What Wi-Fi options does my internet provider offer? We're also seeing a growing number of full-fledged Wi-Fi routers and mesh routers that are designed to get their incoming signal over a cellular connection, such as LTE or 5G.īoth smartphone hotspots and dedicated hotspot devices can be used anywhere, though using a smartphone hotspot in public places may be more convenient, especially if you're just trying to get your laptop online for a few minutes. Another positive: If you set a strong password, using a hotspot device to get online is just as secure as any ISP-provided Wi-Fi connection, and it'll often provide greater range of coverage, too. The downside is the extra cost, but the upside is that you won't have to worry about your smartphone usage eating up your hotspot data. Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET Should I use my smartphone, or a separate hotspot device?Ī hotspot device will be considered a separate device on your mobile plan with its own, separate data limit. If you've set your computer to automatically connect to available networks, then next time you visit that business, your computer will automatically join their network.Ĭheck your phone's settings for hotspot capabilities. And yes, if you're somewhere like a coffee shop, it'd be polite to buy a pastry or a cup of joe while you're at it. If the connection you intend to use shows up as secured, look around for the login and password posted in the business, or ask someone for help. Some businesses provide a login and password to their customers and offer a secured network. Some businesses require you to agree to their terms of service or provide an email address before they'll let you use their free Wi-Fi. If the connection is public, you will now be connected, but watch for an opt-in site to pop up in your browser. Next, select the public Wi-Fi connection you intend to use. Once you've arrived at the location where you'll use public Wi-Fi or hotspot, open a browser and then either open up your computer's network settings or click on the Wi-Fi icon on your screen. Make sure the device you plan to use is Wi-Fi capable.
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