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Guide to Laptop Networking Features

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are common, but cellular and wired connections work, too

By Mark Kyrnin Mark Kyrnin Writer University of California, Berkeley Mark Kyrnin is a former Lifewire writer and computer networking and internet expert who also specializes in computer hardware. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on August 1, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Microsoft Microsoft Apple Google Tablets Accessories & Hardware Every mainstream laptop shipped today includes several methods of wireless network connectivity. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth top the list, but a few offer wireless cellular modems or Ethernet ports. The modern market is standardized to a significant degree. As recently as the mid-2010s, different devices offered more variation than today. Javier Encinas / Moment / Getty Images

Wi-Fi Networking

Wi-Fi is the standard for wireless connectivity. When you see 802.11, you're looking at the Wi-Fi standard. Although Wi-Fi is a recognized protocol, the relative version level of that protocol governs the relative speed of a connection. Current hardware uses the 802.11ax protocol. A Wi-Fi connection is only as fast as the oldest and slowest 802.11 protocol supported between the router and the laptop. A router that transmits using 802.11ax maxes at 10 Gbps of throughput. A Wi-Fi radio in an old laptop using the 1999-era 802.11b standard only sees the 802.11b throughput of 11 Mbps. A bleeding-edge wireless network card can't speed up a coffee-shop router that hasn't been updated since 1999. Every few years, the 802.11 protocol receives an update, which is represented by a one- or two-letter suffix. More than a dozen protocol versions remain in active use, so when you buy a new laptop or a plug-in wireless networking card, choose the most recent protocol to ensure the fastest speed and best reliability in any setting. Some low-budget laptops and some refurbished models use older Wi-Fi radios. Check the specs before you buy if maximizing speed and reliability are important use cases for your new laptop.

Bluetooth Radios

Although Bluetooth is most commonly associated with short-distance connections for things like earbuds, Bluetooth works great for network tethering. You don't usually find Bluetooth-based routers in airports or coffee shops, but the odds are good your laptop or tablet can connect to your smartphone to use your smartphone's data plan to access the internet.

Cellular and Ethernet Connections

Some prosumer-grade laptops and tablets include cellular modems to enable direct access through a mobile carrier. Some of the Microsoft Surface lines, for example, include optional 4G modems. These are convenient—no need to tether or to connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots—but usually require a data plan through a mobile carrier for an additional monthly fee. Older laptops and some laptops designed specifically for enterprise markets include Ethernet connections. Wired networking isn't common in homes and public places, but wired connections often are the default in corporate settings. Buy an Ethernet-to-USB dongle to provide a wired connection on devices that lack a dedicated Ethernet port. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Connect a Router to the Internet Guide to Tablet Networking Features When and How to Turn Off Wi-Fi on Your Devices How to Fix an Xbox That Won't Connect to Wi-Fi How to Connect Chromecast to Hotel Wi-Fi How to Connect an Ethernet Cable to a Laptop How to Fix It When PS4 Won't Connect to Wi-Fi The 6 Best Wireless Travel Routers of 2022 What Is an Ethernet Port? Modem vs. Router: How Do They Differ? What Is an Ethernet Card Network Adapter? What Is a Wi-Fi Router? The Ultimate Router Buying Guide Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: Which Do You Need? What Is a Wi-Fi Adapter? How to Tether Your Laptop's Internet to Your Phone Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies