Best approach to improving wireless connection to my network ?

[satwar]

I'm having trouble punching wireless router connections through old plaster walls in my house to various laptops.

Am I correct in thinking that a wireless bridge to my ethernet port is theoretically superior to using a USB wireless adapter, for improving the quality of my wireless connection ?

 

[DaveMcLain]

I'd say that a wireless bridge could possibly be made to have higher power and a more optimum antenna which would make it have a better connection than a USB network adapter. My Engenius USB adapter is pretty powerful with a lot of range using even it's stock antenna.

 

[thiggins]

Am I correct in thinking that a wireless bridge to my ethernet port is theoretically superior to using a USB wireless adapter, for improving the quality of my wireless connection ?

No. There is nothing inherently inferior about USB wireless adapters.

The difference in performance from adapter to adapter are more due to chipset used and antenna configuration.

The Ethernet-connected wireless bridge does have the advantage of a longer cable length than USB. This gives you more flexibility in physical placement.