A Network Dongles is a small device designed to plug into a computer and enable it to connect to specific types of networks. For example, Google Chromecast is a dongle.
Dongles for Wired Networks
A basic network dongle works with wired networks and has a short cable with connectors on both ends. Dongle cables are typically no more than six inches long.
Many years ago, wired dongles became popular with mainstream consumers as a way to connect PCMCIA “credit card” adapters in laptop computers to a local network. The dongle has one end that fits the thin PCMCIA connector and the other end that has either:
- An RJ-45 connector is used to connect an Ethernet cable.
- An RJ-11 connector for dial-up internet access over a phone line.
The majority of modern dongles connect to computers via USB ports. For example, USB to Ethernet adapters allow a computer without Ethernet ports to connect to an Ethernet network.
Dongles for Wireless Networks
Although wireless networks do not require cables, dongles are external devices that allow a computer to connect to a wireless network. These devices are typically USB sticks, which should not be confused with data storage USB sticks. As an example,
- A USB Wi-Fi dongle connects computers to Wi-Fi local networks.
- A USB modem dongle provides mobile internet access by connecting to the internet via cellular-data wireless networks.
- The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows connects to a computer and allows it to communicate with wireless Xbox controllers for PC gaming.
How Network Dongles Work
A dongle contains standard physical circuitry to support the network that it enables. USB modem dongles, for example, include cellular radios.
When you plug a dongle into a computer, the operating system recognizes it and starts using it. For example, on Windows PCs, built-in device driver software compatible with the type of dongle—in the case of USB dongles, USB drivers—loads and supports the unit. Through these drivers, users can configure any settings that the dongle supports in the Windows user interface.
Internet dongles are compatible with televisions made by a variety of manufacturers, including but not limited to LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Sony, and Vizio.
Problems with Network Dongles
- Just because a device has a USB port or another type of connection into which a dongle can be plugged doesn’t mean the computer can use it. The computer’s operating system must be able to recognize the dongle and have the necessary software to use it.
- Dongle hardware protrudes from a computer’s side, back, or front. When moving a computer from one location to another, dongles are easily damaged.
- Computers, like other types of network interfaces, can occasionally fail to connect to an outside network via their dongle. The network connection is reset when a dongle is unplugged and replugged. Some dongles include built-in LEDs to assist the user in determining whether or not they are operational.
- Dongles can be expensive to buy, especially if you want one that supports the most recent wireless networking standards.
Frequently Asked Question
Which Wi-Fi Network dongles are the best?
Netgear Nighthawk A7000 for its high speeds and long range. The Net-Dyn AC1200 has a 100-yard range and plug-and-play functionality and is an excellent value. Road warriors should consider the Glam Hobby Ourlink U631 AC600.
What precisely is an AllShare Cast dongle?
Similar to Google’s Chromecast or a Roku stick, Samsung’s AllShare Cast dongle allows users to stream content from a compatible device to a TV.
What is a Fitbit dongle?
The Fitbit Wireless Sync Dongle is a device that plugs into your computer’s USB port and allows you to wirelessly sync your Fitbit tracker. Older computers running Windows 7 or 8, as well as newer computers lacking Bluetooth functionality, require the dongle to sync the data.
How does a Fitbit sync with a dongle work?
ad
Comments are closed.