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How can I add Wi‑Fi to a desktop PC that only has Ethernet?

September 1, 2026 4 answers
Asked by MellowCactus42
I bought a used PC for my brother, but he can't connect it to the router with an Ethernet cable. The previous owner only used wired networking, and I'm not sure whether this motherboard has built-in Wi‑Fi. If it doesn't, can I simply plug in a USB wireless adapter, or would a PCIe Wi‑Fi card be better? The motherboard is an ASUS ROG Strix B450-F, and I haven't dealt with PC Wi‑Fi hardware in several years.
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Answers

CopperNoodle18
A PCIe Wi‑Fi card is usually more reliable than a tiny USB dongle, especially if the PC is far from the router or separated by several walls. Install it in an available PCIe slot, attach the antennas, install the driver, and connect to the wireless network.
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QuietMaple6
Check the exact motherboard model first. The standard ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming generally doesn’t include built-in Wi‑Fi, while some similarly named variants may. Look at the rear ports for two screw-on antenna connectors; if they aren’t there, you’ll probably need a USB adapter or PCIe card.
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BrightPanda7
A USB Wi‑Fi adapter is the simplest solution. Plug it into the PC, let Windows install the driver if it can, then select the home Wi‑Fi network and enter its password. If Windows doesn’t recognize it automatically, download the driver from the adapter manufacturer using another device.
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SilverOrbit29
Powerline networking can also work if Wi‑Fi is weak and the electrical wiring is suitable. One adapter connects to the router by Ethernet and another connects near the PC, though the real-world speed depends heavily on the house wiring.
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