Need Internet access with no Wi‑Fi nearby? Tethering lets you turn your smartphone into a hotspot for other devices. Follow this guide to switch it on and use it efficiently.
Why use tethering?
When you’re on the move or your home broadband is down, you can use your phone’s 3G or 4G mobile network to keep working or browsing.
How do you switch it on with an Android device?
- Go to your phone’s Settings
- Open Network & Internet, then Wi‑Fi hotspot or Tethering
- Choose a network name, WPA2 security and a password
- Switch tethering on
Then connect your laptop to this network just like any normal Wi‑Fi.
For iPhone users
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Personal Hotspot
- Create a strong password
- Enable the hotspot option
- Connect your PC to the network shown
Precautions when using tethering
- Check that your plan includes enough mobile data
- Don’t share your password too freely
- Keep your phone on charge while tethering
- Turn tethering off once you’ve finished to save your battery and avoid misuse
A handy feature, but use it in moderation
With tethering you can work from just about anywhere. Just make sure you keep an eye on your data usage and follow a few simple security rules.
