The BaseUS WiFi dongle provides reliable wireless connectivity, but Ubuntu 24 doesn't automatically recognize this device out of the box. Installing the necessary drivers manually ensures your system detects the dongle correctly and connects smoothly to WiFi networks.

Method 1: Installing Drivers from the Official GitHub Repository

This method involves downloading and compiling the latest drivers directly from the official GitHub repository. This approach ensures compatibility and provides the latest available improvements and bug fixes.

Step 1: First, update your system packages to ensure you're installing the latest software dependencies. Open a terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T. Enter the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Updating your packages ensures all dependencies and tools are current, preventing potential installation errors.

Step 2: Next, install essential build tools, headers, and Git to compile the drivers. Enter this command in the terminal:

sudo apt install build-essential dkms git linux-headers-$(uname -r)

These packages provide the necessary tools and kernel headers required to compile and install WiFi drivers properly.

Step 3: Now, download the driver source files from the official repository. Clone the repository by running:

git clone https://github.com/morrownr/8821cu.git

This repository contains the official driver compatible with BaseUS WiFi dongles based on the Realtek 8821CU chipset.

Step 4: Navigate into the downloaded directory and compile the driver by executing:

cd 8821cu
sudo ./install-driver.sh

This script compiles the driver and installs it automatically, streamlining the setup process.

Step 5: After installation, reboot your system to ensure the new drivers load correctly. You can restart your computer using:

sudo reboot

Once your system reboots, your BaseUS WiFi dongle should be automatically recognized and ready to connect to available wireless networks.

Method 2: Manual Installation via DKMS

If you prefer manual control and future-proofing your installation across kernel updates, using DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) is a robust alternative.

Step 1: Ensure your system is updated and install required dependencies by running:

sudo apt update && sudo apt install dkms build-essential git linux-headers-$(uname -r)

Installing DKMS ensures your driver automatically recompiles whenever your kernel updates, maintaining consistent WiFi connectivity.

Step 2: Clone the driver repository for the Realtek 8821CU chipset:

git clone https://github.com/brektrou/rtl8821CU.git

This repository is another reliable source frequently updated for compatibility with newer Ubuntu kernels.

Step 3: Move the downloaded folder into the DKMS modules directory and rename it appropriately:

sudo mv rtl8821CU /usr/src/rtl8821cu-5.8.1.7

This step ensures DKMS recognizes and manages the driver correctly.

Step 4: Register and build the module with DKMS by executing:

sudo dkms add -m rtl8821cu -v 5.8.1.7
sudo dkms build -m rtl8821cu -v 5.8.1.7
sudo dkms install -m rtl8821cu -v 5.8.1.7

This process compiles and installs the driver, ensuring it persists across future kernel updates.

Step 5: Load the driver manually to activate your BaseUS WiFi dongle immediately:

sudo modprobe 8821cu

After running this command, your dongle should become operational immediately without needing a reboot.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your WiFi dongle doesn't activate after following the above steps, verify that Secure Boot is disabled in your BIOS settings. Secure Boot can prevent third-party drivers from loading properly.

Additionally, ensure your dongle is correctly connected and recognized by your system using the following command:

lsusb

You should see your BaseUS WiFi dongle listed among connected USB devices. If it doesn't appear, try reconnecting the device or using a different USB port.

With these methods, your BaseUS WiFi dongle should now be fully functional on Ubuntu 24. Regularly updating your system ensures continued compatibility and optimal performance.