Android phones, like most devices with modern wireless technology, are able to switch their wireless hardware from the client mode to an ad-hoc or full on access point. This allows for the creation of the mobile hot spot, a wireless network that will share the phones data connection over Wi-Fi.
Carrier Applications
Most wireless carriers offer an application that allows for wireless tethering with the device. AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and many other major U.S. and worldwide carriers offer this option. While the application is usually free, the service itself costs upwards of $30 USD per month. Although this is the best option for most users, many advanced users choose to root their Android phone and utilize a third-party application for tethering. These applications are located in the Google Market application and are usually available for free or a minimal charge.
Rooting
Many carriers make rooting a violation of a user's contract, though some wireless providers are a little less specific. Android phones come with the interface running under a restricted user account instead of the root, or Administrator, account. This is for security and user safety because an inexperienced user can quickly destroy the phone, if he is not careful, while running as the root user. The process of rooting requires circumventing the phone's security, a process different for each phone model, and acquiring root access. Once enabled, a user is able to install dozens of applications with additional features, including wireless hot spot applications. Two applications that can be used to generate a wireless hot spot for rooted Android users.
Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether
Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether provides a lot features for phones with a 3G or 4G data connection. As long as your device is listed as supported, the application can produce a Wi-Fi connection and provide WEP wireless encryption for the access point. Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether provides a client list for booting unwanted connections from your device and allows you to choose the channel to run your wireless network on, allowing you to change your network frequency in signal heavy areas with a lot of wireless congestion. The application is free at the the time of publication.
Wireless Tether for Root Users
Wireless Tether for Root Users provides much of the same functionality as Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether and is the preferred application for many rooted Android users. Many users that have trouble with Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether find that Wireless Tether for Root Users functions on their phone instead. In addition to the features listed in previous applications, Wireless Tether provides WPA encryption, the latest wireless security standard, and allows for MAC address filtering, letting you screen devices without having to constantly monitor your phone. The application is free at the time of publication.
Warnings
Many wireless carriers consider the use of wireless tethering applications a breach of customer contracts. In addition, many wireless carriers even consider rooting your Android phone a violation of your terms of service. Check with your wireless carrier before performing the rooting process on your Android phone and again before utilizing any third-party tethering applications. Note that even if your carrier forbids wireless tethering, some still allow USB tethering, another option entirely. With USB tethering you can utilize the phone's connection as long as you can attach the device to your computer with a USB cable.
Tags: Barnacle Wi-Fi, Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether, Wi-Fi Tether, Wireless Tether, Android phone
