Crowned one of the most confusing words of the last decade, the term ‘Dongle’ seems to have many people scratching their heads. What is a dongle, what is it used for, and do I need one? All valid questions but fret no longer, as we help uncover the mysteries of this elusive device and how helpful they can be (you may be surprised by how many you already use!)
In this guide:
- What is a dongle and what are they used for
- Why are dongles so confusing
- What are the benefits of WiFi dongles
- What are the best WiFi dongle plans
What is a dongle and what are they used for?
A dongle is any self-contained USB-like hardware device that connects to the ports of computers, TVs or other devices to fulfil a specific purpose.
Dongles offer a whole host of functionalities but their purpose is limited to one of two:
- To act as an adaptor for other devices, such as SD card readers
Or - To provide an added service. This can include adding security to a laptop, increasing memory and storage, adding Bluetooth capabilities or, more commonly today, connecting devices to the internet, either wirelessly or through mobile broadband (4G or 5G).
Why are dongles so confusing?
‘Dongle’ is a very broad term and can describe any number of different USB-like adapters so many people often worry they’ll misuse the term and end up avoiding it altogether. The origin of the term ‘dongle’ has long been disputed so almost no one knows where it actually came from - only adding to the confusion.
Common dongle examples of dongles include Google Chromecasts, mobile broadband hotspot devices, KeyLok software protection, and memory stick USBs (yes, these are dongles too!).
The common types of dongles we talk about at WhistleOut are USB mobile broadband modems or WiFi dongles. People often use WiFi dongles to connect them to the internet while travelling or when they simply don’t have access to public WiFi. WiFi dongles are also often referred to as USB wireless adapters, USB WiFi adapters, internet sticks, pocket WiFi or mobile broadband modems.
But how do WiFi dongles work? To put it simply, WiFi dongles have a built-in network adapter, which allows devices to connect to the internet. There are two types of WiFi dongles - ones that add WiFi to a computer that doesn’t have integrated WiFi, and ones that connect you to a mobile network while on the go.
What are the benefits of WiFi dongles?
WiFi dongles are lightweight, portable, easy to set up and use, self-charging when connected to a device, affordable and offer reliable, high speeds.
What are the best WiFi dongle plans?
Just like how there are HEAPS of different kinds of dongles, there are also many different kinds of internet dongles available. It all depends on what your needs are. Do you need something fast or perhaps do you need multiple devices connected at once?
Check out our ultimate guide to discover the best WiFi dongle and pocket WiFi plans available for your needs from all the leading providers.
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