When looking at different wireless adapters, you should consider the type of networking technology they support and keep in mind your needs in terms of internal or external devices. Whichever design you choose, consider the type of interface it has to make sure it can connect to your system and look at the data rate to get the fastest option available. Additional features like included software and the manufacturer are worth looking at to ensure you get a quality adapter that gives you the security and connectivity you need.
Internal vs External Design
Internal
Internal adapters are usually cards that fit into a slot on your motherboard. These adapters work well and do not require additional space outside of your system, but you also cannot easily swap them between computes.
External
An external adapter physically connects to your computer and you can place it on your desk or similar location. These devices are great for use with laptops or if you want to be able to easily swap the adapter between different systems, but you need to make sure you have space for it in your work area.
Interface Connection
Whether you choose an internal or external device, look at how it connects to your computer and make sure you have the right type of interface. For an internal adapter, this usually means a PCI slot on your motherboard. You probably have a PCI slot available, but double-check to be sure your motherboard has the right type and that it is not blocked by a video card or other hardware.
External devices usually connect through a USB port or network connection like an Ethernet cable. Make sure you have the right type of connection, and pick a model with at least USB 2.0, though 3.0 is preferable.
Internal vs External Antenna
Internal Model
An internal antenna is convenient because it does not stick out and reduces the chances of it breaking off accidentally. Reception with an internal antenna can be an issue, however, and internal antennae are usually not ideal if you need to receive a wireless signal over a long range.
External Model
External antennae provide excellent range and reception quality, but you need to be sure you have room for them as well as being careful not to damage or break them off the adapter. If you have the space, one or more external antennae are usually a better choice, but an internal antenna can still work great at close range.
Compatible Standards
Once you have determined whether you want an internal or external device, this is probably the next most important consideration as you look at different models. You need to be sure you choose an adapter that is compatible with the standards of your wireless router or other device sending a signal to your hardware.
The standards for wireless connectivity are indicated by a letter, usually after the number “802.11” or word “Wireless” in hardware’s description, for example: Wireless-N or 802.11g. What you really need to look for here is that your adapter is compatible with whatever standard your router or other hardware is using to create your wireless network.
Most of these are backwards compatible, so if you have an 802.11b router, then a Wireless-G adapter will work with it. For the fastest performance possible, pick an adapter and other hardware with Wireless-AC1900 support.
Wireless Data Rate
It is very important to consider the wireless data rate of an adapter to be sure you are not losing speed on your computer’s end of the network. Data transfers at a certain rate based on your service provider and type of Internet, and your modem, gateway, and router can all impact a network’s data rates.
If your wireless adapter is slower than your other hardware, however, then all of the speed can be lost and it creates a bottleneck in your network. Be sure you match or exceed the data rates of your other networking hardware and service; look for rates of at least 150Mbps, but if you have a really fast network, then go for a model with a rate of 300Mbps, 433Mbps, or faster.
Frequency Band
The frequency band of an adapter refers to the radio frequency or frequencies the device can send and receive signals through. The most important thing here is to make sure that whatever you choose matches the rest of your networking hardware.
You will probably see 2.4GHz or 2.4GHz/5.0GHz as the most common options for wireless adapters. 2.4GHz is very common and will work with most basic wireless networks, while 2.4GHz/5.0GHz is for dual-band networks utilizing two frequency bands for greater signal fidelity and performance. As long as an adapter with a frequency band matches your other wireless networking hardware, you should be fine.
Included Software
While the types of network and data rates are primary concerns, it is also worth looking at the software that comes bundled with any adapter you consider. Good software can make it easier to set up your network and keep it secure. If you already have utilities and software that you prefer for networking, then this is a negligible concern, but otherwise look at what is included.
You want to choose a model which includes software to make networking simple. Pick an adapter which includes programs for setting up and managing your network, along with security options to ensure unauthorized users aren’t able to access your network and data.
Manufacturer and Warranty
Since wireless adapters are an important part of setting up your network and overall performance, be sure to choose a reliable manufacturer known for making quality hardware. Companies like TP-Link, Netgear, D-Link, and ASUS are well known and regarded for making excellent internal and external adapters.
You should also look at the warranty provided on an adapter to be sure your investment in the hardware is protected. A one-year warranty is the bare minimum you should accept, while a two-year or five-year warranty is ideal. It is common for external adapters to have longer warranties, so keep that in mind as you compare different manufacturers and models.