Product Overview
#The AWUS036AXER features the Realtek RTL8832BU chipset with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) dual-band (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), up to 1800 Mbps (2.4 GHz: 573 Mbps + 5 GHz: 1200 Mbps). Ultra-slim nano design (~65 × 24 × 10 mm, ~10g) for portable everyday use.
⚠️ Note: Nano form factor — no RP-SMA connector, antenna cannot be upgraded. NOT recommended for Kali Linux or 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 1800 Mbps
- Ultra-slim nano design (~65×24×10mm, ~10g)
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
- WPA3/WPA2/WPA/WEP
- ⚠️ No RP-SMA connector, integrated antenna
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 | 1800 Mbps (2.4G: 573 Mbps + 5G: 1200 Mbps) |
| Antenna | Integrated nano (no RP-SMA) |
| USB Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Dimensions | ~65 × 24 × 10 mm, ~10g |
| 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 |
| Packet Injection | ⚠️ Limited |
| Soft AP Mode | ✅ Yes |
| Bluetooth | ❌ No |
What’s in the Box
#- 1× AWUS036AXER nano adapter
Resources & Links
#Product Datasheet
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Compatible Antenna Upgrades
#All ALFA adapters feature a standard RP-SMA connector. Upgrade with an optional external antenna for greater range and gain:
