Avoid Tethering Charges with EasyTether for Android

The Increasing Cost of Mobile Hotspot Access on Android

A growing number of Android device owners are observing that their mobile carriers are implementing strategies to increase revenue. A common tactic involves the removal of free tethering, a feature once standard in many mobile contracts.

Previously included within data allowances, carriers are now frequently imposing additional charges for the ability to use a smartphone as a mobile hotspot.

This shift is particularly frustrating for Android users, as tethering was often considered a fundamental capability of the platform and a previously guaranteed benefit.

Circumventing Carrier Restrictions

Despite ongoing user opposition, these extra fees remain prevalent. However, Android users aren't without recourse and can employ alternative solutions to bypass these restrictions.

Several tethering applications designed for Android offer workarounds to this issue, providing hotspot functionality without incurring additional costs.

EasyTether stands out as a particularly versatile option.

• It boasts compatibility across multiple operating systems.
• The application is known for its user-friendly interface.
• Crucially, it doesn't necessitate root access to function.

Therefore, EasyTether presents a viable solution for Android users seeking to maintain tethering capabilities without facing unexpected charges from their service provider.

EasyTether: A Convenient Tethering Solution

Begin by downloading and installing EasyTether Lite to evaluate its functionality for your specific needs. Should the Lite version prove suitable, an upgrade to the full, paid version of EasyTether is available.

The paid version unlocks additional capabilities, including HTTPS support, integration with instant messaging applications, and tethering functionality for XBox consoles.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

From a personal perspective, the cost of the full EasyTether license (€7) is comparable to the price of a single day of tethering access provided directly by my mobile carrier.

This pricing structure represents a significant value proposition, offering a potentially more economical solution for frequent tethering users.

• EasyTether Lite: Initial download for compatibility testing.
• EasyTether (Paid): Offers advanced features like HTTPS, instant messaging, and XBox tethering.
• Pricing: The paid version costs €7, equivalent to one day of carrier tethering.

Ultimately, EasyTether presents a compelling alternative to traditional carrier-provided tethering, particularly for those seeking a cost-effective and feature-rich solution.

Deactivating Standard Tethering Features

Initially, it's crucial to deactivate any pre-configured automatic tethering functionalities on your smartphone. This includes options like Mobile Broadband Connect, commonly found on Verizon devices, and Internet Sharing, utilized by Sprint.

Successful implementation of this process necessitates the disabling of your device’s conventional tethering capabilities.

Understanding the Necessity of Disabling Native Hotspot

The built-in hotspot functionality on your phone can sometimes interfere with alternative tethering methods. Therefore, ensuring it's switched off is a vital preparatory step.

By deactivating the native hotspot, we create a clean environment for establishing a connection through other means, maximizing compatibility and stability.

Why Disable Existing Tethering Options?

• Conflict Avoidance: Prevents interference from standard tethering protocols.
• Resource Allocation: Ensures all network resources are directed to the intended tethering method.
• Stability Enhancement: Contributes to a more reliable and consistent connection.

Disabling these features is not merely a suggestion, but a prerequisite for a successful alternative tethering setup.

Confirming Tethering Deactivation

After disabling the aforementioned options, verify that they are indeed turned off. A quick check within your phone’s settings will confirm this.

This confirmation step is essential to avoid unexpected behavior or conflicts during the subsequent configuration process.

Downloading EasyTether Software

EasyTether is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows (versions 7, XP, and Vista), macOS (10.4 and later, encompassing 10.7), and Linux distributions like Ubuntu (10.4+) and Fedora (13+). The appropriate software for your computer can be located on the official EasyTether drivers website.

For optimal installation, it is advised by EasyTether that your phone remains disconnected from your computer during the driver installation process.

System Requirements

• Windows: Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows Vista
• macOS: Version 10.4 or higher (including 10.7)
• Linux: Ubuntu 10.4+, Fedora 13+

Accessing the EasyTether drivers site is the primary method for obtaining the necessary software components.

To ensure a smooth installation experience, disconnecting your phone prior to initiating the driver setup is a recommended practice.

Configuring EasyTether on Your Smartphone

Connect your phone to your computer and launch the EasyTether app. Select your computer’s operating system and confirm within the application that the necessary software is already installed.

The subsequent configuration will vary based on your operating system. However, the core process involves establishing a new network connection specifically for EasyTether on your computer.

The application on your phone will provide step-by-step instructions tailored to your operating system.

Mac OS X Setup

Typically, Mac OS X will automatically recognize the newly created network interface. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

If automatic detection fails, a system reboot may resolve the issue. Alternatively, manual configuration can be performed.

Locate the network identified as EasyTether and verify that it is configured to utilize DHCP for IPv4 addressing.

On your smartphone, activate EasyTether to enable USB tethering functionality.

This will allow your computer to access the internet through your phone’s data connection.

Evaluating EasyTether Functionality

Unfortunately, EasyTether’s operation is limited to a USB cable connection between your phone and computer. This can be inconvenient if the cable becomes disconnected during use.

However, the software does function as intended. In my testing, the connection was established immediately, regardless of whether the phone was utilizing a Wi-Fi network or a 3G data connection.

Importantly, my mobile carrier did not request any additional charges for tethering during the testing period. This indicates a successful and cost-effective tethering solution.

Key Observations

• Connectivity: Requires a stable USB connection.
• Network Compatibility: Functions with both Wi-Fi and 3G networks.
• Cost: No unexpected tethering fees were incurred.

The EasyTether application provides a viable method for internet sharing, provided a consistent USB connection can be maintained.

Enhancements and Applications for Your Android Device

For optimizing your Android experience, consider exploring the following resources:

• Discover 5 exceptional Android applications designed to simplify daily tasks.
• Learn about 3 intriguing capabilities unlocked by rooting your Android phone.
• Find instructions on establishing a wireless internet connection on your laptop using your cellphone as a hotspot, specifically for Windows users.
• Explore 5 useful, yet often overlooked, free Android apps.

We are interested in your perspective regarding supplementary tethering charges. Do you believe tethering should be a standard feature within smartphone agreements? Share which tethering application you prefer and your thoughts in the comments section below.