adapter

(NIC, Network Interface Card, Ethernet adapter, USB adapter, PCI adapter)

A computer board or card installed in a computer slot which connects the computer to a network. Each computer connected to a network needs an adapter.

Example of a wireless adapter

 

Example of a wired adapter

NETGEAR makes a wide range of adapters for home or business use. Select features matching your computer and network. For example:

• Whether you network is wireless, wired, or both.
• Which wireless standard your network uses
• 1000 Mbps or 10/100 Mbps
• Desktop or laptop
• Support for Microsoft, Linux, or Novell operating systems

Examine the picture of the wired adapter — notice the metal silver end. This is the only part of an internal computer card that can be safely touched without you being grounded. Damage is cumulative, and also the problems caused by damage are often not obvious — it's because of this that many people think they're "getting away it it". Often, they aren't.

Wireless adapter feature comparison

Wired adapter feature comparison

Operating system compatibility

Doc ID: N101199.asp Nov. 18, 2004

Related concepts:

• 802.11a
• 802.11b
• super g
• IRQ
• router (Information Page)