How To Add WiFi To Desktop
Add WiFi To Desktop : A trend we’ve noticed among PC builders who are beginners is that they choose motherboards with no onboard WiFi modules, but fail to add WiFi adapters into their builds later on.
The other group appears to comprise people who are making use of Ethernet controllers but want to incorporate WiFi capabilities into their device. In the end, Ethernet may be ideal in terms of performance however it’s not always practical.
Whatever your reasons of doing it the process of adding WiFi to your computer is quite simple. The USB WiFi adapter is perfect to make it easier. If you’ve got PCIe slots that are free, however it is likely that you’ll find an WiFi device to be a better choice all-in-all.
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Ways to Add WiFi to Desktop
If you’re still evaluating your options, keep in mind that compatibility is your primary concern.
The most popular method to add WiFi to a computer is through connecting an WiFi card to PCIe slots. However, PCIe slots can also be utilized by other components (GPUs SSDs, Ethernet controllers, etc.). Therefore, you must first ensure that the PCIe slot is accessible.
Some people prefer USB WiFi adapters. They’re extremely easy to use and portable since you only need to connect them to an USB port and you’re set. However, the cheaper options aren’t always reliable and therefore, make sure to review the reviews and select the most reliable model to buy.
Even though PCIex1 or USB adapters tend to be the most popular options, alternatives such as M.2 cards are also in use. For those who are making a brand new PC or upgrading the motherboard you have, choosing a motherboard with an integrated module is an alternative.
As they’re extremely specific, we will not cover these within this post. Instead, we’ll discuss creating a desktop WiFi adapter with PCIe as well as USB adapters.
Hardware Installation
In the beginning, you’ll have to install the WiFi adapter on your computer physically. Installation of USB adapters is a breeze However, PCIe adapters are relatively easy to install as well. These are the steps to follow:
- Switch off your computer and disconnect all the cables from the back panel.
- Switch off the power to the PSU and then hold on the power switch for approximately 10 seconds in order to drain any remaining charge.
- Bring this case and place it on a clear, uncluttered space. It can be laid on its side or leave it straight according to your preferences.
- In the future, put on an antistatic band and contact a metal surface to eliminate any static. Photographs taken prior to removing any components may help you to remember where things went in the future.
- Unscrew the bolts then slide the side panel cover that faces the direction you want it facing.
- Find where you can find the PCIex1 slot (the the smallest) in the motherboard. It is possible to check the label on the motherboard or consult the manual on this. If the slot you want to use isn’t available it is possible to select the slot is available.
- Remove and unscrew the PCIe metal covers that are close to the slot you’re planning to utilize.
- The connector pins should be aligned with the slot PCIe. The bracket’s metal surface should be facing the casing such that the antennas extend beyond the chassis.
- Carefully push the credit card into.
- WiFi cards that have Bluetooth modules can also be equipped with an integrated USB connector. In this instance, locate your USB connector on your motherboard, and then connect it to the upper or lower row.
- Install the bracket with the metal screw into place. If you have antennas from outside you can connect them onto the gold connectors now.
- Replace the cover on and secure it into the correct position.
- Connect the power cables, then restart your computer to continue with the software end installation.
Software Configuration
Typically the OS can automatically set up a network driver, which allows the WiFi adapter work immediately. If that doesn’t happen then you have to be able to manually set up the driver.
You could use the driver CD provided with the adapter to accomplish this. A better alternative is to download the most current reliable drivers from the company that made them.
- Hold Win and R. then type
devmgmt.msc, and hit Enter. - Expand the section Network adapters and verify your wireless device has been identified. If it’s not there Re-seating the device and testing different slots could aid.
- Visit the adapter manufacturer’s website and search for the model of the adapter.
- Look over the Support, Downloads Drivers, Support or similar sections and download the download link provided.
- If your driver’s file you downloaded from Step 4 or the CD (whichever one you wish to utilize) is executable file, you can open it and then go through the installation procedure.
- If the file is a set of
.inffiles, start the Device Manager yet again. - Right-click on the wireless adapter, and then choose Update Driver .
- Select Browse my computer for drivers.
- Select the location where the driver’s driver files are kept and then click the next button..
- Follow the on-screen directions to finish the installation.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If the adapter isn’t identified, restarting the device, testing different slot or installing the driver by hand will assist. If you’re still not able to connect, WiFi does not work, regardless then here are some suggestions to try:
- Start by restarting the computer. If this doesn’t work you, press your power key for at least 60 minutes.
- If you own any switches in your hardware or key combinations that block WiFi make sure that they aren’t in use.
- Click Win and R Type
ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter. Enable, then disable this wireless adapter by clicking here. - Sometimes, problems occur due to incompatible drivers. Download a different version of the driver from the manufacturer install it, then verify if it helps.
- If you’re still not able to find a WiFi option available on your computer Test the adapter with another system to make sure that it’s not damaged.
