AC and N in the World of Wi-Fi
2. Wi-Fi Standards
Here's where things get interesting, especially if you're setting up a home network or shopping for a new router. In the Wi-Fi world, "N" (or 802.11n) refers to an older Wi-Fi standard. It was a big deal back in the day, offering faster speeds and better range than its predecessors. It was the hero of its time, fighting against lag and buffering!
"AC" (or 802.11ac), on the other hand, is a newer and faster standard. It utilizes something called "dual-band" technology, meaning it can operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. The 5 GHz band is generally less congested, leading to faster and more reliable connections. Think of it as choosing the express lane on the highway!
Generally, a router that supports AC is superior to one that only supports N. However, to truly benefit from AC, your devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.) also need to support the AC standard. If your device only supports N, it will connect to an AC router, but only at the speeds that N allows. It's like having a Ferrari but only driving it on a dirt road. You're not getting the full potential!
Keep in mind that newer standards are coming out all the time, like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 6E. Technology marches on! When looking at your devices, always look at the latest generation Wi-Fi they can support.
