With the best of broadband connections theoretically reaching 20-50 megabits a second (Verizon’s FIOS), the older “G” band technology, which is theoretically 54 Mbps, covers this span adequately. But clearly, the vast majority of people who have broadband (cable modem and DSL) don’t have anywhere near this capacity. The ranges are usually between 256 kilobits a second, roughly a quarter of a megabit, to 6 megabits a second. Yes, 256 Kbps is less common but I do run across this with customers who want wireless conectivity none the less. Again, the vast majority of customers just want to connect to their broadband wirelessly.

I do inform customers that it’s possible to share folders from other computers, share printers, music, etc. But, they just aren’t interested.

As far as cost is concerned, a popular and quality wireless “G” router that easily “gets it done” with capacity to spare, can be had for as little as $40 plus shipping. A quality wireless “N” router is more than twice that.

I agree that you do get more range with an “N” router using “N” wireless cards in a computer. However, I have setup a “G” in a 2500 square foot, multi-level home, where the router is located on the top most floor with an average throughput, in the basement, of 20 megabits per second. This was with an unmodified router using the packaged (attached) antennas. This still exceeded the 6 megabit cable modem throughput located at this home. Once you have reached the max capacity of your internet connection, you’ve reached it. Changing to “N” equipment doesn’t change that.

Regarding equipment. Wireless customers are vastly laptop customers. “G” wireless is usually the standard option. To add “N” costs more or isn’t available for pre-configured models. Yes, you can get an after market card or mini-pci but customers are going to use what they have.

Pertaining to the “N” ratification. It does and doesn’t matter. If you configure a setup that plays nicely at home, great. You’ll be able to get that theoretical 108 Mbps at home regardless of any changes to the standard because that setup is isolated. But, there are still compatibility issues between manufacturers now. Because of that, when you leave your home you may not be able to connect to other “N” networks for whatever reason. Sure, there

Also, when the “N” standard is finally ratified, there is no guarantee that the draft “N” and the ratified “N” will play nicely with each other.

Again, as Peter points out, unless you are sharing 100’s of megabytes or more between computers on a LAN, you don’t make a convincing argument as to why you need to go the “N” standard.

My Airport was decent with my old “G” laptop, but it lights up with my new Macbook Pro.

Jim A

Assuming a typical reader of this blog is mainly working on the web, why upgrade?

Just wait for 802.11n to become mainstream in PCs as well. By that time, you may notice the difference with faster internet connections.