How To Share a VPN Safely Via a Mobile Hotspot

s31 July 9, 2024 privacy 0

Trying to extend your VPN protection to multiple devices? Hotspotting from your mobile device is one option.

However, sharing a VPN via hotspot requires careful steps to maintain security and avoid potential risks. You might be better off installing a VPN with unlimited device connections, like Surfshark. While the initial setup will take a little longer, you’ll enjoy faster, more secure internet without draining your mobile internet connection.

But for now, we’ll walk you through safely sharing your VPN via mobile hotspot and protecting all your devices on any network.

First, you need to pick the right VPN. Here are the best VPNs for mobile hotspot sharing:

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These five VPNs deliver on:

Apps for Android, iOS, and many other devices
Fast connections
Airtight security
Strict privacy policies
Global server networks

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Sharing your VPN on Android is as easy as installing the app, connecting to a server, and enabling your phone’s hotspot feature. On iOS, the process is very similar, but you’ll find the hotspot settings within your cellular options.

Android

Download and install: Choose a reputable Android VPN app – we recommend ExpressVPN.
Connect to a server: Open the app and connect to your desired server location.
Enable hotspot: Go to your phone’s settings and turn on the hotspot feature.
Configure hotspot: Set a strong password and customize the network name (SSID) if desired.
Connect devices: Use the hotspot’s credentials to connect other devices to your shared VPN connection.

Read more: The 5 Best Android VPNs

iOS

Download and install: Choose an iOS VPN app from the App Store. Again, ExpressVPN is #1.
Connect to a server: Open the app and connect to a server.
Enable hotspot: Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot and turn it on.
Configure hotspot: Set a secure password for your hotspot.
Connect devices: Connect other devices using the hotspot’s Wi-Fi credentials.

If you run into trouble, ensure your VPN connection is active. Restart your phone with the VPN turned on, then reconnect with the hotspotted devices.

If the issue persists, double-check your hotspot settings, make any necessary adjustments, or contact your VPN’s customer support.

Read more: The 5 Best iOS VPNs

Let’s explore the features of our five best VPNs and see what makes each one stand out.

These are just quick overviews. Check out our comprehensive reviews for a more in-depth analysis of each VPN.

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Selecting the right VPN is crucial for securing your mobile hotspot sharing. Here’s what we prioritized when choosing the best VPNs for this purpose:

Mobile-friendly apps: We recommend VPNs with user-friendly apps designed for iOS and Android, making it easy to manage your connection on your smartphone.
Strong encryption: The best VPNs use AES-256 encryption to protect your data from prying eyes.
Kill-switch: This essential feature automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks and maintaining privacy.
Global server network: Extensive global server network ensures fast and reliable connections, no matter where you are.
No-logs policy: We only recommend VPNs with strict, independently verified no-logs policies, guaranteeing your online activities remain private.
Speed: Our picks are the fastest VPNs, ensuring smooth browsing, streaming, and downloads.
Unlimited bandwidth: Enjoy unrestricted online activities without worrying about data caps.
Transparent privacy policies: Our recommended VPNs undergo regular independent audits to confirm their commitment to your security and privacy.
Easy-to-use apps: These VPNs are designed to be user-friendly, even for beginners.
Good value: Look for VPNs with affordable pricing and at least a 30-day money-back guarantee.

We have a comprehensive VPN review process that considers many factors. Feel free to explore it for a detailed guide on choosing the best VPN.

While sharing a VPN via mobile hotspot offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved:

Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks: If your mobile hotspot is not properly secured with a strong password and encryption, malicious actors could intercept the traffic between your devices and the VPN server. This could compromise your data and privacy.
Data leakage: In the event of an unexpected VPN connection drop, your devices could temporarily revert to using your regular internet connection, potentially exposing your data.
Increased data usage: Sharing a VPN connection via a mobile hotspot will consume more data on your mobile plan. If you have a limited data allowance, this could result in additional charges.
Slower speeds: Sharing your VPN connection with multiple devices can lead to slower speeds, especially if your VPN server is far away or the connected devices engage in bandwidth-intensive activities.
VPN’s terms of service: Some VPNs explicitly prohibit sharing your connection with others. Your VPN could terminate your account if you violate these terms.
Illegal activities: Sharing a VPN connection for illicit activities is unethical. This could translate to legal troubles for you. It’s important to use shared VPNs responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Is it safe to share my VPN with others?” answer=”

Sharing your VPN connection with others can be safe, depending on how and with whom you share it.

The risk is minimal if you share your mobile hotspot with trusted individuals. However, sharing your VPN account login credentials with others is generally not recommended, as it can compromise your privacy and security. If someone misuses the VPN connection, it could be traced back to you.

Additionally, some VPNs have terms of service that prohibit account sharing. Sharing your account could lead to suspension or termination of your subscription.

For the safest option, Use a VPN that allows multiple simultaneous connections. This way, people can connect their devices to the VPN without sharing login credentials.

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[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Will using a VPN slow down my mobile hotspot connection speed?” answer=”

Yes, using a VPN can slightly reduce your mobile hotspot connection speed due to the encryption and rerouting process involved. However, this impact can be minimized by choosing a VPN that offers:

Optimized servers: These are designed to handle VPN traffic efficiently, resulting in faster speeds.
Modern protocols: Protocols like WireGuard are known for speed and efficiency compared to older protocols like OpenVPN.
Nearby server locations: Connecting to a server closer to your physical location can help reduce latency and improve speed.

The VPNs we have recommended prioritize speed and offer features to optimize performance, so you can still enjoy a fast and secure connection even when sharing your mobile hotspot.

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[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”What happens if my VPN connection drops while sharing a mobile hotspot?” answer=”

If your VPN connection drops while sharing a mobile hotspot, the devices connected to your hotspot will lose their VPN protection, and their internet traffic will no longer be encrypted or routed through the VPN server. Their online activities could be exposed to your internet service provider, network administrators, or potential hackers.

Use a VPN with a kill-switch feature to prevent this security risk. A kill-switch will automatically disconnect your devices from the internet if the VPN connection is lost, ensuring your data remains protected until the VPN connection is restored. Some VPNs also offer an auto-reconnect feature, which will attempt to re-establish the VPN connection if it drops.

Additionally, regularly monitor your VPN connection status and ensure it remains active while sharing your mobile hotspot.

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Hotspotting your VPN: A final word

Trustworthy VPNs like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are excellent choices for mobile hotspot sharing.

These VPNs protect your data and privacy and unlock a world of benefits. They can help you bypass geo-restrictions, access content worldwide, and save money on online purchases. They also shield your online activities from prying eyes, including your internet service provider and government agencies.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee offered by these VPNs, you can try them out risk-free and experience the enhanced security and freedom they provide for your mobile hotspot.

How To Share a VPN Safely Via a Mobile Hotspot