I am just dipping my toes into Linux. I have dual booted Ubuntu on my main machine. Right now I don’t have access at all to a wired connection. I have a TP link archer T2U usb Wi-Fi adapter that I have used and works (on my windows half). However, I can’t use the Wi-Fi adapter because I am missing the drivers on Linux and can’t even install the packages to install the drivers because I am not connected to the internet. My motherboard does not support Wi-Fi so I have to have the adapter and feel stuck without just buying a new adapter that would work innately with Linux.
Maybe try booting with Linux Mint and see how far you get with that. Just download the ISO and you can run it in a live environment to see what works and does not. I am sure you can find a cheap USB adapter on Amazon that will do the trick though.
A new usb Wi-Fi adapter is the way I am leaning I think. I might just be a little in over my head trying to make the one I have work. There is just so much I need to learn but can’t since I can’t change anything without internet. I can’t even play with DEs without a connection.
Get the most generic one you can
This is good idea too. Find a live CD that your adapter works with. Once you do, install that distribution.