Best Ubuntu 14.04 Compatible USB WiFi Adapters
When choosing a USB WiFi adapter for your Ubuntu 14.04 system, it's vital to ensure compatibility with your chosen operating system. This guide will help you identify and select reliable USB WiFi adapters that are compatible with Ubuntu, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free network experience.
Why Compatibility Matters
It's always wise to verify compatibility before making a purchase. Unlike Windows, which dominates 80% of the computer market, Linux remains a strong alternative and is supported by a wide range of devices. However, as with any operating system, not all hardware will work seamlessly out of the box.
Challenges of Compatibility
Device support in Linux depends on several factors including the hardware manufacturer providing drivers, the support in the kernel, and the availability of package updates for your specific distribution. To achieve seamless integration, you need to understand your hardware's specific requirements and ensure that the appropriate drivers are available.
Steps to Finding the Right Adapter
To ensure compatibility, let's start by checking the following resources:
HCL (Hardware Compatibility List): This is a valuable resource for identifying compatible hardware, even for Windows, as Microsoft also maintains one for servers. Ubuntu Certified Hardware: A more focused list for Ubuntu users, where you can find devices that work without additional configuration. WiFiDocs/WirelessCardsSupported: A comprehensive community wiki that lists supported wireless cards for various distributions, including Ubuntu.One of the easiest ways to determine compatibility is to install the adapter and check the chipset using the `lsusb -v` command. This command will provide detailed information about the USB device, including its chipset, helping you identify the exact model and its compatibility with your Linux distribution.
Specific Recommendations
One of the most recommended USB WiFi adapters for Ubuntu 14.04 is the Edimax EW-7811Un 150Mbps 11n Wi-Fi USB Adapter Nano Size. This adapter is designed to be plug-and-play and is supported across multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its compatibility with Ubuntu 14.04 has been well documented and tested.
Why Choose the Edimax EW-7811Un?
Compact Design: The nano size makes it easy to carry and connect even when you're on the move. Plug and Play: Designed to work out of the box with minimal setup, making it perfect for beginners. Multipurpose Compatibility: Ideal for the Raspberry Pi and other Linux-based devices, as it has been tested and works without issues.Real-World Experience
A user from 2017 successfully used an Edimax EW-7811Un on a Raspberry Pi 2, a device based on Linux. The adapter was recognized immediately and worked flawlessly, proving its reliability and compatibility with Ubuntu-based systems.
For those seeking a robust and reliable USB WiFi adapter for Ubuntu 14.04, the Edimax EW-7811Un is a top recommendation. Its compact design, plug-and-play functionality, and compatibility with Linux distributions make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced users alike.