Got my new iMac, but I'm new to Wireless N, and need a little clarification.

[IJBrekke]

So I understand that 300 mbps speeds are only capable under dual-channel settings, and that most "N" routers operate under single channel settings around 120 mbps or so. My question is this: I have Comcast "high speed" cable, which is advertised with "download speeds up to 12 mbps", and currently run a linksys G router in my house, which is capable of the standard 56 mbps, so would I see any performance gain from wireless N? Looking at the numbers, it appears my internet connection wouldn't be fast enough to support it, but I am unclear whether "download speeds" is different than my regular connection. AND plenty of people use Comcast, aren't they gaining faster internet with N routers?

Any clarification is greatly appreciated, I just wanna get my iMac humming at peak efficiency Thanks everyone.

 

[-Ryan-]

Nope, won't make any difference. The difference for you would come if you had other computers connected to the network, as file sharing between those computers would become much more viable over wireless.

 

[IJBrekke]

So what are most people running for an internet connection to take advantage of N speeds then? It seems it would have to be expensive, whatever it is.

 

[bsamcash]

Nope.

Wireless N is only useful for home/office networking. What is you get through your ISP for internet is a separate connection.

 

[IJBrekke]

Huh. Well, I rarely transfer media wirelessly with my roommate, so I don't think it's gonna make much difference for me. Thanks for the clarification guys, I appreciate it.

 

[mpuck972]

Wireless N will also be a benefit if you have a lot of wireless networks around you. You will be able to connect on a different frequency which will keep your connection from being slowed down from other wireless traffic.

The cost of a wireless N router is not much more then a G router if you look around, so you might as well take advantage of the newer technology.

 

[mac2x]

Wireless N is only useful for home/office networking. What is you get through your ISP for internet is a separate connection.

Right; the vast majority of internet connections are nowhere near fast enough to challenge wireless bandwidth, even with wireless G. Filesharing will benefit from N, as has been pointed out.