A common device used to connect a computer to a Wi-Fi network is a wireless adapter. This device can come in different forms, such as a built-in component within laptops and smartphones or as an external component, like a USB dongle. Wireless adapters allow devices to send and receive data over a radio frequency, enabling connectivity to the internet without physical cables. In addition to facilitating internet access, wireless adapters also support various standards, such as 802.11ac and 802.11n, ensuring compatibility with different network speeds and ranges.