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People who use laptop computers don’t have to worry about connecting their laptops to the WiFi network. Just go to your laptop’s network setting and enable the WiFi to connect your laptop to WiFi. But a desktop user finds it slightly different connecting to WiFi because there are some basic hardware differences between a desktop and a laptop. In a laptop, there is built-in hardware to connect to a wireless network. But most desktops don’t have this networking system.
Except for most newer desktops, old desktops need a cable or a WiFi adapter to connect to a WiFi router. This article will discuss complete guidance on “how to connect WiFi to a desktop.”
How To Connect WiFi To Desktop
If your desktop computer doesn’t have built-in WiFi capabilities, you’ll need to connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable. After that, follow these instructions to connect to your WiFi network.
👉 Look for the WiFi icon in the taskbar.
👉 Click the name of your WiFi network.
👉 Enter your password and click Connect.
👉 If prompted, enter your WiFi password again and click OK.
👉 Once you’re connected, you’ll see the WiFi icon in the taskbar turn blue.
If you still can’t connect to your WiFi network, ensure that your password is correct. Also, you can restart your computer and router.
If you want to go fully wireless with your desktop internet, there are a few other solutions. Here they are:
⚈ USB Wireless Adapters
A USB wireless adapter is a device that can be plugged into a computer to provide WiFi connectivity. It is typically used when a computer does not have built-in WiFi or when the built-in WiFi is not working properly.
USB Wireless Adapters come in different shapes and sizes, and they can be used for different purposes. Some USB Wireless adapters are designed for use with a specific type of router, while others can be used with any router. Some of them also can be used to extend the range of a WiFi network.
To use a USB Wireless adapter:
➡️ Plug the USB wireless adapter into an available USB port on your computer.
➡️ Depending on the model of the adapter, there may be a light that turns on to indicate that it is properly plugged in and working.
➡️ Open the “Network and Sharing Center” by clicking the Start button, then selecting Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
➡️ In the left pane of the Network and Sharing Center, click “Change adapter settings.”
➡️ Right-click on the icon for your USB wireless adapter, then select “Enable” from the pop-up menu.
➡️ The adapter will now be enabled and ready to use. You can connect to a wireless network by clicking the “Connect to a network” link in the left pane of the Network and Sharing Center.
➡️ Select the SSID (name) of the wireless network you wish to connect to from the list of available networks, then click “Connect.”
➡️ If the network is secured with a password, you will be prompted to enter it before being connected. Once you are connected, you will be able to access the internet and other resources on the network.
If you are having trouble connecting to a WiFi network, or if you cannot get the full speed of the network, you may need to adjust the settings on the adapter. For example, you may need to change the channel or transmit power.
You can find USB Wireless adapters at most electronics stores. They are also available online from many retailers.
⚈ Dedicated PCIe WiFi Card
A dedicated PCIe WiFi card is a physical expansion card that allows a computer to connect to a wireless network. It contains a radio transceiver and an antenna and uses the PCIe bus for high-speed data transfer.
Most dedicated WiFi cards also include support for one or more of the following standards: 802.11ac, 802.11n, or 802.11g. To use a dedicated PCIe WiFi card, the card must be inserted into an available PCIe slot on the motherboard. Once inserted, the drivers for the card need to be installed to connect to a wireless network properly.
Dedicated PCIe WiFi cards are typically used in desktop computers, as they offer a better range and speeds than onboard WiFi solutions. They are also a good choice for gamers and power users who require the best possible wireless performance.
In order to use a PCIe WiFi card with your PC, you’ll need a few things:
– A compatible motherboard: Some motherboards have built-in support for PCIe WiFi cards, while others will require an adapter to work. Be sure to check your motherboard’s documentation to see if it is compatible.
– A compatible case: To install a PCIe WiFi card, you’ll need a case that has an opening for it. Most mid-to-high-end cases will have this, but consult your case’s documentation or manufacturer if you’re not sure.
– A dedicated PCIe WiFi card: This is the main component you’ll need, and there are many different models available on the market. Be sure to do your research to find the best one for your needs.
Once you have all of the necessary components, installing your PCIe WiFi card is a fairly straightforward process. Simply follow these steps:
◾ Make sure your computer’s WiFi card is disabled. To use a PCIe WiFi card, first, you’ll need to disable your computer’s onboard WiFi card in the BIOS. It will ensure that there’s no interference between the two cards.
◾ Power down your PC and unplug all cables from it.
◾ Remove the side panel from your case.
◾ Locate an empty PCIe slot on your motherboard and install the PCIe WiFi card in that available PCIe slot.
◾ Secure your card in place with the screws that come with your case.
◾ Replace the side panel on your case and reconnect all cables.
◾ Power on your PC and install any drivers that may be necessary for your card to work properly.
◾ Once drivers are installed, you should be able to connect to WiFi networks as normal.
And that’s all there is to it! If you follow these steps, you’ll be up and running with a dedicated PCIe WiFi card in no time. Enjoy the improved performance.
⚈ Motherboard With Built-in WiFi
If you’re looking to upgrade your desktop PC, one of the best ways to do it is by getting a motherboard with built-in WiFi. A desktop motherboard with built-in WiFi can be a great addition to any computer system. It offers many benefits, such as improved wireless connectivity and easier installation.
Here are some things to consider before purchasing a desktop motherboard with built-in WiFi:
✔️ Compatibility: Ensure that the motherboard is compatible with your computer’s CPU, chipset, and other hardware components.
✔️ Wireless Standards: 802.11ac is the newest and fastest wireless standard, but not all devices support it. If you plan on using older devices, make sure they’re compatible with the motherboard’s wireless standards.
✔️ Installation: Some motherboards require special tools or software for installation. Be sure to check the requirements before purchasing the motherboard.
✔️ Price: Desktop motherboards with built-in WiFi can be more expensive than those without them. However, the added features and benefits may be worth the extra cost.
✔️ Warranty: Most motherboards come with a warranty, but check the terms and conditions before purchase. Some manufacturers only offer limited warranties on their products
Here are just some of the advantages of having a desktop motherboard with built-in WiFi:
👍 You’ll be able to connect to the internet without using a separate WiFi adapter.
👍 Built-in WiFi is usually faster and more reliable than a separate WiFi adapter.
👍 You’ll save money by not having to buy a separate WiFi adapter.
👍 You’ll have one less thing to worry about when it comes to setting up your desktop PC.
👍 Your desktop PC will look more modern and sleek with built-in WiFi.
👍 You’ll be able to take advantage of the latest wireless technologies.
👍 Built-in WiFi is becoming more and more common, so it’s likely that your next motherboard will have it.
👍 You may be able to find a motherboard with built-in WiFi for a lower price than a separate WiFi adapter.
👍 You won’t have to worry about losing your WiFi adapter or forgetting to pack it when you travel.
👍 Built-in WiFi is just one way to future-proof your desktop PC.
There are a few potential downsides to this option that you should know before making your final decision.
For one thing, built-in WiFi can add to the overall cost of your motherboard. While it’s true that you’ll save money by not having to purchase a separate WiFi card, the added cost of the motherboard itself may not make it worth it in the end.
Additionally, built-in WiFi can potentially decrease the overall performance of your PC because the WiFi signal has to share space with other signals on the motherboard, which can lead to interference and decreased speeds.
Finally, built-in WiFi can also be more difficult to troubleshoot if there are any issues with the connection. If you’re having problems with your WiFi, it may be difficult to determine whether the issue is with the router, the modem, or the motherboard itself.
Overall, built-in WiFi can be a convenient option, but it’s important to weigh the potential downsides before making your final decision. If you’re not sure whether it’s worth the extra cost or potential performance issues, you may consider opting for a traditional desktop motherboard instead.
Final Thought
Whether you have a newer desktop model or an older one, it’s a headache if it doesn’t connect to WiFi. This article discussed every possible way “how to connect WiFi to desktop.” If you still got any questions, kindly consult a computer expert.
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