This is the newest Alfa AWUS050NH version 2 model, it is an 802.11n standard adapter. The version 1 model was widely found to have weaker range and sensitivity compared to the Alfa AWUS036H 802.11g adapter from Alfa. This new version 2 was supposed to have some improvements. We have tested it vs. the Alfa AWUS036H and found that while it does work better than the version 1, it is still not as good with 802.11g networks as the Alfa AWUS036H adapter. It picks up a similar number of signals in Linux and Windows testing that we did, however the signal strengths were noticably lower to all but a few. Please be advised if you will be using your wireless adapter primarily for 802.11g networks, the Alfa AWUS036H is your best bet. This AWUS050NH model is recommended only if you will be using an 802.11n router.

This is brand new in retail box. This features a dual band radio which provides it with 802.11a and 802.11n connectivity. 802.11n is the latest standard in wireless networking technology, providing top speeds of 300 mbps, and ranges up to six times better than standard 802.11g connections. Think of the Alfa AWUS050NH as your "everything" adapter- it works with all four of the wireless standards, including the most recent, 802.11n. It also works with Windows, Mac, and Linux (at this time we do not support Mac and Linux installs of this product but can provide driver and instruction links for download for these operating systems, note that Mac use requires OS 10.4 or 10.5 and Linux use requires Kernel 2.6 or later).

We know many users will be wondering if this is exactly the same as the popular Alfa AWUS036H adapter from Alfa, the 802.11g model with 500mw of output power, only with added N capabilities. While there are many similarities, they are some differences. The key difference is that the AWUS036H model used a Realtek G chipset, while this N model uses a chip from Ralink. So it is not the same adapter, with added N capabilities. In fact, as noted at the top of the page, we have found the AWUS036H adapter to work better with G routers. This AWUS050NH adapter is recommended if you will be connecting to an 802.11n standard access point. When using an 802.11n router though, you will get a benefit from using this 802.11n Alfa model. When used with an 802.11n standard router, you can experience up to 300 mbps speed and up to 6X the range vs. standard G connectivity. Please note that 300 mbps is a maximum speed, your connectivity will likely be lower depending on the distance between the adapter and router, and obstacles and interference in the area.

***BONUS- INCLUDES FREE WINDOW/LAPTOP MOUNT HOLDER- now you can easily mount the adapter on any window and most surfaces such as the back of your laptop...sticking it to a nearby window will help maximize your range, and being able to stick it to the back of your laptop makes this the ultimate portable wifi adapter (contains suction fastener, will stick to most surface types but not all).

IMPORTANT: This adapter is 802.11n draft 3.0 compatible. 802.11n is the latest in wireless networking technology, featuring super expanded range and speeds almost 6X that of the 802.11g standard. To take advantage of the 802.11n capabilities, you must have an 802.11n draft compatible wireless router or access point. This is backward compatible with the 802.11g standard (top speeds 54 mbps) and the 802.11b standard (top speeds 11 mbps). If you use this with an 802.11g or b router, it will perform like a basic G or B standard adapter- you must have an 802.11n router to take advantage of the adapter's advanced range and speed capabilities.

Operating system requirements: Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP & Vista, Mac OS 10.4 and 10.5***, and Linux 2.6 or later****

***Mac drivers are included, but we do not support Mac installs, however we can provided advanced Mac installation instructions via email.

****Linux drivers are included, but the manufacturers instructions assume you have some knowledge of Linux. At this time we are not able to support installation on Linux.

This item is USB 2.0 compliant and is backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports. It has an RP-SMA antenna connector so you can connect any RP-SMA antenna to the unit. The device ships with a built-in print antenna and a 2 dBi gain external RP-SMA antenna.

State sales tax of 6.75% will be added to FLORIDA purchases only. There is no sales tax for any other state.

Return Policy: If you have received an item that is not as described, not working, or you are not satisfied with it for any reason, you may return it for an exchange or refund at your discretion within 30 days of receipt. Because range can very greatly based on your environment, if you are not sure a particular product will meet your range needs please contact us before buying. As we are a business, we are not able to offer free product trials, and thus if a purchased product does not meet your range needs and you wish to return it, a 10% restocking fee will apply. The only exception will be if the item is defective. Please note that shipping charges paid, including return shipping, are never refundable. If you opt for an exchange, we will pay to ship the replacement to you. Items must be returned the way they were received, with all pieces, documentation, and retail packaging (if applicable) included.