802.11 was the original standard in this family, ratified in 1997. 802.11 defined WLANs that operate at 1-2 Mbps. This standard is obsolete today.

Each extension to the original 802.11 appends a unique letter to the name, as follows:

• 802.11a - 54 Mbps standard, 5 GHz signaling (ratified 1999)

• 802.11b - 11 Mbps standard, 2.4 GHz signaling (1999)

• 802.11c - operation of bridge connections (moved to 802.1)

• 802.11d - worldwide compliance with regulations for use of wireless signal spectrum (2001)

• 802.11e - Quality of Service (QoS) support (not yet ratified)

• 802.11f - protocol for communication between access points to support roaming clients (2003)

• 802.11g - 54 Mbps standard, 2.4 GHz signaling (2003)

• 802.11h - enhanced version of 802.11a to support European regulatory requirements (2003)

• 802.11i - security improvements for the 802.11 family (2004)

• 802.11j - enhancements to 5 GHz signaling to support Japan regulatory requirements (2004)

• 802.11k - WLAN system management (in progress)

• 802.11l - skipped to avoid confusion with 802.11i

• 802.11m - maintenance of 802.11 family documentation

• 802.11n - future 100+ Mbps standard (in progress)

The IEEE 802.16 Standard is referred to as WiMAX.

• 802.16 - WiMAX is a standards-based wireless technology that provides high-throughput broadband connections over long distances. WiMAX can be used for a number of applications, including "last mile" broadband connections, hotspots and cellular backhaul, and high-speed enterprise connectivity for business.