What is the maximum rate supported by the original 802.11 protocol in Mbps?

Question

Options

• A1
• B2
• C5.5
• D11

• A
  11% (5)
• B
  80% (37)
• C
  7% (3)
• D
  2% (1)

Explanation

Option B is correct because the original IEEE 802.11 standard, ratified in 1997, defined two data rates: 1 Mbps and 2 Mbps, making 2 Mbps the maximum it could achieve. Option A (1 Mbps) is the minimum rate defined by the original standard, not the maximum. Options C (5.5 Mbps) and D (11 Mbps) are the two rates introduced by the 802.11b amendment in 1999, a later revision that significantly boosted wireless speeds.

Memory tip: Think "original = old and slow" - the original 802.11 topped out at just 2 Mbps, while the more familiar 802.11b pushed that to 11 Mbps; the "b" brought the bigger speeds.

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