if i have wireless N router and only one usb wireless adapter is an "N" would that change my speed to 54 mbps?

Question

I have read somewhere that on a wireless N network, it would take the "slowest" speed (which is 54 mbps) if for example, you have 2 usb 54mbps wireless g adapters and 1 usb wireless N adapter. So, in effect, the "N" usb wireless adapter would only function at 54 mbps. Is this true?

I have read somewhere that on a wireless N network, it would take the "slowest" speed (which is 54 mbps) if for example, you have 2 usb 54mbps wireless g adapters and 1 usb wireless N adapter. So, in effect, the "N" usb wireless adapter would only function at 54 mbps. Is this true?

(I mean I have 3 separate computers all with wireless connections and I was planning to just buy 1 wireless 'N' usb adapter just to check the so called "300mbps". If the "N" would just revert to 54mbps, then its not worth to buy just 1...

Answer 1

Since the N standard really at this point isn't a finished standard, how the router will handle "mixed" signals is totally dependent on the manufacturer of the router. In most cases, the presence of a G signal will cause the router to slow down to G standard to accommodate the G connection. When the G clients are off and you are only using N clients then you will get the benefit of the higher speed!

I did read somewhere that there were a couple of N routers that would connect the clients at the designated speed which ever standard was connected and handle the speed on a per client basis. But I don't remember which ones these were, they were both well over the 200.00 US mark!

If it were me at this point, I would go full G and wait for the standard to be finished. That way compatibility is assured for all newer systems. A G router is cheap at this point.
Since nearly all internet is below 54mbs. you have to know that N only affects the local client to client speed not the internet speed!

Just an opinion but I haven't changed over yet for just these reasons.

Answer 2

Possiblity but It all depends on the location and setup where Wireless adapter N will be place. Do not be fool when product stated it can travel upto 300mbps. Possibilty solution away from walls this allow connectivity longer range. If you read the product it stated Range upto some amount feet. There lot of factors such building structure-concrete walls, or wireless phones, electricity between walls. All these reduces speed and range. Just think about it.
I do not recommend everything go wireless because hackers or unwanted access inside the network. Theses people will try to steal information from you without you knowing it.

Answer 3

I guess my first question is, why would you have all 3 plugged in at the same time? Your "N" usb adapter should be backwards compatible with G.

If you only have "one" USB adapter plugged in or enabled and its the "N" USB adapter, then you will get the maximum speed that your router combined with your environment allows. There may be other signals present causing you to lose over the air (OTA) speed but try to use only a single usb adapter unless you have to connect to other resources.

Answer 4

Yes you are correct