How does the wifi network adapter work?

If you decide to buy a third-party device, pay attention to such characteristics:

WiFi adapters: what they are, why they are needed, how to choose

No matter how clichéd it may sound, a Wi-Fi router in today's world is one of the most important household devices, especially if we are not talking about connecting a single workstation, but about organizing Internet access for a series of devices. In addition, an increasing proportion of users prefer wireless connectivity due to its simplicity and convenience. And if with mobile devices or Smart TV everything is simple – there is a corresponding module built in by default, then to connect a PC you will need a separate Wi-Fi adapter.

We will dwell on them in more detail later, referring to the peculiarities of the choice.

What does a WiFi adapter do?

As mentioned above, the adapter is needed to connect the device to an existing Wi-Fi network created with a router, access point or smartphone in the absence of a wired Internet connection. Thus, the adapter allows you to:

• detect available wireless networks,
• provide connection to them via an encrypted channel,
• organize data transfer via a local network (access to other devices, local file storage),
• provide high-speed Internet access without the need to buy patch cords (patch cords) or make them out of twisted pair, lay them and connect.

In fact, WiFi-adapter is a full-fledged additional network card, which takes full control of the network connection. Accordingly, it can be used not only when there is a strong need to provide a wireless connection, but also as a temporary or permanent replacement for a failed built-in network adapter.

Types of Adapters

In order to understand the question "WiFi adapter, what is it?", you should also consider the peculiarities of design. Modules can use different connectors to connect to the PC. There are quite a few external differences, too.

Mini

A compact adapter that plugs into a USB port like a flash drive. It does not take a lot of space, also sometimes referred to as a "whistle". The mini-adapter has low power, so when you move away from the router or access point, the connection will deteriorate. But it is a handy option for computers, laptops and other USB devices. It is easy to install.

For example, if your laptop or PC has its own module failed, this "whistle" will allow you to connect to the network. The small module does not protrude much from the port when plugged in, so it looks neat.

There is usually only one antenna inside the device. If the adapter supports both frequency bands, there will be two antennas inside. You can find miniature models that support MIMO, and consequently higher speeds. However, low power prevents comfortable operation. Often even one wall or door between the device and the router significantly reduces the speed.

Standard

Such adapters are also connected via USB, but unlike the previous variant, the dimensions are not a limitation. Such devices are characterized by greater performance. Among the models there are variants capable of transferring data at speeds above 600 Mbps. Devices are connected via USB version 3 or higher, since the bandwidth of the previous version of the connector may not be enough.

Standard adapters can be equipped with an internal or external antenna. The signal strength is enough to work without problems at a small distance from the router, for example, in the next room. The adapter can resemble a flash drive, to which you can attach an antenna, or a small router. The last option is convenient for a PC, because it can be installed in a convenient place and connected to USB with a cable.

Module on PCs and laptops

Laptops are mostly equipped with a built-in module, so the question "WiFi adapter, what is it?" rarely arises in users. A replacement may be required in case of failure. Users sometimes want to upgrade the device, for example, if a new standard of communication came out.

USB adapters will do for the laptop, but it is not very convenient, because the ports are usually few. It is more convenient to use built-in Wi-Fi adapters.

For PCs, a wireless module is not a must. Motherboards are sold both with and without a built-in adapter. Almost any module can be connected to the computer. Here you should choose the most convenient option.

TVs.

1. TV with built-in Wi-Fi module – Wi-Fi is built-in, no additional adapter is needed. This is almost all modern Smart TVs. How to determine whether the TV with Smart TV, or not, I have already written.
2. TV without built-in Wi-Fi, there is a LAN, but it is also possible to connect a USB adapter.
3. The TV with only a LAN input. Wi-Fi adapters are not supported. As a rule, these are the oldest models of smart TVs.

Even if there is support for USB Wi-Fi adapters, the TVs only work with original, proprietary adapters, which are very difficult to find, and which tend to be expensive. Somewhere I met information that you can pick up some ordinary adapter to the TV, cheaper, but I think it will not work with it. You can Google the topic if you're interested.

I think it's better to use another router, or a repeater. I wrote about it in an article on how to connect a TV without Wi-Fi to the Internet via Wi-Fi.

In personal computers (PCs)?

If you want to connect your computer to a Wi-Fi network, you can't do without a Wi-Fi adapter. Compared to set-top boxes, receivers and TVs, computers are more omnivorous. Therefore, they will work with almost any adapter. The main thing is to find and install the appropriate drivers, if the system itself does not install them.

Connect the Wi-Fi adapter to the USB port (or to the PCI Express port inside the system unit), install drivers and connect our PC to the wireless network.

I do not see the point to dwell on this topic in more detail, as I have already written about it in the article how to choose a Wi-Fi adapter for your PC (stationary computer). There everything is described in detail, you can read it.

Also in a separate article I told you about Wi-Fi adapters from China. How to choose them and whether they are worth buying.

And one more interesting point: on PCs and laptops, with the help of wireless adapters you can not only receive Wi-Fi, but also distribute it. For example, with this instruction: how to give out the Internet via Wi-Fi adapter on PCs with Windows 10.

The main characteristics

Wi-Fi adapter is a complex technical device and has its own characteristics. The data is usually indicated on the equipment or in the user manual. What indicators I want to pay attention to (will come in handy when buying an external or PCI module):

• Connection interface – USB 2.0, 3.0.
• Wi-Fi protocols – 802.11a/b/g/n/ac.
• Range – 2.4 and/or 5 GHz.
• Transmitter power – measured in dBm (preferably at least 20).
• Antenna gain – defined in dBi (not always specified).
• Type of protection – the most reliable WPA/WPA2-PSK.
• Compatibility with operating systems.

All of these characteristics should be considered when purchasing a Wi-Fi adapter. For example, if your home devices do not support the 802.11ac standard, you do not need to buy a 5GHz module.

A short review

Let's give examples of models, their characteristics and price.

TP-Link TL-WN725N.

The simplest mini adapter for a computer or laptop for 500 rubles. Connects to a USB port (version 2.0). Works in the 2.4 GHz band with support for 802.11b/g/n protocols. Works with WPA/WPA2-PSK data encryption. The maximum data transfer rate is 150 Mbps.

D-Link DWA-137A1B.

USB receiver with external antenna. The antenna has a gain of 5 dBi, which is suitable for expanding the Wi-Fi signal access area. Range – 2.4 GHz, Wi-Fi standards – 802.11b/g/n, maximum speed – 300 Mbps. The price in electronics chain stores is about 1000 rubles.

TP-Link Archer T1U

Compact USB module, operates at 5 GHz, provides speeds up to 400 Mbps. Supports 802.11a/n/ac protocols. USB 2.0 connection interface. The price – up to 1000 rubles.

TP-Link Archer T2U.

Dual-band Wi-Fi adapter (2.4 and 5 GHz) for a price of 1200 rubles. It supports the latest 802.11ac standard. Fully compatible with Windows 7 and 8. According to reviews on the "ten" also works perfectly, the drivers are installed automatically.

TP-Link Archer T9E

This is a powerful device connected through a PCI interface. Dual-band, with three antennas, high speed (up to 1900 Mbps) – an excellent option for torrent downloads and games. The board is equipped with a good radiator, which protects against overheating even during prolonged operation. The price is about 4000 rubles.

Which device is better – PCI or USB? Check out the details in the next video:

What kind of Wi-Fi adapters are there? Deciding on a connection interface

The first thing I advise you to do is to choose the interface that will be used to connect the adapter to your desktop computer. The most popular ones are USB and PCI Express. There is also PCMCIA (mostly for laptops), but they are not very actual anymore, so we will not look at them. Let us deal in detail with the receivers, which are connected via USB and PCI.

• Interface: USB. They are also called external. The most popular Wi-Fi adapters that look like an ordinary flash drive. They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Very small (like a receiver for a wireless mouse or keyboard), about the size of a flash drive, or more serious versions, which are connected via a USB extension cord. These receivers can be with or without antennas. They look something like this:
  These receivers plug into your computer's USB connector. For better reception (to raise the adapter higher) you can connect it through a USB extender. Some models come with an extension cord. They can be used on a variety of computers and laptops. Quickly disconnect and reconnect. If you choose a receiver just for a normal computer and not a laptop, it is better to get a model with an antenna, or one that connects via an extension cord. For better reception of the Wi-Fi network. The miniature model (the first one in the picture above) is best suited for laptops.
• Interface: PCI Express. These are internal receivers. They are similar to a normal network card, and plug into a PCI Express port on your computer's motherboard.
  To install such an adapter, your computer must have a free PCI Express (PCI Express x1) slot. You will also need to hide the system box. And as you understand, you will not be able to quickly disconnect and connect such a receiver to another PC. Just like raising it on an extension for better reception. Although, they shouldn't have any problems with reception, all models have good antennas for its amplification. Of the pluses: it does not take USB-port and does not stick out of the system unit (only the antennae). Which, by the way, can be replaced by a more powerful, or remote.
• M.2 interface. It is the newest and most modern way to connect a Wi-Fi+Bluetooth module to the motherboard of the PC. Almost all modern motherboards are equipped with multiple M.2 connectors. The presence of this interface on your motherboard does not mean that you can plug a wireless module into it. The M.2 connector must be Key A, or Key E. This information is always included in the motherboard specifications. The connector itself may say M.2 WiFi.
  But there is one nuance. As these Wi-Fi modules are designed primarily for installation in laptops (where the wires are already brought out for connection of built-in laptop antennas), on the M.2 Wi-Fi PC module can run, but not see the Wi-Fi network. All due to a lack of antennas. Rarely come with antennas. But you can buy them and connect them to the board separately. They look something like this:
  

Choosing a Wi-Fi receiver according to specifications

Once you have decided on the connection interface, you need to look at the other specifications. Basically, this is one parameter: the speed of data transfer over a wireless Wi-Fi network. This determines the internet connection speed you get on your computer when you connect through the Wi-Fi receiver.

Also pay attention to the Wi-Fi network gain. I have looked at different adapters, the specifications usually do not specify the antennae power. If your computer is far away from the router where the signal is not very stable, you should get a receiver with external antennas for good Wi-Fi reception. The system unit is usually installed on the floor. Therefore, for better reception you can connect the adapter through a USB extension cable (if you have an external model) and put it on the table.

Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ac (5 GHz) support

At the time of this writing (end of March 2017), the most 802.11n-capable adapters are on sale. Wireless speeds up to 300 Mbps (could be higher) . The cheapest Wi-Fi adapters provide speeds up to 150 Mbps. I would advise buying such adapters only if you need to save a lot of money. Better, of course, to buy a receiver with speeds up to 300 Mbps, and even better with support for the modern 802.11ac standard.

If you have a dual-band router installed, or if you are planning on buying one to transition to the new 802.11ac standard, then of course you should immediately buy an adapter with 802.11ac support, and the ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks at 5 GHz. In 2017, this is very relevant. So that after replacing your router with a more modern one, you don't have to buy a new receiver with 802.11ac support.

Let me explain in a moment. If you have (or already have) a modern router that supports the new 802.11ac standard, and an adapter that supports 802.11n, then you will be able to connect to a Wi-Fi network, they are compatible. But the speed will be limited to the slower 802.11n standard. And you won't see the full potential of an 802.11ac router because the receiver will limit the speed.

How to make a Wi-Fi adapter out of a phone

Many people wonder if it is possible to use their phone as a Wi-Fi adapter. In fact, modern models of smartphones support this function. With their help, you can connect your PC to a wireless network to use the Internet. To do this, you need to follow the following sequence of actions:

1. Disconnect the mobile Internet. First you need to disconnect from 3G/4G.
2. Connect to the wireless network. When the phone is disconnected from the mobile Internet, connect it to the Wi-Fi network.
3. Connect the smartphone to the PC. This is done with a normal USB cable.
4. Enter modem mode. To do this, you need to enter the phone settings and select "Connections". Then it is necessary to enter section "Access point" and choose "USB-modem".

After performing the above steps, the smartphone will be connected to the PC as an Internet modem.

If it was not possible to connect the phone to the computer the first time, it is necessary to check the integrity of the USB cable. You can also try to reconnect it. This should help solve the problem.

Popular models of wi-fi adapters

People who want to buy an adapter for a PC, laptop or TV set-top box, should familiarize themselves in advance with the list of popular models of devices. There are several varieties of quality Wi-Fi modules that you can safely buy.

Zyxel NWD6605.

This model is ideal for laptops and computers. It supports the modern 802.11 ac standard, which allows you to transmit data at high speeds.

The device operates at 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. This adapter can be considered universal. It is suitable for downloading large files, as well as for online games. Among the disadvantages are problems with drivers, which are rarely updated.

TP-Link T2U Plus

This is the best budget model, which is suitable for people with a limited budget. The main advantage of the receiver is the presence of an external antenna. With its help, it manages to catch the Wi-Fi signal even at a distance of about 100 meters.

TP-Link T2U Plus supports the 802.11ac protocol. It is capable of transmitting information at speeds of 300-350 Mbps.

WPA2 encryption is used to protect transmitted data, as in most modern routers.

Lumax DV0002

This is an ideal choice for people who are not going to use the adapter too often. It only supports the 802.11n standard, so upload and download speeds are limited to 150 Mbps. However, even this will be quite enough for comfortable use of the Internet and downloading large files.

Many people wonder why they need a Wi-Fi adapter. This device is used to connect the PC, laptop or TV to the Internet via Wi-Fi. People who want to buy such a device should familiarize themselves in advance with its main features and popular models.

What is a Wi-Fi adapter for a PC

Wi-Fi adapter is a special device (digital device), the work of which allows you to connect to a Wi-Fi network of a certain frequency. It receives and transmits data going in batch mode.

In this case, some adapters are configured exclusively for data transmission, while others for reception. The device is used on devices without the ability to transmit data in wireless mode on their own.

For faster and better signal transmission, each adapter is equipped with a circular external or internal antenna. Increase the range by connecting an additional antenna, acting omni-directionally.

Important! Proper operation of the set-top box is impossible without special software. Drivers are installed on the PC, which help to digitize the radio waves going through the device to the computer. The utility is selected for each device individually.

Ways to Connect a Wi-Fi Adapter to a Computer

Modern devices for receiving and transmitting data over wireless networks can be:

The choice of receiver depends on the technical requirements of the PC and functional characteristics.

Using an external module

This type of adapter in shape and size resembles a USB flash drive. It is economical, reliable and easy to use. The external module is mobile, small size allows you to take it with you on trips, the device easily fits in the pocket of a small bag.

To connect to the system unit of a desktop PC, tablet or laptop use the USB port or Internet cable. Adapter:

External adapters are used when the PC has no built-in module that can distribute wi-fi. They are not characterized by high speed data transmission, but have almost no other drawbacks, are easy to use. The price of such an adapter is relatively low, which also adds to its advantages and makes this type of module extremely popular among users.

Correct operation of the module is provided by a special utility installed on the PC. You don't have to download anything additionally, usually the program is already available on your computer or is installed automatically during the first attempt to connect the adapter to it.

If the automatic download does not start, you need to click on the wireless icon and fix the error. You may have to install the drivers manually, to do this, carefully study the manual of the module, find its name and number, and using these data, choose the appropriate program.

Connecting the internal module

The internal or built-in adapter is connected to the motherboard, so it is impossible to install it without experience in disassembling equipment. If the user has never looked under the bottom cover of the laptop and did not open the system unit, knows about what is the motherboard and what it is needed only by hearsay, it is better to entrust the matter of installing the module to professionals.

Description of the device Wi-Fi adapter for computer and laptop

Wi-Fi adapter is a small (for this reason it is called a Wi-Fi whistle) module, which strongly resembles an ordinary flash drive, both in appearance and size. There are also variants for installation in the system unit, they have built-in antennas to improve signal quality.

Wi-Fi receiver for the computer is needed in the case when a personal device or laptop does not have a similar factory installed – this happens rarely, usually if the customer wants to save money, and buys equipment with an incomplete set.

• If there is no built-in module, the only way to connect to the Wi-Fi network is to use the equipment in question.
• The device is also purchased in situations where the standard of the already installed client is outdated, and an urgent upgrade is required.
• Adapters are used to accelerate the quality of the connection, to create a more reliable Wi-Fi network.
• Some models have multiple access points. By connecting such a device to your computer, you can make it an independent source of wireless connection distribution and connect your laptop or phone (any equipment that can receive wi-fi) to your PC.

When choosing an adapter, you should start from the way you connect to your personal computer and laptop. Usually the USB port is used. There is also equipment, which is placed in a special slot on the motherboard, this is a common option for connecting a tablet or laptop.

The speed of signal propagation will directly depend on the standard of Wi-Fi, which is used at home or in the office. In practice, the value indicated in the instructions decreases several times, due to several factors at once, for example, interference in the radio signal or the thickness of walls that block the wi-fi. Therefore, the use of different applications, can be problematic when using Wi-Fi adapter.

How a Wi-Fi adapter works

In most cases modern PCs or laptops already use special routers, which are equipped with an integrated module. This is a receiver which picks up the signal from the router.

If there is no such equipment in your computer or laptop, you need to connect a special adapter. It will perform the same function, but after a few adjustments and when properly connected. The essence of the adapter is to receive the signal coming from the router.

Adapters, as a rule, are external or internal, which are connected directly to the motherboard – before buying, you should read the characteristics of each type, and not take the equipment at random.

How do I install and configure the adapter?

Regardless of the model of the device, it is important to know how to install a Wi-Fi adapter for the computer and configure its work. Algorithm of actions:

• Insert the device into the USB connector or a free PCI slot in the motherboard;
• Make sure that the system recognizes the device;
• If the adapter is not found, install the drivers that come with it;
• select the network and specify the password.

Instructions on how to install the Wi-Fi adapter on your computer are often included on the box with the product. If you need the product to distribute the Internet, create an access point.

The main problems and solutions when working with the adapter

In the process of connection, there may be difficulties that require a quick solution. Let's consider the main points:

1. WiFi adapter does not see the computer. If the problem occurs, pay attention to the fact that the router is turned on. Just in case, restart the device (turn it on and off). If the LED is lit but there is no connection, this may indicate a lack of signal from the Internet provider or incorrect settings. In the first case you should contact your ISP, in the second case try to reinstall the drivers and restart the PC.
2. Password error. Access problems often occur due to errors in specifying the code. To solve the problem, you need to enter the correct key.
3. The IP address is not recognized. It happens that even a modern Wi-Fi adapter card with Miracast support for PC does not connect to the IP. To avoid problems, you need to set the router settings to automatically receive information.
4. Weak signal. This is possible when choosing a Wi-Fi adapter with low speed. It happens that the signal penetration is hindered by a large number of other routers. To solve this issue, you need to go to the settings and change the channel.
5. Connecting without accessing the network. A common cause is an error in specifying the IP address. In this case, verify that the DHCP server is enabled and that the settings are correct. As a rule, the following data is used: IP-address – 192.168.1.2., gateway – 192.168.1.1, subnet mask – 255.255.255.0. In the DNS settings – 8.8.8.8.
6. Pages do not load, but Skype works. The reason is the DNS settings failure. It is necessary to go to properties, choose your connection and in IPv4 and DNS specify 8.8.8.8. and 77.88.8.8.

Knowing the intricacies of choosing a Wi-Fi adapter for your computer, what it is, and how to connect it, you can avoid many difficulties and get a reliable wireless network in your home or apartment.

Read More: