IEEE 802.11n Technology and Market, Issue II

The emerging IEEE802.11n standard is certain to enhance wireless communications for businesses and consumers of all types. It promises the speed comparative with wireline Fast Ethernet speed and higher, and the range higher than other 802.11 devices able to support. For the system builder, that translates into lower hardware expenditures for both internal wiring and access points.

The 802.11n standard is still in the development form. A final standard is not likely to be released by the IEEE until late 2008, or even 2009. At the time of this report writing, the latest Draft of this standard is Draft 4; WiFI Alliance created a certification program for the WiFi devices, including 802.11n, which are certified as per Draft 2 of this standard.

Currently, the 802.11n vendors have already created an industry, which analyzed in this report. Both chipset and platform manufacturers are working hard to reach the 802.11n evolving market.

2007 was the first year when 802.11n products contributed sizably in the total WiFi market. Prognoses for 2008 are even more encouraging: nearly 50% of Wi-Fi chipsets on a market in 2008 are expected to adhere to the new draft standard - double the number from 2007. The industry progress assured this standard longevity, even with the existing history of a very long and difficult standardization process in the IEEE. The Wi-Fi Alliance has put the Wi-Fi certified seal of approval - indicating validated product interoperability - on 325 products and is seeing strong numbers of 802.11n draft 2.0 products presented for testing

This report emphasizes the importance of 802.11n technology for both businesses and consumers in the developing communications infrastructure.

The report details technological and marketing properties of the 802.11n technology. This technology allows a quantum jump from the 802.11 a/b/g devices features to wireless communications compatible with the existing wired products delivering Fast Ethernet. Several technological advances (MIMO and others) made it possible to support communications in the multipath environment with speed up to 600 Mb/s for distances exceeding 802.11 a/b/g technologies ranges. Initial data shows that 802.11n devices will be also cost-efficient.

It is the authors' opinion that already in the near future 802.11n products will dominate the PC, home and Enterprise market (though currently 802.11n standard penetration into home networking is not more than 4%-6%). 2010-2012 will be years of gradual diminishing of the 802.11 a, b, g markets in favor of the 802.11n segment.

Considerable research was done using the Internet. Information from various Web sites was studied and analyzed. Evaluation of publicly available marketing and technical publications was conducted. Telephone conversations and interviews were held with industry analysts, technical experts and executives. In addition to these interviews and primary research, secondary sources were used to develop a more complete mosaic of the market landscape, including industry and trade publications, conferences and seminars.

The overriding objective throughout the work has been to provide valid and relevant information. This has led to a continual review and update of the information content.

This report is important to a wide population of researches, technical and sales staff involved in the developing of high-speed wireless services and products. It is recommended for both service providers and vendors that are working with related technologies. The report also helps to understand issues associated with relationship between 802.11n and other technologies.