Whether you’re one of millions of people who work remotely or have a vacation home that needs connecting, finding reliable WiFi coverage away from home can be a challenge. After all, when that urgent email hits your inbox or your grandchildren just have to stream the latest movie, the last thing you want to do is search for a signal. That’s when understanding how to get WiFi anywhere becomes essential.
The good news is that there are lots of ways to stay connected while on the go. A few examples include mobile hotspots, tethering, and advanced services like Voiply’s portable internet solutions. Here’s how to get internet anywhere.
Different Ways to Get WiFi Anywhere
There are five primary approaches to get WiFi anywhere:
Mobile Hotspots
A dedicated hotspot device acts like a portable router and allows multiple devices to share a mobile connection. These devices rely on cellular networks and broadcast a WiFi signal.
Mobile hotspots tap into 4G or 5G networks and convert that signal into WiFi. You can then connect your laptop, tablet, or other devices just like you would when on your home network.
When comparing plans, you should consider the following:
- Data Needs: Determine how much data you’ll need monthly
- Coverage Area: Choose a provider that offers reliable coverage in the areas you’ll frequent
- International Access: If you’re a digital nomad, opt for a hotspot that supports international roaming
If you think you may need to use the hotspot frequently, purchasing a separate device and plan can provide robust access that can be used for multiple devices.
Tethering From Your Smartphone
If you’re only in need of occasional access on the go, most mobile phone service providers offer hotspot functionality as an add-on to your plan. Tethering turns your phone into a mobile WiFi hotspot by sharing its cellular data connection. Here’s how to tether your device:
- Go to your phone’s settings and enable the “Mobile Hotspot” or “Personal Hotspot” feature
- Set a password to secure your network
- Connect your tablet or laptop to your phone’s network
Mobile tethering can be useful in a pinch, and there’s a good chance that your mobile service provider already includes some personal hotspot data in your current plan. If not, you can easily upgrade your plan.
That being said, there are some limitations to this approach when compared to a dedicated mobile hotspot device. The downsides of using your phone as a hotspot include:
- Your phone’s battery will drain much faster
- Data caps tend to be lower compared to mobile hotspot devices
- Using your phone for WiFi will limit smartphone browsing speed
With that in mind, tethering works best for occasional and infrequent use. However, if you frequently need to access WiFi on the go, investing in a dedicated hotspot is a better choice.
Public WiFi Networks
Many public locations offer free WiFi. Common examples include airports, libraries, coffee shops, and hotels. While this can be convenient, it also exposes your device to cyber threats.
Before you connect to public WiFi, take the following steps to keep your data out of the wrong hands:
- Use a VPN to encrypt your traffic
- Avoid accessing sensitive data like bank accounts on public networks
- Turn off automatic device connections to open networks
Not sure where to begin? Explore Voiply’s Opal VPN and router, which connects with popular hotspot devices.
Use a Hotspot Database App
Hotspot database apps help you locate nearby WiFi hotspots using crowdsourced information or preloaded databases. These tools can help you to find guest networks that you can join, like those offered by coffee shops or other public spaces. Here are five apps to try:
1. WiFi Map
- Pro: Offers offline maps of WiFi locations
- Con: Some passwords may be outdated
2. Instabridge
- Pro: Automatically connects to known WiFi networks
- Con: Possible connectivity issues in rural areas
3. Opensignal
- Pro: Maps both WiFi and cellular coverage
- Con: More focused on signal testing than free WiFi
4. Wiman
- Pro: Extensive database with automatic connections
- Con: Free version contains intrusive ads
5. Avast WiFi Finder
- Pro: Scans WiFi networks for safety before connecting
- Con: Limited availability in some regions
Another downside is that free WiFi hotspots are scarce in rural areas. As such, you may need a rural internet provider. However, it’s worth experimenting with a few of these apps to find one you like.
Having a hotspot database app handy can help you find free WiFi locations during your travels. If you live in an urban area, you’ll likely discover that there are lots of networks available.
Portable Internet Solution
Voiply offers a robust portable internet service that combines “anywhere” connectivity and communication in one package. With our VoIP-based solutions, you gain access to a consistent internet connection and a phone line. Our service is ideal for remote work, travel, or home internet.
Voiply’s services stand out thanks to the following features:
- A portable router that ensures a stable, secure connection
- No contracts or expensive hardware
- Ideal for maintaining business continuity while traveling
If you want to know how to get WiFi anywhere, Voiply is the answer you’ve been looking for. Our home internet services and mobile packages offer reliable access that goes with you at 4G and 5G speeds—even in rural locations.
Voiply also offers flexible plans to ensure that you only pay for what you use. Our month-to-month plans start at just $16.95 per month for 1 GB. If you go over your limit, we’ll bump you up to the next subscription tier automatically, then reset you back to the lowest tier the next month.
Explore Voiply’s internet service today!
Choosing the Best Solution for Getting WiFi Anywhere
Now that you know how to get WiFi anywhere, you’ll need to determine which option is best for your needs.
Many users discover that there isn’t a single “best” solution and instead use a combination of different services to stay connected at home, on the go, and anywhere else that life takes them. Here’s a closer look at how to make a smart choice.
Factors to Consider
Before signing a long-term contract or buying a hotspot device, make sure to evaluate how well each solution fits your intended use case. Here are a few factors to think about:
Speed
Consider what you need WiFi for. If you’re just browsing the web and checking a few emails, you won’t need lightning-fast speeds, but if you plan to binge-watch your favorite shows or game online, you’ll need a solution that can handle high bandwidth.
Mobile hotspots and VoIP-based routers generally offer solid speeds, especially those that support 5G. Public WiFi can be hit or miss.
Data Usage
Data adds up quickly. Streaming a one-hour HD video can eat into your data limit fast. So can a Zoom call. On the other hand, doing some basic browsing and sending emails uses much less data.
Knowing your average monthly data usage will help you pick the right hotspot plan or VoIP service. Some hotspots come with limited data caps, while others offer unlimited plans at higher prices.
Coverage
Where do you need coverage? Are you traveling internationally or spending a lot of time in rural areas? Not all services will work overseas or away from civilization.
Mobile hotspot devices support international roaming, but the pricing can be steep. However, if you’re mostly sticking to one region, a hotspot from a reliable local provider might be all you need. VoIP services like Voiply are a great fit if you want portable internet at home and on the go.
Security
It’s important to stay safe, especially when connecting in unfamiliar places. Public WiFi networks are often unsecured, which can leave your data vulnerable.
Using a virtual private network like Voiply’s built-in Opal VPN adds a layer of protection by encrypting your data. If security is your top concern, avoid open networks and use a dedicated mobile hotspot or a portable router with built-in security features.
Combining Solutions for Full Coverage
No single WiFi solution is perfect in every situation. That’s why combining a few different methods can help you stay connected wherever you happen to be.
Here’s a breakdown of use cases that will meet most people’s needs:
- Mobile Hotspots: Ideal for travel days or working in places without internet access
- Public WiFi: Handy when you’re grabbing a coffee or at the airport
- Smartphone Tethering: A great short-term option when you need to connect a device right away, like answering urgent emails from the backseat of an Uber during a ride
- VoIP Services Like Voiply: Provide dependable internet, plus the added bonus of phone service and flexible billing, from anywhere you might need it
By combining these options, you can switch between networks as needed and stay connected no matter where life takes you.
How to Get WiFi Everywhere You Go
Now that you know how to get WiFi anywhere, it’s time to evaluate your needs and choose the best option to stay connected.
A mobile hotspot can be great for reliable internet when you travel for work. Public WiFi in cafes or at the airport can work when you siply need to access the internet to get some work done while traveling as long as you use a VPN. But for dependable, plug-and-play connectivity, VoIP-based services like Voiply internet and router packages are hard to beat.
Want a smarter way to stay online? Get Voiply’s internet service today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Get WiFi Wherever I Go?
To get WiFi anywhere, you’ve got a few reliable options to choose from, including portable internet solutions like Voiply.
Mobile hotspots are convenient and cost-effective, although some have data limits. Additionally, hotspots rely on cell signals, so you’ll need to make sure you’re in an area with adequate cellular coverage. You can also turn your smartphone into a personal hotspot in a pinch.
If you’re in a developed area with lots of public places, take advantage of free WiFi. Libraries and coffee shops are a few staples to turn to when you need a comfortable space to work. However, you should always use a VPN when joining a public network to keep your data out of the wrong hands.
Can I Get WiFi Without an Internet Provider?
Yes, you can get WiFi without a traditional internet provider. One option is to use your smartphone’s mobile hotspot feature to share its data with your other devices. You can also buy a dedicated mobile hotspot device with a data plan. Additionally, you’ll find free public WiFi in many places.
For a more reliable solution, consider portable services like Voiply. You’ll receive internet access and calling features wherever you are. Voiply also offers flexible pricing, ensuring that you only pay for what you need each month. That way, you can avoid any costly or restrictive contracts. It’s truly a better way to get WiFi anywhere.
Can I Get WiFi Away From Home?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be at home to access the internet.
If you’re out and about, you can make use of public WiFi (just use a VPN for safety). You can also turn your phone into a personal hotspot to share your mobile data with your laptop or tablet. A mobile hotspot device is another great option. And services like Voiply offer portable internet solutions that work wherever you go.
The bottom line is that there are plenty of ways to get WiFi away from home. All you have to do is choose the solution that best fits your needs.
Can You Connect to Your Home WiFi From Anywhere?
While you can’t directly connect to your home WiFi if you’re out of range, there are a few smart workarounds. With remote access tools like a VPN, you can securely connect to your home network and access files or smart devices as if you were there. Some routers also support remote management features.
If you’re just looking to stay online, though, you’ll need alternatives like a mobile hotspot or tethering from your phone. Portable VoIP plus internet services are another excellent option.