Network Card only has one Antenna plugged in, Can I add another for 5ghz Wifi?

[errorcodevortex]

I have an hp laptop and the realtek network card only has one antennae plugged in, but has another port already for another antennae. Would buying another antennae wire and simply plugging it in enable 5ghz or would I have to buy an upgraded card?

[The_Fossette · Accepted solution]

@errorcodevortex,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

I reviewed your post and I understand that you want to upgrade the wireless card on your computer.

Don’t worry, I assure you I will try my best to get this sorted.

The antennas on the computer only help to increase the wireless signal strength. If your computer came with a single band wireless card then adding one more antenna will not make it dual-band. You need to purchase a dual-band wireless card and install it on the computer.

Alternately, you can use a USB wireless adapter (Dual-band) and plug it to the USB port on the computer.

I hope that answers your question and you have a great day!

If you wish to show appreciation for my efforts, mark my post as Accept as Solution. Your feedback counts!

Cheers!

[errorcodevortex]

Is it normal for a realtek adapter to have one open socket or antennae missing? Or was it removed

[The_Fossette]

@errorcodevortex,

Some wireless adapters come with one antenna and some with two. It really depends on the make and model of the wireless card.

Cheers!