Data rate in other words PHY rate is how many bits maximum a radio and Tx at one time. Example would be 54 PHY. That means 54 million bits per transmission.
Its asymetric. In other words just becuse the ap can TX to a client at 54 doesn't mean a client will TX back to the ap at 54.
Client - when he gets a packet from the ap if he hears it at a receive sensitively of say 24 PHY. Guess what? When he needs to send to the ap he sends at 24 cause that's how he heard the incoming frame.
same for the ap
HTH
"Satisfaction does not come from knowing the solution, it comes from knowing why." - Rosalind Franklin
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