A good Wi-Fi connection depends on three things: the modem, which connects to the internet, the router, which creates the Wi-Fi signal, and the Wi-Fi hardware in the device you’re using. A USB Wi-Fi adaptor falls into the third category. It comes in handy if you would like to add Wi-Fi capability to a device that doesn’t have it, if you are having issues with built-in Wi-Fi hardware or if you want to upgrade the Wi-Fi standard on your device.

A wireless USB adapter is easy to use with most laptop computers or desktop computers. If you want to expand the number of USB ports (and the kinds of USB ports) on your device, you can use a USB hub in conjunction with your adapter. If your device does not have the right kind of USB port for your USB Wi-Fi adapter, you can use an adapter cable like an HDMI to USB adaptor or USB C to USB adaptor.

To use ethernet, you can also choose a USB to ethernet port adaptor, and for increased security on Wi-Fi connections, consider a Wi-Fi adapter with data encryption.

Choosing the right USB Wi-Fi adapter comes down to two things: the right Wi-Fi type and the right connection. The Wi-Fi type refers to the Wi-Fi networking standard. These standards develop with each generation of W-Fi technology. The standard used by your USB Wi-Fi adapter should match the standard used by your router. So, if you have a Wi-Fi 7 router, you will want a Wi-Fi 7 USB adapter. In terms of connection, make sure you have the right port or port adaptor to plug your new dongle into your device.

Easily upgrading your device’s Wi-Fi hardware to the latest Wi-Fi standard is one of the benefits of an adapter. You can improve the Wi-Fi performance of a device with new Wi-Fi tech. You might choose a wireless adaptor because you have been wanting to upgrade your gaming laptop in order to stream high-resolution games.

If you have Wi-Fi dead zones in your home, you could benefit from a Wi-Fi extender or mesh Wi-Fi. Best Buy’s professional home Wi-Fi setup can also help you troubleshoot issues or set up home Wi-Fi.