** Off Topic ** Google Fiber confusion

[Millstonemike]

Just a note ... when talking wireless speeds, other devices on the wireless network can reduce the results of the speed test - perhaps just with a maintenance packet in the middle of the system test. And some devices using older WiFi technology will cause the WiFi router to slow to the least common denominator wireless transfer rate.

And when the kids in the neighborhood get home from school, they can load down the cable ISP's network ...

[weinstro]

My desktop is on wifi at the moment with an 802.11n USB wifi adapter that is rated up to 300 mbps.

I'm considering ordering an 802.11ac dual band width adapter right now. Will this make a difference?

My experience with 802.11n was 300 MB/sec at a range of 5 feet and zero (no reception) at a range of 25 feet, through a closet wall. 802.11ac (5 GHz) is considerably better, but the range is more limited than 2.4 GHz.

I'm considering ordering an 802.11ac dual band width adapter right now. Will this make a difference?

Yes, no, maybe. It should but my other comments regarding wifi in post #3 are still relevant. Buy a MIMO equipped wifi router, set for 802.11ac only at 5 GHz. Make an effort to ensure that you are using an otherwise unoccupied channel. You will need a network interface card for your desktop, too. Then it should be pretty darn fast.

You'll need to accept a performance degradation if you need to support 2.4 GHz and 802.11 b/g for older devices.

Another poster suggested wired connections. This really is your best bet for reliable speed for non-mobile gear assuming that you can run LAN cable through your walls.

FWIW, I use wired connections where possible and use wifi for laptops and smart phones. TV, Roku, Squeezebox are all LAN connected and nobody complains about dropouts. I also have a wifi network for 5 GHz (ac), 2.4 GHz (b/g), and a separate network for guests (no encryption). It is impossible to find totally free 2.4 Ghz channels in my neighborhood.