802.11b • Leading standard for wireless networking • Known as Wi-Fi • Runs on three channels in 2.4GHZ, unregulated spectrum • Shares spectrum with cordless phones, microwave ovens and many Bluetooth products • Transfers data at speeds of 11 megabits per second per channel, at distances of up to 300 feet • Interference issues: In crowded 2.4GHz frequency, people may not be able to Web surf over a wireless network if they're using the microwave oven or using a cordless phone at the same time  802.11a • Runs on 12 channels in 5GHZ spectrum, reducing interference issues • Transfers data up to five times faster than 802.11b, improving quality of streaming media, and provides extra bandwidth for big files • Is not backward-compatible with 802.11b, meaning businesses or homes must tear down the old networks to use 802.11a equipment  802.11g • Runs on three channels in 2.4GHZ spectrum, the same as 802.11b • Has the speed of 802.11a, up to five times faster than 802.11b • Is more secure than 802.11b • Is backward-compatible with 802.11b • Most major manufacturers intend to make 802.11g equipment; Cisco said it would release its version sometime next year  HomeRF • A wireless networking protocol that pre-dates 802.11. In 2000, HomeRF was used in 45 percent of the home wireless-networking market but dropped to 30 percent in 2001 and continues to lose ground. HomeRF has had big-name supporters including Motorola, Nokia and Siemens, but some backers, such as Intel, have pulled out support to concentrate exclusively on Wi-Fi. HomeRF's supporters say there is room for more than one standard in the home market.