Laptop as a WiFi hotspot. Program for creating an access point

Now wireless Wi-Fi networks are supported by a huge variety of devices, from watches to TVs. Usually for such devices use a Wi-Fi router. But, if there is no such router, then you can get by with an ordinary laptop or computer with a Wi-Fi adapter. In this article, you will learn how to create a Wi-Fi hotspot on a computer or laptop running Windows 7 or Windows 10.

Creating a Wi-Fi Hotspot on Windows 7

First, let's look at a more complicated way to create a Wi-Fi hotspot. This method is based on using the command line, so it works fine in both Windows 7 and Windows 10. Although in the case of Windows 10, it is better to use the second method, which is described at the end of the article.

So, in order to create a Wi-Fi hotspot based on a Windows 7 computer, you need to open a command prompt with administrator rights. To do this, open the "Start" menu, enter the phrase "Command Prompt" in the search, right-click on the found program and select "Run as administrator". This is the easiest option though.

After the command line is launched, you can start creating a Wi-Fi access point. To do this, run the following command:

Netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid="wifi_name" key="wifi_password" keyUsage=persistent

Please note that this command has parameters "wifi_name" and "wifi_password". This is the name of the Wi-Fi access point to be created and the password to connect to it. In order to create a secure access point, it is better to change these parameters.

After executing the specified command, a message should appear on the command line to allow the hosted network mode, as well as to change the SSID and passphrase.

Now you need to run a command that will only launch the previously created Wi-Fi access point:

netsh wlan start hostednetwork

After executing this command, you should get the message "Hosted network is running". If you get the message "Failed to start the hosted network" then you have a problem with your Wi-Fi adapter. It may be disabled or not working due to driver issues. Solve the problem with the Wi-Fi adapter and run the "netsh wlan start hostednetwork" command again.

At this point, the Wi-Fi hotspot has already been created and is working. You can even connect to it, but you won't be able to access the Internet. In order to enable Internet sharing, you need to open the "Network Connections" window. To do this, you can press Windows-R and run the "ncpa.cpl" command.

In the "Network Connections" window, you need to find the connection through which you connect to your Internet provider. Right-click on this connection and go to "Properties".

Next, you need to go to the "Access" tab and enable the "Allow other network users to use this computer's Internet connection" option there. Also here you need to open the drop-down list and select the Wi-Fi connection that was created earlier by executing the commands. In the screenshot below, this connection is called "Local Area Connection 13", but in your case the name will be different.

This completes the creation of a Wi-Fi access point on Windows 7. Close the window with the "Ok" button and check how Wi-Fi works. To connect to the created access point, use the password you specified earlier.

It should be noted that the “netsh wlan start hostednetwork” command must be run after each Windows 7 startup. In order to stop the access point, use the “netsh wlan stop hostednetwork” command.

Create a Wi-Fi Hotspot on Windows 10

If you have Windows 10, then you are lucky, in this operating system the process of creating a Wi-Fi access point is greatly simplified. Here you do not need to execute any commands, everything is done in a couple of mouse clicks.

So, in order to create a Wi-Fi hotspot on a Windows 10 computer, you need to open the Options window. To do this, you can open the Start menu and click on the gear icon. You can also right-click on the Start button and select Settings from the menu that appears.

In the "Settings" window, immediately go to the "Network and Internet" section.

And then open the subsection "Mobile hot spot". Here, at the very top of the window, there will be an available “Mobile Hot Spot” function. Enable this function and the Wi-Fi hotspot will be created automatically.

Below you can select the connection to be shared via the Wi-Fi hotspot, and view or change the hotspot name and password.

Sometimes situations arise when you need to connect a tablet, smartphone, game console or TV to the Internet, but there is no router at hand. It does not matter if you have a laptop, netbook or ultrabook at hand. The main thing is that he has a working wireless network module. Thanks to the ICS function built into Windows, you can make an access point from a laptop and distribute the Internet via WiFi.

The only significant limitation is that you must have Internet access either via a network cable (ethernet) or via a 3G/4G modem. You will not be able to distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop and use it at the same time. It is for this reason that this method can only be used as a temporary one. It is not suitable as a permanent one and it is better to buy a router, albeit inexpensive, but still.
There are two ways to set up distribution - simple and more difficult. I'll start with the simplest and fastest.

WiFi Sharing Program

This option is "for the lazy", that is, for those who do not want to bother, climb through the settings and parameters of Windows, but simply run the program and enjoy life.
On the Internet, you can find many programs that allow you to make a Wi-Fi access point from a laptop. The most famous of them is Connectify. She was one of the first and therefore remained paid. That is why it does not suit - we love free software! Of these, the mHotspot utility used to impress me the most. But lately, a bunch of unnecessary rubbish has been built into the installer, which is put on the computer and then hard to remove.
Recently, on the advice of a good person, I came across one excellent program for distributing the Internet via a wireless network - OSToto Hotspot. This is the simplest utility, and also completely free!

One has only to launch the application and the hotspot will automatically deploy a WiFi network. In the main window, you can see a list of connected users and, if necessary, you can send any of them to the Blacklist. If you need to change the network name "SSID" or the default password, then click on the word Edit and these fields will become editable.

The utility settings are not rich, but for most cases they are quite enough.

Here you can enable autorun and automatically turn on the access point on the computer. You can also change the operating mode, enable or disable hibernation and hide the icon in the system tray.

Built-in Windows hotspot

The programs described above use a special mechanism built into the operating system by developers for their work. It first appeared back in Windows 7 and from there it smoothly migrated to all subsequent versions, up to the most modern today - Windows 10. To configure this feature manually, you need to right-click on the Start button. In the menu that opens, select "Command Prompt (Administrator)". In the black window of the Windows command console that appears, enter the command:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=Set-Os key=121223344

In it, the SSID is the name of the access point being created, and key is the password for Wi-Fi.

We press the "Enter" button. The parameters are set, now you need to start the wireless network with the command:

The command should work without errors.

With this, we set up and launched a virtual WiFi hotspot on a laptop. Another icon will appear in the list of Windows network connections - "Wireless Network" with a number. I have it number 3.

But this is not enough - now we need to force the distribution of the Internet, that is, in fact, to make a full-fledged laptop router. To do this, open network connections (press the Win + R keys and enter the command ncpa.cpl). In the list of available connections, select the one through which you are connected to the Internet. In my example, this is a LAN connection:

Right-click on it and select "Properties".

Note: If your provider uses the PPPoE or L2TP protocol, then you need to select the high-speed connection icon.

In the properties window that appears, open the "Access" tab:

On it, check the box "Allow other users to use this computer's Internet connection." A list of home network connections will appear below. In it, you need to select the created wireless network and click the "OK" button.

Now your laptop works as a WiFi access point and can distribute the Internet like a regular router. All the best!

In various instructions, a wifi access point is often mentioned. Let us consider in more detail what it is and what role it plays in a wireless connection to the Internet.

What is a Wi-Fi hotspot

A WAP or wireless access point is a hub for joining an existing network. That is, it distributes Wi-Fi, ensuring the connection of devices without a cable. It works using radio waves of the IEEE 802.11 standard.

If you ask: Wi-Fi access point - what is structural? It turns out that it consists of a transceiver, an interface chip and, depending on the inherent functionality, it can be intended for:

• Home use is the most common application for connecting to the network of tablets, smart phones;
• Placement in public places, in zones of "free Wi-Fi";
• Applications within large industries.

The extensive scope of the hub is determined by its most important advantage - no cord is required to connect to Wi-Fi. You can move freely within the distribution zone.

A wireless Wi-Fi hotspot can serve as a bridge between wired and "air" Internet distribution. And also for combining groups of PCs with adapters into separate networks.

Features of the Access Point

Consider how a wifi hotspot works. This is the first mode. It connects to the router with a cord. Then it provides the ability for other devices to connect to the LAN over the air. Other wifi access point modes should be highlighted, the principle of operation in each of them:

• Bridge (Bridge) - two APs are paired via Wi-Fi and distribute the Internet each in their own local network;

• Repeater - broadcasts a signal to increase the coverage area;

• WISP - AP connects to the network over the air and distributes the Internet via cable or over the air;

• Router - the ability to filter incoming data and apply your own settings;

• - distributes Wi-Fi, expands the area of ​​\u200b\u200bavailable Internet.

Supported modes may vary depending on the model. The feature of AP is also determined by speed and frequency indicators:

• 2.4 GHz, the advantage of this range is that almost all devices support it and can connect without problems;
• 5 GHz - here the speed will be higher, but, as a rule, gadgets that receive a signal in this range are more expensive. And if you try a few tricks on ...

Regarding the data transfer rate, it should be noted that 150 Mbps is enough for standard home Internet surfing. If the AP works as a repeater or you need to work with large files, then 600 Mbps will be needed.

Router and Access Point: comparative characteristics

Many do not think about what a wifi access point is. After all, according to most, this is the same router. In fact, they are different devices. Let's prove it by comparison:

1. The router creates a local network for all devices that are connected via cable or via Wi-Fi - Access Point or AP (which means wifi access point) distributes the network;
2. The router catches the Internet signal and distributes it over the network - the AP works with a ready-made network, making it possible to connect to it without a cord;
3. The router assigns an external IP address to all devices that are paired with it - the AP does not have such functions;
4. The router uses a firewall to protect the connection from unwanted connections, hacker intervention - Access Point does not protect the connection;
5. The router allows you to configure content available to children, as well as limit the time spent at the PC - Access Point cannot provide such opportunities;
6. A standard router has about 4 connectors for connecting devices to the network via a wire, one WAN connector for receiving data and a USB input (for a printer or modem - the AP has only one connector for connecting to a router, which means a cable connection to access the Internet impossible;
7. The router is usually used at home, in the office (indoors) - APs can be outdoor, industrial, home.

It should be noted that there are routers on the market with some Access Point features. And in some cases, such models are the best choice for home use.

Router or Access Point: what to choose

You should choose an AP or a router based on a private answer to the question - why do you need a wifi access point? For example, if the signal does not reach certain rooms or you need to create a hot spot zone, then it is better to prefer Access Point. If you need to connect to the Internet at home, with good speed, then it is better to opt for a router.

Let's take a closer look at typical situations and selection criteria in each case:

• if the Internet is extended into the house using a fiber optic cable, and it is connected directly to the PC, then you should purchase a wireless router. This will allow you to consolidate all devices within the same local network. And the data transfer will be securely protected;
• if the connection is established using a telephone line, then preference should be given to the router. Set the Bridge mode on it, initiate the connection from it;
• if GPON technology is used to access the World Wide Web, then the solution will duplicate the advice above. The choice should be made in favor of a wireless router and connect to the provider from it. You should also set the Bridge mode.

Regarding the choice in favor of a Wi-Fi access point for the home, it is necessary to highlight the moments when it will be optimal:

• a local network has already been created, but the coverage area needs to be expanded. AP will come in handy, since there is no point in buying a full-fledged router;
• it is required to realize the connection of 2 PCs, which are located at a respectful distance from each other. Here, the wireless access point acts as a link in the Point-to-Point mode;
• connected to the network through a gateway computer. Access Point is quite up to the task, but if possible it is better to take a wireless router;
• the local network at home or in the office has been created, you need to organize a wireless connection. AP will be a great, inexpensive solution.

If you have a laptop or netbook, most likely you will want to connect it to your home network without using wires - via Wifi. But for this you need to have a router at home. Many users who have only 1 home computer do not use routers and connect directly to the provider. How to connect the laptop to the network in this case?

The simplest and fastest solution is a virtual Wifi access point on a PC or laptop:

• firstly, the Windows 7 operating system provides a standard tool for these purposes;
• secondly, you can create such a point using special programs.

What kind of computer is needed

Unfortunately, not every personal computer and laptop allows you to create a wireless access point. First, there is a requirement for the distribution of the operating system. Your version of Windows must be at least Home.

The fact is that Windows Starter (Initial) does not support routing. On such an OS, nothing can be done. You need to upgrade the laptop to a more advanced version, or you will need to reinstall the system.

Secondly, you need to install a Wi-Fi adapter on your computer. Most PCs come without them, so you need to purchase an external device.

This is a small antenna that plugs into your computer's USB port and allows you to send and receive Wi-Fi signals. If you are working on a laptop, there is nothing to worry about. Every modern laptop has a built-in Wi-Fi module.

To begin with, let's consider creating a wireless Wifi access point using the built-in tools of the operating system. The advantage of this method is, firstly, reliability, secondly, simplicity, and thirdly, no need to install additional software on the laptop.

The downside for many users is the need to work with the Windows command line and the lack of a graphical interface. However, this is a very convenient way. It is recommended to know how to set up a Wifi hotspot using basic tools.

Creation by standard Windows tools

To make a new access point using basic Windows tools, follow the instructions below:

Now you can connect your other laptop, smartphone or even a personal computer with an adapter to the created network. If you restart the distributing Wi-Fi laptop, you will have to restart the connection. If you want the computer to stop distributing the wireless network, use the command "netsh wlan stop hostednetwork».

MyPublicWiFi program

If you do not want to open the command line and enter commands into it, turning on the computer, there is an alternative method. There are a huge number of special utilities that allow you to create an access point on your laptop.

There are cases when it is not possible to distribute the Internet in the usual ways - and you need to get access to the network quickly and urgently. Then we suggest creating an access point.

The base station can be PCs, laptops, and even smartphones. The advantage of the manipulations is that there is no need to purchase additional equipment.

Operating modes of devices in Wi-Fi networks

Signal transmission without the use of wires is carried out via radio channels. To perform the required actions, a special-purpose device is used - a router.

But if it is not possible to use it, then the best option would be a laptop as an access point. Functioning is carried out in two directions:

1. Ad hoc mode. Users will get direct contact, excluding foreign objects from the chain.
2. infrastructure mode. The transfer of information between equipment is carried out using an assistant according to the client-server scheme.

Parallel operation in several directions is impossible. with a built-in diagram, you can eliminate unnecessary details and make it easier to access the Internet.

For the smooth functioning of all objects, it is necessary to have:

• operating system Windows 7 and above;
• USB Wi-Fi adapter;
• network contact.

If you meet the requirements and have all the listed items at your disposal, you can start adjusting the access point from your laptop. This process is quite simple and does not require special knowledge or skills. The subscriber faces the task of checking the health of the converter on the gadget, as well as having access to the Internet.

Laptop as a Wi-Fi hotspot on Windows 7, 8, 10

To freely access the World Wide Web, you need to do some manipulations - connecting to a wireless network. For the process is the same as for operating systems 8 and 10.

There are several options for how to create a wifi hotspot. These include:

• Standard. One of the simple and affordable options. To implement it, you need to enter data on the command line.
• Launching a hotspot with Virtual Router, Maryfi and others.
• Mobile hot spot. This option is only suitable for OS 10.

Having done all the steps correctly, you can get access without much effort.

Creation of Virtual AR

Such a system allows several adapters to function synchronously using the source of one device. A feature is that it is possible to function in two directions: client-server and point-to-point.

Installation of Virtual AR on gadgets with and 7 will be carried out according to the same scheme. This is explained by the fact that command lines are used for configuration, which have one form. The whole scheme consists of the following steps:

1. The "Start" menu opens and from the proposed list, you must click "All Programs". After that, go to "Standard" to the entry "Command line". Using the touchpad or , you must select "Run as user".

2. In the open menu there is a column where the request is entered. You need to write the following: netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid="new.geek-nose.com" key="password" keyUsage=persistent. If it knocks out a malfunction, then you should check the correctness of the data, and repeat again.

3. After adjustment, the startup process begins, the basis of which is "netsh wlan start hostednetwork". Manipulations are carried out after each start of the device.

4. To get acquainted with the configurations, they resort to the phrases: netsh wlan show - guarantees security, hostednetwork setting=security netsh wlan show settings - is required for a smooth connection.

To understand what is at stake, it is proposed for acquaintance: new.geek-nose.com is the name, password is a cipher that protects against outside intrusion. It consists of 8 characters.

All data must be entered using the English layout on. Perhaps an error will occur. In this case, you need to find the automatic setting and check its status.

If it is disabled, then the following sequential actions are carried out: properties → startup type → automatically. At the end of the steps, you should return to the connection process.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with:« »

A laptop as a wi-fi access point is used when Virtual AP is turned on and correctly configured. For the described OS, this process is similar, but there are still some differences. For OS 10, the following items are performed:

1. Opening a command line. To do this, you can use the menu, which is called using Win + X.

2. As for OS 7 and 8, the request is written in a line, after which you must press Enter.

3. After that, the manipulations that were described above should be carried out. If there are problems with the launch of virtual access, then the configuration is carried out according to the previously proposed scheme.

Separately, we can note apple products. It also needs to be configured. The difference from Windows is the need to use a modem.

The work is carried out according to the scheme:

• Connecting a cable or modem to a gadget.
• Opening System Preferences and going to Sharing.
• In the "Connection" field, those connections that are necessary for work are used.
• Selected wi-fi. A name and password are given. The maximum number of characters for entering a code is 12.
• After that, you should check the box next to "Shared Internet".

Now the laptop is how the access point will distribute the Internet. Other devices are connected to it. To connect, you must enter the correct password.

The whole procedure does not take much time. If you correctly configure the virtual network on OS 7 or 8, then there will be no problems with Windows 10. By following the described steps, you can access the network without using a router or other devices.

Creating a Virtual AP using third party software products

If there is no desire or opportunity to configure a virtual network, then other methods can be used. Such programs greatly simplify the setup process. One option is to use a utility. The advantage is that you do not need to wake up after starting or waking up from sleep mode.

Using Virtual Router Manager, which does not have to pay for, the setup process will take a little time. The main actions are:

• name introduction;
• security key installation;
• specify an interface with the Virtual AP backbone.

At the end of the input, “Start Virtual Router” is selected. In addition, it is proposed to pay attention to the MyPublicWiFi, WiFiCreator applications. Activation is carried out according to the scheme proposed above: name and password.

Possible errors when starting a virtual Wi-Fi network

When connecting to, there is a possibility of problems. Wi-Fi itself works the same on devices, regardless of the distribution method. Also, the use of a laptop or desktop computer will not affect the work.

To find out the reasons for the lack of connection, it is recommended to first try to connect. There is a chance that everything will work out the first time. If this does not happen, then errors are considered:

1. Stopping the launch of the access point in the OS.
2. The signal is being distributed, but access to the Internet is limited.
3. The machines are connected to the suggested network, the web page does not load.

The first problem is the most common. The solutions depend on how the inclusion process takes place. The main reasons are: the lack of a built-in adapter or driver for it, startup support. The grounds for errors on , 7 or 8 are the same.

Restricted access is also one of the common problems. Solving it is quite simple. The connection may be stopped by the antivirus program. You need to turn it off, and access to the network will appear.

The reasons for the third error are that there is no general connection to the Internet. To troubleshoot, you need to open access, after which it will be possible to access the World Wide Web, sites and web pages will load.

Before setting up access, you need to make sure that the device itself has access to the Internet.