StarTech.com USB867WAC22 AC1200 Dual-Band Wireless-AC Network Adapter - USB 3.0 WiFi 5802.11ac 2 x 2: 2 Desktop
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This network adapter implements IEEE 802.11ac wireless technology with support for both ISM (2.48 GHz maximum) and UNII (5.81 GHz maximum) frequency bands. The USB 3.0 host interface provides sufficient bandwidth to handle the adapter's maximum 1.17 Gbit/s wireless throughput without creating a bottleneck, ensuring optimal performance for data-intensive tasks.
The adapter features comprehensive wireless security protocols including WEP (64-128-bit), WPA, and WPA2 encryption to protect network communications. Quality of Service (QoS) through WMM prioritization helps maintain performance for latency-sensitive applications like VoIP and video conferencing. A dedicated WPS hardware button simplifies secure network pairing with compatible routers.
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
This adapter combines high-speed wireless connectivity with the convenience of USB installation, eliminating the need to open computer cases or configure internal components. The dual-band capability allows users to leverage less congested 5 GHz channels for better performance while maintaining compatibility with 2.4 GHz devices.
Enhanced Security Features
Multiple encryption options including WPA2 provide robust protection for business networks, while the WPS button enables secure one-touch setup without compromising security protocols.
- WEP (64-128-bit) support
- WPA/WPA2 encryption
- Hardware WPS button
Advanced Wireless Capabilities
Soft AP mode allows the adapter to function as a wireless access point, creating temporary networks for device sharing or extending existing wireless coverage in small office environments.
- Soft AP mode support
- WMM QoS prioritization
- Backward compatible with 802.11 a/b/g/n
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter is specifically designed for desktop computers that lack built-in wireless capability or require upgraded connectivity. The USB 3.0 interface makes it suitable for business environments where IT staff need to quickly deploy wireless networking without modifying hardware configurations.
Common deployment scenarios include adding wireless connectivity to point-of-sale systems, reception area computers, conference room workstations, and desktop computers in locations where running Ethernet cables is impractical. The adapter's compact size makes it ideal for space-constrained setups, while the external design allows for easy repositioning to optimize signal reception.
Desktop Wireless Upgrades
Transform wired desktop computers into wireless-capable workstations for flexible office layouts and reduced cable clutter in business environments.
Temporary Network Solutions
Use Soft AP mode to create impromptu wireless networks for presentations, temporary workspaces, or device sharing during meetings and events.
Physical Profile
The adapter measures 1.10" wide by 3.10" deep by 0.40" high (27.94 x 78.74 x 10.16 mm) with a lightweight construction of approximately 0.60 oz (17.01 g). The compact external form factor allows placement in optimal positions for signal reception while maintaining a low profile on desks or behind monitors. The design requires no additional mounting hardware and connects directly to available USB 3.0 ports.
- Width
- 1.10" (27.94 mm)
- Depth
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Height
- 0.40" (10.16 mm)
- Weight
- 0.60 oz (17.01 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes everything needed for immediate deployment of wireless connectivity.
Highlights
- AC1200 dual-band wireless with 867 Mbps (5 GHz) + 300 Mbps (2.4 GHz) speeds
- USB 3.0 interface for maximum throughput without bottlenecking
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) technology with backward compatibility to 802.11 a/b/g/n
- 2x2:2 MIMO antenna configuration for improved signal reliability
- Dual-band operation on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
- WPA2, WPA, and WEP (64-128-bit) wireless security encryption
- Hardware WPS button for simplified secure network pairing
- Soft AP mode to create wireless access points
- WMM Quality of Service for prioritized traffic handling
- Compact external design measuring 1.10" x 3.10" x 0.40"
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | USB867WAC22 |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | USB 3.0 AC1200 Dual Band Wireless-AC Network Adapter - 802.11ac WiFi Adapter |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Wi-Fi Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Wi-Fi Generation | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Wireless LAN Standard | IEEE 802.11ac |
| ISM Band | Yes |
| UNII Band | Yes |
| ISM Maximum Frequency | 2.48 GHz |
| UNII Maximum Frequency | 5.81 GHz |
| Wireless Transmission Speed | 1.17 Gbit/s |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | External |
| Height | 0.40" (10.16 mm) |
| Width | 1.10" (27.94 mm) |
| Depth | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 0.60 oz (17.01 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | USB 3.0 AC1200 Dual Band Wireless-AC Network Adapter - 802.11ac WiFi Adapter 1 x Driver CD 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Device Supported | Desktop Computer |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What devices is this wireless adapter compatible with?
This adapter is designed specifically for desktop computers and connects via USB 3.0. It requires a desktop computer with an available USB 3.0 port and supports Windows operating systems (driver installation required). The adapter is not intended for laptops, tablets, or smartphones, though it can create wireless networks those devices can connect to when using Soft AP mode.
What wireless security protocols does this adapter support?
The adapter supports multiple encryption standards including WEP (64-bit and 128-bit), WPA, and WPA2. WPA2 provides the strongest security for business environments. The hardware WPS button enables push-button configuration with compatible routers while maintaining secure encryption. These protocols help protect sensitive business data transmitted over wireless networks.
What is the difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands on this adapter?
The 2.4 GHz band offers better range and wall penetration but is more susceptible to interference from other devices. The 5 GHz band provides faster speeds (up to 867 Mbps) with less congestion but has slightly reduced range. This adapter automatically selects the optimal band based on network conditions, though users can manually configure band preference through the driver software.
Does this adapter require external power or additional antennas?
No external power source or additional antennas are required. The adapter draws power directly from the USB 3.0 port and includes integrated 2x2 MIMO antennas within its compact housing. The internal antenna design provides reliable performance while maintaining the adapter's small form factor. No separate power adapter or antenna extensions are included or necessary for standard operation.
What is Soft AP mode and how is it useful?
Soft AP (Access Point) mode allows the adapter to create its own wireless network that other devices can connect to. This is useful for sharing an internet connection from a wired desktop, creating temporary networks for presentations or meetings, or extending wireless coverage in small areas. When enabled, the adapter broadcasts its own SSID that smartphones, tablets, and laptops can join while the desktop maintains its primary network connection.
What warranty and compliance certifications does this product have?
The adapter comes with a 2-year limited warranty from StarTech.com. It is TAA compliant for government purchasing and meets multiple environmental standards including EU RoHS, REACH, and WEEE directives. The product is manufactured in Taiwan and carries the EU RoHS environmental certification, ensuring restricted hazardous substances compliance for business and institutional deployment.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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