The SMC EZ Connect 802.11n 300 Mbps Wireless USB Adapter was recently featured on Woot.com for a bargain of a price. If you were lucky enough to grab one of these, then you’re obviously already sold on the benefits of this handy computer accessory. But if you missed the boat and you’re still wondering what all the buzz is about, this review will help.

The SMC EZ Connect 802.11n Wireless Adapter - What Does It Do?

The SMC EZ Connect 802.11n 300Mbps Wireless USB Adapter allows your computer to connect to wireless Internet networks (WiFi) in order to access the web. These are cable, DSL or other broadband Internet connections in your home or office, not to be confused with the 4G or 3G data connections offered by your cellular phone service provider. With the SMC EZ Connect 802.11n wireless adapter, you’ll be able to access the Internet, access network drives and shared printers and perform other networking functions without the use of ethernet cables.

Why Would I need the SMC EZ Connect 802.11n Wireless Adapter

Many budget desktops and workstations don’t come with built-in wireless Internet cards, because most manufacturers presume that you’ll be using a wired connection. Installing a built-in card can be somewhat complex, since you’d have to open the case and plug the device directly into your motherboard. The SMC EZ connect 802.11n Wireess Adapter saves you from all of that trouble. All you have to do is plug it into an avaialble USB port.

Why is 802.11n Important?

802.11n is an improvement over the previous technology, 802.11g. This 802.11n wireless adapter will have better range and throughput than xisting 802.11g adapters. According to the packaging, the adapter has 300 meters of coverage, though this will be affected by things like walls, other electronic devices and the position of your router.

How Fast is the SMC EZ Connect 802.11n 300Mbps Wireless USB Adapter?

The adapter is capable of wireless speeds up to 300Mbps. However, the speeds you achieve will depend on a number of factors, including the speed and signal strength of your wireless router and the speed of your broadband Internet plan. There may also be some server-side issues with the website you are trying to contact that will slow down your Internet speeds.

Is the SMC EZ Connect 802.11n 300Mbps Wireless USB Adapter Easy to Set up?

Yes. Being a USB computer accessory, it doesn’t require you to open the computer case. Also, it includes a stpe-by-step installation wizard that helps you detect your wireless Internet network, establish security settings and get connected.

Should I Buy the SMC EZ Connect 802.11n 300Mbps Wireless USB Adapter?

Certainly. For about $12, you can get this fast and reliable wireless adapter. Note, if you have a laptop or netbook purchased in the last few years, you likely don’t need one of these since there is most definitely a wireless receiver already built-in. But for budget desktop computers, you will probably need to add a WiFi card like this one.