Whether you’re using your global carrier service every day in your home country or you’re out and about overseas, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be without your beloved internet service. After all, doing so will render any messaging or calling apps you have useless. There are plenty of Wi-Fi hotspots around to keep you running on the interwebs, but every now and then you find yourself in an area where Wi-Fi is not available.
Fear not, international roamers. Global services connect worldwide to not only to allow you to place and receive phone calls, but text messages and data as well. How does this help you alleviate the lack of Wi-Fi?
Well, to answer that, let’s look at the iPhone 4, the iPhone 4S, and the new iPad (along with select Android devices that include the feature). These devices come pact with a personal hotspot feature. Sadly, the personal hotspot feature isn’t available on the iPhone 3G or 3GS or the original iPad or iPad 2.
The personal hotspot feature turns your device into a short-range wireless hotspot, just like you’d find a cafe or hotel lobby. However, unlike those open networks, your device’s hotspot comes with automatic password protection so no one else can hitch a free ride on your connection. In addition, up to five devices can connect to the net at once.
To set up your personal Wi-Fi feature, all you need to do is insert your activated global SIM card into your device if you haven’t already. If you’re using an iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, or new iPad, scroll to “settings” and turn the “personal hotspot” feature on. If you’re using an Android device, see your device’s manual for instructions on how to activate the feature.
Apple users will note that Apple has allocated the connection a default password. You can either use it (as each device gets a different random password) or change it to something you can more easily remember by tapping on it. Save these settings.
Then, on your computer’s Wi-Fi menu, you should see your device’s name pop up in the list after a few seconds. Once the network is selected and you’ve put in the password you set up earlier, you’ll be able to connect your tablet, laptop and any other Wi-Fi device to the net via your international SIM data.
Bear in mind that the personal hotspot feature does tend to use up a fair bit of battery power. If you’ve got your device’s power adapter or a handy travel charger with you, plug your device in while you work. Also, make sure you keep your roaming SIM account topped up to avoid any interruption in your service!