Download.it search icon
Advertisement

Quickly turn your computer into a secure hotspot with a few clicks of the mouse

Quickly turn your computer into a secure hotspot with a few clicks of the mouse

Vote: (2,182 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Connectify

Version: 2023.0.1.40175

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(2,182 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Connectify

2023.0.1.40175

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Hotspot creation is very simple
  • Uses a very high standard for network encryption
  • Drag and drop feature
  • Ad blocking and monitoring tools
  • Online support

Cons

  • Requires a WiFi adapter that is supported by Connectify Hotspot

Connectify Hotspot is a nifty piece of software that allows you to transform your PC into a working internet access point, also known as a "hotspot." The app simply analyzes your PC's wireless internet adapter and then uses this information to turn it into a makeshift hotspot. Your new hotspot will have its own name and password, both of which will be used by other devices to connect wirelessly to it.

Create a Hotspot in Seconds

If you've ever wanted to wirelessly broadcast an existing internet connection, you'll be delighted to find that Connectify Hotspot has got you covered. Whether you're tethering straight from your mobile device's data connection or you're connected to a modem via an ethernet wire, Connectify Hotspot can turn the connection into a working hotspot through the use of your wireless internet adapter.

All you need to do to get Connectify Hotspot up and running is choose your internet source (the connection you'd like to share), give your hotspot a name and password, and click "Start Hotspot." You'll then be able to connect your devices to your brand new hotspot.

The interface itself is quite simple to use, as each setting is labeled clearly. Even the most experienced users will be able to launch the app and begin creating a hotspot without the need of possessing any technical know-how.

Security and Control

Each network created with the free version of Connectify Hotspot is secured with WPA2-PSK encryption, which is similar to the default level of security provided by real internet routers. This level of encryption is highly secure, and it is safe enough for virtually any task you could plan to carry out on your hotspot.

Furthermore, you'll be given an easy-to-use interface to monitor metrics such as bandwidth usage and connected devices. There is an adblocker function that can be toggled on, and it's essentially designed to block all web-based advertisements. In other words, if you've enabled the adblocker function for your hotspot, users who have connected to your network won't see disruptive ads while they surf the internet, which will save on internet usage in the long run.

Fast File Sharing

If you're looking to quickly swap files between the host PC and other devices connected to the network, the app has the perfect tool for you. With Connectify Hotspot's handy drag and drop interface, you can quickly send and retrieve files between the host PC and connected devices.

Keep in mind that Connectify will need to be installed on your connected devices, or this feature won't work properly. In the event that your connected device(s) do not have the software installed, you'll be instead referred to complete the file transfer process in a browser-based interface. This interface will allow you to complete the transfer process without the need for software.

Get More Out of Your Existing Wireless Network

For those who are instead looking to extend the range of their existing wireless network rather than make an entirely new hotspot, you'll be delighted to find that there is a repeater mode that can be toggled. With the WiFi repeater mode enabled, you can use your PC's WiFi adapter to extend the range of your existing wireless network, so that devices that are physically far away from the access point will be able to connect more easily.

Loads of Online Support

In the event that you don't fully understand a certain aspect of Connectify Hotspot, you'll be able to refer to the developer's website which has a large database of support articles that break down every single app feature in simple and easy-to-understand terminology. There is also a support team standing by at all times ready to answer your questions if you need further help with using Connectify Hotspot.

A Great Hotspot Creation Tool for Free

If you've surfed the internet in search of a tool that can easily create a hotspot with just the click of a button, you've likely learned by now that most of these apps come with a price tag attached. Luckily, Connectify Hotspot lets you create a real, secure wireless network without the need of handing over your credit card details. Connectify Hotspot lets you do this entirely for free, and even adds some extra features to enhance your hotspot.

Pros

  • Hotspot creation is very simple
  • Uses a very high standard for network encryption
  • Drag and drop feature
  • Ad blocking and monitoring tools
  • Online support

Cons

  • Requires a WiFi adapter that is supported by Connectify Hotspot