Understanding AC Router and Extenders

[Bob5545]

I recently installed a new AC Router dual band router and I am using the 5.0 gHz network on my iMac. I also have an extender repeater that supports the 2.4gHz network so with this router I can have dual networks.

I have noticed that with the 5.0 there is less wireless signal than the 2.4 but supposedly less interference for better video audio streaming using the 5.0

Everyone is using this AC terminology that sells smooth HD, no lags, delays, etc.

My question is what exactly is AC that is referred the 5 gHz band, and if you have a 3.0 DSL speed how does one get the advantages of this new technology.

Also I am thinking about upgrading the extender to a 5.0 gHz dual band but does that mean I will get AC technology if I do that.

Can someone explain AC routers and extenders and how AC will work with different internet broadband speeds.

Thanks

[DeltaMac]

This article is pretty good at explaining what is different about the 802.11ac wireless standard.
http://www.merunetworks.com/collater...challenges.pdf

[Bob5545]

Thanks that really helps.

How will this AC standard help if ones internet speed is not so fast? For example I would really love to stream but with 2.5 Mbps downloads I am limited to what I can do.

Thanks again

[DeltaMac]

The 802.11ac router won't do anything to improve your relatively slow connection.
It WILL give you the best use of your existing connection.
But, ultimately, you will still be restricted by the connection that you use.
If you anticipate going with a faster connection soon, then could be worth it to upgrade your wireless router now, so that's ready - particularly if you get a good price for that.

[agentx]

Rule of thumb for Modern WiFi
2.4 Ghz for general usage over whole site
5.0 Ghz for same room application/media streaming/Airplay/Faster file transfers