How to connect a desktop computer to wifi. What to do if there is no wifi on the computer. Connecting a desktop computer to Wi-Fi

WiFi adapter A wireless network for a computer/laptop is a special device that allows you to receive a signal from a router. As well as an access point, repeater, or any other device that broadcasts the Internet using this method of data transmission. Today I will tell you how to choose the right one for your computer or laptop.

Types of wifi adapters for computers and laptops

In the vast majority of cases, the wifi network adapter in a laptop is built-in from the factory. It is placed inside the case itself, and the typical Wi-Fi icon will be present on the lid or in the instructions. U desktop computer most often it is not. Especially if you assembled it yourself. In this case, you can use an external wireless adapter connected via USB connector. This type is also suitable for a laptop if the built-in module fails, which happens quite often.

Why do you need a Wi-Fi wireless network adapter?

A WiFi adapter is required to connect a computer, laptop or TV to the Internet via wireless signal. Without a network adapter, neither a computer nor a laptop will be able to connect to the Internet via a router via wifi.

So if you decide that you need a Wi-Fi adapter, then before you go to the store to buy this device, let's get acquainted with their types.

Despite all the shortcomings, I would choose the USB option for home, since it can be used not only on a PC, but also on any laptop that has this port. It looks like a flash drive, and in size they range from very small to quite voluminous.

Characteristics of wireless WiFi adapters for laptops and computers

In addition to the classification by built-in/external type, when choosing a wifi network adapter you need to pay attention to its technical specifications.

First, you need to choose a device that supports the latest data transfer standard - at a frequency of 2.4 GHz with speeds of up to 300 Mbit per second - 802.11 N.
If you have a dual-band router, that is, supporting the 5 GHz frequency range, then you can significantly increase the speed and stability of the connection - up to 700 Mbit/s according to the 802.11 AC standard. And although they cost a little more, by choosing such a thing you will save yourself from possible problems in the future - equipment ages very quickly.
Secondly, you need to pay attention to the power of the receiving antenna. Most best option— from 20 dBM. This characteristic is indicated in the instructions. By choosing this parameter you ensure more stable reception of signals that are not very strong.
A good feature is the presence of a connector for connecting external antenna. In more expensive models Wireless wifi adapters already have it included, most often it is non-removable. In cheap ones, on the contrary, it is hidden inside the device body. However, the presence of such a connector will allow you to purchase more powerful antenna separately. For this type of antenna, a gain of 3 dBi (decibel) is recommended.
The picture below shows the most inexpensive option with a built-in antenna. The speed in such models usually does not exceed 150 Mbit/s, so they are only suitable for performing simple office tasks on the Internet

Larger size- more powerful filling

More productive - with external detachable antenna

And the most powerful - several antennas + USB extension cable
Another positive point is the included adapter USB extender. It is convenient, when the computer is standing somewhere under the table, to bring the receiver unit itself to the surface to improve the quality of communication.

By the way, a remote module with antennas is also found on PCI models
Supports WPA/WPA2 and WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption types. These are the most advanced security standards for a wireless network today, which allow you to reliably protect it from intruders
Supports various connection modes. The main mode of any wifi wireless network adapter is from the access point to the client, that is, you receive a signal from the router to it, thanks to which the computer has Internet. But there is another mode - Ad-Hoc (client-client). It will allow you to directly connect two client computers bypassing the router.
Various additional features

Which Wi-Fi adapter to choose for a computer or laptop?

In accordance with the above parameters, you can already estimate what wifi model select an adapter for your computer. As I already said, the USB type is more universal and is suitable not only for a desktop PC, but also for a laptop. And perhaps a tablet or even a TV.

In principle, for home, if your router is located nearby under the table, you can choose any one. Preferences only by companies and additional characteristics. Such as support for media application prioritization (QoS) or technology automatic settings parameters WPS connections. You can buy such an adapter for less than 1000 rubles. If you want to use your computer in different combinations wireless connections and have stable reception in difficult conditions, then take a more serious model. For one and a half to two thousand and more.

Which adapter brand should I choose?

Manufacturers USB adapter There are countless wifi options. But I recommend choosing exactly the company whose devices you already have on the network - this is not a necessary condition, but this way you will achieve maximum compatibility and stability. If you have Asus router, then it is better to take the adapter from this company. If Zyxel, then Zyxel.

Any wifi adapter comes with a disk with drivers that need to be installed. And also most likely there will be a special utility for use network settings. For example, this is what the interface for a device from Trendnet looks like:

However, I recommend using it only if you have a buggy Windows XP. In Windows 7, 8, 10 and higher, the built-in software for wireless connections does a great job on its own - all you need is drivers.

If there is no disk, then you can easily download them from the network. It is best from the official website of the manufacturer. You can most likely download the instructions there, since only a small one is included with the purchase. quick guide.

Official sites of all large companies, producing network equipment, I brought to . By the way, it also contains several practical advice, many of which are also suitable for choosing a wireless network adapter.

How to connect a wi-fi network adapter to a computer and laptop?

Let's now look at how to connect a wifi network adapter to a PC or laptop.

First of all, you should insert it into the USB connector. It is best not to use any adapters for this, namely those sockets that are located at the back of the computer case. They are directly related to motherboard, so the connection will be better. In most cases, this does not apply to a laptop, since few people use adapters. Unless it's a MacBook, of course.

At work Windows desktop a notification will appear indicating that a new device has been detected in the system.

If it is not installed automatically, then insert the CD and start the installation. Along with firewood, you can also supply special utility. With its help, you can not only connect, but later set the network parameters in more detail.

To connect a laptop or computer adapter to wifi, click on the wireless connections icon that appears in the lower right corner of the taskbar.

A list of networks available for connection will open. Next, select the one you want to connect to and enter its password.

After which the computer will connect to the Internet.

I hope this article will help you choose the right one WiFi adapter. Read about that in another article. I answer all questions in the comments.

Video on connecting and setting up a wireless wifi adapter

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Wireless networks are becoming increasingly popular. Increasingly, users prefer to use Wi-Fi not only for tablets and other mobile equipment, but also to connect regular desktop computers. In this regard, many questions arise about how to connect a computer to Wi-Fi. In this material we will try to answer these questions and consider several ways to connect a conventional desktop computer to a Wi-Fi network.

Connecting your computer to Wi-Fi using an external adapter

To connect your computer to Wi-Fi, you can use external Wi-Fi adapters. Such adapters are connected using. Thanks to using USB To connect this, there is no need to disassemble the system unit. In addition, external Wi-Fi adapters with a USB connection can also be used with laptops. For example, in order to provide higher connection speed or replace a faulty one.

For example, consider a Wi-Fi adapter ASUS USB-AC56. This adapter is very similar to a regular flash drive. On one side of the adapter there is a USB, and on the other there is a socket for connecting a Wi-Fi antenna.

This Wi-Fi adapter supports connection according to the 802.11ac standard. Manufacturer states maximum speed connections up to 867 Mbit/s. IN real tests This adapter shows data transfer speeds of up to 25 MB/s, that is, up to 200 Mbit/s.

Connecting your computer to Wi-Fi using an internal adapter

In addition to external Wi-Fi adapters, you can also use internal adapters to connect your computer to a Wi-Fi network. Internal Wi-Fi adapters have several advantages over their external counterparts:

Internal adapters do not occupy a USB port;
At the same price, internal adapters provide higher connection speeds;

PCI or x1 interfaces are used to connect to. Therefore, when purchasing an internal Wi-Fi adapter, you need to make sure that your motherboard supports the interface that the adapter you choose uses. Otherwise you won't be able to connect it.

For example, consider an internal Wi-Fi adapter ASUS PCE-AC68. This Wi-Fi adapter connects to the interface PCI Express x1. All of it top part covers a large heatsink that protects components from overheating.

On the external panel of the adapter there are three connectors for connecting Wi-Fi antennas. This Wi-Fi adapter supports connection according to the 802.11ac standard. The manufacturer claims a maximum connection speed of up to 1900 Mbit/s. In real testing, the data transfer speed when using this adapter reaches 93 MB/s (or 744 Mbit/s).

Connecting your computer to Wi-Fi by replacing the motherboard

There are also motherboards with a Wi-Fi adapter. So, if you don’t know how to connect your computer to Wi-Fi, then the problem can be solved by replacing the motherboard.

Unfortunately, built-in Wi-Fi adapters are now only available on compact boards, as well as on expensive top-level motherboards. Therefore, replacement will be your most expensive option for connecting your computer to Wi-Fi. In addition, replacing the motherboard is quite a troublesome task. Therefore, this option looks completely uninteresting.

Connect and configure WiFi routerMost likely everyone will be able to access the Internet. The next step is to make sure that our personal computer, which does not have a Wi-Fi router, begins to catch the Wi-Fi network. To do this we will need to purchase wifi adapter and install it on your computer. By using this usb adapter your computer will truly be able to receive Wi-Fi over the air without being tied to wires, thereby you can move your PC at any time to any convenient place. Moreover, we installed the router for the purpose of getting rid of wires in the house.

After we installed the router, we configured the Wi-Fi network in the house, if this means an office at work, respectively, all our mobile gadgets such as portable laptop, mobile phone, tablet will instantly find and connect to the Wi-Fi network, without wires “over the air”. If for some reason you still don’t know how to set up a wi-fi router, I recommend reading this topic . Because in these devices the manufacturer took care of a built-in Wi-Fi receiver, and we are talking about a computer that was not initially equipped with this Wi-Fi adapter and most likely would also like to connect to the global network without the hassle of wires. For these purposes, there are a couple of options:

The first method most likely will not work for us, since it involves connecting our computer to the Internet by laying a network cable to it. And since our topic is about Wi-Fi adapters, this option will not suit us.

But here is the second method, which we will consider just for us. This option V in this case suits us. Now we will look at two types of adapters, internal and external; simply put, a Wi-Fi adapter that looks like an additional board is inserted into a special PCI slot which is located in the middle of the computer will be called internal. Installing it requires a little knowledge. And it looks like the pictures below.

The most convenient and easiest to set up and use is the external Wi-Fi adapter that we will connect to a desktop computer today. After you read this topic, the computer will finally become independent of network cables, turn into a portable one and be able to catch Wi-Fi network by air. Exactly one of these usb wifi I installed the receivers on my PC, appearance which you will find in the pictures below, such Wi-Fi adapters are also called flash drives.

Now that we have already become a little familiar with what wi-fi devices and devices there are, it’s time to start connecting it to the computer.

Let's start installing the wifi adapter on a TP-LINK computer

Let's start by taking the Wi-Fi adapter and connecting it to the computer. Despite its small size, I recommend connecting it to the USB connectors located on the back of your computer. Let's assume that all your sockets are occupied, then to connect the TL-WN725N adapter you can use various extension cords or the one included in the kit.

After you insert the device into usb socket your operating system will begin to automatically search for drivers; as a rule, it finds them itself; it is possible that Windows will not find them and will throw an error. Don’t worry, ignore it, then insert the disk that comes with the kit and install the drivers and utilities from the disk. If the installation disk is missing for some reason, I recommend searching in search engines for the Wi-Fi adapter model; in my case it is TL-WN725N. Well, if you haven’t already found it, then I recommend reading this topic?

I see no point in describing the process of installing drivers. Now we just have to wait for the installation to finish. After the installation is complete, in the notification panel where the clock is located, you will be able to see the status of your Internet connection in the form of sticks with a yellow snowflake, this will indicate that our Wi-Fi adapter has found networks available for connection.

Now click this status to connect Wi-Fi, if there is an available network to connect to, select it and click on the “Connection” button.

Today Wi-Fi technology very widespread both in the field of public Internet networks and for home use. This Internet connection has many advantages. Therefore, I would like to be able to connect absolutely all devices to Wi-Fi, including a home computer without a built-in Wi-Fi receiver. In this article we will talk about the main methods that allow you to connect Wi-Fi to a desktop computer.

How to connect a computer to Wi-Fi via an internal receiver

The internal receiver is a board with antennas. To install it you need to open system unit and insert it into the motherboard via PCI interface. You don’t need to have any special knowledge for this, because there is not much choice where you can insert the internal Wi-Fi receiver board in the system unit. After installing the card, you need to go to “Wireless Networks” and connect to your network using the access password if your network is secure.

Among the advantages can be noted hidden installation receiver and the reliability of the connection between the Wi-Fi receiver and the computer. Among the disadvantages is the need to remove the system unit casing and the fear of inserting the board somewhere in the wrong place.

How to connect a computer via Wi-Fi using an external receiver

Connecting your computer to Wi-Fi via an external receiver is as easy as opening a flash card using your computer. You just need to insert the external receiver into the USB port and install the receiver drivers, which are included on the CD. Wi-Fi receiver. After all the drivers are installed, you need to go to “Wireless Networks”, find your Wi-Fi network and connect to it using the password, if you have one.

The advantages of this method include ease of installation and getting started. Among the shortcomings - open method installations. If there are no free USB ports on the back of the system unit, then you will have to install it, and this will be somewhat inconvenient.

The speed of the Internet on a computer practically does not depend on the strength of the receiver, but the signal strength may be different, but this has nothing to do with the length of the antenna. In terms of price and signal reception power, external and internal receivers are practically the same, so if you want to connect home computer to the Internet via Wi-Fi, the decisive factor will most likely be ease of installation and the presence of a sufficient number of USB ports in your system unit.

Most currently produced devices have the function of connecting to the Internet via Wi-Fi. Thanks to the adapter already built into the gadget by the manufacturer, the user has access to the Internet literally immediately as soon as he takes the purchased device out of the package, for example, a laptop, camera, smartphone, tablet, etc.

You only need to enable the necessary function and you can enjoy Internet surfing. But what to do when you need to provide access to world wide web via a desktop computer? In this article, owners of such PCs will find solutions to this current issue. modern world question.

What additional components are needed?

If your computer is not equipped necessary equipment to connect to the Internet via WiFi, you can equip it with one. Below we will consider the types of devices that can allow a desktop PC to recognize wireless networks.

Outdoor WiFi adapter

Adapters that provide connection to Wi-Fi, belonging to the category external devices, have the ability to connect to a computer via USB connectors.

Sometimes similar devices are equipped with a special antenna that enhances the received Wi-Fi. The device is easy to use and connect, since you only need to insert its USB plug into the computer system unit and install the drivers for the adapter. The software on CD is always included with the device. Below you will find step-by-step instructions for performing subsequent settings if you select an adapter in the form of an external Wi-Fi receiver.

Internal type WiFi adapter

Connection with wireless network A desktop PC is often provided using another method. You can use a built-in Wi-Fi receiver by connecting it through the computer's motherboard.

Distinctive advantages and disadvantages of external and internal adapters

The cost of these devices is almost the same. Software installation and configuration are also not very difficult. For owners of several computers, it is advisable to purchase an external type of device, since it can be quickly disconnected from one PC and immediately easily connected to another computer to access the Internet. However, the external device takes up valuable desktop space, so for those who favor aesthetics and lack space, it is recommended to purchase a built-in adapter, the advantages of which also include the absence of the risk of breakage as a result of external influences.

Wireless Source

It is obvious that without the presence, near the location of a computer with an installed Wi-Fi network receiver, its source, and more specifically a router, it will be impossible to connect to the Internet.

In turn, the WiFi router itself must be turned on global network via Internet cable. Next, you can turn on the router to distribute Wi-Fi to your PC and other gadgets.

The procedure for installing an outdoor WiFi adapter and subsequent configuration

The procedure will be described for “TP-LINK TL-WN721N”, but all steps are similarly applicable for other devices of this type.

Stage 1

Remove all the following components from the packaging:

Adapter;
USB cable;
User's Guide;
CD with software.

Stage 2

Connect the PC system unit to the Wi-Fi receiver via USB cable. It is recommended not to pay attention to notifications displayed on the PC monitor indicating that software has been found and installed on the equipment, since drivers must be installed manually from the CD.

Stage 3

Insert the CD into the drive and activate the installation procedure. In the installation wizard window that appears, find and specify the model WiFi receiver and click “Install driver and utility”.

After this, the installation wizard will guide you through intuitive menus, where the user will only need to follow the sequential instructions of the pop-up windows.

When the procedure is completed, an icon will appear in the system tray indicating that the Wi-Fi device has started operating.

Stage 4

In the next menu that appears, type the WiFi access code and click “Ok”.

Ready! Now you can turn on the browser on your PC and start active internet surfing.

The procedure for installing the built-in WiFi adapter and subsequent configuration

The procedure will be described for “TP-Link TL-WN751ND”, but all steps are similar and applicable for other devices of this type.

Stage 1

Remove the device from the packaging and disconnect the antenna from it.

Stage 2

Turn off the PC and open the system unit. Insert the device into the PCI slot.

Install the antenna back to the standard location of the wireless Internet receiver.

Stage 3

The process of setting up the built-in receiver is completely similar to the procedure described above for the external device.

In this article I will tell you how you can connect your computer to the Internet via Wi-Fi. We will be talking about stationary PCs, which, for the most part, do not have this capability by default. However, their connection to a wireless network is accessible even to a novice user.

Today, when almost every home has one, using a cable to connect a PC to the Internet may be impractical: it is inconvenient, the location of the router on the system unit or table (as is usually the case) is far from optimal, and Internet access speeds are not such that The wireless connection couldn't handle them.

What is required to connect your computer to Wi-Fi

All you need to connect your computer to a wireless network is to equip it with a Wi-Fi adapter. Immediately after this, just like your phone, tablet or laptop, it will be able to work online wirelessly. At the same time, the price of such a device is not at all high and the most simple models cost from 300 rubles, excellent - about 1000, and very cool - 3-4 thousand. Sold in literally any computer store.

Wi-Fi adapters for computers come in two main types:

USB Wi-Fi adapters, which are a device similar to a flash drive.
A separate computer board that is installed in a PCI or PCI-E port; one or more antennas can be connected to the board.

Even though the first option is cheaper and easier to use, I would recommend the second - especially if you need more confident reception signal and good speeds Internet connections. However, this does not mean that a USB adapter is bad: in most cases it will be quite sufficient to connect a computer to Wi-Fi in an ordinary apartment.

Most simple adapters support 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz modes (if you are using a 5 GHz wireless network, take this into account when choosing an adapter), there are also those on sale that provide 802.11 ac, but few have routers that work in this mode, and if there is, these people know what’s what even without my instructions.

Connecting a Wi-Fi adapter to a PC

Self Wi-Fi connection adapter to a computer is not complicated: if it is a USB adapter, you just need to install it in the appropriate port of the computer, if it is an internal one, then open the system unit of the switched off computer and put the board in the appropriate connector, you won’t be able to make a mistake.

The device comes with a disk with drivers, and even if Windows automatically detected and enabled access to the wireless network, I recommend that you still install the supplied drivers, as they can prevent possible problems. Please note: if you are still using Windows XP, then before purchasing an adapter, make sure that this operating system is supported.

After the adapter installation is completed, you will be able to see the wireless networks on Windows by clicking on Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar and connect to them by entering the password.

Wireless networks are becoming increasingly popular. Increasingly, users prefer to use Wi-Fi not only for tablets and other mobile equipment, but also to connect ordinary...

You only need to enable the necessary function and you can enjoy Internet surfing. But what to do when you need to provide access to the World Wide Web through a desktop computer? In this article, owners of such PCs will find detailed instructions to solve this pressing issue in the modern world.

What additional components are needed?

If your computer is not equipped with the necessary equipment to connect to the Internet via WiFi, you can equip it with one. Below we will consider the types of devices that can allow a desktop PC to recognize wireless networks.

Outdoor WiFi adapter

Adapters that provide connection to Wi-Fi, classified as external devices, have the ability to connect to a computer via USB connectors.

Sometimes such devices are equipped with a special antenna that enhances the received Wi-Fi. The device is easy to use and connect, since you only need to insert its USB plug into the computer system unit and install the drivers for the adapter. The software on CD is always included with the device. Below will be presented step by step instructions for making subsequent settings if you select the adapter as an external Wi-Fi receiver.

Internal type WiFi adapter

Connecting to a wireless network on a desktop PC is often achieved using another method. You can use a built-in Wi-Fi receiver by connecting it through the computer's motherboard.

Distinctive advantages and disadvantages of external and internal adapters

Wireless Source

In turn, he WiFi router must be connected to the global network via an Internet cable. Next, you can turn on the router to distribute Wi-Fi to your PC and other gadgets.

The procedure for installing an outdoor WiFi adapter and subsequent configuration

The procedure will be described for “TP-LINK TL-WN721N”, but all steps are similarly applicable for other devices of this type.

Stage 1

Remove all the following components from the packaging:

Adapter;
USB cable;
User's Guide;
CD with software.

Stage 2

Connect the PC system unit to the Wi-Fi receiver via a USB cable. It is recommended not to pay attention to notifications displayed on the PC monitor indicating that software has been found and installed on the equipment, since drivers must be installed manually from the CD.

Stage 3

Insert the CD into the drive and activate the installation procedure. In the installation wizard window that appears, find and specify the model of the WiFi receiver and click “Install driver and utility.”

After this, the installation wizard will guide you through intuitive menus, where the user will only need to follow the sequential instructions of the pop-up windows.

When the procedure is completed, an icon will appear in the system tray indicating that the Wi-Fi device has started operating.

Stage 4

In the next menu that appears, type the WiFi access code and click “Ok”.

Ready! Now you can turn on your browser on your PC and start actively surfing the Internet.

The procedure for installing the built-in WiFi adapter and subsequent configuration

The procedure will be described for “TP-Link TL-WN751ND”, but all steps are similar and applicable for other devices of this type.

Stage 1

Remove the device from the packaging and disconnect the antenna from it.

Stage 2

Turn off the PC and open the system unit. Insert the device into the PCI slot.

Install the antenna back to the standard location of the wireless Internet receiver.

Stage 3

The process of setting up the built-in receiver is completely similar to the procedure described above for the external device.

Today we will talk about how you can connect Wi-Fi to a computer via a network cable. After you have an Internet cable and a Wi-Fi router connected to it, you can start creating your own little local network. Surely you have not only a desktop computer (or maybe more than one), but also a tablet, a laptop, a smartphone, and plasma TV. And all this can be combined into one network with each device connected to the Internet.

This way, your entire family can enjoy the Internet at their own discretion without disturbing each other. Someone will play on the computer online games, someone will watch their favorite films or videos from YouTube on TV, someone will work or communicate via the Internet on a laptop, and someone at this time can communicate via WhatsApp or Viber via mobile phone or smartphone. And all these pleasures can be configured with one access point via a Wi-Fi router.

And in order to create (deploy) such a grid, you must use one of two connection options:

Pave network cable from router to desktop computer and TV.
Connect a desktop computer via an external or internal Wi-Fi adapter. Moreover, laptops, tablets and smartphones already have this adapter built-in.

In this article we will look at the first connection option.

ConnectionWi— Fito a computer via a network cable

Previously, the Internet could only be connected via telephone line. Now this can be done using a network cable (twisted pair). To do this:

Connect the provider wire to wi-fi router in the slot with the inscription WAN(or Internet);

Network cable twisted pair insert into one of the connectors LAN. Which one doesn’t matter;
Connect the second end of the cord to the computer (or laptop) into the connector RJ 45. If the computer is turned on, the light next to the connector should blink.

The network cable can be connected both when the router is turned on and when the computer is turned on. It's safe.

If the Internet does not connect

Typically a computer with an operating system Windows system 7/8/10 automatically receives an IP address and immediately connects to the Internet. But you may have to make some adjustments yourself.

If there is no connection to the Internet in automatic mode, then perform the following manipulations:

Check if your Wi-Fi router is turned on;
Check whether the network cable is well connected to the connectors of the router and computer;
Check visibility network card V Device Manager. If there is no entry in Device Manager " Network adapters ", this means you need to install or reinstall the network card driver.

Turn off the router for 30-40 seconds and turn it on again. This usually helps.

Configuring your computer's network card to connect viaWi— Firouter

If, after the above manipulations, the Internet still does not connect, then you need to manually register the IP address for your network card.

To do this:

right click on the icon network connection on the taskbar. It is located near the clock), and select " Network Sharing Center».

If this icon is not on the taskbar, then open Control Panel.

IN Windows 7 The control panel is located in the menu " Start».

Select in view " Small icons", and click on the item " Network and Sharing Center».

Right-click on the network card icon and select “ Properties».

Highlight " Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" and click the " Properties».

Set the switch to " Use the following address" and below write the following:

IP address 192.168.1.5 (last digit can be anything from 1 to 255)

Subnet mask 255.255.255.0

Default gateway 192.168.1.1

Preferred DNS server 192.168.1.1

An alternative DNS server is not needed

Check the box next to " Confirm settings on exit».

If a small window pops up with some kind of warning, press the “ Yes».

Now it would be good to restart your computer.

Over the past decade mobile technologies made a sharp leap towards mass participation. That is why efforts are being made to implement such developments as a Wi-Fi adapter for a computer into almost every existing model.

Simplify data transfer

The idea of transmitting information “through the air” was first voiced in the scientific sense at the beginning of the twentieth century by Nikola Tesla. But then it was somewhat difficult to implement, and now it’s hard to imagine that someone would refuse to install a Wi-Fi adapter for a PC and would prefer to bother with laying cables.

If at the beginning of the two thousandth the same wireless standards 802.11a and 802.11b simply could not compete with the bulk of wired internet in terms of speed and cost, then with the arrival of “g”, which could deliver up to 54 Mbit/s, real competition had already begun. And when in 2009 they patented and began to actively implement the “n” protocol with its 150/300/600 Mbit/s, it was obvious Wi-Fi benefits above an ordinary 100 megabit card became obvious even to the average user. The development of the mobile industry also played an important role. microprocessor technology, which includes tablets, smartphones, smart watch and the same laptops with netbooks.

But be that as it may, a fairly large percentage of users computer equipment prefers to use desktop PCs. And they are not equipped as standard wireless modules, such as Wi-Fi adapters for a computer or Bluetooth. Fortunately, motherboard manufacturers carefully provide everything necessary for such needs. Therefore, it is worth considering the options available on the market that a user who wants to upgrade his PC can use.

Transition to wireless networks

So, the first step is to consider how to choose a Wi-Fi adapter for a computer, and for this you need to determine the intended purpose of the module, its type of device and the needs of the user himself.

It's worth starting with the fact that this type devices can be stationary and mobile. The difference lies in the interface itself, through which the gadget will connect to the system unit personal computer. On at the moment There are many variations on the market that can satisfy the needs of even owners of very old devices, but the cost and their advantages will be best case scenario ephemeral.

Adapter Types

So we will look at the three most popular and widespread interfaces:

PCI Express.

The first one refers to mobile type, since to use this kind of device it is enough to plug such a USB-Wi-Fi module into any USB socket and, if necessary, it can be quickly removed and then installed in another system unit or device without even turning off the PC. In general, this is a typical dongle, that is, a gadget that has the format of a regular flash drive, which many are already accustomed to using. Most of these adapters are designed for very short distances and have low power. There are, however, serious powerful devices that are not inferior to stationary ones, but their cost will be much higher.

The second and third types refer to stationary devices. They are installed directly onto the motherboard itself and are not very suitable for frequent removal. In addition, you need to make sure what type of interface is present on the motherboard User's PC. This can be done either through special programs type AIDA64 or Everest, or by removing the cover from the system unit and examining the connectors available there, which in most cases are labeled. Offhand, the PCI slot is quite large and has 3 sections: two small ones on the sides, one large one between them.

PCI-Express, on the contrary, is quite small, about half to a third the length of PCI and consists of only two sections, where one is a couple of pins larger than the other.

As for the cost, a USB gadget will be slightly more expensive than a stationary sample with similar characteristics. So it’s worth studying this issue in advance, and it would also be useful to read reviews of specific Wi-Fi models computer adapters before you go shopping.

Baud rate

The second parameter that is worth paying attention to is the data transfer speed; it directly depends on the standard on which the Wi-Fi module operates. Currently for simple user Three standards are considered relevant:

802.11g.
802.11n.
802.11ac.

Their theoretical speeds are presented accordingly:

54 Mbit/sec.
150/300/600 Mbit/sec.
From 433 Mbit/s to 6.77 Gbit/s.

If everything is clear with the first, then explanations are needed for the second and third. Depending on the quality of materials, software, the layout of the chips and the signal power that the equipment can produce, the speed of the same protocol (for example, “n”) will be different. Accordingly, the higher the quality, the more productive the Wi-Fi device itself will be. As you might guess, the more functional and high-quality the gadget is, the higher its cost will be.

This also includes such a detail as “equipment coordination.” For example, a PC owner decided to spend money on an expensive, powerful and high-quality Wi-Fi adapter with the “n” protocol, but his router only works with “g” (including “a” and “b”, of course, since these protocols are backward compatible). Of course, the maximum that a user can get in such a combination of equipment (Wi-Fi card-router) is the same 54 Megabits. The second point is the speed coming via cable from the provider itself. If the contract with him is concluded only for 20 Mbit/sec, then even when using the module and 802.11ac router, the final speed will be only 20 Megabits.

Based on the above: it is worth deciding in advance about your needs and capabilities before choosing Wi-Fi USB adapter for a computer or even purchase one.

Power

This criterion is often simply discarded as unnecessary, since for the most part it is irrelevant for owners of small apartments. But for owners of large houses or land plots this parameter will be more than significant. Firstly, based on this aspect some providers provide access to the World Wide Web, and secondly, if you need to cover a large Internet distribution area, then power is of paramount importance here.