Product Overview
#The AWUS036AX features the Realtek RTL8832BU chipset with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) dual-band support (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), up to 1200 Mbps combined, with MU-MIMO 2×2 and OFDMA technology. The antenna is integrated (non-removable).
⚠️ Important: This is Wi-Fi 6, NOT Wi-Fi 6E — no 6 GHz band. For 6 GHz support, see AWUS036AXML or AWUS036AXM. Monitor mode is limited on kernels below 6.12; not recommended for Linux security research.
macOS Notice: All ALFA adapters have limited/no macOS support. macOS 11 Big Sur and later, and Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) are NOT supported. Maximum macOS support is 10.15 Catalina on Intel Macs.
Key Features
#- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Dual-Band: 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz
- Realtek RTL8832BU chipset
- Up to 1200 Mbps combined
- MU-MIMO 2×2
- OFDMA technology
- USB 3.0 Type-A
- WPA3/WPA2/WPA/WEP
- ⚠️ No 6 GHz band
Technical Specifications
#| Item | Specification |
|---|
| Chipset | Realtek RTL8832BU |
| WiFi Standards | IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6) |
| Frequency Bands | 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz (no 6 GHz) |
| Max Data Rate | 1200 Mbps |
| MIMO | MU-MIMO 2×2 |
| Antenna | Integrated (non-removable) |
| USB Interface | USB 3.0 Type-A |
| Wireless Security | WPA3 / WPA2 / WPA / WEP |
OS Support
#| OS | Status | Notes |
|---|
| Windows 10/11 | ✅ Supported | Driver from Alfa website |
| macOS | ❌ Not supported | No macOS 11+ or Apple Silicon |
| Ubuntu | ⚠️ Requires driver | In-kernel on kernel ≥ 6.14 (Ubuntu 24.10+); earlier versions need manual DKMS |
| Kali Linux | ⚠️ Limited | Monitor mode limited on kernels < 6.12; not recommended for pen testing |
| NetHunter | ⚠️ Limited | Kernel-dependent |
Hardware Support
#| Hardware | Status | Notes |
|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4/5 | ⚠️ Requires driver | Manual install needed on Pi OS with kernel < 6.14 |
| Desktop/Laptop PC | ✅ Supported | Standard USB-A |
Advanced Capabilities
#| Feature | Status |
|---|
| Monitor Mode | ⚠️ Limited (kernel ≥ 6.12 recommended) |
| Packet Injection | ⚠️ Limited |
| Soft AP Mode | ✅ Yes |
| Bluetooth | ❌ No |
What’s in the Box
#Resources & Links
#Product Datasheet
#
Compatible Antenna Upgrades
#All ALFA adapters feature a standard RP-SMA connector. Upgrade with an optional external antenna for greater range and gain:
