Wireless Network Adapters

Network adapters are sometimes called adapter cards. Different types of network adapters exist for desktop, notebook and hand-held computers. Some of these products are also designed for game consoles or other home entertainment equipment.

Newer notebook computers ship with a WiFi wireless network adapter already installed inside. How to verify your computer has one of these adapters isn't always obvious. Follow these instructions to look for a built-in wireless notebook adapter in Windows XP.

Wireless USB adapters allow most PCs to join WiFi home networks. Compact wireless USB adapters are conveniently small and work with a wide variety of computers. These particular models support the 802.11b WiFi protocol.

The WiFi network adapter Microsoft produces for its Xbox 360 is stylish, but it isn't cheap. Owners of the Xbox 360 wireless network adapter generally consider it reliable, fast and easy to setup.

This Wi-Fi adapter from a company called Mad Catz offers 802.11n support. It is an alternative to Microsoft's Wi-Fi adapter for the Xbox 360. Having an Ethernet connector, it also also supports Sony PS3.

An aircard is a type of wireless modem used for connecting to cellular networks. Several different forms of aircards are available together with service plans from phone providers like Verizon and AT&T.

PCMCIA is an industry organization best known for developing a standard computer network adapter using the PC Card form factor.

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) is an industry specification for connecting hardware devices to a computer's central processor. WiFi wireless network adapters for desktop and notebook computers (and wired Ethernet adapters) commonly utilize PCI.