What is the name of the wi-fi receiver

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 work of the adapter is to receive the signal coming from the router.

How to choose a Wi-Fi adapter for a PC (desktop computer)

If you have a regular desktop computer, and the Internet is connected via a Wi-Fi router, then there are at least two ways in which you can connect the PC to the router.

1. With a network cable. In this case there is one big minus and one big plus. The minus is that you have to run a network cable from the router to the computer. And if the router is installed near the PC, this is not a problem. But it is not always possible to pull the cable. It is not always convenient and beautiful. Well, the plus is that the cable connection is more stable, and the speed of the Internet will be higher.
2. Over a Wi-Fi network, using a special adapter. In desktop computers, as a rule, there are no built-in Wi-Fi adapters, and to connect the PC to a wireless network, this adapter must be bought, installed and configured. It is not a problem, but it is an additional expense. But no wires. I wrote about this in an article: how to connect a normal computer (PC) to a Wi-Fi network.

In this article, we will understand in detail what are the Wi-Fi adapters for PC, what to pay attention to when choosing, and how to choose the right adapter for a desktop computer. It should be noted that the USB adapters, which will be discussed in this article, can be used on laptop computers, as well without any problems. If the built-in module is broken, or does not work for some other reason.

And while you choose a Wi-Fi adapter, you can use an Android mobile device instead. How to configure it all, I wrote in the article Android phone as a Wi-Fi adapter for the computer.

Perhaps you have another router, then you can try to set it up as a receiver using these instructions.

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 the adapter will use to connect to the desktop computer. The most popular ones are USB and PCI Express. There is also PCMCIA (mostly for laptops), but they are not very actual, 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 the USB connector on your computer. For better reception (to raise the adapter higher), you can connect it via a USB extension cable. Some models come with extenders. You can use them on different computers and laptops. Quickly disconnect and reconnect. If you choose a receiver just for a regular 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 unit. Well, as you understand, it is not possible to quickly disconnect and connect such a receiver to another PC. The same way as to raise it on an extension cord for better reception. Although, they shouldn't have any problems with reception, all models have good antennas for its enhancement. Of the pluses: it does not take a 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.
  There is, however, one tricky part. Since these Wi-Fi modules are designed mainly for installation in laptops (where the wires are already brought out for connection of built-in laptop antennas) , on M.2 Wi-Fi PC module can work, but do not see Wi-Fi networks. 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:
  There is, however, one tricky part. Since these Wi-Fi modules are designed mainly for installation in laptops (where the wires are already brought out for connection of built-in laptop antennas) , on M.2 Wi-Fi PC module can work, but do not see Wi-Fi networks. 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:
  

What is a Wi-Fi adapter for a computer?

A Wi-Fi module for a PC is a small data-sharing product that works in the broadband Wi-Fi band. The adapter receives a data packet using a special antenna. The information is digitized inside the chip with the software installed on it. For the operation of the device it is necessary to install the software, which provides control and normal functioning of the product.

Wi-Fi adapter for computer is designed to receive-transmit data in a situation where a computer, laptop or other device is not equipped with a built-in module. The product is capable of receiving and transmitting information, which allows you to simultaneously receive and distribute Internet from one computer to other PCs. The device has a number of limitations on the speed of information transfer, which rarely exceeds 3-5 Mbps. But this is enough for full-fledged surfing, downloading and watching videos on the web.

Wi-Fi adapter for computer is used to solve such problems:

• connection to an already installed and connected router, modem;
• organization of Wi-Fi connection for connecting other equipment;
• arrangement of a wireless network in case of failure of the built-in adapter;
• solving additional tasks, for example, analysis of the network.

After installing and configuring the Wi-Fi adapter for your computer, you can work on the Internet as usual.

Types of Wai Fi adapter

Today, many manufacturers produce devices for receiving-transmitting information over a wireless network. Two main types are distinguished:

• USB Wi Fi adapter is a module for PC (computer) with the purpose of external connection, which resembles a flash drive. Presented models differ in size and type of connection: directly or through an additional cable. USB receiver (flash drive) Wi Fi for your computer is connected via a connector with the same name. When buying an adapter for a PC, it is better to choose models with an extension cord. If you have a laptop is allowed to connect directly. This option is convenient for transportation and the need for quick application on different personal computers.

• PCI WiFi adapter for PC is a card that is inside the PC and is connected through a special connector "motherboard". To install the product it is necessary to have a PCI connector. Also you will have to open the lid of the PC system unit for connection. This is a major inconvenience, because it will take time to install the WiFi card for the computer. An extension cord can be used to improve signal quality, but the antenna is usually sufficient to cover a small apartment or house. The advantage is that the built-in adapter does not look out of the PC and does not interfere with work.

The type of connection is one of the main features you need to know about Wi-Fi devices. But there are a number of other points that are taken into account when buying. We will focus on them below.

Rating of the top 11 best Wi-Fi adapters for PCs in 2023

Place	Model	Price
Best models with USB connection
#1	Mercusys MU6H	Check price
#2	Alfa Network AWUS1900	Ask the price
#3	Tenda U9	Ask the price
#4	Mercusys MW300UH	Ask the price
#5	TP-LINK Archer T2U Plus	Find out the price
#6	Tenda U2	Ask the price
#7	ASUS USB-AC68	Find out the price
The best models with PCI-E connection
#1	ASUS PCE-AC56	Ask Ask price
#2	ASUS PCE-AC88	Ask the price
#3	ASUS PCE-AC68	Ask the price
#4	TP-LINK Archer T4E	Ask the price

These are truly universal devices that can connect not only to a PC, but also to other equipment that supports the appropriate technology.

Rating of the best USB Wi-Fi adapters for PC and laptop 2023 according to customer reviews and ratings.

Mercusys MU6H

Wi-Fi adapter in the original design stands out for the presence of a large external antenna, which provides improved connection quality with wireless networks.

Mercusys MU6H device will be especially useful for desktop PC users, because built-in Wi-Fi modules are very rare.

Of course, nothing prevents you from using the adapter in other devices equipped with a USB port.

The best models with PCI-E connection

Intended for for integration into PCs with an appropriate PCI-E slot on the motherboard.

ASUS PCE-AC56

ASUS PCE-AC56 adapter from well known PC manufacturer allows you to solve the problem of lack of built-in Wi-Fi module on your PC.

The component is connected via PCI-E interface.

It is installed directly on the motherboard via the expansion slot. Two powerful antennas for signal reception are placed outside.

The transmitting power of 24 dBm guarantees a quality signal reception from the transmitting equipment.

The device supports a frequency range of 2.4/5 GHz, with a maximum wireless connection speed of 1267 Mbps.

Adapter is compatible with Windows XP…10 operating systems.

• Dual band operation – 2.4/5 GHz;
• standards compliance – 802.11 b, a, g, n, ac;
• channel rate (max) – 1267 Mbps;
• antenna parameters – external, 2 pcs., 6 dBi;
• overall dimensions – 121 × 22 × 99 mm;
• network security – WEP, WPA, WPA2;
• features – removable antenna.

ASUS PCE-AC88

Wireless module with maximum bandwidth of 2167 Mbps and dual-band capability is an integrated solution for connecting a desktop computer to a wireless network.

Technically ASUS PCE-AC56 is a module with the popular PCI-E interface that can be installed on the motherboard of the PC.

The design is supplemented with an external removable antenna unit.

This design allows the antennas of the adapter to be mounted in the most optimal way.

How it works and what you need a wi-fi adapter for

People who are going to use this device, should learn a lot about the Wi-Fi adapter: how such a device works and what it is used for. As you know, it is bought to connect a laptop or personal computer to a wireless network.

The principle of operation is quite simple. The adapter is capable of receiving and sending data packets using radio communication. To transmit them quickly, the device converts the signal into a radio wave. During reception, the information is converted back into a digital signal.

How to Choose a Receiver

It is quite difficult to choose such a receiver on your own. Especially for people who have not used such devices before. In order to buy a suitable adapter to connect to a wireless network, you need to familiarize yourself with the basic nuances of choice. Choosing a new Wi-Fi Adapter, it is necessary to take into account what kind of device it is bought for.

For the computer

Most people buy such a device for further connection to a personal computer so that they can use the wireless network. When choosing an adapter for your PC, you need to decide on the type of interface that will be used for the connection. The fact is that you can connect absolutely any existing model to the computer.

People on a tight budget can buy adapters that connect via USB. Better yet, they should be equipped with an external antenna. This will improve signal reception.

However, for a computer, it is better to buy models that connect via PCI. This way you can get the maximum speed of the Internet. It is recommended to connect such devices to the PCIe1 connector, as it is more modern and advanced.

For Laptops

Most laptop models have built-in adapters for receiving a wireless Wi-Fi signal. However, there are situations when they fail. In such cases, you have to buy new devices to connect to the wireless network.

The owners of laptops will have to give up buying built-in models, which are connected via a PCI slot. The fact is that only personal computers have such an input. Therefore, such models are not suitable for laptops. You will have to choose a module that connects via USB.

It is recommended to buy a receiver that supports the modern 802.11ac standard. It provides data transfer speeds of about 300 Mbps.

What criteria to focus on when choosing a Wi-Fi adapter for your PC

Choosing a device that can provide your computer with a wireless Internet connection, you need to consider a number of points.

Connection interface

It is important that the selected device can be connected to the PC. Therefore, first you need to find out what connection interfaces are supported by the computer, and then on the basis of this information choose a wi-fi adapter.

In laptops, you can use either USB modules or M2 form factor devices.

Antennas .

These are additional items designed to boost the Wi-Fi signal. Antennas can be external, internal, or external removable. You should pay attention to this point if your apartment or house has thick walls, through which the signal from the router does not pass well.

Standards and frequencies

Wi-Fi adapters support 802.11a/b/g/n/ac operating standards. Each standard has its own bandwidth and frequency.

Budget models operate on 802.11b/g/n with a frequency of 2.4 GHz. More expensive modules combine 802.11a/ac and 5 GHz. The most advanced standard is considered 802.11as, which was developed in 2014. According to this characteristic, the device is chosen based on the needs of the user.

Compatibility

This factor currently does not play a special role. All modern routers and adapters are compatible with each other both in terms of frequency and standard. There should also be no problems with the installation of drivers.

The operating system usually finds them automatically and downloads them the first time you connect to the network. If this does not happen, you can always find the latest version of the driver for the connected module on the Internet and download it from the official site.

Manufacturer

Here a lot depends on the credibility of the buyer. The most reliable and "long-lived" Wi-Fi modules are considered to be TP-Link, D-Link, Tenda, as well as Asus.

The price is .

For home use with one router, it is not reasonable to buy an adapter worth several thousand rubles. For everyday tasks, a budget device from the ones discussed above will be enough. Now you can understand which Wi-Fi adapter to choose for your computer.

Connection features

Connecting the device in question on the example of a desktop computer is performed according to the algorithm:

1. Insert the module either into the USB port, or into the PCI connector on the motherboard, or into the M2 slot, depending on the interface of its connection.
2. Power on the computer.
3. Make sure that the operating system recognizes the device. The corresponding notification should appear in the lower right corner of the desktop.

Important! If the PC does not recognize the wi-fi adapter, you will need to update the driver for it. This may happen if your computer has, for example, Windows XP installed.

Popular wi-fi adapter models

To buy high-quality equipment, you need to look for a Wi-Fi network adapter from manufacturers that have already proven themselves among consumers with the reliability of signal transmission. Experts recommend paying attention to the following firms: D-link, Asus, ZyXEL, Tp-Link.

In 2021, users choose models ZyXEL nwd6605, Lumax dv0002hd, dual-band Tp-Link Archer t9uh. These models have good signal strength, and therefore the quality of the Internet connection will always remain stable.

The provided information is enough to choose a quality Wi-Fi receiver for your computer or laptop.

Types of wifi adapters

Today's adapter options are divided into three types. Each user suits a different adapter, it all depends on the goals, as well as other factors, which are discussed in more detail below.

It is worth considering each option, as well as its features.

External

External Wi-Fi adapters are so called because they are attached in an external way. They are designed primarily similar to USB – drives. Its design is simple and ergonomic, reliable. Such adapter is easy to use, it is enough to stick it in a certain slot on a computer to provide a wireless connection.

Devices of this class have a low data transfer rate, which is due to their design. Despite this, they also have a fairly democratic price, which makes them in the market of such an excellent purchase option.

Internal

Internal adapters are not that much in demand, which is primarily due to their connectivity. They are connected to the motherboard. Not every experienced programmer can provide this connection, let alone other users.

They have a high bandwidth, as well as a high cost to connect. Of course, the cost depends more on which manufacturer the user will buy the design, but the price of the usual internal adapter is quite high. Also internal Wi-Fi conductors have a reliable connection and a high data transfer rate. This is the reason for their rather expensive cost on the market.

Card .

The last type is card adapters. They are designed primarily only for those computers that have a specialized card slot for such designs. They are equipped with a strong antenna that provides a strong signal. They are also handy, they are difficult to break, and their housing is made of high-quality plastic. As a rule, such designs have a democratic cost due to the fact that they are not as popular in the market as they could be.

How to choose a wi-fi adapter

It is necessary to choose an adapter according to some criteria, which the user should clarify with the seller:

Each parameter in particular is important. The right choice will depend on what the user will set the requirements. It is worth considering each criterion.

As a rule, adapters are connected either to the computer or to the TV. When connecting to stationary devices, the user needs to download additional drivers, which are available on the developer's website. It is also necessary to choose the right Internet package, so that it is compatible with the device, as well as the firm that supplies the driver.

Pay attention! The driver can be checked in the store, as well as clarifying compatibility by the specification to the equipment. For a particular brand, all those drivers that the user can use are listed.

• The communication standard is also an important indicator. Each country has its own standard. It determines the data transfer speed. The maximum speed that is currently possible is 300 Mbit/second. The user should choose the device of the standard he needs. It can also be specified in the manual of the purchased adapter.
• Frequency is an indicator on which the standard of the received Internet completely depends. The basic and simplest designs are designed for a frequency of no more than 5 Hz, when the smallest index is 2.5 Hz. For each standard there is a different frequency, which is also worth checking in the instructions to the device.
• The power is responsible for the stability of the connection. It is worth choosing models that have parameters from 16 to 20 dB.
• Encryption is the protection of the user's network from hacking, if you do not consider qualitatively this parameter, do not study the protocols, then the data transmitted over the Internet can be hacked.
• The range is measured in meters. If the adapter is for home use, those models that are designed for 5 meters are quite suitable. This will ensure full coverage, as well as communication without interruptions.

Connection features

Connecting the device in question on the example of a desktop computer is performed according to the algorithm:

1. Insert the module either into the USB port, or into the PCI connector on the motherboard, or into the M2 slot, depending on the interface of its connection.
2. Power on the computer.
3. Make sure that the operating system has detected the device. The corresponding notification should appear in the bottom right-hand corner of your desktop.

Important! If the PC does not recognize the Wi-Fi adapter, you will need to update the driver. This can happen if you have, for example, Windows XP installed on your computer.

Updating the driver for the network adapter

How to properly configure the Wi-Fi adapter

After connecting the device to the PC, you will need to perform a few manipulations to configure it. On operating systems of the Windows family, this process is divided into the following steps:

• Click the left mouse button on the icon in the form of three vertical bars on the right side of the taskbar. Once the module is connected, the Wi-Fi icon should automatically appear in the tray;
• in the list of access points, select the appropriate wireless connection and click the "Connect" button;
• enter the password for synchronization. This information is prescribed in the WEB-interface of the router;
• wait for connection completion and check the result. On the computer should appear the Internet, distributed by the router.

On the computer to which the Wi-Fi transmitter is connected, you can create an access point so that the PC shares the network with other gadgets. Such configuration is performed with standard means of the Windows operating system in the shortest possible time. It is inexpedient to consider this topic within the framework of this article.

Appearance of MTS Wi-Fi modem

Read More: