Our cell phone is an extension of ourselves, and we use it every day. We use it for different purposes, which often don’t make our lives easier. One of the most useful features is being able to connect to Wi-Fi when there is no network available. Nowadays, you can connect to the internet without any problems from your Android or iOS device. In fact, you can turn your cell phone into a portable hotspot or even connect to the network thanks to tethering. Thanks to the information provided by TechRadar, you will now know how to connect to devices with Google, Samsung, and Apple systems, even with a 5G connection with this wireless network that your cell phone will provide. On the other hand, professionals warn that there are several aspects to consider so that you don’t run into problems. For example, you have to take care of your cybersecurity with a good password, and also take care of your battery health so that your mobile phone doesn’t get damaged. Read on to learn more about this great feature of your mobile phone.
How to get Wi-Fi access at all times: the great use you didn’t know about
Few users know that their own phone can become a portable Wi-Fi router, a feature that allows them to share their mobile connection with other devices in a matter of seconds. This tool, available on both Android and iOS, has become essential for those who need a connection outside the home or in areas without fixed Internet access.
According to the specialist website TechRadar, this feature, known as portable Wi-Fi hotspot or tethering, transforms your smartphone into a secure, personal access point. Although it is a practical and effective option in emergencies, it also requires precautions to avoid overheating, high battery consumption, and excessive data usage.
What is the “portable Wi-Fi zone” feature?
According to Google and Samsung, this option allows a smartphone to act as an access point for other devices, such as computers, tablets, or even other phones. In simple terms, the phone uses its mobile connection, whether 4G or 5G, to broadcast a Wi-Fi network that others can connect to using a password.
Among its advantages is the convenience of having Internet anywhere without the need for a modem. It is also a useful tool for mobile workers or students who depend on connectivity.
However, according to TechRadar, its main disadvantage is high battery and mobile data consumption, as well as excessive heating of the device if used for long periods of time.
How to activate the feature on Android
Activating the portable Wi-Fi hotspot on Android devices is simple and available on most modern models. According to Google’s official guide, the steps are as follows:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Network & Internet or Connections.
- Select Wi-Fi hotspot / Tethering / Portable hotspot.
- Activate the Portable Wi-Fi hotspot option.
- Configure the network name (SSID) and password to secure the connection.
- Connect other devices by searching for the network created from your phone.
This option can also be found in the quick access bar by swiping down the screen, under the name Hotspot or Wi-Fi hotspot.
How to activate the feature on iPhone (iOS)
Apple also includes this tool on all its iOS devices. According to Apple Support’s official documentation, the steps are:
- Go to Settings.
- Select Mobile Data and make sure it is enabled.
- Go to Internet Sharing.
- Enable the Allow Others to Join option.
- You will see your network name and automatically generated password, which you can share with anyone you want.
- From other devices, search for the iPhone network and connect by entering the password.
Apple recommends keeping this option turned off when not in use to save battery life and prevent unwanted connections.
To ensure a secure and stable connection, experts advise setting strong passwords and avoiding sharing the network with strangers, as, like any Wi-Fi network, it can be vulnerable to unauthorized access. On most modern phones, it is even possible to limit the number of connected devices or view their consumption in real time.
