Carriers with “unlimited” data often limit the amount of data you can use via tethering or throttle your bandwidth to slower speeds if you use too much data.Īlong those lines, if you use a file-sharing service like Dropbox or Google Drive, or an Internet backup service like CrashPlan or Backblaze, turn them off before connecting. Regardless, any data consumed by your Mac while tethered will count against your data allowance and may generate overage fees. For some, you might have to pay more for tethering. Also called “tethering,” it’s fast, easy, and can be a life-saver when you just have to get online with a Mac (or a Wi-Fi–only iPad).įirst, note that most, but not all, cellular carriers allow tethering on existing plans. Never fear, since you can use your iPhone’s cellular data plan to create a personal Wi-Fi hotspot that lets your Mac access the Internet through your iPhone. You can pick up a cell signal with the iPhone, but there’s no Wi-Fi to be found-what to do? Suddenly there’s an emergency at work, and you need to get online with your Mac. You’re on a trip, accompanied by your trusty iPhone and MacBook Air.