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The Institute of Electrical
 and Electronics Engineers

In late 1999, the IEEE established a standard for high-speed wireless Local Area Networks.  The 802.11(b) standard provides speeds up to 11 Mbps and uses license-free microwave frequencies in the 2.4 GHz range. However, this "standard" actually includes THREE different ways to deliver a wireless signal.  One method uses a Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technique, referred to as DSSS, and another method uses a Frequency Hoping Spread Spectrum technique, known as FHSS. The third method uses infrared frequencies and is not widely applicable. In addition to these "standard" wireless systems, some manufacturers have produced their own proprietary systems that do not conform to any standard. 

In part because of the 802.11(b) "standard", the demand for wireless LAN's has increased. Businesses are more willing to invest in a technology if there is a lower likelihood of it becoming obsolete. As a result, wireless systems using DSSS have become the de facto standard in most offices. With the increased demand and higher volumes, the cost of equipment has been reduced significantly. The lower price, in turn, further fuels the growth and we are now in the midst of what is called "the wireless tornado".  Growth is spiraling up and consumers are the beneficiaries. Wireless networks using the 802.11(b) DSSS standard are now very affordable.

The IEEE Established The Standard For Wireless Networks