What Is a Wireless Card for a Desktop?
Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) cards are widely used in notebook computers because of their highly portable nature. But an increasing number of computer users are adding Wi-Fi capability to their desktop computers. The first step in going wireless on your desktop is obtaining a Wi-Fi card.
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History
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Wi-Fi was first made available in August 1999. It was ratified under the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 802.11x.
Features
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Wi-Fi-enabled devices can broadcast and receive network connections without needing a physical connection to the network. They receive communications wirelessly by means of a Wi-Fi card.
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Definition
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A Wi-Fi card is either an internal or external Local Area Network adapter with a built-in wireless radio and antenna. The most common Wi-Fi cards used in desktop computers are PCI-Express Wi-Fi cards made to fit the PCI-Express card slots on the motherboard.
Benefits
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The primary benefit of using a Wi-Fi card in a desktop computer is that it allows you to set up your workstation or home office without considering the proximity or availability of hard-line network access.
Considerations
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Purchase an "N" capable wireless card for your desktop. Wireless N offers a significant data transmission speed advantage over B/G Wi-Fi. Additionally, wireless N has a greater range than B/G.
Warning
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The disadvantage to using a Wi-Fi card in your desktop computer is security. Because Wi-Fi signals are transmitted over the airwaves, they can be intercepted, causing your data to become compromised. Make sure your network is password-protected and secure.
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