For Android users, the solution is simple. Turn your Android device into a hotspot and get your laptop or tablet quickly and easily online.
But what if your data plan doesn't support tethering? There are options for you as well. You may be able to tether your cellphone without voiding your contract with rooting by simply installing an app.
The No-Root Solution
For most carrier contracts, tethering and redirecting data comes as a premium value-added service. These same carriers disprove of techniques that make the ability available without the added fees.
Fortunately, there are ways to skip the fees and get your devices online. The first and most widely used is to root the device. This option will void your warranty and requires a bit of know-how. The other option is to use any number of third-party apps found in the Google Play store and other locations. These apps do not require the rooting of your device and make the hotspot process relatively easy.
Keep this in mind: tethering your device and providing data redirection without the associated carrier fees may violate your carrier's Terms of Service. Please make sure that you are not violating your contract before attempting to tether your device.
Toggle Wi-Fi
Toggle Wi-Fi is an Android widget-based app for providing quick hotspot service.
Once downloaded, to access the app, go to your add widget screen and long-press the app into your screen. Once the app is in place, simply tap Toggle Wi-Fi and follow the instructions.
Toggle Wi-Fi automatically establishes a network password, which is needed by any device that connects through the hotspot.
1-Click Tether
This app comes in both a free lite version and a paid, 10 dollar, premium version. The app can be found in the Google Play store and is added to your device as any other app.
1-Click is simple to use. Once installed, simply tap the app icon and follow the short list of instructions to enable the hotspot. Once enabled, any device in range may connect using your hotspot.
According to the app, the only way to secure your connection is to purchase the premium version of 1-Click. However, there are reports that some forms of secure access are available in the lite version as well.