802.11g coverage at lowest rate: Approximately how far can an 802.11g link reach indoors when operating at its lowest fallback data rate under typical conditions?

Introduction / Context:
Wi-Fi range depends on modulation, coding, interference, obstacles, and transmit power. As the data rate drops to the lowest fallback, the required signal-to-noise ratio decreases, allowing greater reach.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard: 802.11g operating in 2.4 GHz indoors.
• “Typical” enterprise/home environment, not line-of-sight outdoor.
• Lowest data rate (e.g., 1–6 Mbps depending on supported basic rates).

Concept / Approach:
At the lowest supported rate, robust modulation schemes tolerate lower SNR and multipath, increasing coverage. Many design guides cite indoor coverage up to roughly 300 feet at the lowest 802.11g rates, though performance is highly environment-dependent.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Vendor deployment guides and Wi-Fi textbooks often publish 100–300 ft indoor ranges; the longest typical number presented for 11g at low rates is near 300 ft.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 100/175 ft: More consistent with moderate rates.
• 350 ft: Possible in very favorable conditions but less typical indoors.

Common Pitfalls:
Treating any range as guaranteed; ignoring regulatory power limits and interference from Bluetooth/microwaves in 2.4 GHz.

Final Answer:
About 300 feet