Mac Forum / Applications / Mac Applications / November 2007

Installers

Each device within the wireless network (computer, printers,
auxiliaries) must be installed with a Network Interface Card, or NIC.
The NIC transmits wireless signals from the access device and enables
each device in the network to send and receive signals.

Installers must also decide which of three industry standards by which
to designate to the network. These industry standards are 802.11a,
802.11b, and 802.11g -- these names differing only in the last letter.
The "a" standard is the least common and incompatible with "b" and
"g." The b standard is most common. The g standard enables more robust
digital downloading, and can support with b. The b standard, however,
cannot support 'g'.
http://www.askstar.com.cn/health/Installing-Wireless-Technologies.htm