WiFi 6E for your PC: The Ultimate Tri-Band Upgrade
Get your computer ready for the next generation of WiFi. The ALFA AWUS036AXM is more than just a simple WiFi USB Adapter; it's a comprehensive connectivity upgrade. With support for WiFi 6E, it opens the door to the brand new 6 GHz frequency band. This means less interference from your neighbors' networks, lower latencies, and significantly higher speeds – ideal for demanding online games, high-resolution streaming, and large downloads.
The Champion for Kali Linux: Monitor Mode in the 6 GHz Band
For penetration testers and IT security professionals, the right chipset is crucial. The MediaTek MT7921AUN in the AWUS036AXM is natively supported by modern Linux kernels (from 5.15). This enables seamless use on current Kali Linux distributions right after plugging it in. Use Monitor Mode and Packet Injection to analyze even the most modern WiFi 6E networks – a capability that makes this adapter indispensable in the security community.
Maximum Flexibility Thanks to External High-Gain Antennas
Forget weak signals and connection drops. The AWUS036AXM is equipped with two detachable 5 dBi high-gain Antennas, offering significantly better signal coverage and stability than any internal adapter. Thanks to the standard RP-SMA connectors, you also have the freedom to connect special directional Antennas or other powerful WiFi Antennas from our range if needed, to specifically maximize your Network's range.
More Than Just WiFi: Integrated Bluetooth 5.2
This adapter not only upgrades your WiFi but also brings state-of-the-art Bluetooth 5.2 to your computer. Connect wireless headphones, speakers, mice, or game controllers with improved range, stability, and energy efficiency. You save an additional USB port and ensure a tidy workspace without cable clutter.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Future-proof WiFi 6E connectivity with access to the new, low-interference 6 GHz band.
- Pro: Excellent compatibility with current Linux distributions (especially Kali Linux) including Monitor Mode.
- Pro: High flexibility and range through two detachable 5 dBi high-gain antennas with RP-SMA connector.
- Pro: Integrated Bluetooth 5.2 functionality for modern peripheral devices without an additional dongle.
- Note: Full functionality under Linux requires a current kernel version (5.15+), which may necessitate an upgrade on older systems.
- Note: User reports indicate potentially lower transmit power compared to older Alfa models, which could affect upload speed over long distances.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | ALFA Network |
| Model: | AWUS036AXM |
| EAN: | 4718050308620 |
| Chipset: | MediaTek MT7921AUN |
| WiFi Standards: | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax |
| WiFi Certification: | WiFi 6E |
| Frequency Bands: | Tri-Band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz) |
| 6 GHz Frequency Range: | 5925–7125 MHz |
| Maximum Data Rate (combined): | up to 3000 Mbps |
| 2.4 GHz Data Rate: | up to 600 Mbps |
| 5 GHz Data Rate: | up to 1200 Mbps |
| 6 GHz Data Rate: | up to 1200 Mbps |
| MIMO Configuration: | 2x2 MIMO (2T2R) |
| Antennas: | 2x external, detachable High-Gain Dipole Antennas |
| Antenna Gain: | 5 dBi |
| Antenna Connector: | 2x RP-SMA Female |
| Bluetooth Standard: | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| PC Connection: | USB 3.2 Gen 1, Type-A (backward compatible with USB 2.0) |
| Encryption: | WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3 |
| Supported Operating Systems: | Windows 10, Windows 11 (required for 6 GHz), Linux Kernel 5.15+ |
| Dimensions (L x B x H): | 87.4 x 28.5 x 12 mm |
| Maximum Power Consumption: | 2.7 Watt |
| Operating Voltage: | 5 V (via USB) |
| Operating Temperature: | -20° C to 70° C |
| Special Features: | LED Status Indicator, OFDMA, TWT, BSS Coloring, Monitor Mode Support |
| Certificates: | CE, FCC, ROHS |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x ALFA Network AWUS036AXM WiFi USB Adapter |
| 2 x 5 dBi Dual-Band Dipole Antenna |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the ALFA AWUS036AXM ready to use with Kali Linux out of the box?
Yes, on current versions of Kali Linux (e.g., 2022.3 and newer) that use a kernel 5.15 or higher, the adapter is usually recognized "out of the box". For older versions, a system upgrade is required to have the necessary drivers in the kernel.
Can I use the new 6 GHz WiFi band with the AWUS036AXM?
Yes, the adapter is a full-fledged WiFi 6E Adapter and supports the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and the new 6 GHz band. To use the 6 GHz band under Windows, Windows 11 is absolutely required.
Are the antennas of the ALFA AWUS036AXM replaceable?
Yes, the adapter has two standard RP-SMA connectors. The included 5dBi antennas can be removed and replaced with other Antennas, such as directional Antennas for greater range in a specific direction.
Do I need a USB 3.0 port for operation?
For maximum theoretical speed, a USB 3.0 (or higher) port is required. However, the adapter is backward compatible and also works with a USB 2.0 port, although the speed will then be limited to the maximum of USB 2.0 (480 Mbps).
Does the adapter support monitor mode for WiFi analysis?
Yes, the MediaTek MT7921AUN chipset and Linux drivers support monitor mode. This is one of the adapter's main strengths and makes it very popular among security experts for analyzing WiFi traffic, even in the 6 GHz band.
What is the difference between the AWUS036AXM and the AWUS036AXML?
Both models use the same MediaTek MT7921AUN chipset and offer identical WiFi and Bluetooth functions. The main difference lies in the form factor and connection: The AWUS036AXM is a compact stick with a direct USB-A connector, while the AWUS036AXML has a larger housing and is connected via a USB-C cable.
Homepage: https://alfa.com.tw
