Will a WiFi Extender Work with a Mobile Hotspot?

Though a bit unorthodox, you can easily and quickly run your mobile hotspot through a WiFi extender if you need an additional boost.

I have been using (and tweaking) my WiFi for years. On top of that, I have a long history of working with technology. Both of those aspects have allowed me to gain experience using different WiFi extenders and understand how they work.

This article covers the way WiFi extenders work with mobile hotspots. In doing so, it takes a deep dive into how they work, the best way to set them up, and how to use them without putting yourself at risk.

Key Takeaways

  • WiFi extenders will boost a hotspot’s range just as they would with any traditional connection.
  • Connecting to a hotspot is a relatively simple process that simply involves enabling the option in your phone.
  • When using a hotspot, make sure it has proper security protocols, that you have available data, and that your phone is plugged in.

Using an Extender with a Hotspot

In today’s world, there are more open or public hotspots than there have ever been. Even so, that doesn’t mean there’s always going to be a reliable network for you to use. Luckily, almost everyone has a cellphone. If you do, then you have access to a mobile hotspot.

A mobile hotspot serves as a private network that can be set up with either a phone or a standalone mobile hotspot device. They give you continuous WiFi that, while a bit different from more traditional setups, can be utilized like any other network.

That means they can be used with various devices, they give you access to anything on the internet, and they can be expanded or amplified with various devices. Including WiFi extenders.

As they are just a different form of internet, hotspots work perfectly well with extenders. Running them together will expand where the hotspot can reach, how far it can go, and it will cut down on any dead zones that would normally be created by your device.

Note that you can use other WiFi-altering devices as well. Just about anything that extends or strengthens signal will work with a hotspot.

How to Connect to a Mobile Hotspot

Hotspots are extremely useful in a range of different situations, but only if you know how to make them. Luckily, setting up your own with a personal device is quite easy. There are just a few steps you need to follow to get everything up and running.

If you have an iPhone, go to settings and click the cellular button. Next, choose the personal hotspot or settings, move to a personal hotspot, and then make sure it’s on. From there, all you need to do is verify the WiFi password and name of the phone.

To enable a hotspot on an Android, open the settings app and then go into network & internet. You next want to select hotspot and tethering and then tap on WiFi hotspot. There, you will be able to turn the hotspot feature on as well as the network name, password, and more.

Just toggle “use WiFi hotspot” to on and you’re good to go. Once that’s done, open the list of WiFi networks on the device you want to connect, tap the name of the mobile hotspot, enter the password when prompted, and click connect.

Things to Keep In Mind When Using a Mobile Hotspot

Setting up a personal hotspot is a simple process, but there are still a few things you want to be aware of when using it with your devices.

First and foremost, always be aware of who has access to the hotspot. While most users won’t be malicious, you never know what someone might do on your network. Make sure you enable a password to keep yourself in control.

Don’t ever go over your data plan either. Hotspots chew into your data, which can add up extremely quickly. That goes double if you’re connecting multiple devices at once. Always stay on top of how much you’re allotted and don’t push it. Unlimited plans are the way to go.

It’s also a good rule to keep your phone plugged in. Hotspots, even if you have a high data cap, use a lot of battery. If you don’t have your device connected to an outlet, they will likely run out of juice in no time at all. 

The final tip is to turn off your hotspot when you’re done. That’s a great habit, as it will save your battery in the long run and prevent any unnecessary data charges.

FAQs

This section goes over a few large questions about mobile hotspots and quickly answers them. 

Why Is My Hotspot So Slow?

Most of the time, hotspot lag comes from high usage or a weak signal. Be sure your device is close to the hotspot and limit any obstacles that might be between them.

Can My WiFi Extender Be Hacked?

Anytime there’s a connection, it’s vulnerable to hackers. That means your extender can be hacked just like any other device. However, if you’re careful with your network and make sure you have a solid password that won’t be a big issue.

Can You Hook Up a Router to a Hotspot?

As with a WiFi extender, it’s possible to connect a router to a mobile hotspot. To do so, simply follow the same steps you would when setting up the device to your home network.

Final Words

Not all mobile hotspots need a WiFi extender, but the two aspects are completely compatible should you want more range. Most of the time you want to stay close to your hotspot, but it’s always nice to know there are options if you need to move around a bit.

Have you used an extender with a mobile hotspot? Why did you need the extra power, and was it useful? Let us know in the comments below!

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