How to Turn Android into WiFi Adapter for PC

We know that Android phones are capable of using their mobile data and turn themselves into a WiFi hotspot. It broadcast signals that other devices, like phones, laptops, and tablets can connect to and enabling them to access the internet. But, can Android work the other way and using it as a WiFi adapter (receiver)?

Lucky for us, we can turn our modern Android phones into a WiFi adapter that can detect WiFi signal and use it to access the internet for the connected device, whether it’s a desktop computer or laptop. This is can be a good alternative if the onboard adapter is damaged or too weak to catch a WiFi signal.

So, how to turn an Android phone into WiFi adapter and use it for PC?

For information, some Android phones may not support protocol as a WiFi adapter. But you can only find out by following the guide below.

1. First, make sure the phone already connected with the desired network.

2. Now, connect the phone with PC via a USB cable.

3. Go to Android Settings.

4. Find Tethering & portable hotspot. This menu can be found under the network section.

5. Enable USB tethering. Make sure “Data Saver” and “Power Saver” are off, otherwise this feature won’t be available.

6. Check on your computer if the phone has connected with the WiFi.

Another method by using Bluetooth to connect the phone with the PC can be used if there’s no USB cable or USB port available. But sharing the connection via Bluetooth considered being slower as it introduces more latency and possibly signals interference with WiFi.

Other than that, the Android WiFi adapter should work just as well as conventional adapters, if not, better provided it connects by a cable so you can relocate the phone closer to the access point.

Additional Tips for Using Your Android Phone as a WiFi Adapter

Optimize Your Connection

To ensure the best performance while using your Android phone as a WiFi adapter, consider these tips:

• Positioning Matters: Place your phone closer to the WiFi router for a stronger signal. Using a longer USB cable can help you position it optimally.
• Disable Background Apps: Close unnecessary apps on your phone to reduce bandwidth usage and improve connection stability.
• Monitor Battery Usage: USB tethering can drain your phone’s battery, even when connected to a PC. Keep an eye on the battery level or use a phone with a reliable power source.

Alternative Apps for Enhanced Tethering

If the built-in tethering options on your Android device are limited, third-party apps like PdaNet+ or EasyTether can provide additional features and compatibility. These apps can be especially useful if your carrier restricts tethering or if you encounter issues with the default settings.

• Find PdaNet+ on Amazon
• Search for EasyTether-compatible devices

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while setting up USB tethering:

1. Check USB Cable and Ports: Ensure the cable is not damaged and try different USB ports on your computer.
2. Update Drivers: On Windows, update the “Remote NDIS based Internet Sharing Device” driver in Device Manager.
3. Restart Devices: Reboot both your phone and computer to refresh connections.
4. Reset Network Settings: On your Android device, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.

Using an Android phone as a WiFi adapter is a practical solution for temporary connectivity needs. With these tips and tools, you can maximize its potential and troubleshoot effectively when needed.