Different colored LEDs might also specify encrypted or unencrypted networks. A series of LEDs can indicate signal strength, letting the user glance at the dongle and instantly see if accessibility increases or decreases. This device often features Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that light without having to boot the laptop, indicating a wireless network has been detected. The USB Wi-Fi® dongle comes in many models with the most basic model working with Operating System (OS) software to locate nearby wireless networks and access them.Ī Wi-Fi® finder or scanner can also come in the form of a USB dongle, allowing a person to scan for free public networks while mobile. Most desktop computers can accommodate internal Wi-Fi® cards, but some laptops and notebooks rely on external gadgets for wireless connections. Wi-Fi® Connections Through a DongleĪnother type of USB dongle can add Wi-Fi® functionality to a computer to provide wireless Internet connectivity. As capacities have grown and price has dropped, these portable, plug-and-play storage drives have replaced floppy disks and even writable discs for exchanging files and archiving data.Ī wireless internet adapter. The memory stick contains a rewritable solid-state memory chip that does not require power to retain its contents. A storage or memory USB dongle, also called a memory stick, provides a convenient means to pass files between computers or devices.

Dongle adapter