As I explained in this post, it’s easy to create a Wi-Fi hotspot with your Android smart phone. And thanks to an awesome program called Connectify (price starting at $25), you can also create one using your laptop!
If you’re wondering why you might need to a create a Wi-Fi hotspot when you already have a wired high speed Internet connection, there are several reasons:
1 – If you have a cable, DSL or satellite high speed Internet connection but no wireless router, you can set up a Wi-Fi connection through your laptop that will allow guests or family members to use their own laptops online without having to plug in to the router with a cable. Or maybe you don’t have a router at all, just a high speed modem plugged directly into your laptop. With Connectify you’ll be all set!
2 – You can use your Connectify hotspot with your smart phone(s) in order to avoid using your slow 3G service.
3 – Many hotels still offer wired Internet connections only, which is fine if you plan to use your laptop in your room and nothing else. But what if you also want to use a tablet or your smart phone via Wi-Fi? Again, with Connectify you’re all set.
Using Connectify is a fast and easy 3 step process:
1 – Start the Connectify app and choose a name and password for your hotpot.
2 – Select which Internet connection you wish to share. If you’re like most folks you’ll only have one: your cable, DSL or satellite Internet connection.
3 – Click Start Hotspot.
That’s it! You now have a working Wi-Fi hotspot that will show up in your list of available Wi-Fi connections just like any other network. Simply instruct your device to connect to the hotspot, enter the password and get down to business!
Connectify costs either $25 per year or $40 for lifetime use, your choice. You can download it at www.connectify.me/hotspot/.