Best Tethering Apps for Android

There are situations in which you may need to share your smartphone’s internet connection with other devices. That is when tethering apps may come handy and here, you will find a list of the best options for Android. With these apps, it may be easier to allow other devices to connect to internet using your Android’s mobile data. While it is also possible to share the connection using the settings on the device, these apps offer an alternative that may be more practical in some cases. If you are looking for a tethering app to turn your Android device into a mobile hotspot, the below are the most effective options available.

ClockworkMod Tether

ClockWorkMod’s app offers a USB tether solution for Android that can be used with the main desktop operating systems: Windows, Mac and Linux. If you don’t have WiFi and need to connect to internet on your laptop or desktop, you can use your Android’s data with the help of this app. You don’t need to root your mobile device and the app is set to support any Android tablet or smartphone and mobile carrier, without the need of a tethering plan. However, if you are using the free version, you will need to install the additional driver and virtual network adapter. The free version offers limited download and limited time. The Premium edition is a more convenient option as it doesn’t require additional downloads. It is available for $4.99.

PdaNet+

This popular app created by June Fabrics Technology relies on the smartphone’s tethering ability. It features three modes:USB, Bluetooth and WiFi, but the availability of the options would depend on the device. You can check the compatibility on the app’s description on Google Play. The app comes with both PdaNet and FoxFi and it allows you to connect your laptop to your Android device’s network. Rooting is not required and if your Android supports 4G, you can get the same high speed internet on your computer. The free version offers the same features as the paid one, but it has timed usage limit.

EasyTether Full

Just like with PdaNet+, when you use EasyTether, you will need to install additional software on your computer to be able to connect them to the Android’s data connection using the USB. If you opt for the free version, you will not be able to access instant messenger, game app or secure websites. This means that in order to get advantage of the app, you will need to opt for the full version, which costs $9.99. This app by Mobile Stream doesn’t require root access or additional tethering plans and it also supports Bluetooth tethering for some devices.

FoxFi

FoxFi Software’s app is another practical way to share your smartphone’s data connection with other devices, including laptops, desktop computers, tablets and even gaming consoles. It features FoxFi for WiFi mode, but if that doesn’t work on your device, you can try PdaNet, which can support USB or Bluetooth mode. Like other apps in our list, FoxFi doesn’t require rooting or extra tether plans from your mobile carrier.The free edition offers all the features of the full version, although it has timed usage limit.

Extended Controls

Extended Controls is a practical app that allows you to get greater control over the settings of your Android device. It supports a wide selection of features, including the option to activate “WiFi hotspot” directly from the device’s home screen. It gives you fast and efficient access to multiple functions as you can simply set up switches to complete different tasks. With Extended Controls you will be able to create a specific switch to manage the Hotspot WiFi function. You can toggle the hotspot option on and off from the Android’s home screen. It is available for $0.99.