Buffalo has become the first manufacturer to launch a router using the next generation Wi-Fi standard 802.11ac. The new Wi-Fi standard is now available in the Buffalo AirStation WZR-D1800H wireless router and WLI-H4-D1300 wireless media bridge.
The latest 802.11ac router was first unveiled back at CES earlier this year, and provides wireless connection speeds of up to 1.3Gbps via the 5GHz band. This is around 30 percent faster than the current standard, together with improved range. The 802.11ac standard, also known as Wi-Fi 5, is designed to offer higher throughput and better performance in dense environments, making it ideal for modern households with multiple devices.
Enhanced Performance and Compatibility
The latest router launched by Buffalo is a true dual-band device and will support existing 802.11n/g/a/b standards. This ensures backward compatibility with older devices, allowing users to transition smoothly to the new standard without needing to replace all their existing hardware. The router offers users 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band, but this high speed is only achievable when used with a 802.11ac client, such as the new media bridge.
Via the 2.4GHz wireless band, the new Buffalo router offers the 3 by 3 setup of the regular wireless N standard that caps at 450Mbps. This dual-band capability allows the router to manage network traffic more efficiently, reducing congestion and improving overall network performance. The 5GHz band is less crowded than the 2.4GHz band, which is often congested with signals from various household devices like microwaves and cordless phones.
Availability and Pricing
The Buffalo AirStation WZR-D1800H wireless router and WLI-H4-D1300 wireless media bridge are now available to purchase in the U.S. for around $180 each. This pricing makes it accessible for consumers looking to upgrade their home network to the latest technology. The media bridge is particularly useful for connecting wired devices, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles, to the wireless network, providing them with the high-speed benefits of 802.11ac.
The introduction of the 802.11ac standard marks a significant step forward in wireless technology. It not only offers faster speeds but also improved reliability and range. This is particularly beneficial for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive applications. As more devices become Wi-Fi 5 compatible, the benefits of upgrading to an 802.11ac router will become even more apparent.
In addition to speed and range improvements, 802.11ac also introduces features like beamforming, which focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly at connected devices rather than broadcasting it in all directions. This results in a more stable and robust connection, especially in larger homes or environments with multiple obstacles.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
