Tethering or phone-as-modem (PAM) is the sharing of a mobile device's cellular data connection with other connected computers. It effectively turns the transmitting device into a modem to allow others to use its cellular network as a gateway for Internet access. The sharing can be done wirelessly over wireless LAN (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, IrDA or by physical connection using a cable like USB. If tethering is done over Wi-Fi, the feature may be branded as a personal hotspot or mobile hotspot, and the transmitting mobile device would also act as a portable wireless access point (AP) which may also be protected using a password. Tethering over Bluetooth may use the Personal Area Networking (PAN) profile between paired devices, or alternatively the Dial-Up Networking (DUN) profile where the receiving device virtually dials the cellular network APN, typically using the number *99#.
Tethering in the context of Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband is the marketing term for wireless Internet access via mobile (cell) networks. Access to the network can be made through a portable modem, wireless modem, or a tablet/smartphone (possibly tethered) or other mobile device. The first wireless Internet access became available in 1991 as part of the second generation (2G) of mobile phone technology. Higher speeds became available in 2001 and 2006 as part of the third (3G) and fourth (4G) generations. In 2011, 90% of the world's population lived in areas with 2G coverage, while 45% lived in areas with 2G and 3G coverage. Mobile broadband uses the spectrum of 225 MHz to 3700 MHz.
View the full Wikipedia page for Mobile broadbandTethering in the context of In-car Internet
In-car Internet refers to Internet service provided in a car. Internet access can be provided by tethering a mobile phone, with a mobile hotspot, or with any satellite based connections, whether portable or built into the car. Built in systems have existed since 2008 and include:
- General Motors OnStar: provides subscription-based telecommunication, in-vehicle security, hands free calling, navigation, and remote diagnostics.
- BMW Assist telematic roadside assistance service.
- Mercedes-Benz mbrace which connects a car from a smartphone or computer.
- Cadillac CUE, a built-in mobile hotspot combined with a data subscription.
- Chrysler Uconnect Web: has a wi-fi hot-spot with a 150-foot range via a 3G EV-DO cellular network from Autonet Mobile It includes Bluetooth for cell phones, a hard drive, Sirius XM TV and satellite, and GPS. It is a fee-based service that includes a free trial with a new car.
- Toyota Safety Connect: a subscription-based telematics system introduced in 2009 providing telecommunication, roadside assistance, car safety, remote diagnostics, and other services. It is offered including the aforementioned features as part of the Toyota Entune package, while Lexus models receive the Lexus Enform system with Safety Connect, adding hands free calling, and destination assistance services. Vehicles equipped with Safety Connect come with a one-year subscription included at purchase, which can then be renewed annually.
Exposing a vehicle to cellular connectivity can lead to security vulnerabilities where a hacker accesses the vehicle's control systems.
View the full Wikipedia page for In-car Internet