Best wireless-N USB adapter

Hey all, I'm looking to replace an old wireless G card inside one of the PC's here in the house, just want to know which is the best one thats most reliable and doesnt disconnect so much. TIA!

 

I have had good luck with Belkin networking equipment.

 

While connectivity issues are not as critical with 11n as it was with previous protocols, it is often easier to set up if you stick with the same brand as your WAP - wireless access point (typically a wireless router). And of course, if your WAP does not support wireless-N, make sure your new card supports whatever protocol your WAP does.

I too have had good luck with Belkin, but I also like Netgear, Linksys/Cisco, and D-Link.

 

I have a Linksys WRT320N, Gigabit ethernet and wireless N. The card I want to replace is a really old Netgear wireless G card that I got years ago, even though the PC is basically one floor underneath the router it still drops connection a lot. Im gonna look at Linksys USB N adapters

 

Sounds like a plan!

 

I would read user reviews for specific models on NewEgg or Amazon first, even if you plan to buy locally.

Even within a given brand (Linksys, Netgear, etc.) there can be great models and bad ones. Pay specific attention to user comments on their operating systems. Even in 2011, there are still some older models out there that have issues with Windows 7 (esp. the 64-bit version most people use).

If you have a Fry's nearby, I've had very good luck with their store brand USB "N" adapter (same chipset as many D-Link USB "N" models). At around $25 it's a decent price; I have used it for setups on XP, Vista and Windows 7 (both 32 and 64 bit): Good reception, fast setup.

If using a USB adapter, I recommend getting a 6' USB extension cable (about $3). This keeps larger model adapters from blocking multiple USB ports and allows you to raise the USB stick/antenna up a few feet for better reception.

Hope this helps.

 

FTR, I've set up several 64-bit Windows 7 systems for wireless N and have not found that 64-bit is an issue. I would agree, however, that if you see draft-N on the box, that might indicate an earlier version.

I would also caution about user reviews. For one, happy people don't complain. However, if there are 10 reviews and each one has the exact same specific complaint, then that would indicate a trend to take note of.

 

My comment on the 64-bit issue is based on experiences with D-Link. On certain models there is a version number (Model ABC-123, v. x). I learned the hard way that certain models only work with 64-bit if they are version 3 or above (this is in the fine print on D-Link's support site). This may or may not apply to other brands/models.

I know of at least one major retailer in Houston that is still blowing through old stock of v.1 and v.2 models. If the OP hasn't researched the mfr. spec page and inadvertently purchases a v.1 or v.2 unit they'll end up pulling their hair out and having to return it.

I found this out the hard way; just trying to keep others from making the same mistake.

 

Oh! I thought you were saying the other way around - that is, only with 32-bit. I have seen older hardware where the makers have failed to put out 64-bit drivers.