How to Choose a WiFi Adapter for Ethical Hacking

Do You Always Need an External Adapter?

For WiFi hacking, external adapters aren't always mandatory. Many laptops come with built-in adapters that perform reasonably well for basic tasks. However, your choice depends entirely on your computer's capabilities. A simple rule of thumb: if your built-in adapter doesn't work for your needs, then invest in an external one. This guide focuses on key selection criteria when an external adapter becomes necessary.

Essential Requirements

1. Monitor Mode Support (also called Promiscuous Mode):
This allows capturing all wireless packets in range, not just those addressed to your device. Most adapters default to "managed mode" which only shows traffic destined for its MAC address.

2. Packet Injection Capability:
The ability to transmit custom packets is crucial for many penetration testing techniques like deauthentication attacks.

Without these two features, an adapter is useless for ethical hacking.

Critical Consideration: Chipset Selection

Many chipsets support monitor mode, but these five offer the best balance of performance and affordability:

1. Atheros AR9271

Excellent monitor mode and packet injection support. Found in the popular TP-Link TL-WN722N adapter - widely available and budget-friendly.

Frequency: 2.4GHz only

Fig 1: TP-Link TL-WN722N Adapter

2. Ralink RT5370N

Common in Alfa network adapters. Our recommended model: ALFA AWUS036NHA.

Frequency: 2.4GHz & 5GHz (dual band)

Fig 2: ALFA AWUS036NHA

3. Realtek RTL8812AU

Dual-band support (2.4GHz & 5GHz). Recommended models:

• ALFA AWUS036ACH (RTL8812AU)
• ALFA AWUS1900 (RTL8814AU) - higher end option

Fig 3: AWUS036ACH & AWUS1900

4. Realtek RTL8187L

Budget-friendly option found in older Alfa models like AWUS036H. May be harder to find genuine versions - watch for counterfeits.

Frequency: 2.4GHz only

Fig 4: AWUS036H

5. Ralink RT3070 & RT3572

These chipsets are also common in hacking-friendly adapters, though slightly older than our other recommendations.

Purchase Considerations

• Always verify the actual chipset (not just model numbers which can vary)
• Check Linux compatibility before purchasing
• Dual-band support (2.4GHz & 5GHz) is ideal but not mandatory
• Availability in your region may dictate your final choice

Warning: Many counterfeit adapters use different chipsets than advertised. Purchase from reputable sellers.