An integrated network card connects a computer to a network, either wired or wireless. It may have an RJ45 port for Ethernet cables or a built-in receiver for WiFi. Different standards exist for wireless communication, and external adapters can be used if necessary. Mobile broadband adapters are also available. Aftermarket adapters are easy to find, but internal ones may void the computer’s warranty.
An integrated network card is an internal computer component that gives the machine the ability to connect to a network. The component may be designed to connect to a wired network or a wireless network. A machine might also have both types of network cards installed. An integrated network card designed for wired networks is sometimes called an Ethernet card, while wireless cards are wireless cards.
When designed for wired networks, an integrated network adapter has an RJ45 port for connecting an Ethernet cable. The RJ45 port is similar to a standard telephone jack, but larger. The Ethernet cable runs from your machine to your network router or hub, physically connecting your computer to the network. These network cards were once standard in all computers, but are now optional in many mobile models, as wireless networks are more commonly used.
An integrated network card designed to connect to a wireless router contains a built-in receiver and transmitter to operate on radio frequency (RF) waves. These cards are sometimes called WiFi cards, but technically a true WiFi card is certified by the WiFi Alliance. Uncertified cards are sometimes called “wifi” as a slang for wireless, without implying certification. Certified or not, all wireless cards are manufactured in accordance with international standards to be interoperable with wireless routers and other wireless devices.
While wireless standards make wireless devices interoperable, there are several standards that continue to evolve, and your network card and router must share at least one common standard in order to communicate. These standards follow the 802.11 wireless designation followed by a letter to identify the exact protocol; 802.11g and 802.11n are two examples. A wireless device might only support one standard or more. Newer standards generally have more robust specifications, such as the ability to transmit network signals beyond older standards or to transfer data at higher speeds.
If an integrated wireless network adapter does not support the same wireless protocol or standard as your intended router, you can purchase an external network adapter to meet your needs. External network adapters can take the form of a USB dongle or PC Card device and are quite inexpensive. An adapter takes the place of the built-in network card to connect to the desired network.
Another less common type of built-in network card is cellular Internet service, which is designed to connect to mobile broadband networks. Cellular internet is provided by mobile phone operators. These network cards are branded for a specific carrier and cannot be used with any other. For this reason they are usually not integrated, but purchased separately as an aftermarket option in the form of a mobile broadband adapter, also available as a USB dongle or in PC Card format.
Aftermarket network adapters are plentiful, easy to find, and can meet any networking need. Read the specifications carefully and make sure the adapter is suitable for your intended router or cellular service. Internal network cards are also available, but they must be installed inside the machine and opening a computer could void its warranty. Check the warranty details if in doubt.
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