Best Wi-Fi Hacking Adapters in 2023: Kali Linux and Parrot Compatible
In the modern age, internet connectivity has become an essential aspect of our lives, and with the increasing number of devices connecting to Wi-Fi networks, the security of wireless networks has become a growing concern.
Whether you are a hobbyist or a cybersecurity engineer, you will need a Wi-Fi adapter that supports monitor mode if you want to get into Wi-Fi hacking.
Monitor mode allows a device to capture and analyze all network traffic passing through a wireless network. You might often encounter many Wi-Fi adapters that do not support monitor mode. One needs a compatible Wi-Fi adapter that supports monitor mode to take advantage of this feature.
In 2023, the market is flooded with a variety of Wi-Fi adapters that claim to support monitor mode. However, not all of them live up to the expectations. In this context, it becomes crucial to know about the best Wi-Fi adapters that support monitor mode in 2023. These adapters offer compatibility with monitor mode and provide superior performance, reliability, and range.
In this article, we will discuss the top Wi-Fi adapters that support monitor mode and their key features, enabling you to make an informed decision while selecting the best adapter for your needs.
What is Monitor mode?
We can define monitor mode as a feature of wireless interface cards that allows them to capture and analyze all the wireless traffic within their range. The captured information can include packets not addressed by the wireless card itself.
While in monitor mode, the wireless card can act as a passive receiver allowing it to listen to all radio transmissions on a particular channel or even a set of channels.
NOTE: When the wireless card is in monitor mode, it does not actively participate in the network, whether it’s transmitting or receiving data. Therefore, you cannot connect to Wi-Fi or another Wireless network using the card while in monitor mode.
Best Budget Option - Alfa AWUS036ACS
The Alfa AWUS036ACS is an affordable option that delivers in performance and compatibility with modern Linux systems. It features a Realtek RTL8811AU chipset capable of handling 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz at an affordable price range of around$ 30.
https://www.amazon.com/Network-AWUS036ACS-Wide-Coverage-Dual-Band-High-Sensitivity/dp/B0752CTSGD
Best Performance Option - ASUS USB-AC68
The ASUS USB-AC68 provides an unparalleled performance providing fast data rates of up to 1900Mbps. It also has a great design that makes it look modern and flashy. It features the RTL88xxAU chipset, which supports monitor mode and packet injection. However, it may require you to install drivers on both Kali Linux and Parrot Security.
https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-USB-AC68-Dual-Band-Adapter-Included/dp/B01I7QFR10
Best Minimalistic Option - PANDA PAU05
If you are looking for a minimalistic option that delivers in both features and compatibility, the PANDA PAU05 is the card for you. It provides a simplistic design that resembles a regular USB Flash driver making it a perfect choice for use in public areas.
No one wants to be the guy/girl in the café with a laptop and an extra Wi-Fi adapter holstering a massive antenna pair.
https://www.amazon.com/Panda-300Mbps-Wireless-USB-Adapter/dp/B00EQT0YK2
Since the card does not feature any antennae, it has a drawback as it supports only 2.4GHz and can support speeds of up to 300Mbs.
Best Full Fledged - Alfa AWUS1900
The Alfa AWUS1900 is a high-performance dual-band Wi-Fi USB adapter that offers exceptional wireless connectivity for users who require fast and reliable internet speeds.
It includes support for Dual-Band Connectivity, allowing you to access both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands.
It is also equipped with high-gain antennas with its four detachable high-gain antennae; the AWUS1900 can provide maximum wireless coverage and signal strength.
The adapter is designed with a USB 3.0 interface, allowing for high-speed data transfer rates of up to 1900Mbps.
https://www.amazon.com/Alfa-AC1900-WiFi-Adapter-Long-Range/dp/B01MZD7Z76
How to Choose
Deciding which option to go for heavily depends on what you most value. If you like a good performance with a minimalistic design, you can pick the ones that fit that bill. However, if you are looking for one that forgoes the designs and puts all the efforts into performance?
The most important thing is finding one that provides all the necessary features and compatible monitor mode and packet injection.
Using this post, we provided you with some excellent adapters that can fit your requirements.
