Problems with Wireless Tethering on an Android Phone

Tethering is a valuable feature on the Android phone that allows you to access the Internet on your computer at any time. Setting up the feature is relatively easy.

How to Tether Your Android Phone Wirelessly

Start Wireless Tether for Root Users on your Android phone. Tap the WiFi connection icon on your phone to enable the tethering of your phone.

Right-click on your "Network" icon in the "Notification Area" of your computer (located along the task bar), and select "Connect to a network." Select the network (by default, it will be identified as "AndroidTether") and click "Connect." A message may pop up informing you that the network is unsecure. This will only display if you have not set up encryption in the Wireless Tether for Root Users. Select "Connect Anyway," but be aware that in this state, others may be able to view the information you are transmitting.

Your phone will vibrate, registering the connection.

Return to your phone and open the "Notification Area." You will see an unauthorized connection. Tap it to open the Wireless Tether for Root Users access control menu on your phone. Select the connection, if it isn't already selected and tap "Apply."

If your "Network" icon shows local access only, then you will need to disconnect and reconnect your computer after making these changes.

How to Enable WiFi Encryption (WEP 128-bit)

Enabling encryption on the network broadcast by your phone will allow you to secure your data. This can be done by pressing the "Menu" button on your phone. Tap "Setup." Then tap the check mark next to "Enable WiFi-Encryption." You will need to wait a moment while the tethering software restarts.

Tap "Change Passphrase" and enter your desired passphrase for the network. Click "OK." From this point on, you will need to enter this passphrase from any computer that attempts to connect to the Wireless Tether for Root Users network.

Troubleshooting Tips

In the event you experience issues connecting to your Wireless Tether for Root Users network, there are a number of possible issues that can be addressed.

Ensure that your computer has a wireless network adapter, that it is properly connected to your computer and that it is turned on. Many laptops have a switch to enable or disable the wireless network adapter because disabling it increases battery life, but doesn't allow for wireless network connections.

Ensure that your phone is close to your computer. Proximity can affect both the connection ability and performance. If you are experiencing extremely slow connection speeds or dropped connections, move the phone closer to your wireless network adapter on your computer.

Finally, right-click on the "Network Connection" icon in the "Notification Area" and select "Diagnose and repair." If it asks you if you want to reset your network adapter, select "Yes."

As a last resort, restarting your phone or computer may help.