I have been tethering a phone to my computers for years and nothing is more liberating than being able to do so. Most mobile phone carriers will charge you extra for using your phone as a hotspot, which I believe is just ethically wrong.
For me, it all started with tethering my Windows Mobile phone by hacking into it. Then, PdaNet made it a lot simpler once I decided to try tethering with my Motorola Q. PdaNet also worked for my Blackberry Curve. But, then came problems with using PdaNet on my Android phone. It worked, but not well, which sent me looking for alternatives. The best app for tethering I found is Barnacle Wifi Tether.
For me, it all started with tethering my Windows Mobile phone by hacking into it. Then, PdaNet made it a lot simpler once I decided to try tethering with my Motorola Q. PdaNet also worked for my Blackberry Curve. But, then came problems with using PdaNet on my Android phone. It worked, but not well, which sent me looking for alternatives. The best app for tethering I found is Barnacle Wifi Tether.
Below are some easy steps to follow to install and use the
app. Keep in mind, of course, that this will only work on rooted
phones. Please refer to my previous "how to root" post for information on rooting an
Android phone. And, for anyone who can't get this app to work, or needs to
tether with a USB cable for whatever reason, or if you don't want to root your
phone, please refer to my "how to tether with a USB cable"
post.
Steps for phone:
1. Downlad Barnacle Wifi Tether app from Google Play Store
2. Install Barnacle Wifi Tether
3. Open Barnacle app and press "Start" button
Steps for other device:
1. Open Wi-Fi manager
2. Scan for networks
3. Connect to "barnacle" network
Tips: Barnacle Wifi Tether app can also be download here if you don't have access to the app store. Connecting on your other device should work the same as connecting to any Wi-Fi network. If problem occurs, refer to the manufacturer's website. If you plan on using your phone as a hotspot in public, I suggest setting up a WEP key(password) in the app's settings.
Last, but certainly not least, if you happen to have the means to do so, download the Barnacle Wifi Widget as a way of donating to the developer of this app. I am not the developer, but I have many thanks for the developer for making this wonderful app, so donate if you can.