The present tech-savvy world heavily relies on the internet to get any work done. The general audience believes in the aspect of efficiency coupled with a sense of convenience, which is fulfilled with the amalgamation of portable mobile devices and internet provisions. This is precisely where the notion of mobile tethering comes into play, allowing individuals to tap into the digital world from any location.
Mobile tethering is a feature that assists people in harnessing the power of the internet by sharing and connecting mobile data with other devices such as laptops, tablets, and desktops. However, there are multiple questions that arise in the mind of the general user concerning the concept of mobile tethering. They are:
- How to tether phone to laptop?
- How to tether a phone to a laptop wireless?
- How to tether a phone by using a USB cable?
Find all the solutions to these fundamental questions in the following section.
Table of Contents
What is Mobile Tethering?
Mobile tethering is a special software feature which enables users to share mobile data connection with diverse devices either wirelessly or through physical cables. Individuals often prefer to opt for wireless mobile tethering, which uses the phone’s Wi-Fi system to transmit signals that can be detected by other devices present within close proximity.
Initially, smartphones were equipped with mobile tethering features that allowed users to only share cellular data with other devices. However, the new generation of mobile phones can also tether Wi-Fi connections with absolute ease, in turn enhancing user experience. Consequently, mobile phones are no longer limited to calls and texts. People can now utilise mobile devices as a medium through which Wi-Fi signals can be received.
This productive feature is used in areas where Wi-Fi signals are weak. Mobile tethering can also be activated through USB cables, which is primarily used to link with devices that do not possess wireless capabilities, such as conventional desktop. Therefore, tethering proves to be a very handy feature that helps users to access the internet during an emergency.
It is a cost-effective solution where users can rely on a single source of internet, minimising bills in the long run. Moreover, all Android and iOS devices support the feature. However, mobile phone users must ensure to connect with their carrier network to debunk the concept of carrier restriction regarding mobile tethering if imposed.
Interesting Read: Difference Between Wi-Fi and Cellular Internet – Everything You Need to Know
Benefits of Mobile Tethering?
Let us first highlight some of the underlying benefits of mobile tethering before addressing the elementary question, “How to tether phone to laptop?”
A. Internet On the Go
With the sudden outbreak of a global pandemic, the entire corporate landscape changed for good. People were forced to remain indoors and fulfill all their professional responsibilities from remote locations. This phenomenon consequently instilled a trend of remote working, which is widely practiced in every industry.
Mobile tethering proved to be a nifty feature that was extensively used to access the internet. People have realised the potential of tethering as individuals can now easily work while being on the go. Therefore, working professionals no longer require stable Wi-Fi connectivity as mobile tethering proves to be an alternate solution.
B. Enhancing Gaming Experience
Gamers are completely aware of the benefits availed through mobile tethering. Modern gaming consoles can support internet provisions that help users connect with other gaming enthusiasts and take part in online gaming events.
Relying only on Wi-Fi restricts gamers to a specific location. However, connecting consoles such as Nintendo Switch enables users to play from any location without worrying about internet access. The aspect of playing games and viewing online content while travelling has become significantly easier with the introduction of mobile tethering.
C. Secure Connection
Connecting to public Wi-Fi servers compromises the security aspect. This is the foremost reason why most individuals hesitate to use public Wi-Fi, as confidential financial information and private messages are frequently shared among different parties.
Sharing information while being connected through mobile tethering offers an immediate solution as the data shared remains protected throughout. Moreover, the risks of being attacked through malware are also prevented.
D. Independence from Electric Power
Most internet sources, such as Wi-Fi, require power to function. The Wi-Fi routers and modems need to be backed with electricity to work efficiently. However, such restrictions do not apply to mobile tethering. Users need only charge the mobile device once a day to effectively use it as a portable source of internet. The limitations concerning power outages do not affect mobile tethering.
Is Mobile Tethering and USB Tethering the Same?
Mobile tethering and USB tethering offer similar solutions. However, there are some fundamental differences between the two concepts. USB tethering refers to the process through which a physical USB cable is used to share the internet and connect with other devices.
Differences between USB and Mobile Tethering
| Differentiating Factors | USB Tethering | Mobile Tethering |
| The Tethering Process | It is a process where internet access is shared with other devices by using a physical USB cable. | It involves a wireless LAN process where a connection is made between multiple devices to effectively share and use cellular data. |
| Internet Speed | USB tethering offers optimum internet speed. | The internet speed experienced in this process is comparatively slower as a wireless connection is initiated. |
| Provisions and Requirements | Users must ensure to work with a USB cable in order to effectively complete the tethering process. | No external cables are required as a direct wireless connection is established between a smartphone and other devices. |
| Access Limitations and Range | Users must make sure that the two devices are consistently connected through a USB cord. Therefore, the overall length of the cord determines the connectivity. | Users can conventionally move around and complete different tasks while being connected through mobile tethering. However, users are advised to stay anywhere between 30-50 feet to remain connected. |
| Hotspot Requirements | Does not require an active Hotspot, as a connection is made through the USB cord. | Mobile users must ensure to activate the Hotspot feature to enable tethering. |
| Mobile Battery | USB tethering does not affect the battery life of the concerned mobile device. | Tethering does consume battery when activated. |
| Wi-Fi feature of the receiver | The receiving device does not require additional Wi-Fi features to effectively connect to the internet. | The receiving device must support and feature Wi-Fi to connect to the internet. |
These were some of the primary factors that helped us to differentiate between USB and mobile tethering. Ensure to conduct thorough online research to gain more knowledge about this concept.
How to Tether Phone to Laptop?
There are multiple facets concerning the question, “How do I tether my phone to my laptop?” To begin with, users typically have three options through which they can tether a phone to a laptop, namely USB tethering, mobile tethering, and Bluetooth tethering. Follow these guidelines that effectively answer your question, “How to tether phone to laptop?”
A. Mobile Tethering
Out of all the three options, the general user finds the wireless mobile tethering method to be the most convenient. Mobile tethering offers optimum speed and also allows users to work with an enhanced connectivity range of around 30-50 feet. Activate mobile tethering by following these steps:
Updating Phone Settings
Users must ensure that they have activated personal hotspot settings through which mobile tethering can be initiated.
- For Android: Android users must go to the settings menu, tap on Connections and Sharing, and toggle the Personal Hotspot option On. Users may also choose to update hotspot settings through the quick access control panel.
- For iOS: iOS users must navigate to the primary settings menu, scroll through and select the “Cellular” option, and click on “Personal Hotspot” to update the setting.
First-time users must set a name and password to their personal hotspot before activating.
Updating Laptop Settings
- Step 1: Access the primary settings menu from the search bar.
- Step 2: Navigate to the Network and Wi-Fi options.
- Step 3: Search for available networks and browse through to identify your Personal Hotspot.
- Step 4: Select the network, enter the relevant password, and connect.
The mobile tethering process should be complete. Navigate to the browser to check and verify the established connection.
B. USB Tethering
Before initiating the USB tethering option, users must make sure that both the laptop’s and mobile phone’s operating systems are updated so that the process can be completed seamlessly. Also, consider consulting with your carrier network to confirm if any additional charges are applicable on tethering.
- Step 1: Use a USB cable to connect your phone and laptop.
- Step 2: Activate Personal Hotspot for iOS devices and USB tethering on Android. The laptop will be able to connect with the hotspot and access the internet, depending upon the mobile plan selected.
- Step 3: Navigate to the primary settings menu and verify the connection by checking the “Network and Internet” feature.
Users should receive an update notification confirming the connection.
C. Bluetooth Tethering
The final answer to “How to tether phone to laptop wireless?” Before establishing a connection with your laptop, users must acknowledge a few limitations associated with the Bluetooth tethering method. This method only supports a single device, as multiple devices cannot be connected simultaneously.
Moreover, the internet speed experienced is not optimum and can be disrupted from time to time. The tethering option is conventionally opted by individuals who do not wish to share hotspot passwords with other individuals. Having mentioned that, here are the steps through which Bluetooth tethering can be activated:
Updating Phone Settings
- Step 1: Enable Bluetooth on your mobile phone and laptop.
- Step 2: Pair the two Bluetooth connections when discovered by both devices.
- Step 3: Now, navigate to the primary settings menu and access the Bluetooth tethering option. Tap on the icon to activate Bluetooth tethering.
- Step 4: Deactivate the Wireless Local Area Network.
- Step 5: Ensure to activate mobile data or connect with Wi-Fi to access the internet.
Note: The most effective way to locate the “Bluetooth Tethering” option is by conducting a search on the settings search bar. As every mobile device works with diverse features and operating systems, this step may vary depending on the smartphone used.
Updating Laptop Settings
- Step 1: Check the primary Control Panel and navigate to the Bluetooth option.
- Step 2: Scroll through and identify your mobile Bluetooth name.
- Step 3: Hit right-click and connect by using the Access Point.
The connection will require a few seconds to be secured. Once established, check your web browser to verify the connection. Implement these steps to find relevant solutions for the fundamental question, “How to tether laptop to phone?”
Related Article: Untangling the Myth: Does Bluetooth Really Use Your Data?
Tethering Laptop using Talk Home Mobile SIM Card
The aspect of tethering has never been easier with the effective use of Talk Home Mobile SIM cards. Experience optimum mobile and USB tethering across all devices by opting for the premium SIM-only Plan offered by Talk Home Mobile.
Explore the official website of Talk Home Mobile to browse through the diverse data plans available, starting at only £5. The EE-powered network specialises in offering 4G and 5G coverage, enhanced with the widest reach across the United Kingdom. Join hands with the Talk Home team to experience the true meaning of speed.
Conclusion
These were some of the most relevant observations concerning “How to Tether Phone to Laptop?” Individuals must connect with their carrier firm to gain complete information about additional tethering charges, if applicable. Users must also make sure to select data bundles according to their tethering needs so that a sustainable budget can be maintained.
