An IEEE wireless networking standard introduced in 2003, 802.11g operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, combining the benefits of 802.11b’s range with 802.11a’s higher data rates. It supports a maximum data rate of 54 Mbps, using orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation, the same technique used in 802.11a, which enables higher speeds by dividing the signal into multiple smaller sub-signals.
As a 2.4 GHz standard, 802.11g provides good range and compatibility with earlier 802.11b devices, allowing mixed networks of 802.11b and 802.11g devices without requiring additional hardware. However, this backward compatibility can reduce network speed if 802.11b devices are present. Additionally, like other 2.4 GHz standards, 802.11g can be affected by interference from other household devices operating on the same frequency.
802.11g marked a significant improvement in home and office Wi-Fi speeds and reliability by combining high data rates with broader compatibility, though it still faced limitations in environments with multiple Wi-Fi networks due to congestion in the 2.4 GHz band.