Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) NetworkingNetworking FundamentalsMedium
A network administrator is setting up a new wireless network in a large warehouse. Due to the presence of many metal shelves and machinery, there are significant issues with signal attenuation and dead zones. Which wireless standard would be the most appropriate choice to help mitigate these issues by utilizing technologies like beamforming and MIMO, and operating in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands?
- A802.11a
- B802.11n
- C802.11ac
- D802.11g
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 802.11n
802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) was the first standard to introduce Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) and beamforming, which significantly improve signal reliability and range, especially in environments with obstacles. It also operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, offering flexibility. While 802.11ac is faster, 802.11n provides the key technologies mentioned for signal improvement.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 802.11a (5 GHz only) does not include MIMO or beamforming and is less effective at penetrating obstacles.
- C. 802.11ac (5 GHz only) offers higher speeds but focuses primarily on speed and uses MIMO, but 802.11n is the first to combine dual-band, MIMO, and beamforming for range/reliability in specific scenarios like this.
- D. 802.11g (2.4 GHz only) does not include MIMO or beamforming and is prone to interference in the 2.4 GHz band.
802.11n (Wi-Fi 4)
IEEE 802.11n is a wireless networking standard (Wi-Fi 4) that significantly improved upon previous standards by introducing MIMO, beamforming, and support for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, enhancing throughput and range.
- Introduced MIMO (Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) technology.
- Introduced beamforming for directed signal transmission.
- Operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
- Maximum theoretical throughput of up to 600 Mbps.
Memory trick: N for 'Nifty Networks' with better reach.