Which three Wi-Fi standards operate in the 2.4GHz range of frequencies? (Choose three.)

The three Wi-Fi standards operating in the 2.4GHz frequency range are 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n. These standards offer varying speeds and compatibility. For more IT certification tips and study resources, visit Study4Pass.

Tech Professionals

10 April 2025

Which three Wi-Fi standards operate in the 2.4GHz range of frequencies? (Choose three.)

Introduction

Wi-Fi has become an essential part of modern networking, enabling wireless communication across various devices. The 2.4 GHz frequency band is one of the most commonly used ranges due to its widespread compatibility and decent range. Several Wi-Fi standards operate in this frequency band, each offering different speeds, ranges, and features.

For students preparing for Cisco certifications like CCNA, CCDA, CCENT, CCNA Security, and CCNA Wireless, understanding these standards is crucial. This article explores three key Wi-Fi standards that operate in the 2.4 GHz range, their characteristics, and their relevance in modern networking.

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IEEE 802.11b – The Early Standard

Overview

802.11b was one of the first widely adopted Wi-Fi standards, introduced in 1999. It operates exclusively in the 2.4 GHz band and provides a maximum theoretical speed of 11 Mbps.

Key Features

  • Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz
  • Max Data Rate: 11 Mbps
  • Range: Up to 150 feet (indoor), 300 feet (outdoor)
  • Modulation Technique: Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)

Advantages

  • Better range compared to higher-frequency standards.
  • Compatibility with older devices.

Disadvantages

  • Slow speeds compared to modern standards.
  • Susceptible to interference from other 2.4 GHz devices (microwaves, Bluetooth, etc.).

Relevance in Modern Networking

While 802.11b is largely obsolete, understanding it is essential for CCNA candidates as it lays the foundation for later Wi-Fi advancements.

IEEE 802.11g – The Enhanced Standard

Overview

Introduced in 2003802.11g improved upon 802.11b by offering higher speeds while maintaining backward compatibility. It also operates in the 2.4 GHz band.

Key Features

  • Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz
  • Max Data Rate: 54 Mbps
  • Range: Similar to 802.11b (~150 feet indoor)
  • Modulation Technique: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM)

Advantages

  • Higher speeds (54 Mbps vs. 11 Mbps of 802.11b).
  • Backward compatibility with 802.11b devices.

Disadvantages

  • Still prone to interference in the crowded 2.4 GHz spectrum.
  • Lower speed compared to 5 GHz standards.

Relevance in Modern Networking

802.11g is still found in some legacy devices, but newer standards like 802.11n and 802.11ac have largely replaced it.

IEEE 802.11n – The High-Speed Standard

Overview

802.11n (Wi-Fi 4), released in 2009, was a major leap forward in wireless technology. It operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, offering higher speeds and better reliability.

Key Features

  • Frequency Bands: 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz (dual-band)
  • Max Data Rate: Up to 600 Mbps (with multiple antennas)
  • Range: Better than 802.11g due to MIMO technology
  • Modulation Technique: Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO)

Advantages

  • Higher throughput due to MIMO and channel bonding.
  • Better signal strength and reduced dead zones.
  • Backward compatible with 802.11a/b/g.

Disadvantages

  • Interference issues in the 2.4 GHz band.
  • Not as fast as 802.11ac or Wi-Fi 6.

Relevance in Modern Networking

802.11n remains widely used in homes and businesses due to its balance of speed, range, and cost-effectiveness.

Comparison of 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Standards

Standard

Max Speed

Frequency Band

Key Technology

Backward Compatibility

802.11b

11 Mbps

2.4 GHz

DSSS

None

802.11g

54 Mbps

2.4 GHz

OFDM

802.11b

802.11n

600 Mbps

2.4 GHz & 5 GHz

MIMO

802.11a/b/g

Why Understanding These Standards is Important for Cisco Certifications?

For CCNA, CCNA Wireless, and other Cisco certifications, knowing these standards is crucial because:

  • Network Design (CCDA): Helps in selecting the right Wi-Fi standard for different environments.
  • Security (CCNA Security): Older standards like 802.11b have weaker encryption (WEP), making them vulnerable.
  • Troubleshooting (CCENT): Understanding interference and compatibility issues in the 2.4 GHz band.

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Conclusion

The 2.4 GHz frequency band hosts several Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n. Each has its advantages and limitations, making them suitable for different networking scenarios.

For Cisco certification aspirants, mastering these standards is essential for network design, security, and troubleshooting. If you're preparing for CCNA, CCNA Wireless, or other Cisco exams, leverage high-quality resources from Study4Pass to ensure success.

By understanding these Wi-Fi standards, you’ll be better equipped to design, secure, and optimize wireless networks an essential skill for any networking professional.

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Actual Exam Questions For Cisco's 200-301 Test Practice

Sample Questions For Cisco 200-301 Exam

1. Which of the following Wi-Fi standards operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range? (Choose three.)

A) 802.11a

B) 802.11b

C) 802.11g

D) 802.11n

E) 802.11ac

2. Which three Wi-Fi standards use the 2.4 GHz band?

A) 802.11ax

B) 802.11b

C) 802.11g

D) 802.11n

E) 802.11ad

3. The 2.4 GHz frequency range is supported by which IEEE 802.11 standards? (Select three.)

A) 802.11a

B) 802.11b

C) 802.11g

D) 802.11n

E) 802.11ac

4. Identify three Wi-Fi standards that operate in the 2.4 GHz spectrum:

A) Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)

B) 802.11b

C) 802.11g

D) 802.11n

E) Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)

5. Which of these wireless standards are compatible with the 2.4 GHz band? (Choose three.)

A) 802.11a

B) 802.11b

C) 802.11g

D) 802.11n

E) 802.11ad