USB networking refers to using the Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection technology to establish or facilitate network connectivity between devices.
As defined, USB, or Universal Serial Bus, is a serial protocol used to transfer data and power between devices, typically a host computer and a peripheral device (input/output devices). While not designed for large-scale network infrastructure like Ethernet or Wi-Fi, USB enables specific forms of device-to-device communication that can function as or contribute to network links.
How USB is Used for Networking
Instead of creating a traditional network over the USB cable itself in most cases, USB networking often involves using a USB connection to enable a device to join an existing network or to share a network connection.
Here are common ways USB is utilized in networking scenarios:
1. USB Tethering
This is a popular form of USB networking. It allows a mobile device (like a smartphone or tablet) to share its internet connection with a computer via a USB cable. The computer recognizes the mobile device as a network interface, effectively using it as a modem to access the internet through the cellular or Wi-Fi network the mobile device is connected to.
- Example: Connecting your smartphone to your laptop via USB to get internet access when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
2. USB to Ethernet Adapters
These are peripheral devices that plug into a computer's USB port and provide an Ethernet port. They are essential for devices (like many modern ultrabooks or tablets) that lack a built-in Ethernet port but need to connect to a wired network for speed or stability.
- Benefit: Provides a reliable, high-speed wired connection using an existing USB port.
- Use Case: Connecting a laptop without an Ethernet port to a corporate network or a home router via cable.
3. Direct USB Connection Between Computers
While less common for general networking than Ethernet or Wi-Fi, specialized USB "networking" or data transfer cables exist. These cables allow two computers to connect directly via their USB ports for file sharing or simple data exchange, sometimes simulating a small peer-to-peer network link.
- Note: Standard USB cables are typically for connecting peripherals to a host and cannot be used for direct PC-to-PC networking without specific hardware or software support on both ends.
4. USB Network Adapters (Wireless/Bluetooth)
Many wireless (Wi-Fi) and Bluetooth adapters connect to computers via USB. While the network communication (Wi-Fi signals, Bluetooth pairing) happens wirelessly, the USB connection is the physical link that integrates the adapter with the host device.
- Function: Enables a computer to connect to wireless networks using a USB peripheral.
Summary Table
| Method | Description | Primary Use Case | Connection Type Enabled |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB Tethering | Shares a mobile device's internet via USB. | Providing internet to a computer. | Cellular or Wi-Fi |
| USB to Ethernet Adapter | Connects a USB port to a wired Ethernet network. | Enabling wired network access. | Ethernet |
| Direct USB Cable | Connects two computers directly for data transfer (special cables). | Simple file sharing between PCs. | Peer-to-peer link |
| USB Wireless Adapter | Provides Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities via a USB device. | Adding wireless connectivity to a PC. | Wi-Fi or Bluetooth |
In essence, USB networking leverages the serial protocol capabilities of USB to allow devices to participate in network communications, either by providing a physical network port, sharing an existing connection, or acting as the interface for a wireless network adapter. It extends the functionality of a USB port beyond just connecting typical peripherals like keyboards or mice to include various network access methods.
