How can I get my USB Wi-Fi dongle working with Linux?

Downloading a driver onto the USB is more of a Windows thing. In Linux, drivers are usually packaged within the kernel itself. Instead of worrying about Ventoy, I suggest just getting a USB dongle that's compatible with Linux. They can be pretty cheap, and many just work out of the box.

I had a hard time connecting an older laptop to Wi-Fi with various distros. For me, switching to Endeavor OS worked after I manually entered my SSID and set the right security protocol. Sometimes, the distro you choose can make a difference, so don't hesitate to experiment!

Wi-Fi compatibility on Linux can be tricky. Some adapters from MediaTek or other manufacturers don’t always have good Linux support because drivers aren't provided. It's best to identify your adapter and check its compatibility. If you're lucky, you might find an appropriate driver; if not, you might consider getting a different USB Wi-Fi adapter that works with the Linux kernel drivers.

First, can you tell us what specific Wi-Fi adapter you're using? Depending on the model, it might be easier just to replace it. Alternatively, you could tether your phone to your computer via USB for internet access. That could help you get the information you need to find a driver or a better solution.

From my experience, Linux Mint has supported all the Wi-Fi adapters I've tried without issues. If you're still having trouble, it might be worth giving Mint a shot to see if it works better with your hardware.