[Top-rated] Best linux wifi adapter – Reviews in 2023

A Linux WiFi adapter, also known as a wireless network adapter, is a device that connects a computer to a wireless network. It enables the computer to communicate with other devices on the network and access the internet.

There are different types of Linux WiFi adapters available, such as USB adapters, PCMCIA adapters, and PCI adapters. USB adapters are the most common and easiest to use, as they simply plug into a USB port on the computer. PCMCIA adapters are designed for laptops and plug into a PCMCIA slot. PCI adapters are designed for desktop computers and plug into a PCI slot.

When choosing a Linux WiFi adapter, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with the version of Linux you are using and that the necessary drivers and software are available. Some adapters may require additional software or manual configuration to work properly.

It is also important to consider the wireless standards supported by the adapter, such as 802.11ac and WPA3, to ensure good performance and security. Other features to look for include high data transfer speeds, external high-gain antenna, and plug-and-play capability.

In summary, Linux wifi adapter is a device that connects your Linux computer to a wireless network and enables it to communicate with other devices on the network, access the internet and other network resources. When choosing a Linux wifi adapter, compatibility with your Linux version, supported wireless standards, data transfer speeds, and additional features are important factors to consider.

Top Rated 8 best linux wifi adapter

1: BrosTrend Linux USB WiFi Adapter 1200Mbps Supports Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Debian

Here are some of the top features of the BrosTrend Linux USB WiFi Adapter 1200Mbps:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1200Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Linux compatibility: The adapter is specifically designed for use with Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Debian and other Linux operating systems, and comes with the necessary drivers and software.
5. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
6. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
7. Brand reputation: BrosTrend is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
8. Additional features: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.
9. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
10. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.

2: USB WiFi Adapter for PC, 1200Mbps USB 3.0 Dual Band 2.4Ghz/5Ghz

Here are some of the top features of the QGOO USB 3.0 WiFi Dongle:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1200Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15, Linux, Chrome OS and more, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: QGOO is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

3: Wireless USB WiFi Adapter for PC: 1300Mbps WiFi USB, 802.11AC WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC

Here are some of the top features of a wireless USB WiFi adapter for PC with 1300Mbps:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1300Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15, Linux and more, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: The adapter is from a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

4: Cudy AC1300 WiFi USB 3.0 Adapter for PC, USB WiFi Dongle, 5Ghz /2.4Ghz, WiFi USB 3.0

Here are some of the top features of the Cudy AC1300 WiFi USB 3.0 Adapter:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1300Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15, Linux and more, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: Cudy is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

5: USB WiFi Wireless Adapter for PC 1200Mbps QGOO USB 3.0 WiFi Dongle 802.11 ac Network Adapter

Here are some of the top features of the QGOO USB 3.0 WiFi Dongle:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1200Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15, Linux, Chrome OS and more, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: QGOO is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

6: BrosTrend Linux WiFi Adapter for Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Debian, Lubuntu, Xubuntu

Here are some of the top features of the BrosTrend Linux WiFi adapter:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1200Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers, it is compatible with Linux, Ubuntu, Mint, Debian, Lubuntu and Xubuntu.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Linux, Ubuntu, Mint, Debian, Lubuntu and Xubuntu, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: BrosTrend is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products for Linux.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.

7: L-Link USB WiFi Adapter AC1300Mbps 3.0 Fast Connection for Desktop PC and Laptop

Here are some of the top features of the L-Link USB WiFi adapter:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1300Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15, Linux, Chrome OS and more, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: L-Link is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

8: D-Link USB WiFi Adapter Dual Band AC1300 Wireless Internet for Desktop PC Laptop

Here are some of the top features of the D-Link USB WiFi adapter:

1. High-performance: This adapter supports high data transfer speeds of up to 1300Mbps, which is ideal for streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
2. Dual-band support: The adapter supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering more flexibility and faster data transfer speeds.
3. External high-gain antenna: The adapter features an external high-gain antenna that provides stronger and more stable signal for better performance and coverage.
4. Plug-and-play: The adapter is easy to install and use without the need for additional software or drivers.
5. USB 3.0 support: The adapter supports USB 3.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
6. Advanced security features: The adapter supports advanced security features like WPA3 to help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Compatibility: The adapter is compatible with Windows and Mac, it can easily plug and play, no need for any software or driver installation.
8. Brand reputation: D-Link is a reputable brand known for its high-quality wireless networking products.
9. Compact design: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
10. Extra software: The adapter comes with a software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.

Why You should need a best linux wifi adapter

A high-quality Linux WiFi adapter is essential for several reasons:

1. High-speed internet access: A good WiFi adapter provides fast and reliable internet access, allowing you to stream videos, play games, and perform other bandwidth-intensive tasks without interruption.
2. Increased range: A high-quality adapter typically comes with an external antenna that provides a stronger and more stable signal, increasing the range of your wireless network.
3. Plug-and-play: A good adapter is easy to install and use, with no need for additional software or drivers.
4. Compatibility: A good adapter is compatible with a wide range of Linux-based operating systems, such as Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Debian, etc.
5. Advanced security features: A good adapter comes with advanced security features like WPA3, which help you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
6. Brand reputation: A good adapter is manufactured by a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality wireless networking products.
7. Extra software: Many adapters come with software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.
8. Portable design: Many adapters are small and lightweight, making them easy to take with you on the go.

Overall, a best linux wifi adapter will provide you with a stable and fast connection, making your online experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Read more about networking laptop reviews.

How to choose a linux wifi adapter

When choosing a Linux WiFi adapter, there are several factors to consider:

1. Standards: Make sure the adapter is compatible with the latest wireless standards, such as 802.11ac and 802.11ax, which provide faster data transfer speeds and better coverage.
2. Band: Consider whether you need a 2.4GHz or 5GHz band adapter, or a dual-band adapter that supports both. The 5GHz band is typically faster and has less interference, but the 2.4GHz band has a longer range.
3. Speed: Look for an adapter that supports high data transfer speeds, such as 1200Mbps or 1300Mbps, to ensure smooth streaming and online gaming.
4. External Antenna: An external Antenna can help to increase the range of your network and provide better signal quality.
5. Compatibility: Make sure the adapter is compatible with your Linux-based operating system, such as Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Debian, etc.
6. Security features: Look for an adapter that supports advanced security features like WPA3, which helps you to secure your wireless network and protect it from hacking and other malicious attacks.
7. Brand reputation: Choose an adapter that is manufactured by a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality wireless networking products.
8. Extra software: Some adapters come with software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks.
9. USB Type: Consider whether you need USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 type adapter, as USB 3.0 provides faster data transfer speeds and more bandwidth for high-bandwidth applications.
10. Size and design: If you are looking for a portable option, look for a small and lightweight adapter that is easy to take with you on the go.

By considering these factors, you can choose a Linux WiFi adapter that best meets your needs and provides a stable and fast connection for your online activities.

Learn more about Top-rated WiFi Adapter.

How to use a linux wifi adapter

Using a Linux WiFi adapter generally involves a few simple steps:

1. Connect the adapter to your computer: Plug the adapter into an available USB port on your computer.
2. Install the necessary drivers: If the adapter is not automatically recognized by your computer, you may need to install the necessary drivers. These can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website.
3. Configure the adapter: Once the adapter is connected and the drivers are installed, you’ll need to configure it to connect to your wireless network. This can typically be done through the Network Manager app or the command line.
4. Connect to a wireless network: Once the adapter is configured, you can connect to a wireless network by selecting it from the list of available networks and entering the password (if required).
5. Verify the connection: Once connected, you can verify the connection by opening a web browser and navigating to a website. If the website loads without issue, then your connection is working properly.
6. Advanced settings: Some adapters come with software that allows you to manage and monitor the network, which can be useful for troubleshooting and other tasks. If that’s the case, you can use the software to configure advanced settings such as security, power management and etc.

It’s important to note that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific adapter and Linux-based operating system you’re using. The manufacturer’s website or manual should provide detailed instructions on how to use the adapter.

FAQ

Do WiFi adapters work with Linux?

Yes, WiFi adapters can work with Linux. Many popular WiFi adapters are compatible with Linux and have open-source drivers available. However, it’s always best to check the compatibility of a specific adapter with the version of Linux you are using before purchasing. Some WiFi adapters may require the installation of additional drivers or software to work properly on Linux.

How do I install a wireless adapter in Linux?

To install a wireless adapter in Linux, you will first need to check if the adapter is compatible with your Linux distribution. You can do this by checking the adapter’s documentation or by searching online for its Linux compatibility.

Once you have confirmed that the adapter is compatible, you can proceed with the installation. Here is the general process:

1. Connect the adapter to your computer.
2. Open a terminal window.
3. Use the command ‘lsusb’ to check if the adapter is recognized by Linux.
4. Use the command ‘sudo apt-get update’ to update the package lists.
5. Use the command ‘sudo apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree’ to install the necessary firmware for your adapter.
6. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Note: The above steps are just an example, and the exact commands and process may vary depending on your Linux distribution and the wireless adapter you are using. It’s always a good idea to consult the adapter’s documentation or look for tutorials specific to your adapter and Linux distro.

Does Ubuntu support USB WiFi adapter?

Ubuntu, as well as most other Linux distributions, typically have built-in support for USB WiFi adapters. However, the specific adapter you have may require additional drivers or software to be installed. You can check if your adapter is supported by looking up the model number and checking for compatibility with Linux on the manufacturer’s website, or by searching for the adapter on Ubuntu’s Hardware Compatibility List. Once you have determined that your adapter is supported, you can install the necessary drivers or software by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer or by using the package manager in Ubuntu to install the appropriate package.

How to install USB WiFi in Ubuntu?

To install a USB WiFi adapter in Ubuntu, you will first need to plug the adapter into your computer’s USB port. Then open the Terminal and use the command “lsusb” to check that the adapter is recognized by the system. Next, use the command “sudo apt-get update” to update the package list and “sudo apt-get install firmware-linux-nonfree” to install the necessary firmware for the adapter. After that, you can use the command “sudo modprobe <driver>” to load the correct driver for the adapter. Once the driver is loaded, you should be able to connect to a wireless network from the network manager app.