The RTL8188CU chipset has built-in kernel support through the rtl8192cu or rtl8188eu module open-source drivers.
As an older, mature technology, RTL8188CU adapters are inexpensive, serving as an excellent replacement for broken internal WiFi cards. The RTL8188CU chipset has built-in kernel support through
What (and version) are you currently using? Single-band 2
Single-band 2.4 GHz (2.412 GHz to 2.484 GHz). Maximum Throughput: Up to 150 Mbps (megabits per second). Wi-Fi Standards: IEEE 802
High-speed USB 2.0 (retrocompatible with USB 1.1). Wi-Fi Standards: IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b.
Legacy versions of macOS (Mac OS X 10.4 through 10.15) can support this chip via third-party wireless utility drivers. Modern versions of macOS (Big Sur, Monterey, and newer) lack official support due to shifting architectural requirements for wireless extensions. Common Troubleshooting Scenarios
Move the adapter from the back of a desktop tower to a front-facing USB port, or use a short USB extension cable to elevate the dongle away from the metal chassis of your computer. Issue 2: Windows Power Management Aggression