Chosen Solution

What is the connector for the AirPort card in the MBP early 2011 called? I know it use the mini PCIe bus, but I am playing with the thought of upgrading my macbook to the AirPort card used in the new (late 2013) retinas. Btw, I know the card from the retinas is bigger, but I might squeeze it beside the 2nd hdd

Andrea, there’s an existing thread on this topic already. But, replacing the card alone won’t be enough. You would also have to swap out the antennae, as the ones in your machine aren’t capable of providing the throughput that this card is capable on handling. Also, I would believe the firmware would have to be adjusted/updated in order for the card to function properly. In other words, the upgrade, even if it physically fits, won’t provide you with any benefits as far as your Wifi performance goes.