Install Realtek RTL8811AU Drivers On Ubuntu 21.04

Hey guys! Having trouble getting your Realtek RTL8811AU Wi-Fi adapter working on Ubuntu 21.04? Don't worry, you're not alone! This particular chipset can be a bit tricky to set up, especially with newer kernel versions like 5.11.0-16.17. But fear not! This guide will walk you through the steps to get your wireless connection up and running. We'll cover everything from identifying the correct drivers to installing them and troubleshooting common issues. Let's dive in and get your Wi-Fi working!

Understanding the Realtek RTL8811AU Driver Situation

Before we jump into the installation process, it’s crucial to understand why you might be facing difficulties. The Realtek RTL8811AU is a popular Wi-Fi chipset, but the drivers aren't always included in the standard Linux kernel. This means you often need to install them manually. The good news is that there are several community-maintained driver repositories available on GitHub. The challenge, however, lies in finding the right one that's compatible with your specific kernel version and Ubuntu distribution. Many users, like yourself, have tried multiple versions from GitHub only to find that the problem persists. This is usually because the driver hasn't been properly compiled for the kernel, or there might be conflicts with existing modules. To effectively address this, we need to ensure that we're using a driver source that is actively maintained and known to work with your setup. We’ll explore how to identify a reliable repository and how to build the driver in a way that avoids common pitfalls. Furthermore, we'll discuss how to handle Secure Boot, which can sometimes interfere with custom-built drivers, ensuring a smooth and stable installation process. So, let's get started by identifying the best driver source for your system and walking through the compilation and installation steps.

Step 1: Identifying the Correct Driver Source

Okay, so the first step is to find a reliable driver source. As you mentioned, you've already tried a few versions from GitHub, which is a great start. However, not all repositories are created equal. Some might be outdated, poorly maintained, or simply incompatible with your kernel version. A good starting point is to look for repositories that explicitly state support for your kernel (5.11.0-16.17) or newer. Look for active forks or branches that have recent commits and positive feedback from other users. One popular option is the rtl8812au or rtl8811au driver repository (you can search on GitHub for these). These repositories often contain updated drivers that are compatible with a wide range of kernels. When browsing the repository, pay close attention to the README file. It usually contains instructions on how to install the driver, as well as any dependencies you might need. Make sure the instructions are clear and easy to follow. If the repository has an