What Wireless Network Adapter Do You Need?
Wireless Network Adapters are tools that let you connect your devices to a Local Area Network (LAN). This in turn, connects you to Wi-Fi internet. These adapters take your devices’ signals and turn them into radio waves. Letting you connect to the internet when you need. But don’t most devices have built in Wi-Fi? Not all devices. Especially if you’re building your own PC. So which adapter do you need. Let’s go over them below.
When buying a wireless network adapter, you must understand the different types available. Currently, there are a six types of wireless network adapters:
- PCIe
- PCMCIA
- MINI PCI
- USB Wireless
- Ethernet Port
- Home Network Kits
PCIe
PCIe adapters are add-in cards installed on your desktop motherboard. These are important when building your own PC. Before purchasing your wireless network adapter, make sure your desktop computers’ motherboard has an available PCI slot.
Asus PCE-AC88 Wi-Fi PCI Express Adapter
PCMCIA
PCMCIA are adapters created for traditional laptop computers. They go right into the side of your laptop. You will need a PC card slot to use this type of adapter. A great alternative to the PCMIA network adapter is the Mini PCI.
Mini PCI
The Mini PCI wireless adapter has a built-in wireless antenna and is installed inside of your laptop computer. Installation is straightforward. However, installation does require know-how.
StarTech Mini PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter
USB Wireless
If you do not know how to install a Mini PCI wireless adapter. or simply don’t want a PCMCIA network adapter, then try a USB wireless network adapter. USB network adapters are plug-and-play devices that plug into your computer USB port.
They are the easiest way to get wireless connectivity. However, because they occupy a valuable USB slot USB wireless network adapters are an inconvenience.
TP-LINK TL-WN725N USB Network Adapter
Ethernet Port
The last type of wireless adapter is an Ethernet port wireless adapter. Ethernet port wireless adapters are less common and work by connecting to your computers Ethernet port.
Once you plug the device into your Ethernet port, it works to provide wireless connectivity. You’ll find an Ethernet port wireless adapters in a game console like PlayStation and Xbox.
Home Network Kits
Many users find it easier to use one of the same brand as their router. Thus, home network kits are ideal for this scenario because they include a router and wireless network adapter bundled together.
Conclusion
Don’t overpay for hot spot internet. Connect to Wi-Fi when you’re in range. Find the best adapter for your setup. Just plug and play.
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