Though it’s not always the case, but sometimes a strong cellular data connection can be found more easily than a good Wi-Fi network. In these situations, a newer smart phone like the Nexus 6 with a data plan can be worth it’s weight in gold. Why? Because you can create a Wi-Fi network right from your phone to let other nearby devices get Wi-Fi and use your data connection for internet using a feature called Tethering (also known as mobile hotspot). Here’s how to set up and use tethering on your Nexus 6:
Before following this guide, please note that tethering is not always available through every cellular carrier, and data used while tethering will count against your mobile data plan (and most computer operating systems like Windows and Mac OS X do not attempt to reduce the amount of data used like Android and iOS do).
- To enable tethering and create a Wi-Fi network for other’s to connect to, open the Settings app, then tap on More under Wireless & Networks.
- Tap on the Tethering and Portable Hotspot menu.
- Switch the toggle next to Portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
- There are options to further configure the Wi-Fi network of your Nexus 6. To access these options, tap on Set up Wi-Fi Hotspot.
- Network name is the name of the Wi-Fi network and can be changed to whatever you like.
- The Hide my device check box will prevent your Wi-Fi network from being publicly visible.
- The Security drop down menu lets you choose between requiring a password to connect by selecting WPA2 PSK, or leaving it Open.
- Choosing the WPA2 option in the Security drop down will show the Password box, where you can set the password of the network.
- “Show password” check box will either show or conceal the above password.
- Below Set up, there are two toggles to enable tethering using USB and Bluetooth.
