What Does IEEE 802.11 Mean?

Differences we see in the WiFi spectrum can be attributed to the generations of WiFi evolution defined by sets of standards from the IEEE 802.11 standards committee.

Most wireless products use the following Wi-Fi spectrums: 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac. These Wi-Fi spectra are established by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a non-profit organization also known as the IEEE. This is why you’ll often see “IEEE 801.11a/b/g/n/ac” on retail boxes for wireless devices, routers, etc.

IEEE 802.11 Standards Exclusive Introduction » Networkustad

Wireless Spectrum

Contrary to the marketing hype, the WiFi spectrum is not based on speed alone. The frequency band is equally important. In fact, each frequency band has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Using the WiFi Scanner can help you determine but "Mode" and standard your AP is set to and if you should upgrade your settings or AP to a newer standard. 

Under the SSID look for the column "Mode"