PdaNet+ - Internet sharing made easy

Version 5.10 introduces significant changes, so it is essential to read the information below before proceeding with the update.

Require

1.You will also need to update the software on the Windows side.

2.The original WiFi Hotspot functionality can still be accessed through the separate FoxFi app if required; simply download it from the Play Store. Additionally, the prior version of PdaNet+ (4.19) is available for those who need it.

3.A new location permission is necessary for Android due to the WiFi scan API requirements.

Please note that without root access, there are certain technical limitations on what an app can accomplish. We strive to provide the most convenient way to share your phone's Internet connection, but it might not always be an ideal or universal solution (like a standard WiFi Hotspot). Compatibility may vary depending on specific devices.

=====WiFi Direct Mode (New!)====

PdaNet+ now features a completely new "WiFi Direct Hotspot" capability that is compatible with all Android devices running version 4.1 or later. This feature enables connections between computers and tablets to your phone via WiFi; however, you will need to either install our client application or configure a proxy based on the device you intend to connect. You can enable the "WiFi Direct Hotspot" in PdaNet+, then use the "Help!" button for detailed instructions.

*If your Windows computer fails to detect the hotspot during pairing, please do the following: 1. Restart the hotspot on your phone.

2.Select "Show All WiFi Direct Hotspot" to check if your adapter supports 5GHz.

====FoxFi/WiFi Hotspot Mode (Old)====

The original WiFi Hotspot feature is still available through the separate FoxFi app if you need it. However, this feature has stopped functioning on many newer phone models because of updates from carriers. Even if operational, the usage of your hotspot may still be monitored. The WiFi Direct Hotspot could resolve both issues, although it's not intended for use with gaming consoles, televisions, or TV streaming devices.

=====USB Mode=====

The USB mode is functional on all Android devices, aside from select ZTE/Alcatel models. It allows you to connect your phone to a Windows or Mac computer. Furthermore, there is a “WiFi Share” option that can convert your Windows device into a WiFi Hotspot, enabling you to share your PdaNet Internet with other devices.

*If your computer does not recognize your phone after establishing a USB connection, please refer to the relevant guide.

=====Bluetooth Mode=====

Bluetooth mode can be used for connecting to Windows, although WiFi Direct mode is recommended.

=====Do I Need This Software?=====

PdaNet has been available since the original Treo smartphone was released in 2003, with over 30 million downloads, indicating it’s likely useful for many users. However, its necessity truly depends on the type of data plan you have with your carrier. Generally, there are four categories of data plans:

1.Your plan (whether limited or unlimited) prevents you from activating the mobile hotspot feature on your phone, prompting you to contact your carrier.

2.You have an unlimited plan that allows mobile hotspot use from your phone, but this usage is monitored against a maximum limit (for instance, 5GB/month), after which speeds may be significantly reduced. (FoxFi cannot bypass this!)

3.Your unlimited plan permits mobile hotspot access with no caps or throttling. Such a plan is typically non-existent or not intended, though some loopholes have been discovered on certain devices.

4.You possess a limited plan that indeed allows mobile hotspot use, with this usage counted within your overall data allowance.

If your plan falls into categories 1 or 2, you will need PdaNet+. Conversely, if you're in categories 3 or 4, PdaNet+ may not make much difference. If uncertain about your plan, using PdaNet+ will not be detrimental.

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The free version of PdaNet+ includes a timed usage limit; otherwise, it functions similarly to the full version.

Certain carriers may restrict app installation from the Play Store, so downloading the APK directly or installing from a computer is advisable.

FAQ

Can I install the phone part only? How come I failed to install PdaNet+ from Play Store?

Yes you can install just the phone part if you only need WiFi mode. You can install PdaNet+ directly from Play Store. However some carriers such as Sprint and AT&T may have delisted PdaNet+ from Play Store to make users pay for their tether plan. As a result PdaNet+ will not show up in search results or will say "incompatible" in Play Store. To solve this issue, you can install the apk file from phone browser at http://pdanet.co/bin. Or simply install on the computer side with instructions below, it will push PdaNet+ to your phone automatically.

How to install PdaNet+ on my computer? What if my computer does not have Internet access?

To use USB mode you need to install PdaNet+ on the computer side. You can download the installer on your computer or even using your phone if your computer does not have Internet access yet before PdaNet+ is installed. Just go to http://pdanet.co/a on your computer browser or phone browser.

I am asked to click the PdaNet+ icon on my computer but I do not see the PdaNet+ tray icon on Windows.

Have you installed PdaNet+ on the computer side? If not please do so from http://pdanet.co/a.

If you have already installed on the computer side, you should see a PdaNet icon in the tray area (bottom-right of your computer screen, make sure the tray area is expanded). Click on it and select "Connect" to start the Internet connection.

Alternatively, when you plugin your phone, you should also see a PdaNet flyout on the computer side asking you to connect.

How can I install two different versions of PdaNet on the same computer?

In order to have both versions of PdaNet on the computer, you will need to install the Android version first then make a copy of folder "c:\program files\PdaNet for Android". Now install the other version. After the installation you will end up with two PdaNet directories, one for each phone. When you switch phones, make sure you exit PdaNet on the computer end then run the corresponding exe under the correct directory.