USB network adapters add a wired Ethernet or wireless Wi-Fi connection to a laptop, desktop or mini PC through a USB port. They suit anyone whose device has no network port, a faulty built-in one, or an outdated Wi-Fi standard. The main types are USB Ethernet adapters, USB Wi-Fi adapters and USB-C network adapters.
How to choose a USB network adapter
Wired or wireless. Choose an Ethernet adapter if your router or switch is within cable reach and you want stable, low-latency connections for video calls, gaming or file transfers. Choose a Wi-Fi adapter when you cannot run a cable or when the built-in wireless card is the problem.
Speed class. Ethernet adapters are usually sold as 100 Mbps, Gigabit (1 Gbps) or 2.5 Gigabit models. Gigabit is enough for most home and office connections, while 2.5 Gigabit only helps if your router, cabling and internet line can also deliver it.
USB port and connector. Check whether your device has USB-A or USB-C, and which USB version it supports. Gigabit speeds need USB 3.0 or newer, because a USB 2.0 port limits the adapter to well below 1 Gbps. Many adapters come with a USB-C plug or a USB-C adapter for newer laptops that have no USB-A ports.
Wi-Fi standard and bands. For wireless adapters, look at the standard (Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6 and so on) and whether the adapter supports the 5 GHz band as well as 2.4 GHz. Dual-band models usually cope better in crowded areas. An adapter can only reach the speed that your router also supports.
Operating system support. Confirm that the adapter lists support for your version of Windows, macOS or Linux. Some adapters install automatically, while others need a driver from the manufacturer, which matters if you are setting up a machine without internet access.
Types of USB network adapter
- USB Ethernet adapters: a small dongle or short cable with an RJ45 port, used to add or replace a wired network connection on thin laptops and compact PCs.
- USB Wi-Fi adapters: a stick or a unit with external antennas that gives older or damaged machines wireless access, and can bring a desktop up to a newer Wi-Fi standard.
- USB-C network adapters: adapters with a USB-C plug for modern laptops and tablets, sometimes combined with extra USB ports.
Brand, model and specifications are shown on each product page, so compare the stated speed, connector and supported systems before you buy.
USB network adapter FAQ
Do I need to install drivers for a USB network adapter?
Often not, because current versions of Windows, macOS and Linux include drivers for many common adapters. Some models still need a driver from the manufacturer, particularly Wi-Fi adapters and faster Ethernet adapters. Check the product description for the supported systems before ordering.
Will a USB Ethernet adapter be as fast as a built-in network port?
A good Gigabit adapter on a USB 3.0 or newer port can come close to the speed of a built-in Gigabit port in everyday use. Latency may be slightly higher, which rarely matters outside demanding gaming. On a USB 2.0 port, the speed will be noticeably lower.
Can a USB Wi-Fi adapter improve my laptop's wireless connection?
Yes, if the built-in card is old, slow or damaged. An adapter supporting a newer Wi-Fi standard and the 5 GHz band can give faster and more stable connections, provided your router supports the same standard. If the router is far away or the signal is weak, the adapter will not solve that on its own.
Which USB port should I plug a network adapter into?
Use a USB 3.0 or newer port, usually marked blue or with an SS symbol, for Gigabit Ethernet and fast Wi-Fi adapters. Plugging into a USB 2.0 port will work but caps the speed. Connecting directly to the computer is better than using an unpowered hub.
