Bluetooth
With a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapter, you can add wireless connectivity to your PC.
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Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Adapters
If your motherboard does not have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you can add these functions with suitable adapters. There are dedicated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapters as well as 2-in-1 solutions that provide both types of wireless connectivity.
What Should You Consider Before Buying a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Adapter?
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Before buying, consider which wireless connection you actually need – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or both?
Connection Type
USB adapters are particularly easy to install and only require a free USB port. PCIe Wi-Fi cards are installed directly into a free PCIe slot on the motherboard and are particularly suitable as a permanent upgrade for a desktop PC. With combination cards, an additional internal USB connection on the motherboard may be required for Bluetooth functionality.
Wi-Fi Standards and Transfer Speeds
Pay attention to the specified Wi-Fi standard and the maximum possible transfer speed. Current standards include Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7.
Frequency Bands
Dual-band adapters generally support 2.4 and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band usually offers greater range, while 5 GHz enables higher data rates and often experiences less interference. Tri-band adapters with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 can additionally use the 6 GHz band. A compatible router is required.
Bluetooth Version and Compatibility
In addition to the supported Bluetooth version, check compatibility with your operating system. It is also important to make sure suitable drivers are available for the adapter. If you want to use headsets, controllers, keyboards, or other Bluetooth devices, the model should support the required functions and profiles.
Antenna and Range
Depending on the design, Wi-Fi adapters feature integrated or external antennas. External or freely positionable antennas can be particularly useful for desktop PCs if the case is located under the desk or far away from the router.
USB or PCIe – Which Adapter Is Right for My PC?
USB adapters for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are a simple way to upgrade your PC without opening the case. You can plug them into any compatible free USB port. They are also particularly practical for laptops. PCIe adapters are installed in a PCIe slot inside the PC and, depending on the system, are less noticeable.
Need more LAN ports on your PC? Then dedicated network cards are the right choice – some models even include integrated Wi-Fi functionality.
FAQ – Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Adapters
Do I Need Additional Drivers for a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Adapter?
This depends on the adapter and operating system. Some models are detected automatically, while others require an additional driver to be installed. Check the manufacturer’s installation information before use.
Do Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Adapters Work with Every Operating System?
Not every adapter supports every operating system. Before buying, check whether the desired model is compatible with your operating system and the version you are using.
Can I Use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth at the Same Time?
With a compatible 2-in-1 adapter, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can generally be used at the same time. Both functions must be supported by the adapter, drivers, and operating system.
Which Devices Can I Connect to My PC via a Bluetooth Adapter?
Depending on the supported Bluetooth profiles, you can connect headphones, headsets, mice, keyboards, controllers, and other compatible Bluetooth devices to your PC.
Why Is My Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Adapter Not Being Detected?
Possible causes include missing or incompatible drivers, an unsupported operating system, or problems with the USB or PCIe connection being used. Also check that the adapter is connected correctly.
Will a Wi-Fi Adapter Make My Internet Connection Faster?
A Wi-Fi adapter does not increase the speed of your internet connection itself. However, a more powerful adapter can enable a faster Wi-Fi connection if the router, Wi-Fi standard, signal quality, and internet connection support the corresponding speed.