What 3rd party usb WiFi adapter has proven to be most reliable?

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Level 1

8 points

What 3rd party usb WiFi adapter has proven to be most reliable?

An early 2013 iMac 13,1 has fallen into my hands and for reasons unknown , lost the ability to recognize any WiFi hardware. I have exhausted all avenues short of replacing the main board. I have been through all steps suggested by Apple for possible software related issues including swiping the drive and reinstalling HighSierra. I have replaced the WiFi card and still the machine only recognizes the Bluetooth but not the WiFi? This is the first stump ever for me and an Apple product in 35 years...Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I’m not taking it in to Apple...

null-OTHER, iOS 11.4.1, IMac 13,1

Posted on Aug 9, 2018 9:46 AM

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Answer 1

deggie

Level 10

167,525 points

Aug 9, 2018 10:41 AM in response to dangabai

Your question really doesn't match your subject.

Have you checked the antenna connection to the WiFi card and tested the antenna? It sounds like that is what has failed assuming you know that the replacement WiFi card is working properly. Any 3rd party USB WiFi adapter should work on that computer, get a used or cheap one and see if it works. If it does I believe you do have an antenna issue.

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Answer 2

Aug 9, 2018 8:42 PM in response to dangabai

another alternative is a wireless Ethernet bridge. Instead of a USB adapter, you plug the wireless bridge into the Ethernet port.

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Answer 3

dangabai Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 22, 2018 9:06 AM in response to deggie

I have tried a tp-link and a netgear..both are buggy and neither worked properly. I have checked the 4 antennae that connect to the card ..twice. Swapped them out and nothing changed so its not anantenna issue..its more than likely amain board connection.Im not sure how my content "doesnt really" match the subject. Ive found usb wifi dongles that are dodgey at best..im looking for someone who has experience with one that works reliably..not just someone who says they "should work." Thank you.

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