Many latest generation smartphones can turn into wi-fi routers, to share the data connection with other devices, this feature is called 'tethering'. All devices with a wi-fi connection can connect to the network created by your phone and use its data connection to connect to the web. Read on to find out how to set up tethering on your phone.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Tethering Through Telephone Operator
Step 1. Enter the 'Settings' menu
Select the gear icon from your phone's 'Home'. Alternatively, select your device's menu access button, then choose the 'Settings' option from the list that will appear.
Step 2. Enter the 'Tethering and Wi-Fi router' menu
This menu is accessible from the 'Wireless & Networks' menu located in your phone's settings panel. Depending on the model of your device, you may need to select the 'Other…' item in order to make the tethering option visible.
Step 3. Activate the 'Wi-fi Router' option
If your rate plan includes this feature, you can enable it on your phone, and you will be directed to the settings panel. If your rate plan doesn't use tethering, you may see a message about adding this option to your phone contract.
Step 4. Change the settings
You can (must) set a password to access the Wi-Fi network created by your phone and limit the number of active connections that can be managed by your phone. It is recommended to set a secure password, which prevents unknown devices from connecting to your phone and using your data connection. The 'SSID' parameter is the name that the wi-fi network created by your phone will assume, and that you will need to use to connect all your devices.
Step 5. Connect your devices
When you have finished setting up and activating tethering on your phone, activate the wi-fi network connection on all the devices you want to connect. Run a network scan to find the one generated by your smartphone. Select it and type in the relative access password. All done!
Method 2 of 2: Tethering Through Third Party Applications
Step 1. Download an application that allows you to activate tethering
Some telephone operators have disabled the ability to download applications from the 'Play Store' that allow tethering to be enabled. This is because it would allow to avoid the costs of using this service by end users. To download these applications, you will need to connect directly to the manufacturer's website.
- Download the file with the '. APK' extension using the browser on your smartphone. Once the download is complete, select the file directly from the notification bar to proceed with the installation.
- Make sure third party applications can be installed on your phone. Access the 'Settings' menu and select the 'Security' item. Make sure the 'Unknown sources' checkbox is checked. This option allows you to install applications that are not downloaded directly from the 'Play Store'.
Step 2. Launch the application
A panel will appear containing your Wi-Fi hotspot configuration options. You will be able to set the name of the wi-fi network (SSID), the type of security algorithm and the access password. When done, select the check button to activate your hotspot.
Step 3. Connect your devices
When the downloaded application is configured and running, your wi-fi network will be available for the connection of your devices. Select the correct network name, then type in the login password.
Warnings
- The tethering feature consumes a significant amount of your device's battery. Connect your phone to the mains before activating tethering to ensure a stable connection.
- Using multi-device tethering will consume your rate plan's data traffic very quickly. Intensive use of the tethering functionality is recommended with tariff plans without data traffic limits.
- Using third-party applications to activate your phone's tethering feature could violate your carrier's usage policies. If you are caught using tethering without paying the service fee, your phone contract may be canceled. Use this feature at your own risk.
