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IEEE 802.11ac: A Better Wireless LAN

Let’s face it, no matter the setting (business, institution, retail, manufacturing, etc), wireless has become a ubiquitous part of everyday life.  Not only do your employees and customers expect Wi-Fi, but they expect it to be flawless.  That can be tough when every person is using not just one, but several wireless devices from laptops to tablets to smartphones.  And what’s more, each device requires more bandwidth than ever before.

In addition to personal devices, a growing number of business applications such as physical security (CCTV, intrusion, card access), digital signage and conferencing compete for bandwidth and priority to stream voice, data, and video.

Networks are inundated with constant demands.  Traditional WLAN networks simply aren’t prepared to handle the onslaught.


The New Standard

Throughout 2013, 802.11ac wireless networks will become the new standard for fast Wi-Fi connectivity.  Tablets and smartphones will quickly adopt 802.11ac capabilities, and the next generation of wireless devices will be upon us.


Better, Faster, Stronger

802.11ac significantly builds upon the current WLAN standard, 802.11n.  The major features of 802.11ac are explained below.

A robust new system, 802.11ac improves upon every aspect of 802.11n wireless.  The chart below highlights the key differences between the two systems.

*assumes 80 MHz channel


Embracing New Technologies

802.11ac is the next jump forward for wireless technology.  It will be able to keep up with the growing trends of higher client density, increasing demands, more devices, more applications, and the desire for faster speeds.

Here at Activo, we are looking forward to the advances in wireless technologies, and are proud to be at the forefront of progress in connectivity.

Partnered and certified with two of the industry’s leading providers of wireless technology, Aruba Networks and Meru Networks, we can provide the upgrades and installations needed to deploy 802.11ac networks and bring your wireless up to speed as technology advances.

If you’re looking to invest in wireless technology within the next 6 months, it’s also important to consider an Investment Protection Plan, offered by the leading manufacturers, providing a cost effective migration path to 802.11ac.

The best way to start with any upgrade or new installation is with a Wireless Site Survey, where we employ state-of-the-art testing technology to assess, your building environment, existing wireless network and any existing and potential interfering RF signals.  The site survey report includes detailed results and recommendations for the most effective design and technology to meet your current and future Wi-Fi requirements.

Contact us for more information about implementing the latest wireless advances in your workplace.

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