While older protocols still work, getting a Wireless-AC unit is the best option.īasically, when looking for a USB adapter, get a Dual Band Wireless-AC unit as it will fit into almost any network.Įxample Dual Band 802.11AC USB Adapter on AmazonĮDUP USB WiFi Adapter Dual Band Wireless Network Adapter 802.11 AC 2.4G/5G USB Wi-Fi Dongle with Extender Antenna Compatible with Windows XP/Vista /7/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.7-10.15 The wireless protocol also matters since new ones can transfer data faster.Ĩ02.11G or Wireless-G – Speed up-to 54MbpsĨ02.11N or Wireless-N – Speed up-to 300MbpsĨ02.11AC or Wireless-AC – Speed up-to 866 Mbps Wireless 802.11 standards have evolved, becoming faster over the years, with new versions able to work in the 5Ghz band while older units only work in the 2.4GHz frequency.ĭual-band refers to an adapter that can work in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies and is usually the best option. Some are built for range with larger antennas, and some are small, almost hidden once plugged in. There are many USB adapters available, and depending on the unit bought are very low-cost items. Top 3 Ways to Add Wireless to a Desktop PCĪ USB WiFi adapter is a very good option and the most popular way to add wireless to a desktop.

Using a USB wireless adapter is the quickest and easiest method and is commonly used to add wireless to a PC.Īn internal WiFi card, while more technical, is the best method for a very good signal.Īnother option is using an Ethernet to a wireless adapter that is less used than the other option but may be a good fit in some scenarios.īelow are the top three methods for adding wireless to a desktop computer. Yes, WiFi can be added to a desktop computer manually when there is no built-in wireless card. Can WiFi Manually Be Added to a Desktop PC

Here are the top three options for installing wireless to a desktop PC. There are basically three ways to add wireless to a PC USB adapter, Ethernet WiFi adapter, and internal WiFi card. Adding WiFi to a desktop computer is easy to do with some options easier than others.

Pci wireless adapter for pc