Let us know if this sounds familiar… you’re visiting a friend or family member, and your connection is a little shoddy. But you’re expecting an important email or call or just want to share something you found online. Back in the “old days,” to connect to the Wi-Fi network, you’d ask for the password, and your host would write it down, text it to you, or blurt it out.
Then, you’d play the game of trying to figure out which letters are capitalized or how it’s spelled. More often than not, you’d run into someone who couldn’t remember the password or even where to find it. (Sorry if we retraumatized you!)
Fortunately, when it comes to how to share Wi-Fi, it’s easier than ever before. And yes, that’s true for iPhone and Android devices (though it is a bit more difficult to share from one type of device to another.) Don’t worry: we’re here to walk you through a few of the easiest ways to share nicely, and safely.
Sharing Wi-Fi between iPhones is pretty simple and straightforward. Here’s how:
The process is secure, and the password isn’t visibly or audibly shared. The iPhone will just be connected to the Wi-Fi network.
How to share Wi-Fi between Android devices is also quite easy and uses a QR code. Here’s how:
Different Android manufacturers may have slightly different paths, but the general approach is the same.
Sharing Wi-Fi between Android devices is secure and convenient. There’s no need to say the password or type it in, reducing the network’s risk of being compromised.
While it takes a little more nuance, as there’s no built-in feature, you can indeed share Wi-Fi from an iPhone to an Android device and vice versa. Here’s how:
iPhone to Android:
Android to iPhone:
The steps might vary slightly depending on your device’s model and operating system. However, we can agree that this method is still better than the old method of painstakingly tracking down the password and entering it manually.
Sharing Wi-Fi from phone to phone using the methods above is generally considered safe, especially if you’re sharing with friends, family, or other trusted individuals. There are, however, some risks to consider.
For instance, if the device receiving the information is already compromised, it could potentially expose your network to malware or other malicious activities. Sharing your Wi-Fi network essential grants access to your local network, which could expose your network to unauthorized access if the credentials are shared with someone you can’t fully trust. In addition, if you’re sharing your Wi-Fi network with all your friends and their friends, etc., it could increase potential points for cyberattacks. Ensuring all your devices and network have up-to-date security software is vital.
Other concerns include data snooping. Technically savvy people could use these shared connections to snoop on your network traffic. To help protect your privacy, use encryption (such as WPA2) and consider using a VPN for sensitive online activities. In addition, sharing your network could also give people access to devices you likely don’t even think about, such as printers, smart TVs, and other smart home devices.
To help protect your network, you may want to set up a guest network to share Wi-Fi. This keeps guests off your primary network and adds a layer of protection from your devices and data.
In addition, most routers offer a way to see which devices are currently connected to your Wi-Fi. Regularly check to see if any unauthorized devices are connected. Finally, change your passwords regularly, especially if you often share your Wi-Fi network, to ensure only people you currently trust can connect.
While sharing Wi-Fi credentials is convenient and generally considered safe, being aware of the risks and taking steps to protect yourself and your devices is the best way to keep your network secure.
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