[KookyKatie]

1. What does it mean when it says 54MBps vs 150MBps vs 300 MBps?

2. What do the numbers like 802.11n mean?

3. And can anyone recommend a reliable adapter?

4. Why do some brands have antennae and others do not?

I've been using a Netgear WG111v2 54MBps for my desktop for the last couple of years but it's never been very reliable and it always seems to get very hot. Lately the signal strength has been extremely poor (the green bars fluctuate), to the point that I can't connect at times. I don't think it's a problem with the router as other devices have no problems connecting.

[chrisjr]

You will not see MBps but Mbps there is a difference between B and b which changes the unit of data you are talking about completely.

Anyway Mbps means Mega bits per second which is a measure of the speed of the connection as given by the number in front.

802.11 is a network protocol, the language that the computer uses to talk to the router if you like. The n indicates which variant of the protocol is being used. n being the latest and fastest version currently available. This can go at 150Mbps or even 300Mbps.

All adapters have antennas, they wouldn't work otherwise. Just that some makes choose to hide it inside the dongle. An external antenna might let you adjust it for better reception. A problem with built in antenna dongles is the position they are used in can compromise performance. Sometimes you can get better reception using a short USB extension lead so the dongle can be moved around to get the best signal. Especially if you are using a rear mounted USB port on a desktop or tower PC shoved up against the wall.

You never know a short (1m max) lead might help with your current problem and get better reception.