PCI Network Cards

• A PCI network card is the kind of network card that goes inside your computer's tower. To install a PCI card, you'll have to take one of the side panels off of the tower and locate a free PCI slot. The slot will be located on your computer's motherboard and, although it's an easy process, the simple fact that you have to open your computer to do it can intimidate those without much computer knowledge or experience.
  
  

USB Network Cards

• As their name suggests, USB network cards plug into an open USB port on the external portion of your computer. USB ports are typically located on either the front or the back of a computer tower. On laptops they're commonly on the sides or back of the laptop. Unlike some USB devices, network cards don't usually require an external power source, meaning they get enough power to operate from the computer itself.
  
  

PCI Advantages

• According to ACreativeDesktop.com, PCI cards typically provide faster Internet connection speeds than similarly configured USB cards. The actual signal strength itself is also better in most cases, meaning your computer will not have to be as close to your wireless router as it would with a USB network adapter. PCI adapters, as they fit inside your computer, do not add any extra clutter to your computer area and they leave your USB ports open for other peripherals.
  
  

USB Advantages

• The chief advantage of USB network adapters is the convenience they offer. Unlike PCI adapters they can easily be plugged in and unplugged for easy storage or travel. Although PCI cards may hold a slight advantage in signal quality, USB network adapters can be moved around as much as the connection cord allows to find the best signal in a specific area. Most USB network adapters are "plug-n-play," meaning the drivers and software required to run the device are automatically installed on your computer the first time you plug it in.
  
  

Considerations

• While PCI network adapters are usually superior, USB adapters aren't far behind and, as long as you stay within range of the router, you should have no problem with a USB adapter. Also, laptops typically have modified PCI cards called mini-PCI adapters. These mini adapters are smaller and much harder to access than the typical PCI slot location on desktop computers. When it comes to laptops, it's much easier to use a USB adapter.