Installing an external USB wireless network adapter is as easy as plugging in a flash drive.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images
All HP Compaq laptops come equipped with an internal wireless network adapter. For most users, this stock adapter will work perfectly well; however, there may be occasions when an upgrade is order. If your Compaq laptop is a vintage model and your adapter uses older technology or is broken, purchasing a new adapter could be very beneficial. Because replacing an internal adapter is beyond the expertise of most home users, installing an external USB network adapter with an antenna is a quick way to extend your wireless signal without having to disassemble your laptop.
Step 1
Purchase a USB wireless network adapter. Various types of adapters are available. If you want to connect to a Wi-Fi network, look an adapter that supports the "802.11 N" standard, which provides extended range and better bandwidth. If you want to connect to a cellular network, look for a 4G USB modem. Both install the same way and look similar but connect to different types of networks.
Step 2
Examine your HP Compaq laptop to verify that you have an available USB port.
Step 3
Install the required software and drivers included with the new adapter. Insert the CD and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Step 4
Insert the USB network adapter into an available USB port on your laptop. Wait a moment while your operating system initializes the new hardware. You can now connect wirelessly to a network using the adapter's external antenna to boost the signal.
References
Photo Credits
- Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images
