User's Manual

Wireless Array
Installing the Wireless Array 35
IEEE 802.11n Deployment Considerations
The Xirrus Arrays support IEEE 802.11n on all IAPs, in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
bands. Use of 802.11n offers significant benefits:
 Higher data rates
 Higher throughput
 Supports more users
 More robust connections
 Increased coverage area
 More secure connections — supports WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2)
These benefits result in better support for a wide range of applications such as
voice and video, intensive usage such as CAD/CAM and backups, dense user
environments, and for manufacturing and warehousing environments.
The techniques that 802.11n uses to realize these performance improvements, and
the results that can be expected are discussed in:
 “MIMO (Multiple-In Multiple-Out)” on page 36
 “Multiple Data Streams — Spatial Multiplexing” on page 38
 “Channel Bonding” on page 39
 “Improved MAC Throughput” on page 40
 “Short Guard Interval” on page 40
 “Obtaining Higher Data Rates” on page 41
 “802.11n Capacity” on page 42
Two very important techniques to consider are Channel Bonding and Multiple
Data Streams — Spatial Multiplexing because they contribute a large portion of
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Note that the license installed on the Array must include support for
802.11n. Please see “About Licensing and Upgrades” on page 361.
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While 802.11n increases coverage area by almost doubling the reach, you
must consider the legacy wireless devices in your network. Wireless stations
connecting using 802.11a/b/g will still be subject to a reach of up to 100 feet,
depending on the environment.