Providing my own WiFi

Hi,

I have two phones from different providers. Both allow tethering. I use wifi between them. I use up the high speed on one--and I can do most things while throttled, including watching netflix. So far I'm using about 54 gigs per month.

So in your shoes, I'd simply add unlimited data, with unlimited tethering.

We dropped the separate stand alone device with a separate plan you have to pay for several years back.

Just activate the hotspot on your phones.

D.E.Bishop wrote:

Which is better, a phone based hot spot or a separate hot spot. I don't know what the current devices are called. We would like one device or program to provide WiFi for both phones.

I think the "proper" term is "cell to WiFi adapter".

IMHO a dedicated device will be easier to use for multiple devices.

Also, I would buy a device that has connections for external antennas. 2 for cell and 2 for WiFi.

I would also set it up on separate account, and maybe a separate MVNO, preferably one that is a month-to-month so you can cancel when you want. Nomad Internet is one example.

theoldwizard1,

What you suggest would work--but it may be pricier than just using the phones.

I do have a cell phone booster. It does make a difference in fringe areas. It is rarely used.

We're not "have to have internet" but I do like to have access. My wife and I both have "hot spot" T- Mobile phones, I have an additional Visible phone on Verizon used if T mobile isnt. And finally, since I got in on the ToGo craze a few years ago, I keep the yearly plan on AT&T for Data.

Sounds like a lot but we are on the Geezer plan for T mobile, the 25.00 a month for Visible and I think the AT&T plan is 300.00+/- yearly for X amount of data...( 100 gigs yearly). Works for us and I've yet to be without at least some internet.

I did add a We Boost cell Booster also....helps a lot.

I don’t know about your phones, but we both have iPhones and iPads (WIFI ONLY) and when required, will connect the iPads to the WIFI hotspot created on the iPhones from the iPads and also the smart TV. We will be installing a cell booster with external antenna to improve reception.

We have unlimited data plans and use our phones as Hot Spots. Works great but is pricey.

Just use the phones. They 'should' have the same access to 4G if that's what you can get where you are at.

Stand alone MiFi hotspot 4G does not work any better than my old Samsung phone when connecting to it.

It's mostly about the plan you get.

My phone does not have much data, as I don't really need that, but it has enough to connect to it if needed. As long as you have Cell service where you are!

Antenna's don't really work in my experience.. My Office allows me to use their MiFi when I'm out of the office.

If I'm out of Cell range on the phone, the MiFi is not any better, even with some external antenna's plugged in.

But, I agree, use your own "WiFi" anytime you are in a park that offers "free WiFi"... You will never be able to do more than browse Google or check email. Plus the security issues are too great to make it worth it at all.

Anyway, good luck! Mitch

pianotuna wrote:
theoldwizard1,

What you suggest would work--but it may be pricier than just using the phones.

TRUE ! I just think that a separate device is easier to use for multiple people/devices. Plus you don't have to worry about running out of battery on your phone.

Like most things, research IS REQUIRED !

MitchF150 wrote:

Stand alone MiFi hotspot 4G does not work any better than my old Samsung phone when connecting to it.

It's mostly about the plan you get.

TRUE !

Most cell phone plans can really gouge you once you hit a limit. Nomad has no limit and can go month-to-month billing.

Antennas work if the device is designed to use one and the antenna is designed for the correct frequency. The big win for an external antenna is the ability to mount it higher above the ground.