Before getting a wireless network adapter, it’s important to know which port your printer uses for connectivity. While some adapters are compatible with printers that use an Ethernet port, others work great with USB printers. Printer adapters usually also support multiple operating systems and only need some basic network settings updates to get up and running. We researched some of the top products from well-known manufacturers like IOGEAR and StarTech to help you find the right one. Here are the best wireless printer adapters currently available. You can also configure the device manually by connecting it to a computer using an Ethernet cable, and the bundled instruction manual makes doing so a cakewalk. However, you may need to use Internet Explorer for manual configuration. The IOGEAR GWU637 features dual antennas and can reach wireless transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps, which should be fast enough for any routine print job. You also get support for wireless encryption protocols like WEP and WPA, features that help secure the data you transmit, and a one-year warranty with this device. Connectors/Ports: Ethernet (RJ-45), MicroUSB (for power) | Wireless Spec: Wi-Fi 802.11bgn | Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, macOS Once you set up these connections and turn on the GPSU21, some setup is involved, though it’s mostly easy and well-documented (more so for Windows than macOS). You have to install the companion software from the included CD and decide on some basic network options. After that, you’re ready to start printing. You can also configure most device settings via a web browser for added convenience. Connectors/Ports: Ethernet (RJ-45), USB-A, DC (for power) | Wireless Spec: N/A | Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux After connecting the PM1115UW to your printer (via a USB cable) and powering it on, you need to hook it up to a router using an Ethernet cable. You only need to do this for the initial setup, which involves assigning the printer a static IP address so that other devices can always find it. Once you complete this step, you won’t need to connect to your printer with a wired connection. Connectors/Ports: Ethernet (RJ-45), USB-A, DC (for power) | Wireless Spec: Wi-Fi 802.11bgn | Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux It’s powered by a 5-volt external adapter and features a high-speed microprocessor that handles print jobs quickly and efficiently. You also get support for all major network protocols and can manage most settings from a web browser. Other notable features of the X-MEDIA XM-PS110U are the built-in POST (Power On Self Test) to ensure the device runs properly, multiple status indicator lights, and a compact yet lightweight design. Connectors/Ports: Ethernet (RJ-45), USB-A, DC (for power) | Wireless Spec: N/A | Compatibility: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux
Power Source Requirements
Even though wireless printer adapters are fairly small devices, they need an external power source to work. You can power some by the USB port (if available) of the printer they’re meant to be connected with, while others need a power supply outlet. You should decide which adapter suits your needs the best based on your printer’s location or port availability.
Platform/OS Support
Since most wireless printer adapters use standard network protocols, they’re usually compatible with all major operating systems (OS). That said, you still might want to check if their accompanying software (e.g., installation utilities) is available for your preferred OS. Also, the web-based management interfaces of these adapters may not work with modern browsers such as Firefox and Google Chrome.
About Our Trusted Experts
Rajat Sharma is a technology writer and editor with more than eight years (and counting) of experience. He has tested/reviewed numerous gadgets over the course of his career so far. Prior to joining Lifewire as a freelance contributor, he worked as a senior technology journalist with two of India’s biggest media houses: The Times Group and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited. Rajat conducted in-depth research on more than 10 wireless printer adapters from several brands. He also read more than 100 reviews (both positive and negative) and cross-verified information from the products’ official websites to finalize his top picks.
