I recently bought a gaming computer that I used with Windows for about a year, while I was also testing Linux on my laptop. I finally decided to switch to Linux Mint, thinking I'd have fewer problems than I did on Windows. However, I've hit a major snag; my WiFi chip (MediaTek Corp 7902) is not compatible with Linux, and I can't find any drivers to make it work. I'm also unsure if I can replace the WiFi card since it might be soldered to the motherboard. This computer is the most expensive thing I've ever bought, and I'm worried that I might have ruined it. I really want to play online games with my friends again. Could anyone suggest a good WiFi dongle compatible with Linux? Or should I consider switching back to Windows? Any help would be appreciated!
5 Answers
You’re right about the lack of a kernel driver for that WiFi chip. Your best bet is to grab a USB WiFi dongle from your local store. They’re inexpensive and easy to set up!
Don’t stress too much; you didn’t break anything! You can always return to Windows if you need to. Unfortunately, the Mediatek 7902 just doesn’t have support in the Linux kernel right now. If you want to stick with Linux, getting a USB WiFi dongle is the easiest solution! Here’s a list of adapters known to work with Linux: https://github.com/morrownr/USB-WiFi/blob/main/home/USB_WiFi_Adapters_that_are_supported_with_Linux_in-kernel_drivers.md.
Ethernet connections are reliable if you just need to get online now. Also, look into FSF approved WiFi dongles; they’re well supported and don’t require any proprietary software. Plus, they’ve been reliable for ages on Linux machines.
I use a USB dongle that’s super easy to set up – it’s plug-and-play! I bought mine here: https://a.co/d/4raEcYU. If you want to consider something more permanent, a PCIe card could be a good option, too. I have this one in my steam machine: https://a.co/d/8IgKPRo.
If possible, consider replacing the internal WiFi chip with an Intel AX200 or AX210 – just double-check if it’s removable from the motherboard first! It’ll give you better performance than a dongle, but it’s a bit more complex. If you want a quick fix, a USB dongle is the way to go!
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