Final answer:
The data transfer rate of the 802.11a wireless standard is 54 Mbps. It is one of the earlier standards introduced in 1999 and has since been surpassed by newer standards with higher data rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The data transfer rate of the 802.11a wireless standard is 54 Mbps (megabits per second). This was an early standard in the 802.11 family, which was introduced in 1999. While the technology provided relatively high-speed data rates, it has since been surpassed by newer standards such as 802.11n and 802.11ac, which offer higher data transfer rates of up to several hundred Mbps, when conditions are optimal. The main goal behind these standards has consistently been to improve wireless connectivity and increase the amount of data that can be sent and received wirelessly.