Use Android Phone as Modem - No Rooting Needed

Android Tethering: A Free Alternative to PDAnet

Previously, we demonstrated a method for tethering your Android device to a computer without the need for rooting. The initial solution involved a $16 cost, but we now present an equally straightforward, yet completely free, alternative.

Our first guide stemmed from a reader request to assist with configuring Android phone and laptop connectivity for tethered browsing. It focused on utilizing the reliable PDAnet application.

This new guide is prompted by the release of Tether, a free application developed by Koushik Dutta, known for the popular ClockworkMod suite for Android.

Using ClockworkMod Tether

We will now detail the process of using ClockworkMod Tether to establish a connection. It offers a viable option for users seeking a cost-effective tethering solution.

However, a word of caution is warranted. While our testing indicated that Tether functions as a suitable substitute for PDAnet, it remains in its Alpha stage of development.

If consistent and dependable internet access is critical – particularly for professional obligations – we strongly recommend revisiting our original guide centered on PDAnet. PDAnet represents a more mature and thoroughly tested tethering application.

Important Considerations:

• PDAnet is a robust and well-established tethering tool.
• Tether is currently an Alpha release and may experience occasional issues.
• Rooting your Android device is not required for either method.

Both methods provide a means to share your phone’s internet connection with your computer, offering flexibility and convenience. Choose the solution that best aligns with your stability requirements.

Essential Requirements

Assuming a swift download has been completed, the necessary components are likely already available to you. The following items will be required for this guide:

• An Android-based mobile phone.
• A computer – this can be a laptop, netbook, or desktop.
• A USB cable designed for synchronizing your Android phone with a computer.
• The Clockwork Mod Tether Alpha software (compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux).

After securing the version of the software appropriate for your operating system, you will be prepared to proceed. Let’s begin the process!

Installing Tether

Begin by launching the downloaded installation application. While the installation of Tether doesn't require complex procedures, you will be asked to authorize several system modifications. These warnings may appear alarming, but are typical behavior for Windows Vista and 7, which are designed to be cautious about user permissions.

Proceed through the installation steps. Approximately halfway through, a command prompt window will appear, requesting your approval for the installation of an unsigned driver. Grant this permission to continue.

Driver Installation and PDAnet Removal

Upon completion of the installation, Tether will automatically open your default web browser and redirect you to the Tether Drivers section on the ClockworkMod website. If your Android phone already has the latest USB drivers installed, you can bypass this step.

Otherwise, take the opportunity to download the appropriate drivers for your specific phone model. If your device isn't listed, consult the driver list provided by Google here. Ensuring your drivers are current is crucial before proceeding.

If you have previously installed PDAnet on your computer – either the trial version or the full package – it must be uninstalled before using Tether. Tether is incompatible with PDAnet remaining on the system.

Once the drivers are updated and PDAnet is uninstalled, you are ready to launch Tether.

Initiating the Tether Connection

When first executed, the Tether application remains in an idle state, awaiting your instruction to begin. Now, connect your Android phone to your computer using a sync cable.

USB Debugging must be enabled on your phone. Navigate to Settings > Applications > Development on your Android device and ensure the USB Debugging option is checked.

With debugging confirmed and your phone connected, click the Start button within the Tether interface on your computer. The application should become active; the output displayed in the Tether Log window can be disregarded.

Tether will automatically install the Tether application on your Android phone. If this doesn't occur automatically, you can locate it within the \ClockworkMod\Tether\Common\ folder and install it manually.

Successful connection is indicated by a green USB logo appearing on both the Tether desktop application and the Tether Android application.

Finalizing the Setup

The connection is now established, allowing you to access the internet through your Android phone. This provides a convenient tethering solution without the need to search for available Wi-Fi networks.

Resolving Issues with Your Tether Setup

Despite a generally straightforward installation process, remember that Tether is currently in its Alpha release phase. This document compiles solutions to frequently encountered problems. As a first step, a reboot of both your computer and mobile phone is often effective.

Before restarting, utilize your system's task manager to terminate all running instances of tether.exe and node.exe. Several users have found that an initial failed attempt resolves itself after forcibly closing these processes and relaunching Tether.

Addressing Common Errors

Are you receiving a DUN Null error message? Ensure that PDAnet is completely uninstalled from your system. Verify this even if you believe it is not present, as a previous trial or installation may be interfering.

If the connection between your phone and computer is stalling, confirm that your USB drivers are current. Older drivers might establish basic communication but prevent a full, stable connection.

Installation Problems and Further Support

Should the installation process fail, attempt running the installer again with administrator privileges. Be sure to approve any driver installation requests that appear during the process.

For more complex issues or unique installation challenges, consult the discussion thread dedicated to ClockworkMod Tether. You can find valuable insights and assistance from other users there.