Top 10 Wireless USB Adapters

The RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N USB Adapter from Netgear can operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands to minimize interference. Like other wireless-n USB adapters, it is backwards compatible with wireless-g access points and hotspots. This adapter may perform best with other Netgear routers, such as the RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router (WNDR3300).

Belkin's wireless N+ adapter works with both wireless-n and Belkin's own optimized n+ routers (as well on older wireless-g networks). It comes with a convenient USB base for more placement flexibility, has WPA2 encryption, features an LED light for security status as well as wireless connectivity, and also supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).

Besides its sporty look, the D-Link DWA-125 offers push-button Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), WPA2 encryption, a link/activity LED, and a USB extension cradle for ease of connecting to desktop computers.

This IOGEAR wireless-n adapter comes with a USB extension cable, a 3-year warranty, and also has Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) capabilities. Like the other adapters mentioned here, it's backwards compatible with wireless-g networks but can also upgrade your computer to faster wireless-n.

Like its N+ sibling (and the Linksys AE 1000), the Belkin N Wireless USB Adapter offers a desktop stand for ease of placement. Besides the typical WPA2 encryption and backwards compatibility with wireless-g networks, this adapter is also certified for Widows Vista, to ensure compatibility with that OS in particular.

This Medialink wireless-n USB adapter comes highly rated by customers at Amazon. Its Microsoft WHQL certification means its compatibility with Windows is ensured, and, for Windows 7 users, the USB adapter is plug and play. Other features include WPA2 security and a docking station with 3 ft. extension cable.

This mini wireless-n USB adapter has an ultra compact form factor (it's slightly larger than a penny) and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). Compatible with Windows 7 (and earlier Windows computers) as well as Mac OS X, the adapter also features Wi-Fi Multimedia (WMM) Quality of Service (QoS) support for prioritizing multimedia (video, audio, and gaming) traffic.

The D-Link DWA-131 USB Nano Wireless Adapter is a very compact and slim wireless adapter (the top of the external adapter is about the size of a penny). It features a LED indicator light, works with WPA2 encryption, and can also help you connect to wi-fi networks with the push of a button with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).