Tethering is a technology that allows a mobile device to share its internet connection with other devices. It allows laptops, tablets, or smartphones to connect to the internet if traditional Wi-Fi networks aren’t available.
How does tethering work?
Tethering uses the mobile device’s cellular data connection to provide internet access to another device by establishing a connection between the tethering device and the other device. When a device is tethered, all internet requests from the connected device are routed through the cellular connection of the tethering device.
Devices can be tethered through multiple methods:
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USB tethering
This method provides internet access by physically connecting the phone and the device via a USB cable. It is fast and eliminates the risk of wireless interference. In addition, while the other methods, especially using Wi-Fi, quickly deplete a mobile device’s battery, USB tethering charges the phone from the connected device.
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Bluetooth tethering
With Bluetooth tethering, a mobile device utilizes Bluetooth to share the connection. This method consumes less battery, but its downside is that Bluetooth tethering is significantly slower than USB or Wi-Fi.
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Mobile tethering
Also known as a “mobile hotspot,” this tethering method allows the device to act as a Wi-Fi router, broadcasting its data connection for nearby devices to join. This is the most common way to tether multiple devices.
What is the difference between a mobile hotspot and tethering?
The terms “mobile hotspot” and “tethering” are often used interchangeably. Essentially, tethering encompasses USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth methods of sharing a connection. Mobile hotspots refer to having a mobile device act as a router for multiple devices, making them a subtype of Wi-Fi-based tethering.
How to use tethering on Android?
- Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering. You can implement a password for additional security and prevent cybercriminals from accessing a device.
- Next, open your other device’s list of Wi-Fi options and select the tethering device.
How do I use tethering on my iPhone?
- Enable Personal Hotspot by navigating to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot.
- Next, turn on “Allow Others to Join”. You can configure a password to ensure only authorized devices can use your tethering device.
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Leveraging MDM to manage mobile devices with ease
Tethering offers end-users a reliable option for internet connectivity even in situations where they cannot access WiFi. IT teams or MSPs that support many mobile devices should consider employing mobile device management (MDM) software.
As G2’s no. 1 MDM software, NinjaOne, offers IT professionals and MSPs full visibility and control of their Android, iOS, and iPad devices alongside their Windows, Linux, and macOS endpoints from a single pane of glass. NinjaOne MDM improves IT efficiency by consolidating all your IT management tools and providing power automation tools to reduce manual workloads. With NinjaOne MDM, IT administrators can secure their mobile devices by enforcing security policies for finer control over corporate or BYOD devices used for mobile tethering.
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