidth applications on a single network such as streaming of multiple HD video transmissions from a wireless media server to a set-top box. And, while many 802.11g and 802.11a networks offer good coverage, none can provide the robust connectivity and coverage required to operate high-bandwidth applications that extend to every room and corner of the home.
