No More Dead Zones: Your Range Upgrade
The ALFA Network AWUS036ACH v.2 was developed with a single goal: to provide you with the best possible WiFi signal, no matter where you are. While internal WiFi cards or tiny nano-sticks often fail at a single wall, this adapter is a true signal magnet. The combination of two external 5 dBi high-gain WiFi Antennas and an integrated power amplifier makes it a true WiFi USB Adapter for long range. Finally experience a stable connection in the garden shed, basement, or the most remote corner of your home.
AC1200 Dual-Band Power for Gaming and Streaming
Why settle for less? The AWUS036ACH v.2 harnesses the full power of the AC1200 standard. In the crowded 2.4 GHz Components band, it achieves a solid 300 Mbps, ideal for everyday tasks. However, its true strength is shown in the clean 5 GHz Components frequency band: With up to 867 Mbps, bandwidth-intensive applications such as 4K video streaming, online gaming, or fast downloads of large files are no longer a problem. Thanks to USB 3.0, the speed is forwarded to your computer without bottlenecks.
The Best WiFi Stick for Kali Linux & Network Analyses
In the world of IT security and for penetration testers, the built-in Realtek RTL8812AU chipset is a legend. This adapter is the best WiFi USB Adapter for Kali Linux, Parrot OS, and many other security-relevant distributions. It natively supports crucial functions such as Monitor Mode (passive eavesdropping on data traffic) and Packet Injection (active sending of data packets). This makes it an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to professionally analyze and verify the security of WiFi Networks.
Maximum Flexibility Thanks to Detachable Antennas
This USB WiFi Adapter with Antenna offers you a modularity that you will search for in vain with most other adapters. The two included 5 dBi Antennas are attached via a standardized RP-SMA connector. This means you can unscrew them at any time and replace them with even more powerful omni-directional Antennas or even directional Antennas. This way, you can specifically bundle the signal and further optimize the range for special applications. Discover suitable WiFi Antennas in our assortment.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Excellent range and reception sensitivity, penetrates walls better than standard adapters.
- Pro: Strong AC1200 dual-band performance for demanding applications.
- Pro: Outstanding compatibility with Linux, especially Kali Linux (supports Monitor Mode & Packet Injection).
- Pro: Detachable Antennas with RP-SMA standard connector allow for flexible upgrades.
- Note: Significantly larger than nano-adapters and therefore more suitable for stationary setups.
- Note: Limited to no driver support for newer macOS versions (after 10.15) and Apple Silicon (M1/M2) Macs.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | ALFA Network |
| Model: | AWUS036ACH v.2 |
| EAN: | 4718050307302 |
| Device Type: | WiFi USB Adapter (Client Device) |
| Chipset: | Realtek RTL8812AU |
| Frequency Bands: | Dual-Band (2.4 GHz Components & 5 GHz Components) |
| WiFi Standards: | IEEE 802.11ac/a/b/g/n |
| Maximum Data Rate: | AC1200 |
| Data Rate 5 GHz: | up to 867 Mbps (802.11ac) |
| Data Rate 2.4 GHz: | up to 300 Mbps (802.11n) |
| Transmit Power (TX Power): | max. 20 dBm (100 mW) |
| Amplifier: | Integrated Power Amplifier |
| Receive Sensitivity: | High (High RX Sensitivity) |
| Number of Antennas: | 2x external, detachable |
| Antenna Gain: | 2x 5 dBi High-Gain |
| Antenna Type: | Dipole, Omni-Directional |
| Antenna Connector: | RP-SMA (female) |
| Device Connector: | USB Type-C |
| Connection Cable: | USB Type-C to USB Type-A |
| USB Standard: | USB 3.0 SuperSpeed (backward compatible with 2.0) |
| Security Standards: | WEP (64/128), WPA, WPA2, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, 802.1X |
| Windows Compatibility: | Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 (32/64-bit) |
| macOS Compatibility: | Typically 10.5 to 10.15 (limited) |
| Linux Compatibility: | Kernel 4.19+ (e.g., Kali Linux from 2017.1) |
| Special Linux Functions: | Supports Monitor Mode & Packet Injection |
| Certification: | FCC Class B |
| Dimensions (Adapter only): | 85 x 63 x 20 mm |
| Power Supply: | via USB port (5V) |
| Max. Power Consumption: | 3.5 Watt |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x ALFA Network AWUS036ACH v.2 WiFi USB Adapter |
| 2 x 5 dBi Dual-Band Antenna |
| 1 x USB 3.0 Type-C to Type-A Cable |
| 1 x Driver CD & Quick Start Guide |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the ALFA AWUS036ACH suitable for Kali Linux?
Yes, absolutely. It is considered one of the best adapters for Kali Linux. The RTL8812AU chipset natively supports Monitor Mode and Packet Injection, which are crucial for security analyses, making it ideal for tools like the Aircrack-ng Suite.
Can I improve my WiFi range with this adapter?
Yes, this adapter is specifically designed for long range. Thanks to its external 5 dBi antennas and internal amplifier, it can receive WiFi signals that are too weak or too far away for standard adapters.
Do I need a USB 3.0 port for operation?
No, the adapter is backward compatible and also works with a USB 2.0 port. However, to achieve maximum speed, a USB 3.0 port is highly recommended, as USB 2.0 represents a bottleneck.
Why is this adapter often recommended for ethical hacking?
It is recommended because its chipset and drivers allow for passively reading WiFi traffic (Monitor Mode) and actively sending data packets into a network (Packet Injection). These functions are essential for checking the security of WiFi networks.
Can I replace the antennas of the ALFA AWUS036ACH?
Yes, the antennas use a standardized RP-SMA connector. They can be easily unscrewed and replaced with more powerful or directional antennas to precisely align the signal.
Does the adapter work with the latest MacBooks (M1/M2)?
Most likely not. Official driver support focuses on Windows and Linux. For macOS, drivers are often only available for older versions. Users of Apple Silicon MacBooks should look for alternatives with explicit M1/M2 support.
Homepage: https://alfa.com.tw
