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Product Features
Product Overview
The Plugable USB-WIFINT USB 2.0 Wireless N Nano WiFi Adapter provides a compact, plug-and-play solution for adding 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity to Windows notebooks. This external adapter uses the Realtek RTL8188EUS chipset to deliver wireless transmission speeds up to 150 Mbps over the 2.4 GHz ISM band.
Designed for seamless integration, the adapter automatically installs on Windows 10 and 8.x systems with an existing network connection, while Windows 11 includes the driver built-in. It offers a straightforward upgrade path for older computers or devices with non-functional internal wireless cards, maintaining compatibility with legacy USB 1.1 ports and Wireless G/B networks.
Relevant factors for this section include Wi-Fi Generation, Wireless LAN Standard, ISM Band, Host Interface. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Technical Overview
This adapter operates on the IEEE 802.11n standard, classified as Wi-Fi 4, and supports a maximum frequency of 2.40 GHz within the ISM band. It does not support 5 GHz WiFi or UNII bands, focusing exclusively on 2.4 GHz networks for reliable connectivity in typical environments.
The USB 2.0 host interface ensures broad compatibility with modern and older notebooks, while the external form factor allows for easy installation without internal hardware modifications. The adapter supports both Infrastructure and Ad-hoc modes, though Windows 11, 10, and 8.x do not permit using it to create a wireless hotspot.
Relevant factors for this section include Wi-Fi Generation, Wireless LAN Standard, ISM Band, Host Interface. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The Plugable USB-WIFINT stands out for its nano-sized design and robust Windows compatibility, making it an ideal choice for users needing quick wireless upgrades without technical complexity.
Compact Form Factor
Its incredibly small package minimizes desk clutter and port obstruction, perfect for mobile use or space-constrained setups.
- Nano-sized design
- Low-profile USB connector
- External installation
Seamless Windows Integration
Driver support spans Windows 10/11, 8.x, and 7, with automatic installation on newer OS versions and downloadable drivers for older systems.
- Auto-installs on Windows 10/8.x
- Driver built into Windows 11
- Not compatible with Win RT
Backwards Compatibility
Maintains connectivity with older Wireless G/B networks and USB 1.1 ports, ensuring functionality in diverse hardware environments.
- Works with Wireless G/B
- USB 1.1 port support
- Infrastructure and Ad-hoc modes
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter is primarily deployed to upgrade older notebooks lacking built-in Wi-Fi or to bypass faulty internal wireless cards. Its plug-and-play nature makes it suitable for home offices, educational settings, and small businesses where quick network access is essential.
Common use cases include providing wireless connectivity to legacy systems in repair shops, enabling internet access on spare computers for temporary projects, and serving as a backup network solution when primary adapters fail. The 2.4 GHz-only operation suits environments with standard wireless routers, though it may not be ideal for high-density 5 GHz networks.
Relevant factors for this section include Wi-Fi Generation, Wireless LAN Standard, ISM Band, Host Interface. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Highlights
- Adds 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity at up to 150 Mbps
- Uses Realtek RTL8188EUS chipset for reliable performance
- Compact nano-sized design for minimal desk footprint
- Plug-and-play installation on Windows 10, 8.x, and 11
- Backwards compatible with Wireless G/B networks and USB 1.1 ports
- Supports Infrastructure and Ad-hoc modes
- 2.4 GHz ISM band support only (no 5 GHz)
- 2-year limited warranty with Seattle-based email support
- Country of origin: China
- Packaged quantity: 1
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Plugable Technologies |
| Manufacturer Part Number | USB-WIFINT |
| Brand Name | Plugable |
| Product Name | USB 2.0 802.11N Wireless Adapter |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | Wi-Fi Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Wi-Fi Generation | Wi-Fi 4 |
| Wireless LAN Standard | IEEE 802.11n |
| ISM Band | Yes |
| UNII Band | No |
| ISM Maximum Frequency | 2.40 GHz |
| Wireless Transmission Speed | 150 Mbit/s |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | External |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Device Supported | Notebook |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
FAQ
What Windows versions does this adapter support?
The Plugable USB-WIFINT supports Windows 10, 11, 8.x, and 7. It automatically installs on Windows 10 and 8.x with an existing network connection, has the driver built into Windows 11, and requires manual driver downloads for Windows 7. It is not compatible with Windows RT.
Does this adapter support 5 GHz WiFi networks?
No, this adapter only supports 2.4 GHz WiFi networks within the ISM band. It does not support 5 GHz frequencies or UNII bands, making it suitable for standard 2.4 GHz wireless environments but not for dual-band or 5 GHz-exclusive networks.
Can I use this adapter to create a wireless hotspot?
While the adapter supports Ad-hoc mode, Windows 11, 10, and 8.x do not allow using wireless adapters to create a hotspot. It can connect to existing networks in Infrastructure mode but cannot function as a hotspot creator on these operating systems.
What is the maximum wireless speed of this adapter?
The adapter delivers wireless transmission speeds up to 150 Mbit/s using the IEEE 802.11n standard (Wi-Fi 4). This speed is sufficient for basic internet browsing, email, and standard-definition streaming on 2.4 GHz networks.
Is this adapter compatible with older USB ports?
Yes, it is backwards compatible with USB 1.1 ports, ensuring functionality on older notebooks. The USB 2.0 interface provides optimal performance while maintaining connectivity with legacy hardware, though speeds may be limited on USB 1.1 ports.
What warranty does this product include?
Plugable backs this adapter with a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty includes Seattle-based email support for assistance with installation or troubleshooting during the coverage period.