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Tethering is using a mobile device to gain Internet access for another device.^[1]

Tethering works by connecting a device that can access the Internet, to another device that cannot. This can be done through Bluetooth wireless technology or cables (such as USB), allowing the device without built-in access to connect to the Internet, using the connected device as a modem.

Tethering has been used to gain access to the Internet since mobile devices started using their networks to give users Internet access, but has increased in prevalence due to Internet connectivity in modern cell phones and laptops. Initially, tethering was conducted primarily through USB or other cables. Since most modern cell phones are Bluetooth-enabled, however, wireless tethering through Bluetooth has largely replaced cable tethering.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Practice

Although many businesses set up free Wi-Fi access to the Internet for anyone to use, tethering can still be useful. Many business people can tether their cell phone to their PDA when their employer will not pay for a Smartphone but will pay for mobile phone data access. Users thus connected can use this method to check their e-mail or otherwise use the Internet anywhere they can obtain a cell phone connection.

People who are unable to afford a wireless card may use tethering to gain access to the Internet. Although tethering is often a simple process, in some countries it may void a phone's warranty or violate the terms of a cellular service plan.

Mobile device tethering is very similar to laptop tethering; a cell phone provides Internet access for a PDA or other mobile device that lacks access.