A method and system of communicating packets and detecting packets are disclosed. In a first aspect, the method and system comprise enabling the detection of a very high throughput (VHT) signal field. The VHT signal field is distinguishable from other signal fields, wherein the VHT signal field allows for a backward compatibility with other devices. In a second aspect, the method and system comprise initializing the device to be in receive mode and receiving at least one signal field symbol and detecting the presence of additional signal field symbols. The method and system further include distinguishing a very high throughput (VHT) signal field from other signal field symbols and decoding the VHT signal field parameters uniquely describing the VHT packet format.