What is the purpose of a network adapter for a laptop computer?

Question

My mom just bought one thinking that it would help her have internet access anywhere she goes and she would not have to find a place to plug her laptop in. For example, if she were to stop at a hotel that didn't happen to have WIFI. I am quite computer savvy but obviously not that much. She bought a Wireless G with Speedbooster. I looked up info on what a network adapter does but I still don't understand. We have a network at home - a laptop as well as a desktop are "connected" to our Linksys router.

Answer 1

it will not do what she wants it to do, tell her to return it.  In order for her to have internet access anywhere she went she would have to get a verizon/att card that has a monthly access charge.

Answer 2

A network adapter is just another name for a network interface device.  The regular network card (where you'd plug the Cat5/6 "regular" network cable) or a wireless network card are both network adapters.

It's not a special piece of hardware, just a different name for whatever piece of hardware the computer has to allow it network access.

As far as being able to just connect anywhere she went, no, it won't help with that.  There would still need to be a wired or wireless network connection available where she traveled to.