What Is 802.11 BG Wireless in a Compaq Presario Laptop?

A Compaq Presario with an 802.11b/g networking card has the ability to connect to wireless networks.

Most laptops have wireless network cards. Generally, those arriving on the market as of August 2010 will have either an 802.11b/g or 802.11b/g/n card. The Compaq Presario line of computers can have either card, which allows for connection to wireless networks.

Understanding 802.11b/g

A Compaq Presario with an 802.11b/g networking card has the ability to connect to wireless networks without the need to plug in an Ethernet cable. Indoors, the 802.11b/g card can detect wireless networks up to about 100 feet away. The outdoors range is quite a bit longer because there aren't as many signal disruptions, such as concrete walls.

Connecting to the Internet

When a computer has WiFi (wirelesss connection) ability through either an internal component, such as an 802.11 card or USB device, it will require the presence of a wireless network to get online. In the home setting, users will need to set up a wireless network via a wireless router.

Getting Better Connections

While 802.11b/g networking cards can provide a connection good enough for most people, the newer 802.11n protocol provides a considerable connection improvement with longer ranges and higher speeds. To use 802.11n, the computer must have a wireless card or USB device with 802.11b capability, and the wireless network being used must be using an 802.11n-capable router.

References

• Intel: PRO/Wireless Network Connection for Mobile Overview