This wikiHow teaches you how to connect your computer, phone, or tablet to the internet for free. To do this, you may have to go outside to find a free WiFi network, although you can make arrangements with your neighbors about using the internet if you wish.
Step
Step 1. Search for free internet network through hotspot database
You can find free internet networks near you by typing "free internet hotspot" into Google or a similar search engine. Apart from that, there are also a few steps you can follow on your mobile device:
- "Find Wi-Fi" is a free application available for both iPhone and Android platforms. You can use this app and your phone's location service to find free WiFi networks near you.
- The Facebook mobile app has a "Find Wi-Fi" feature that can be used to open a map showing nearby hotspots. This feature is in the “☰” menu.
Step 2. Use your phone's data plan/connection as an internet network or hotspot
This process is known as "tethering". You can "tether" your phone's data connection to your computer using your iPhone or Android smartphone. However, keep in mind that data connection usage fees still apply, so it's a good idea to take this step only if you've subscribed to an unlimited data plan, or you're in an emergency situation that requires internet use.
Not all cellular service providers support the "tethering" feature. If you don't find the “tethering” option in your phone's settings, check with the cellular service provider you're using to see if they can set up and activate the feature
Step 3. Find out if the internet service provider company offers free hotspots
Many internet service providers provide hotspot points in big cities for users. All you need to do to access the network is sign in with your email account and password. Usually, this step can be followed if you have subscribed to internet services from the service provider concerned (eg Telkom).
Generally, most internet service provider companies display a list of WiFi hotspot locations on their websites
Step 4. Use a free trial internet service
In the United States, for example, internet service provider NetZero offers a free dial-up internet network with a quota of 10 hours every month. However, you will need to connect your computer to your phone to use the service. Several other internet service providers also sometimes offer free internet networks that can be used within a certain time limit (eg Biznet or FirstMedia), especially in public places so make sure you find out about promotions like this.
It is possible that you will need to enter payment details when creating your chosen internet service account. Make sure you cancel your account before the trial period ends. Otherwise, you will be charged for the service
Step 5. Barter between certain tasks with free internet access
If you have friendly neighbors, offer to do housework or yard work with "paid" free access to their home internet network. Make sure you make a contract with him to ensure that each party knows their rights and obligations as long as internet access is still used.
If you want to follow this step, make sure you're not doing anything illegal (eg file sharing) when using a neighbor's WiFi network. Also, don't seize the network bandwidth by downloading large files or streaming HD quality movies, games, and other content
Step 6. Find a shop (or perhaps a shopping center) or business place in your city that you can go to for work
The role of the internet in everyday life is hard to ignore. This is why many restaurants, businesses, and public buildings offer free WiFi networks. While there may be caveats or requirements regarding WiFi use (e.g. you need to buy a drink or snack, or create a membership account at the establishment in question), the “fee” for using WiFi is usually inexpensive so it shouldn't be a burden to pay for it. Some examples of locations that generally offer free WiFi networks include:
- coffee shop
- city
- Hotel
- Restaurant
- Toll road rest area
- convenience store
- Mal
- library
Step 7. Look for free WiFi networks while waiting for certain services
It's a very broad concept, really, but whenever you're waiting for service (eg car oil change or dental check-up), look for free internet at the building or place of business. Usually, most businesses offer a free WiFi network that you can use while waiting for the service to finish.
Step 8. Take advantage of the network available at the school or library
While you won't be able to access the WiFi network at the library or school, you can usually use one of the computers in both places and access the internet. Some libraries or schools have daily usage (or content) limits, so make sure you know what you can (and can't) do before taking advantage of the facility.
Tips
If your computer or laptop is equipped with an ethernet port, some cafes allow you to connect your computer/laptop directly to the internet using an ethernet cable
Warning
- Never access personal information (eg bank accounts) when using public internet networks as other users may be able to steal the information.
- Please note that in some countries and regions/provinces, the use of other people's internet access without permission is a form of offense or a crime.
