Tethering via Android

[alhenderson]

I was wondering if someone could clear something up for me.  I have searched the forums and think I know the answer but want to be sure.

I have an HTC Desire HD with 500Mb/mo data included, but I have read stuff that suggests I can't use this data allowance for tethering.  Is this true?  If so, why?

Thanks,

Al.

[Retired-Lee]

Hi there alhenderson,

Many thanks for your query regarding tethering using your Android device.

I can confirm that on our new price plans you are able to use tethering as part of your data allowance. If you are on an older price plan than one launched on 1st June then tethering is charged separately unless you purchase a tethering bundle. The reason for this is the different APN's that are used by the device to access the network. The new plans can incorporate these different APN's to allow tethering as part of your data bundle.

For more information about our tethering packs please see our Tethering Pages. You can even get as much as 2GB for as little as £15 per month

If you have a spare minute, I'd be really grateful for some feedback on the service I’ve provided to you today. By clicking this link to the eForum Survey, you can leave me some feedback. There are just three questions and any additional comments would be most appreciated.

Cheers,

Lee

eForum Team

[alhenderson]

Lee,

Thanks for the info.  I have to admit I completely fail to understand why you're treating data allowance differently when I'm tethering vs normal data usage from the mobile.  Surely I've got xMb of data to use, its up to me how I use it?  Why should it matter?  And the argument that says I'm bound to use more data when tethering can only be good for you guys because I'll eat through my allowance more quickly and be liable for extra charges.

My price plan is older than 1st June, so what would happen if I went home and used my phone to access the internet on my laptop?  I don't know much about the ins and outs of how this all works, but why is a seperate APN necessary for tethering as opposed to normal 3G access?

Cheers,

Al.

[Nabs]

alhenderson,

The advice Lee gave is not completely true(sorry Lee).
Android uses only one APN to connect to the Vodafone network meaning that all data appears the same regardless of wether it came from your phone or from your laptop. 

My price plan is older than 1st June, so what would happen if I went home and used my phone to access the internet on my laptop?

Simple answer your laptop would connect to the internet and eat up you 500Mb quite quickly.

You only need to pay extra for tethering if you go over your 500Mb limit. 

[alhenderson]

Thanks Nabs. So, from an Android point of view, there's no difference between tethering and normal data usage, apart from the quantities. Good to know, thanks for your help. Al

[Nabs]

In basic terms thats all there is to it.