To ensure you receive the best service possible,
please enter your zip code below:
Hotspot usually refers to the latest “it” place or must-visit travel destination—but in the tech world, it’s also the term for a wireless access point you can create with a smartphone or a dedicated standalone device to link to the internet.
While it may sound ethereal, what a hotspot does is actually quite simple: It enables you and others to stay wirelessly connected to the web, almost anywhere and anytime. Here’s what you need to know about hotspots for home and business, and how to access them on your own.
You may hear a hotspot referred to as a personal hotspot, mobile hotspot, Wi-Fi hotspot or portable hotspot, but all of these terms point to the same thing: wireless internet access. Hotspot functionality can come in handy if you’re working remotely, traveling or simply need to connect when you’re on the move.
There are two choices for creating a hotspot:
All hotspots work by connecting a smart device or computer to the internet. But when do you need a dedicated hotspot device instead of your phone? The answer hinges on what phone you have—and what you want to do.
Most smartphones can be used as mobile hotspots, but depending on the network (4G versus 5G), download and upload speeds can be slow. And depending on your cellular plan, data caps may apply.
Use your smartphone hotspot if:
Use a hotspot device if:
Today, Wi-Fi hotspots are available in many public places, including airports, hotels, colleges, coffee shops, libraries and even restaurants.
Despite their prevalence, it’s important to exercise caution when using a public hotspot because these networks are often unsecured. This means that if you use a public hotspot to access private information—like your bank account, social media account or personal email—your data could possibly be seen by others, including scammers and thieves.
Public Wi-Fi hotspots may also share your personal data with the Wi-Fi provider. A good rule of thumb is to use a public hotspot only for going to public websites.
Mobile hotspots make it a snap to stay connected, but be picky about where you connect—and stay vigilant about what you access so you can keep your data safer in cyberspace.
‡Offer valid through 4/30/2025. Offer valid for Classic/Basic Memberships only. Pricing valid at member join only. Offer excludes Motorcycle coverage. Payment of full AAA Membership dues is required upon renewal. Offers, terms, conditions and restrictions apply and are subject to change without notice. Not combinable with any other offer. Offer not valid in FL, GA, MI or PR. A member can add one eligible family member for free for up to one year. Additional Associates are half price. Associate memberships are available to the Primary member’s spouse, one other adult living in the household, and their children living at the same residence or away at school. Associate members must have the same type of membership as their Primary member, with the exception of Motorcycle. Associate membership expires on the renewal date of Primary member.
Upon activation and with proper identification, AAA will provide regular AAA services and full privileges for the new member. Roadside benefits begin three days after payment of dues. Some restrictions apply. Roadside assistance is provided by independent facilities contracted by AAA. Coverage in taxis, limousines and other ride-sharing conveyances is excluded. Visit AAA.com/MemberHandbook for details about member benefits, including any limitations or restrictions. Offers, terms, conditions and policies are subject to change without notice. Savings partners subject to change. Source: 2023 AAA U.S. Market Track national surveys. Includes service vehicles owned by clubs and service vehicles owned by third parties under contract with AAA to provide services to AAA members. Taxes, fees & options excluded. Terms apply. Partners and offers are subject to change and restrictions apply. For a complete list of offers, visit us online at AAA.com/Save or your local AAA office.
