Check your phone's settings for hotspot capabilities.
Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNETA hotspot device is a separate device on your mobile plan with its own separate data limit. 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. 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 a greater range of coverage. 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.
Both smartphone hotspots and dedicated hotspot devices can be used anywhere, although 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.
In response to the pandemic, the Federal Communications Commission created the Keep Americans Connected initiative to help people keep their broadband and telephone connectivity in 2020. Additionally, providers like Xfinity, Spectrum and Optimum extended free Wi-Fi to anyone (customers and noncustomers). Most of these programs are no longer active in these post-pandemic times, but it's still worthwhile to check with your local ISP. Occasionally, as in the example of the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, these providers activate these hotspots for noncustomers so everyone can stay online even while structural damage may inhibit people from using the Wi-Fi at home.
Whatever avenue you take, you have more than one option of getting online. If you're still struggling to find free Wi-Fi on your travels, it's worth checking with the providers in your area to see what your options are. Hopefully, this guide helps you find and take advantage of them.
For more, check out our tested picks for the best Wi-Fi routers, and how to tell if your router is in the wrong spot.
Hotspots are a physical location or device that offers wireless access to the internet. In contrast, Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that devices can use to send information to each other. In most cases, Wi-Fi is accompanied by a Wi-Fi router and an internet service provider that connects all your devices to the internet.
There are many ways to find free Wi-Fi. First, knowing the difference between a public and private hotspot is essential. Private hotspots are not free. The good news is that most public establishments -- such as businesses, coffee shops, parks, libraries, hotels and restaurants -- typically offer free public hotspots. Certain apps like Instabridge, WiFi Map and WiFi Around can help narrow your search for free Wi-Fi hotspots available near you.
Yes. Public hotspots are open to anyone within range, which means you're more susceptible to hackers stealing your personal information or other risks. Incorporating a VPN as an extra layer of protection is a good call when using public Wi-Fi.
Source: cnet.com