What is USB tethering? Here’s what you need to know, including what it’s used for, why it might not work, and how to solve the problem.

Here’s what you need to know about USB tethering. We’ll explain how it works, why it might not work, and what to do if it doesn’t work.

In our busy modern society, the internet has become an indispensable part of our lives. However, many people have likely experienced frustration when they’re out and about without access to Wi-Fi.

This is where “USB tethering” comes in handy. It allows you to connect your devices, like computers or tablets, to the internet through your smartphone using a USB cable. This is faster and more reliable than using Wi-Fi, which is great for important tasks like watching videos or playing games.This article will explain how USB tethering works, why it might not work sometimes, and how to solve common problems.

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What is USB Tethering?

USB tethering lets you connect devices like computers or tablets to the internet through a smartphone using a USB cable. It’s better than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth tethering because it’s more stable and faster. This makes it really useful when you need a fast internet connection.

Features of USB Tethering:

• Stability and Speed: USB tethering provides a more stable internet connection and faster speeds compared to Wi-Fi tethering.
• Low Latency: It is suitable for applications that require low latency, such as online gaming and video streaming.
• Security: As it uses a cable connection, USB tethering is considered more secure than Wi-Fi tethering.

USB Tethering Speed:

USB tethering is the best way to connect to the internet because it’s faster and more stable than other methods like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.Here’s a comparison of how fast different tethering methods are: USB tethering is fastest, Wi-Fi tethering is second fastest, and Bluetooth tethering is slowest.In one test, USB tethering reached speeds of about 22Mbps, Wi-Fi tethering reached about 15Mbps, and Bluetooth tethering reached about 2Mbps. In another test using a WiMAX 5G device, USB tethering achieved download speeds of 220Mbps, more than double the Wi-Fi tethering speed of under 110Mbps.While actual speeds may vary depending on individual communication conditions, these results demonstrate that USB tethering generally provides faster speeds than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth tethering.

Here are some tips for using USB tethering:

USB tethering is useful in many situations because it offers a more stable and faster internet connection than Wi-Fi tethering. Here are some situations where USB tethering is particularly recommended.

1. This is for when you need a steady internet connection when you’re traveling.

You can use USB tethering to get an internet connection even when you’re traveling without Wi-Fi. This makes it easy to work online, even when you need a strong internet connection, like for online meetings or working on documents.

2. For watching videos, talking with friends over video calls, or playing video games.

USB tethering is the fastest way to connect to the internet. It’s great for watching videos or video conferencing. While there may be some lag, you can also play online games using USB tethering. However, it’s not the best option for online games that require a high-speed connection, such as FPS or TPS games. It’s not recommended for important gaming moments.

3. This is perfect if you don’t want to carry a Wi-Fi router just for tethering.

You need to charge a Wi-Fi router for tethering, and it can get lost. USB tethering only needs a smartphone and a USB cable, so you don’t have to carry as much.

4. When there are security concerns,

It’s safer to use USB tethering than Wi-Fi tethering. This is because the cable connection makes it harder for signals to be intercepted.

5. When you want to use the internet on a computer,

You might want to connect to the internet while using a computer in many situations. USB tethering lets you connect your computer to the internet even in places without Wi-Fi.

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Here’s how to set up USB tethering.

There are two steps to use a USB cable to connect to the internet on your phone:

1. Connect the smartphone to the computer using a USB cable
2. Complete the settings on the smartphone

Once the connection is established, the computer can access the internet through the smartphone.

Follow these steps for iOS and Android.

For iOS:

1. Connect the iPhone to the computer with a USB cable.
2. When you see the message “Trust This Computer?”, tap “Trust” on the iPhone.

For Android:

1. Connect the smartphone to the computer with a USB cable.
2. Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap twice on “Charging this device via USB.”
   
3. Tap “USB tethering” to toggle it on.
   

Please note that the names of the tethering settings and steps may be a little different on iOS and Android. Also, the exact steps may be different depending on your device model and OS version. Please check the specific instructions for your device.

Here are some reasons why USB tethering doesn’t work and how to fix them.

Here’s a detailed explanation of why USB tethering might not work and how to fix each issue.

1. The tethering option is not available.

Some mobile carriers require a “tethering option” subscription to use the feature. For example, au and SoftBank typically allow tethering only for subscribers to this option, either free or paid.On the other hand, carriers like docomo, Rakuten Mobile, Y!mobile, and UQ Mobile offer tethering for free without any subscription.Many budget SIM providers also allow tethering without additional procedures.

If tethering doesn’t work, check with your mobile carrier to see if you need a tethering option subscription.

2. Smartphone and Computer Not Properly Connected

This is a basic but often overlooked cause. Check the following:
– USB cable damage: Look for any visible damage or fraying.
– USB port issues: Ensure both the smartphone and computer USB ports are clean and free of debris.
– Cable compatibility: Confirm you’re using the correct type of USB cable for your devices.
– Proper connection: Make sure the cable is fully inserted into both ports.

3. The “tethering” feature on the smartphone is turned off.

If the tethering function is off, you won’t be able to connect. Here’s how to turn it on:

For iOS:

1. Go to “Settings” > “Personal Hotspot”
2. Tap the slider next to “Allow Others to Join”

For Android:

1. Open the “Settings” app
2. Tap “Network & Internet”
3. Tap “Hotspot & Tethering”
4. Turn on “USB Tethering”

4. Your Computer’s USB Port Might Not Support Tethering

Some older computers or budget models might not be able to do USB tethering. Check your computer’s manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm.

5.The smartphone’s operating system is outdated.

If your operating system is old, it may not have USB tethering. Try updating your smartphone’s operating system to the latest version.

6. Smartphone Models and Computer Operating Systems Don’t Always Work Together

Some smartphone models and computer operating systems may not be compatible. If you’re having trouble with USB tethering, contact the manufacturer of your smartphone or computer.

7. Impact of Security Software

If you’re having trouble with USB tethering, check if your firewall or security software is blocking it. Try turning off your security software for a while and then try tethering again.

8. Problems with the Driver

The USB driver for your device might be outdated or damaged. Try downloading and installing the latest version of the driver from the website of the company that made your smartphone or computer. USB drivers are software that helps communicate your computer with other devices.

9. Smartphone Problem

If you try the above methods and it still doesn’t work, there may be a problem with your smartphone. Please contact the company that made your phone or take it to someone who can repair it.

You can stay connected with USB Tethering.

USB tethering is a great option for anyone looking for a steady and fast internet connection. It’s faster than Wi-Fi tethering and has lower latency, which makes it perfect for online gaming and video streaming.
The setup process is straightforward, but if you can’t connect, you’ll need to figure out and fix the issue. This article will help you use USB tethering effectively.

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