Get Wireless Internet Anywhere by Using Your BB as a Modem

Have you ever been in an area where you cannot access the Internet from your laptop? Perhaps the location you’re in charges an extra fee or maybe they don’t even have a modem to access an Internet connection. Of course, this only happens when you have work to do that can’t be properly performed on your BlackBerry. Perhaps you didn’t know it, but your BlackBerry can be used as a wireless modem and can have you surfing the web on your laptop in minutes.

One of the most asked questions is if and how a BlackBerry can be used as a modem. We’ve already answered the “if” part of that question and now for the “how”. Following the next few steps will show you how to use Blackberry as a modem. Please keep in mind that these are basic instructions and more detailed steps may be involved depending upon your laptop’s operating system or even your BlackBerry OS (especially if you are using an older device).

Before you begin, it’s advisable that you check with your carrier for pricing before you connect. Even those with unlimited plans have been shocked to discover that tethering (using your BlackBerry as a modem) isn’t included in unlimited pricing plans.

Also if you are a BES user, you may need to speak to your administrator to inquire about any special settings required.

To use your BlackBerry as a modem you’ll need the USB cable that came with your phone and you’ll also need to have your BlackBerry Desktop Manager installed. Your Desktop Manager should have come with your phone, but if it didn’t, you can download the latest version for your phone from the BlackBerry website. After installing, check under “modems” in the control panel of your laptop to make sure that the drivers were also properly installed.

Next, add a new connection to the existing Internet connections on your laptop. How you do this will differ from person to person, but do it as you would if you were using a new connection at a coffee shop or some similar location.

With Desktop Manager open, connect your BlackBerry to your laptop using the USB cable and click the connection associated with BlackBerry and you are now online using your BlackBerry as a modem. Remember to check with your carrier if you’re going to be using your phone as a modem frequently as excessive charges may apply if this is not included in your monthly plan.

In today’s world, it’s almost unimaginable that we should be somewhere without an Internet connection when we need one. With BlackBerry, however, not only are you constantly connected to the web via your handheld device, but if you ever are in a pinch and need to use your device as a modem for your laptop, it’s good that BlackBerry has thought ahead and made this a possibility for you.