If you’ve got a tablet that needs internet access, you probably want to get it up and running as quickly and easily as possible. Thankfully, there are a few options to help you do this.
Use Wi-Fi
A Wi-Fi connection is the simplest and most convenient way to get internet on your tablet. Simply find the “Wi-Fi” icon on your tablet’s home screen and connect to a nearby network. For tablets running Android OS, this usually happens automatically.
For Apple products, you may need to enter a password or connect using Bluetooth. Check your tablet’s user manual or support page for detailed instructions.
The first step is to turn Wi-Fi on in your tablet’s settings. This will search for available networks and let you join them if you have the password.
Some tablets have a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, while others require you to buy a separate router. If you do have a router, turn it on and choose a suitable network from the list. If you can’t see any WiFi networks, try connecting to a public wireless hotspot.
Restart the modem and Wi-Fi router
If your tablet doesn’t connect to Wi-Fi, it might be a problem with your modem or router. If your tablet has a physical switch, it might be stuck on or off; checking the battery level or setting the device to Airplane Mode can sometimes fix this issue.
Tether your smartphone to your tablet
If you have a mobile internet-enabled smartphone, you can create a wireless hotspot using its data connection. Depending on your plan, this can use up all of your data, but it can give you a fast and easy connection to the Internet when you need it most.
You can do this on almost any smartphone that is compatible with the Android operating system, and you can use it to share your smartphone’s internet connection on your tablet. This is the fastest and easiest way to get internet on your tablet, but it does have some downsides:
Besides slowing down your device, this method also makes you vulnerable to theft, because anyone with access to your phone can steal your data. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can try tethering to your laptop or desktop computer.
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is another option for connecting your tablet to the Internet. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your computer and a remote server that’s run by your Internet service provider, allowing you to use the internet securely from anywhere.
It can be expensive, but it’s worth the money if you’re concerned about hackers or other security threats. Some providers offer a free trial or 30-day money-back guarantee.
Some VPNs have a kill switch that will block the connection if they detect any activity that would be dangerous to your device or its data. This is a good safety measure, but it can take some time to configure. In addition, some providers have data caps and throttle connections and servers, so be sure to check your plan’s terms of service before choosing a VPN.