With the release of Android Nougat 7.0, have carriers/manufacturers won the battle once and for all? It’s probably too soon to tell, but things aren’t really looking good for users this time around. Some have pronounced the new security measures a permanent fix/barrier to finding a new loophole. I think it’s still too soon to say, as developers can adapt just as carriers can, but until then we have to try to find ways around things ourselves.
Solutions:
Tip 1: PdaNet+
This app doesn’t offer Wi-Fi mode for phones with Nougat, but it contains both PdaNet for use with Bluetooth or USB Mode and Foxfi, which still can supply Wi-Fi mode, but you will want to check by carrier, device, and Android version for eligibility. Download: PdaNet+
Tip 2. Go to Device Home
Some Verizon users of older versions of Android phones have experienced an error message following an update, saying Not Subscribed. A workaround is to tap the Go to Verizon Mobile option, then hit your Home key.
Trick 3. Run the Full Version
Yes it costs a little money, but it’s your best shot at connectivity. Download: Foxfi
Tip 4: Downgrade to 6.0
If you are already on Nougat 7.0, your best bet might be to root and disable your update, or flash Marshmallow. Additionally, you will also discover that app options for tethering abound when you are rooted.
Trick 5: Uninstall and Reinstall FoxFi
Several users have found this to be a useful tip or trick when the app FoxFi isn’t working. You can just install the phone portion of the app if you only need Wi-Fi mode. Please read FoxFi app’s description on Google Play to find out whether Wi-Fi mode will work on your device.
Tip 6: FoxFi Key (Supports PdaNet)
This will cost you, but only about $8, and when you compare that to what you would pay on your carrier’s plan it just might be worth it. Download: FoxFi Key
Tip 7: Contact Developer
Contact Info: http://pdanet.co/help/faq.php?s=ffhome
Trick 8: Use Tasker
Instead of having to turn on the hotspot each time you want to use it, automate this task through Tasker. Download: Tasker
App Tip 9: Install Two Different Versions of PdaNet on the Same PC
You must install the Android version first. Then, make a copy of that folder: c:\program files\PdaNet for Android. Now you can install the other version, but don’t forget which version you are using at any given time.
Tip 10: Can’t See PdaNet Tray Icon
The icon is located in the lower right corner of your PC’s screen. Make sure the tray is expanded.
Trick 12: Use Bluetooth or USB Mode if Wi-Fi Doesn’t Work
No, it’s probably not what you were hoping for, but at least you won’t be totally left out in the cold. USB tether still works on Nougat 7.0 for most if you are using it with/for your PC.
App 13: Netshare-no-root-tethering
This app even works on the new Samsung S8, while FoxFi seems to work better on older devices. Download: Netshare no-root-tethering
Tip 14: Reboot/Press the Home Button
Hopefully it’s as simple as this. You might have to press your Home button repeatedly, two or three times.
Trick 15: Root and Disable Updates
Downgrade to Marshmallow. You will have to flash the appropriate firmware.
App 16: Ultrasurf VPN
Are you worried about your carrier detecting extra data usage on other devices? Set up a VPN for more privacy. It can also unblock websites. Download: Ultrasurf VPN
Tip 17: Read FoxFi’s Description
You’ve probably already done this, but sometimes you just get busy and don’t have time to read everything. But it is a good tip when FoxFi isn’t working. FoxFi’s description on Google Play will help you determine eligibility by carrier, device, and Android version.
Trick 18: (Rooted) Use Xposed Framework
If you are rooted and have Xposed installed, you’re in luck. Now you just need the X Tether mod. Download: Xposed Installer from Xposed Website (Note the separate link for Lollipop & Marshmallow) Download: Xposed X Tether/Moto Tether
App 19: Hotspot Shield Free VPN Proxy & Wi-Fi Security
This is another VPN to keep your mobile activities private. Be warned that not all aspects are free, as the name might seem to suggest. You may have to pay for services at some point. Download: Hotspot Shield Free VPN Proxy & Wi-Fi Security
Tip 20: For PdaNet Windows Error 103 and 104
If you are seeing this error, be sure you’ve enabled USB Debugging on your Android. Go to Settings > About device > Build Number and tap on it about seven times. You should see a message pronouncing you a developer. Now when you go back into Settings you should see Developer Options, which is home to the USB Debugging toggle.
Trick 21: (Rooted) Edit Build.prop File
Download a file manager/explorer like ES File Explorer. Mount the /system file as read/write. Long-press the build.prop file until you see an option to Open With, and choose Text Editor. Scroll down to the bottom of this file, press Enter to add a new line, and type net.tethering.noprovisioning=true. Download: ES File Explorer File Manager
App 22: Connectify
A decent alternative to FoxFi, Connectify will serve you well if you want to turn your computer into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Download: Connectify
Tip 23: PdaNet: Phone Asks for Password
Even though PdaNet says that this is actually an Android bug, it seems to happen in conjunction with this app quite a lot. Often the phone requests a password for Credential Storage. See if you can get around this by going into your Lock Screen settings and designating a password there. When your phone display this message, use the password you created.
Trick 24: Install PdaNet+ Before Connecting to Network
Some say this worked for them even on Nougat. Before you establish a connection to your carrier’s network, install PdaNet+ to your unlocked Android.
App 25: Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
This is a nice alternative app when FoxFi isn’t working. Configure by going to Settings > Wireless & Networks > More > Tethering & portable hotspot > Set up Wi-Fi hotspot. Download: Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Tip 26: Rooted Options are More Plentiful & Reliable
Of course, one of the advantages of FoxFi is that you don’t have to root. But if you do, you’ll open a plethora of options, such as Xposed, Free Tethering Unlocker, and Barnacle Wifi Tether. Rooting gives you more control over your device in general, but is not without risk, and may be more difficult on certain devices.
Trick 27: Swap Your SIM
In some instances, Verizon only restricted use of a free hotspot on phones, so try your SIM in your tablet if possible.
App 28: Easytether
This app works in a very similar manner to FoxFi. Download: EasyTether Pro
Tip 29: Edit APN
Tap APN, then the APN that’s currently in use. At the bottom of your screen look for APN type, then add the word dun.
Conclusion
Obviously some of these solutions are going to be less work than others; so it might be best to save difficult options for last, unless you are up for a challenge. Be aware that a lot of carriers frown on these tactics. If you’d rather play it safe, you might inquire about what current cell plans they have to offer. Hopefully there will also be some breakthroughs on Nougat soon. Were you able to setup your hotspot with this advice? Do you use apps other than FoxFi for tethering? Let us know what worked or didn’t work for you in the comments. Featured Image Credit
