External Adapters/NICs

The Bottom Line: If you're not on the wireless bandwagon, you don't have to forgo a home network or pay to have a network professionally installed. With the Panasonic HD-PLC power-line Ethernet adapters, you can have a wired home network up and running in minutes.

Specs: 70 Mbps, Wired

The Bottom Line: If you're not on the wireless bandwagon, you don't have to forgo a home network or pay to have a network professionally installed. With the Panasonic HD-PLC power-line Ethernet adapters, you can have a wired home network up and running in minutes.

Specs: 70 Mbps, Wired

The Bottom Line: From its comprehensive documentation to its docking cradle, the Linksys WUSBF54G has all of its bases covered, making it a smart choice for travelers seeking a good Wi-Fi hot-spot detector/adapter combo.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB

The Bottom Line: For frequent fliers in constant need of Internet access, the Trendnet TEW-429UB dual hot-spot detector/Wi-Fi adapter comes in extrahandy.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB

The Bottom Line: Buffalo's AirStation Wireless USB Keychain Adapter trades fine-tuning and top performance for easy setup and simple software.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB

The Bottom Line: The Netgear WG111 is one of the best all-around wireless USB adapters we've seen.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB

The Bottom Line: Gateway's power-line adapter is well suited for networking in homes or small offices.

Specs: 14 Mbps, Wired, USB

The Bottom Line: Compact and secure, the MN-710 is a good choice for home or small-business users looking for an easy, wireless way to connect a desktop to an 802.11g network.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB

The Bottom Line: Though it's inexpensive and easy to set up, Gateway's USB-based WBU-110 is neither cheaper nor better than other USB adapters.

Specs: 11 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, USB

The Bottom Line: Great range and high speeds grace Buffalo's 802.11g USB adapter, but its incomplete documentation may confuse those new to networking.

Specs: 54 Mbps, 2.4 GHz, Wireless, Hi-Speed USB