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Check your phone's settings for hotspot capabilities.

Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET



Should I use my smartphone, or a separate hotspot device?

A hotspot device will be considered 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 greater range of coverage, too. 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, 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. 

What options does my internet provider offer?

In 2020, the Federal Communications Commission created the initiative to help people keep their broadband and telephone connectivity during the pandemic. Additionally, providers like [url=/tech/services-and-software/comcast-extends-free-public-wi-fi-access-to-everyone-for-rest-of-2020/]Comcast extended free public Wi-Fi to anyone (customers and non-customers) during 2020. Many providers have extended benefits like that into 2022 -- if you're struggling, it's worth checking with the providers in your area to see what your options are. 

Whatever avenue you take, the bottom line is that you've probably got more ways of getting online than you might realize. Hopefully this guide helps you find and take advantage of them -- in the meantime, here's some further reading you might also find helpful:


Wow, Americans Simply Can't Stand Their Internet Service Providers

There's Actually a Much Better Location for Your Router

Your Home Wi-Fi Network Could Be Hacked. Here's How to Secure It

Best Internet Speed Tests of 2022: Test Your Connection ASAP

Still Working From Home? Here's 4 Tips for Faster Wi-Fi

How to Skip Your ISP's Equipment Fees