How to Turn Your Smart Phone Into a Hot Spot

Windows Mobile and Symbian Phones
1. Download an application that provides Wi-Fi hotspot functionality (see Resources). Check the compatibility with your specific phone before purchase (or download a free trial to test it).
2. Launch the application to set up your Wi-Fi hotspot. Follow the instructions to create a hotspot name (SSID), and set wireless encryption to secure your network. Use the highest level encryption supported by all of your devices. WPA is low level, WEP is higher.
3. Connect your wireless devices by scanning for the SSID you created and selecting 'Connect.' Then enter the password for your wireless network.
Android Phones
4. Click on the 'Application Drawer' to see your available applications. If your mobile provider has enabled the hotspot feature, there may be an app labeled 'hotspot' or 'mobile hotspot.' Click on that app, and follow the instructions to finish setting it up.
5. Use the feature in Android 2.2 (Froyo) by clicking on the 'Applications Drawer,' then clicking on 'Settings,' then tap on 'Wireless and Networks.' Tap on 'Tethering and Portable Hotspot,' and check the box next to 'Portable Hotspot.'
6. Set the SSID (network name) to something that you will recognize. Enable encryption, use WPA if possible or WEP if that is the highest your wireless devices will support. Connect your wireless devices to the Android Wi-Fi hotspot.