Public Wi-Fi networks are a nice commodity in the modern world, although they can often be frustrating. We’ve all experienced connections slowing down or even disconnecting while working on a laptop at a coffee shop. Over at CES 2025, both Asus and Acer previewed portable Wi-Fi adapters that can improve the user experience out in the public.
Asus RT-BE58 Go
First is Asus’ RT-BE58 Go<!–>, a small device with rabbit-ear antennas measuring 3.8 x 3.7 x 1.2 inches. And it can do a surprising amount. The little gadget functions as a dual-band Wi-Fi 7 router, supporting data transfer speeds up to 3,600 Mbps. When outside, it can create 4G/5G mobile hotspots “for on-the-go connectivity.” That tethering ability works with iPhones, Android devices, and 4G dongles for laptops.
Also: CES 2025: The most impressive products so far
Speaking of hotspots, the device can establish private connections over public Wi-Fi networks thanks to WISP mode. VPN tech is present on the RT-BE58 Go, too, providing security and anonymity against online threats. It also gives access to “certain data or streaming [content] without district limitation.” What’s neat is the VPN tools are activated just by flipping the switch on the side. Other notable features include one-tap security scans and the ability to act as a Wi-Fi extender via Asus’ AiMesh software.
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Acer Wave D7
Acer has a slimmer product: the Wave D7 Wi-Fi 7 Dongle–>
