Your Upgrade for Stable and Fast WiFi
Are you tired of connection drops and slow downloads? The Alfa Network AWUS036ACS is the simple and effective solution to take your computer's WiFi to a new level. Designed as a compact WiFi USB Adapter, it receives signals on two frequency bands (Dual-Band), ensuring a flexible and optimized connection. Simply switch to the fast 5 GHz band for HD streaming and online gaming, or use the 2.4 GHz band to reliably provide internet to even the most remote corners of your home.
Maximum Flexibility: The WiFi Receiver with Antenna Connector
The true potential of the AWUS036ACS lies in its adaptability. Unlike many built-in adapters, it features a standardized RP-SMA Antenna connector. The included 2 dBi Antenna already offers solid performance, but that's just the beginning. If needed, simply swap it for a more powerful directional or omni-directional antenna and overcome even long distances or thick walls. This makes the adapter the ultimate tool for demanding reception situations, whether in a camper, garden shed, or spacious buildings.
The Favorite for Pentesting: Perfect WiFi Adapter for Kali Linux
In the world of IT security and Network analysis, the right chipset is crucial. The Realtek RTL8811AU chipset built into the AWUS036ACS is known in the community for its excellent Linux support. It enables the use of monitor mode and packet injection functions, making it an indispensable tool for penetration testing. If you work with systems like Kali Linux, ParrotOS, or Ubuntu, this adapter is a reliable choice that provides you with the necessary capabilities for professional analyses.
Compact, Powerful, and Ready to Use
Despite its impressive technical capabilities, the AWUS036ACS remains astonishingly compact and mobile. It fits into any laptop bag and, thanks to its small dimensions, is not an obstacle even on tightly packed USB strips. Installation under Windows is very simple: install drivers, plug in, done. Even under Linux, setup is usually quick thanks to broad support. A small powerhouse that helps you achieve better WiFi effortlessly.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Excellent Linux compatibility and ideal for pentesting (Monitor Mode & Packet Injection).
- Pro: High flexibility through replaceable antenna with RP-SMA connector.
- Pro: Very compact design that doesn't block adjacent USB ports.
- Pro: Reliable AC600 Dual-Band performance for stable WiFi.
- Pro: Good signal penetration to overcome dead zones.
- Note: The USB 2.0 port can be a bottleneck at maximum utilization.
- Note: Limited support for newer macOS versions (after 10.14) and Apple Silicon chips.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | ALFA Network |
| Model: | AWUS036ACS |
| EAN: | 4718050305421 |
| Product Type: | WiFi USB Adapter (Client) |
| Chipset: | Realtek RTL8811AU |
| WiFi Standards: | IEEE 802.11ac/a/b/g/n |
| Frequency Bands: | Dual-Band (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) |
| Frequency Range (2.4 GHz): | 2.412 GHz – 2.472 GHz |
| Frequency Range (5 GHz): | 5.15 GHz – 5.825 GHz |
| WiFi Speed Class: | AC600 |
| Data Rate (802.11ac): | up to 433 Mbps |
| Data Rate (802.11n): | up to 150 Mbps |
| Data Rate (802.11g/a): | up to 54 Mbps |
| Data Rate (802.11b): | up to 11 Mbps |
| Transmit Power (TX Power): | 18 dBm (typical) |
| Antenna Type: | 1x external, detachable Dual-Band Dipole Antenna |
| Antenna Gain: | 2 dBi |
| Antenna Connector: | RP-SMA (female) |
| Channel Width: | 20 / 40 / 80 MHz |
| Security & Encryption: | WEP (64/128-bit), WPA, WPA2, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPS |
| Special Features: | Supports Monitor Mode & Packet Injection |
| Device Connection: | USB 2.0, Type-A connector |
| Supported Operating Systems (Windows): | XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 (32/64-bit) |
| Supported Operating Systems (macOS): | 10.5 to 10.14 (newer versions limited) |
| Supported Operating Systems (Linux): | Kernel 2.6.24+, high compatibility (e.g. Kali, Ubuntu) |
| Power Supply: | via USB-Port |
| LED Indicator: | Power / WiFi Activity |
| Operating Temperature: | -10°C to 60°C |
| Dimensions (L x H x W): | 55 x 10 x 25 mm |
| Weight: | 80 g |
| Country of Manufacture: | Taiwan |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x ALFA Network AWUS036ACS WiFi USB Adapter |
| 1 x 2 dBi Dual-Band Antenna (detachable) |
| 1 x Quick Start Guide |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the ALFA AWUS036ACS suitable for gaming?
Yes, with conditions. For online gaming, the 5 GHz Components frequency is well suited due to lower interference and higher speed (up to 433 Mbps). However, for demanding, competitive gaming, the USB 2.0 interface might mean a slight increase in latency compared to WiFi USB Adapters.
Does the ALFA AWUS036ACS work directly with Kali Linux?
Yes, the WiFi USB Adapters is very popular in the Kali Linux community. Thanks to the RTL8811AU chipset, it works well and supports important functions for penetration testing such as monitor mode and packet injection, often with minimal configuration effort.
Can I increase the range of my WiFi with this adapter?
Yes, the crucial advantage is the RP-SMA Antenna Mounting Accessories. It allows you to replace the standard Antennas with a much stronger Directional Antennas or Omni-Directional Antennas to receive signals from a long distance and significantly increase the range.
Do I need an 802.11ac router to use this adapter?
No, the WiFi USB Adapters is fully backward compatible with older WiFi standards such as 802.11n/g/b. However, to achieve the maximum speed of 433 Mbps, you need a WiFi Routers that supports the 802.11ac standard on the 5 GHz Components band.
What is the difference between the AWUS036ACS and the AWUS036ACH?
The main difference lies in the chipset and performance. The AWUS036ACS (this model) is an AC600 WiFi USB Adapters with an RTL8811AU chipset and USB 2.0. The AWUS036ACH is often a more powerful AC1200 WiFi USB Adapters with an RTL8812AU chipset and a faster USB 3.0 connection.
Is the installation easy for a beginner?
Under Windows, the installation is straightforward and only requires driver installation. Under Linux, depending on the distribution, it may be necessary to install drivers manually, which can be a small hurdle for beginners but is well documented.
Homepage: https://alfa.com.tw
