What Is the 802.11b Standard?

Wireless networking, commonly referred to as Wi-Fi, is a one-size-fits-all term that encompasses many different types of wireless data connections. 802.11b is the most common, and like the other variations, it comes with its own specifications.

Function

802.11b is a popular variant of the 802.11 standard that's often used in places like cafés, airports, and homes. It allows people to access local networks and the Internet without a physical data cable.

Features

802.11b is an HR-DSSS spread spectrum technique, also known as High Rate Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum. It passes 1Mbps, 2Mbps, 5.5Mbps, or 11 Mbps in the 2.4-GHz band, but it nearly always runs at the highest speed.

Expert Insight

802.11b is not a followup to 802.11a. The former actually was approved as a standard first. While slower than 802.11a, its range is about seven times greater.

Considerations

Due to the popularity of the 2.4-GHz band, 802.11b network connections may experience interference with cordless phones, microwaves, and baby monitors.

Fun Fact

Not entirely fun, but it's a fact: unauthorized use of a wireless connection, such as 802.11b, is called "piggybacking" and it's illegal in many states.

References

• Tanenbaum, Andrew S. ""Wireless LANS." Computer Networks. Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall PTR, 2003. 292-295.
• IEEE Standards