This article addresses concerns about having a mixed network of 802.11n and 802.11b/g.
To experience the full performance potential of your Wireless Gateway 3 (Model DPC3941T, Model TC8717 and Model TG1682G), a complete 802.11ac network is recommended.
Wireless Gateway 3 and 802.11ac Technology
The Wireless Gateway 3 (Model DPC3941TM, Model TC8717 and Model TG1682G) uses the latest wireless 802.11ac technology to provide you with the fastest connection and is backward-compatible with older technology like wireless 802.11n b/g, so even older computers can connect to your network through your wireless gateway.
However, with an older 802.11n b/g client card, you’ll only see moderate speed improvement when upgrading to a wireless gateway. You can only experience the substantial performance improvements of range and throughput that come with a wireless gateway when 802.11ac clients are used.
When supporting 802.11n b/g devices, your wireless gateway must operate in Mixed Mode. However, even in a mixed network, you'll enjoy better WiFi performance with a wireless gateway.
