What is the theoretical maximum data rate of 802.11ac Wave 1?

The 802.11ac standard, specifically Wave 1, achieves its maximum theoretical data rate by combining several technologies. It uses 256-QAM modulation, an 80 MHz channel width, and supports up to three spatial streams. The maximum data rate for a single spatial stream under these conditions is 433.3 Mbps. For a typical Wave 1 access point supporting three spatial streams, the aggregate theoretical maximum data rate is 3 x 433.3 Mbps, which equals 1300 Mbps or 1.3 Gbps.

A. 150 Mbps is a common maximum data rate for a single spatial stream in the older 802.11n standard with a 40 MHz channel.

B. 433 Mbps is the maximum theoretical data rate for only a single spatial stream in 802.11ac, not the total for a typical device.

C. 867 Mbps is the maximum theoretical data rate for two spatial streams in 802.11ac, not the maximum for a three-stream Wave 1 device.

1. Juniper Networks. (2022). Wi-Fi Fundamentals for Mist. JNCIA-MistAI Study Guide. p. 21, Table 2.1 "802.11 Standards". The table lists the maximum data rate for 802.11ac as "6.93 Gbps", but the text clarifies the building blocks.

2. Juniper Networks White Paper. (2014). 802.11ac In-Depth. p. 4. "With three spatial streams, 802.11ac can achieve a data rate of 1.3 Gbps. 802.11ac Wave 1 products support up to three spatial streams, 80 MHz channels..."