Range varies in a wireless network depending on the type of wireless radio you have (IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g), whether or not you use special antennas, and whether your network is in an open environment or in a building with lots of walls and furniture. The composition of your walls and floors can also have a major impact. Wireless Ethernet radio frequency is a very low powered radio signal and does not penetrate metal, water or other dense materials.


In most cases, TRENDnet wireless devices generally provides a range of about 75 to 150 feet in a typical home or office. In an open environment like an empty warehouse or outdoors, a wireless network may provide a range of up to 1,000 feet or more. With the right antennas and optimal placement, more coverage is possible.


With TRENDnet wireless Ethernet technology, a "gradual degradation" in range occurs. This means that, instead of stopping all together, your data transmission rate just becomes slower as you move farther away from the access point. For example, with IEEE 802.11b technology, within 100 feet of the access point, the wireless radio in your laptop computer will get about 11 Mbps data rate. As you move farther away, that rate will drop down to 5.5 Mbps, then to 2 Mbps and finally to 1 Mbps. Considering that many DSL and cable Internet connections are less than 1 Mbps, this connection speed is still very good.