Reviving old desktop PCs that lack built-in Wi-Fi.

The chip integrates an 802.11n MAC (Media Access Controller), a baseband processor, and an RF transceiver onto a single silicon die. It connects to the host computer via a USB 2.0 interface.

One of the hidden features of the RTL8188CU is its ability to act as a Soft Access Point. This means you can plug the adapter into a desktop PC and broadcast a Wi-Fi hotspot from that computer to share a wired internet connection with phones or other devices.