Modern wireless networks are rapidly evolving, and the maximum internet speed and connection stability directly depend on the communication standard your laptop supports. Many users aren't even aware that their router can deliver gigabit speeds, while their laptop only receives signals at lower speeds due to network adapter limitations. Understanding which protocol is supported IEEE 802.11 used in your system is the first step to diagnosing speed issues or planning a hardware upgrade.
You can determine the Wi-Fi generation using software, without opening the device or installing complex additional software. Windows and macOS operating systems include powerful monitoring tools that display detailed information about the network interface. In this article, we'll cover all the current checking methods, from simple connection properties to in-depth analysis via the command line.
Wi-Fi standards and their designations
Before we dive into the technical details of the test, it's important to understand the abbreviations you'll see in the diagnostic results. All modern wireless communication standards belong to the family IEEE 802.11, but abbreviated letter designations are commonly used. Each generation offers improved throughput and performance in noisy environments.
The most common standard at the moment is 802.11ac, which the marketing departments of companies renamed Wi-Fi 5. It operates primarily in the 5 GHz band and provides high data transfer speeds. It is being replaced by 802.11ax, known as Wi-Fi 6, which is significantly more efficient in areas where many devices are concentrated.
Wi-Fi Generation Comparison Chart
802.11n — Wi-Fi 4 (up to 600 Mbps), 802.11ac — Wi-Fi 5 (up to 6.9 Gbps), 802.11ax — Wi-Fi 6 (up to 9.6 Gbps). Older a/b/g standards are considered obsolete.
Below is a table to help you quickly navigate wireless network generations and their technical specifications. Note the maximum theoretical speed, although real-world performance is always lower.
| Technical standard | Marketing name | Year of adoption | Max. speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 802.11n | Wi-Fi 4 | 2009 | 600 Mbps |
| 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 5 | 2014 | 6.9 Gbps |
| 802.11ax | Wi-Fi 6 | 2019 | 9.6 Gbps |
| 802.11be | Wi-Fi 7 | 2026 | 46 Gbps |
Checking the version via network settings in Windows
The fastest way to find out your current wireless connection mode is to use the built-in tools in the Windows operating system. This method will show the speed and protocol your laptop is currently connected to the router at. To get started, open the menu Start and go to the section Parameters, by selecting the gear icon.
In the window that opens, find the block Network and Internet and click on it. In the left menu, select Wi-Fi, and then click on the link Properties active connection (usually located under your network name). A detailed card will open, where the "Properties" section will indicate the item Protocol.
This is where the current communication standard is displayed, for example, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)It's important to understand that this value is dynamic: if you move far away from the router, the laptop may automatically switch to an older, slower protocol to maintain a stable signal. Therefore, checking this value only makes sense when you're in a strong reception area.
⚠️ Important: If the protocol field shows a value lower than 802.11ac (for example, 802.11n), but your router supports 5 GHz, try moving closer to the access point or check if the legacy mode is enabled on your router.
Using the command line for deep diagnostics
For users who need more technical information about their network adapter's capabilities, the command line is ideal. This method allows you to find out not only the current operating mode but also the maximum supported standards for your equipment. Click Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter.
In the black window that appears, enter the command netsh wlan show interfaces and press Enter. The system will display a large list of parameters. Find the line Radio type (or "Radio Module Type"). It will indicate the current standard, for example, 802.11ac.
However, to find out what Wi-Fi versions your adapter physically supports, and not just what you're currently using, you'll need a different command. Enter netsh wlan show driversIn the list that appears, look for the line Supported radio types (Supported radio module types). The entire spectrum of technologies will be listed there, from the oldest to the newest.
☑️ Check via CMD
If the list of supported types is not 802.11ax or 802.11ac, then your network adapter is physically unable to operate at full speed with modern routers. In this case, software adjustments won't help, and you'll need to replace the Wi-Fi module or use an external USB adapter.
Analyzing network adapters in Device Manager
Windows Device Manager provides access to hardware information, including the exact model of your network controller. Knowing the model, you can always find the specifications on the manufacturer's website. Right-click the button Start and select device Manager.
Expand the branch Network adaptersYou are interested in the line containing the words Wireless, Wi-Fi or 802.11Double-clicking on the device will open the properties window. Go to the tab Additionally, where information about supported modes or preamble can often be found in the list of parameters.
A more reliable way is to simply copy the model name from the first tab General and enter it into a search engine. For example, model Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200 immediately indicates support for the sixth generation. Models marked AC (For example, Realtek 8822CE Wireless LAN 802.11ac PCI-E NIC) indicate support for the fifth generation.
⚠️ Note: Driver and manager interfaces may vary depending on your Windows version and laptop manufacturer. If you can't find the parameter you need, use the command line as a more versatile tool.
Checking the Wi-Fi standard on macOS
Apple MacBook owners need to do things differently, as the macOS interface is significantly different from Windows. The easiest way is to hold down the key Option (Alt) on your keyboard and simultaneously left-click the Wi-Fi icon in the top menu bar. This will open the expanded status menu.
In the list that opens, find the line PHY Mode. It is this that indicates the communication standard used. You will see values like 802.11ac, 802.11ax or 802.11n. The current connection speed (Tx Rate) and signal strength (RSSI) are also displayed here.
For more detailed diagnostics, you can use the built-in utility. Click Command + Space, enter Wireless Connection Manager (or Wireless Diagnostics) and launch the app. Don't click "Continue" to start the diagnostics, but select Window -> Review (Window -> Scan).
In the scanning window that opens, there will be a block on the right side of the screen Information. It indicates on which channel and in which standard (for example, 802.11ac) your network is working. This is a great tool for analyzing airspace congestion from neighbors.
The Secret of macOS
The Wireless Diagnostics utility can also plot signal quality graphs over time, which is useful for finding "dead zones" in an apartment.
Why isn't my laptop running at full speed?
Even if your laptop supports the modern standard 802.11ac or 802.11ax, the actual speed may be low. Often, the problem lies in the router settings. If the router has legacy compatibility mode (b/g/n) enabled, it may force the entire network to slow down.
Network adapter drivers are the second most important factor. Outdated software may not work correctly with new encryption protocols or frequency ranges. Always check for updates on the website of your laptop or chipset manufacturer (Intel, Realtek, Qualcomm).
It's also worth considering the physical environment. Walls, mirrors, and household appliances create interference. The 5 GHz standard used in Wi-Fi 5 and 6 has poorer penetration than the older 2.4 GHz standard. Therefore, in a distant room, a laptop may automatically switch to a longer-range but slower protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my laptop supports Wi-Fi 6?
The most reliable way is to check the adapter model in Device Manager. If the name includes the abbreviation AX (for example, Intel AX200) or says 802.11ax, then it supports it. You can also use the command netsh wlan show drivers in the command line and look for the line Supported radio types.
Does Windows version affect Wi-Fi speed?
The OS version itself does not limit the physical speed, but older versions of Windows (for example, XP or 7 without updates) may not have drivers for new encryption or modulation standards, which will prevent you from connecting to a modern router at high speed.
What should I do if my Wi-Fi speed is lower than what my provider claims?
First, check the connection protocol (it should be ac or ax). Then update your network adapter drivers. If that doesn't help, check your neighbors' bandwidth usage and try changing the frequency or channel in your router settings.
Is it possible to increase Wi-Fi speed programmatically?
It's impossible to exceed the adapter's physical limit. However, you can optimize the connection: disabling power saving for the USB port or network adapter in Device Manager can sometimes stabilize the signal and prevent speed drops.