Distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop without programs. Ways to quickly distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop and PC

Despite the fact that now the simplest wireless router You can buy it for only about 1000 rubles, but still not everyone can afford it yet. And some people simply don’t want to spend money on it. But there are emergency cases when you urgently need to organize a Wi-Fi network, but there is no router or access point for it. For example, you bought modern TV Smart TV and want to use it to watch videos on YouTube. What should I do? The solution is simple - we will use the means at hand to distribute WiFi without a router. I will give several working examples, and you can decide which one is more convenient for you.

How to share the Internet from a laptop on Windows 10

In modern operating systems ah from Microsoft, which are installed on most computers in Russia, it is possible to organize a virtual access point and turn a laptop into a router. The only limitation is that this computer must be connected to the Internet either through a wired Ethernet adapter or through a 3G/4G modem. The fact is that using one adapter, the laptop will not be able to distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi and receive it. The second limitation has now practically disappeared. The fact is that the wireless adapter or its driver must also support this function. On modern computers Problems with support are very rare.

So, in order to use your laptop as a router and distribute the Internet in Windows 10, you need to enable the Wi-Fi adapter on it, and also make sure that it works and there are no problems with installed driver. After this, there are two ways - activate the function manually or use the program. Consider both options.

Method 1: netsh wlan hostednetwork commands and ICS sharing

In order to independently configure a Windows virtual router and enable shared access to it using the built-in ICS mechanism, do the following.
Click right click mouse on the "Start" button in the lower left corner of the screen. The following menu will appear:

Select the “Command Prompt” item in it or, if you are not working with Administrator rights, then the “Command Prompt (Administrator)” item. A black window will appear into which you must enter commands - the so-called “Windows console”. The first command is to configure the parameters wireless network, which we will launch. Here's an example:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode="allow" ssid="moi-wifi" key="wifipassword" keyUsage=persistent

This is what she looks like in command line:

Let's take a closer look. Parameter SSID- this is the name of the Wi-Fi network that you are creating and will distribute. Parameter Key is the security key or, in other words, the password for connecting to this WiFi. Settings entered using this command are saved in the registry and will retain the entered values ​​until you change them to others.

The second command is:

netsh wlan start hostednetwork

It starts the wireless network configured above.

In fact, this is how you force the computer’s wireless adapter to distribute WiFi without a router, that is, on its own. Unfortunately, so far you have only been able to make an access point from a laptop, which cannot distribute the Internet.

In order to now distribute the Internet on Windows 10, you need to make one more setting. Press the Win+R key combination and enter the open command in the line ncpa.cpl. Press on the keyboard Enter button and a window will open for the network connections that exist in the operating system.

Please note that you must have two wireless connections while using only one network adapter. This is fine! Secondly, in my example this “Local Area Network Connection *2” is the Wi-Fi that the computer distributes. But what we need now is not that, but the connection through which your PC accesses the Internet. For me it is a Local Network. Right-click on this icon:

Note: If you are using a PPPoE connection to your provider, then you need to select a High-speed connection. If you are connected via L2TP or PPTP tunnel, then you need to select a VPN connection.

In the window that appears, open the “Access” tab:

Check the box "Allow other network users to use this computer's Internet connection." After this, the “Connect to your home network” list will appear below. Here you need to select the created wireless network, which I already mentioned above. That's it, click OK to apply the settings.

Well, that’s basically it, now the laptop distributes the Internet via WiFi and without a router, independently performing their functions.

Advice:
Every time you turn on your computer to start a virtual access point, you will have to enter this command:

To automate this process a little, you can create on your desktop text file this is the content:

After that, save the file and rename it to change the extension from *.txt to *.bat. This will make the file executable. Now it needs to be placed in Autoload. This will force the laptop to distribute WiFi automatically as soon as Windows 10 boots up.

On previous versions OS - Windows 7 and Windows 8, everything is done exactly the same as on Windows 10. Here is a video instruction:

Possible problems: If, when you try to start a virtual access point in the command line, you receive the error “The hosted network could not be started. The group or resources are not in in the right condition to perform the required operation" - then first check whether the Wi-Fi adapter is turned on on the laptop. If it is definitely turned on, then run the following command:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=disallow

After that, try starting the virtual router again. Everything should work!

Method 2. Programs for distributing the Internet from a laptop via WiFi

This is an easier way to distribute Wi-Fi, which does not require any “extra steps” at all. Typically, all you need to do is launch the application. In some cases, he needs to manually specify through which network adapter the laptop accesses the Internet. The most popular program for WiFi distribution - this is, of course, a utility Connectify Hotspot:

In my opinion, despite its popularity, it is not the most the best option. There are analogues that are simpler, more convenient and, most importantly, provide the same functions as Connectify Pro absolutely free.

One such example is the program mHotspot:

This is great free program for distributing the Internet via a wireless network. There are only a few fields in the main application window. "Hotspot Name" is the name of the WiFi network or the so-called SSID. The "Password" field is the Wi-Fi password. In the "Share From" list, you must manually specify the network connection through which the PC accesses the Internet. We don’t touch anything else and press the “Start” button. Well, let’s enjoy the delights of wireless Internet!

In general, as I noted above, there is a sea of ​​similar software, but personally, I liked the Chinese utility the most of all of them Ostoto Hotspot. It is distributed freely, there are no built-in advertisements yet, it works and is not buggy! What else is needed for happiness?!

This free program for distributing Wi-Fi from a laptop has the bare minimum of settings and works right out of the box. Even a schoolboy can figure it out. To change the SSID or password for the connection, simply click on the “Edit” icon and enter your parameters in the fields that appear. Don't forget to save your changes by clicking the "Save" button.

How to distribute the Internet from a phone or tablet

Many users prefer for various reasons mobile access to cable Internet, because it is always at hand - not only at home, but wherever you are. The main thing is that there is confident welcome cellular communications. But again, if you need to connect another device, difficulties immediately arise. Fortunately, the developers of the Android and iOS operating systems for mobile devices have built in the ability to organize a Wi-Fi router via a phone or tablet. Let's look at how this is done in more detail.

How to set up an access point on Android

Click on the gear icon and open your smartphone Settings:

In the "Wireless Networks" section, find the "More" button and click it. In the next menu we find the item “Modem mode”:

And then you need to select the “Wi-FI access point” item. The following menu will appear:

Here you need to move the slider to the “On” position.
With this, you have already launched a virtual router, which allows you to distribute Wi-Fi on Android.
To see what the password is for connecting to this wireless network or to change it, click on the line “Setting up an access point”:

If necessary, here you can change the SSID, the type of encryption standard used, and the security key.
To disable the virtual router, simply move the switch to the "Off" position.

How to distribute Internet from iPhone

Fortunately, not only Android has such a function; Apple's iOS also allows you to turn on the hotspot on your iPhone and iPad with just a few swipes of your finger. This is done as follows. Open the settings of your iPhone and find the “Cellular” item:

Scroll down to “Modem Mode” and select it:

The following menu will appear:

Here you need to turn on the modem mode with the slider, after which your iPhone will start distributing the connected 3G/4G Internet via Wi-Fi. The password for connecting to this wireless network can be viewed and even changed in the “WiFi Password” field.
To turn off the wireless access point on iPhone and iPad, simply turn off tethering mode.

Perhaps I will greatly surprise someone, but if you don’t have a router at hand, and you need to distribute the Internet, you can provide communication throughout your entire apartment or small office directly from a laptop or from a desktop PC equipped with a simple wireless adapter. This can be especially useful if you bought a smartphone or tablet and would like to access the Internet from it without buying a router (for example, as an emergency connection test without purchasing additional equipment).

Under such circumstances, you will be able distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop, connected to the network, both conventional wired and wireless connection. The described method is suitable for any Windows versions, starting from seven. If you are a supporter of non-standard approaches, or prefer not to install additional software when installing products, you can immediately proceed to the method where Wi-Fi distribution will be established using the Windows command line. See also:, and.

Distributing Wi-Fi from a laptop using Virtual Router/Virtual Router Plus

Many users interested in distributing the Internet via Wi-Fi from a laptop have probably heard about such an application as Virtual Router Plus, or simply Virtual Router. I'll tell you in more detail about each of them.

Virtual Router Plus is a free application that is a slightly modified Virtual Router. This software is available based on GNU licenses GPL, resulting in open product was slightly modified and redesigned, after which we got the Plus version. The product is also completely Russified. Main disadvantage this application– this is the fact that when installing a product, a lot of unnecessary software ends up on the user’s computer, which is not always possible to refuse. At the time of writing, a clean version of Virtual Router Plus without unnecessary utilities can be downloaded from the Softonic website.

Network distribution technique using of this product quite clear and simple. The only drawback that you will encounter if you try to set up distribution using Virtual Router Plus is that for the connection to work, the laptop must be connected to the network not via Wi-Fi, but via a wire.

The operation of the program and the principle of setting up communication are simple and banal to the point of disgrace. When you launch the application, you will see the main modular window where you will need to set a number of parameters:

• network name (SSID) – the name of the connection that will be displayed in the list of available hotspots;
• password – a corresponding code word or set of characters with which your connection will be protected;
• general connection – here you should select the connection that your network adapter uses to access the network.

Once all parameters are set, use the button to launch the application at the bottom of the window.

After a few seconds, a notification will appear on the screen indicating that the connection has been successfully created and you can now connect to it using any portable device. As you can see, our connection is now visible in the list of hotspots.

If your laptop is connected to the network in a similar way, that is, through wireless connection, it will be quite possible to launch the program itself, but to establish a connection to virtual router will no longer be possible - when identifying an IP address, problems will arise. software glitch, which does not allow communication. Under all other circumstances the program will be great free solution For Wi-Fi distribution via laptop.

Another analogue of the one described above software product– Virtual Router. This utility is based on the same source, from which Virtual Router Plus was compiled, and it works in a very similar way. In addition, by downloading the utility from the official website, you do not risk adding a lot of crap to your PC, such as an additional Internet browser, search bars and changing the web browser home page.

The program has not been translated into Russian, which does not detract from its other advantages: lightness, simplicity and elegance. I recommend downloading this module from the official web resource of the project. Just like in the Plus version, you specify the network name, password for it and select the active one wired connection, providing access to the Internet, then press main button“Start Virtual Router” and voila - you're done.

Using the Windows Command Line

Finally, I came to the last method of organizing distribution over Wi-Fi, without using auxiliary paid or free apps. The described technique works perfectly on both Windows 7 and 8/8.1 or 10.

To begin, press Win+R and enter the command “ncpa.cpl”. As a result, a list of network connections will appear on the display. Right-click on the wireless connection and go to Properties.

Now you need to go to the “Access” tab and check the box next to the option “Allow other users to connect to this PC’s network”

Let's launch. To do this, right-click on the Start button and select the “Command Prompt (Administrator)” option.

When working in Windows 7, click on the “Start” button, find “Command Prompt” in the list, and right-click on it. In the context menu, find the “Administrator” option.

Now it's time to run the "netsh vlan shou drivers" command and see what this command tells us about the support of the hosted network. If this item is active, everything is in order, you can proceed further. If not, then either your network card on your laptop is too old, or the adapter driver is installed incorrectly. In the latter case, you will have to reinstall it from the official website of the device manufacturer.

The initial command available to enter in order to turn our laptop into a router is as follows: netsh vlan set houstednetvork mode=allou ssid=lap_test key=87654321. You can change the name of the network (ssid) and its password (key) to something more convenient for you.

When the command is entered, you need to get visual confirmation that all the actions caused by the command we entered were performed correctly: wireless access was provided, the network name was accepted, and the key (in other words, the password) was also changed. You can enter the following query at the prompt:

• netsh vlan start houstednetwork

Having entered the last of the commands, an inscription should appear on the screen indicating that the launch of the hosted network was successful.

Finally, the last query that can serve you well, and which will certainly be useful for determining the status of your connection, the number of nodes connected to it, or the Wi-Fi channel, is netsh vlan show houstednetwork.

If you decide to pause the distribution, you may need a command like this:

• netsh vlan stop houstednetwork

The only significant drawback this method- this is that after each reboot of the PC, the distribution is suspended, and it has to be started again manually. To automate this process and not enter a request to start the network manually each time, you can create a bat file and add it to startup, or launch it manually if necessary.

As you can see, setting up Wi-Fi distribution on a laptop is absolutely not difficult. The whole process is described quite clearly and informatively, so you are unlikely to do anything wrong if you read the instructions presented above in full before setting up the distribution.

Yes maybe! But there are many nuances and incomprehensible moments, which I will talk about in this article. Below you will find a detailed answer to the question: “can a laptop distribute Wi-Fi?” Since I have already written many detailed instructions on this topic, as I write the article I will provide links to detailed instructions, through which you can set up Internet distribution via Wi-Fi from your laptop or desktop computer.

For those who are interested in how it works. A few words about the technology itself and how everything is implemented. In order to somehow expand the functionality of Wi-Fi wireless technology, Microsoft developed Virtual WiFi technology. It's like this shell (essentially just a program built into Windows), which can create virtual Wi-Fi adapters. Here in a laptop, or one physical adapter is connected to the computer, or a Wi-Fi module (in other words, a fee). And this adapter can, for example, only connect to Wi-Fi networks. And thanks to Virtual WiFi technology, Windows has the ability to create a virtual Wi-Fi adapter that will work independently of the main one. (With different settings) . For example, one receives Wi-Fi, and the second distributes it. That's how it all works. It is the Virtual WiFi technology that allows you to distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop without a router.

Starting with Windows 7, it became possible to launch a virtual access point in a simple way (by using certain commands) . All that is needed is SoftAP support in the wireless network adapter driver. As practice shows, there are no problems with this. Although, in rare cases when the virtual access point fails to start, updating the driver may help.

Despite the fact that the Internet can be distributed to your devices from a laptop or PC, this method of organizing Wi-Fi networks will never replace a real router. With a router everything is much simpler, more reliable and stable. Much more features and functions. A virtual Wi-Fi network can be used temporarily, sometimes, but it is not entirely correct to consider this method as full replacement router. It’s better to buy the cheapest router (read more about choosing in the article). It will be better this way, believe me.

As I wrote above, Virtual WiFi technology is built into the Windows 7 operating system (except initial version), Windows 8, and of course in Windows 10. By the way, in the tenth version there was already a shell for working with this function, which is called “Mobile hotspot”. We will return to this later.

What do you need to distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop?

Nothing special. Laptop with built-in, working Wi-Fi module (it is available in every model), or desktop computer with internal or external Wi-Fi adapter. I wrote about them. It is clear that it must be connected to the Internet. Via cable or via USB modem. It is also possible to use a laptop as a repeater (amplifier). This means that it will receive the Internet via Wi-Fi and distribute it in the form of another wireless network.

A driver must be installed on the Wi-Fi adapter. That is, the adapter itself should appear in the device manager. Wi-Fi should work. How to check? In Device Manager, on the "Network Adapters" tab, there should be an adapter whose name includes "Wireless", "Wi-Fi", "802.11", or "WLAN".

And in network connections there must be a “Wireless Network Connection” adapter, or “Wireless Network” in Windows 10.

If you do not have these adapters in the settings, then install the driver. Download the driver from the official website of the laptop manufacturer or the adapter itself. And only for your model and installed version Windows. You may also need a separate one.

But that is not all. You can check if the driver supports SoftAP. Launching a virtual access point. What we need to distribute the Internet via Wi-Fi network from a laptop.

To do this, you need to run the following command in the command line running as administrator:

netsh wlan show drivers

The result should be like this (“Hosted Network Support” – “Yes”):

If you see “No” there, then I advise you to try starting the access point. If that doesn't work, update the driver.

In Windows 10, “Hosted network support” is often indicated as “No”, but the laptop distributes the Internet perfectly via mobile hotspot.

We have found out what is needed to distribute a Wi-Fi network; you can proceed directly to setting up and launching the access point itself.

How to launch an access point and distribute the Internet without a router?

There are three ways:

1. Using commands, which must be executed on the command line. This universal method, which works on Windows 10, Windows 8 and Windows 7. The commands are the same. In most cases, it is better to use this option. Disadvantages: a bit difficult to figure out (according to my instructions - easy) and every time you need to open the command line to start the distribution. But there is a solution here too. I'll tell you further in the article.
2. Through special third party programs. There are many free and paid programs for running SoftAP. All these programs are just a shell, and execute the same commands that you can execute yourself through the command line. You can simply do this in programs by pressing buttons. It is not uncommon for many problems to arise with them. And if you can't run virtual network through the command line, then most likely it will not work through the program.
3. Via mobile hotspot. Only in Windows 10. This is a separate function in the settings, with which you can distribute the Internet in a few clicks. If you have Windows 10 and the Internet is not via PPPoE, then I recommend this option.

And now in more detail:

Universal method: via the command line

Suitable for all Windows operating systems. You need to run the command line as an administrator. To control a virtual point Wi-Fi access we only need three commands:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid="mywi-fi" key="11111111" keyUsage=persistent – where "mywi-fi" is the network name, and "11111111" is the password. You can replace them with your own. We execute this command only once. Or when you need to change the network name or password.

netsh wlan start hostednetwork – launching Wi-Fi network distribution.

netsh wlan stop hostednetwork – stop distribution.

Something like this:

Important point:

After starting the network, you must open public access in the Internet connection properties. Otherwise, the laptop will distribute the Wi-Fi network, but without access to the Internet, or devices will not connect to it. I showed in detail how to do this in the articles linked below.

Detailed instructions:

Choose the instructions that suit you best and configure.

Problems and solutions:

• (Error: The hosted network could not start. The group or resource is not in the correct state to perform the required operation.)

Through special programs

I never liked this option. It's easier with the help of commands. But the method works, so you can try it. I recommend the following programs: Virtual Router, Switch Virtual Router, Maryfi, Connectify 2016..

Looks like I collected all the articles. This information will be enough for you.

conclusions

We have found out that almost every laptop and computer can share the Internet via a Wi-Fi network with other devices. To do this, you only need a configured Wi-Fi adapter. Then you just need to start the distribution using one of the methods, and depending on the chosen method, open general access to the Internet. After which our laptop turns into a router

Judging by the comments to other articles, this function does not always work stably and without problems. Everything works. Although I use this method only when I write instructions on this topic. If you have a router, then there is no need to torture your laptop.

Most likely you still have some questions. Ask them in the comments, don’t be shy :)

Most Internet users are connected to the network using a cable brought into the room by the provider. This connection is quite convenient - connect a cable to your computer or laptop and use the Internet. But for last years any user could encounter a problem when purchasing mobile devices, digital cameras, tablets and entertainment products - all of them are equipped with a Wi-Fi module. Naturally, there is a need to connect them to the Internet. To connect all mobile devices to Wi-Fi, you need a wireless access point. And many people wonder whether it is possible to distribute WiFi with a laptop without spending additional Money for the purchase of special equipment?

Several solutions

On any operating system Windows family you can set up an access point and distribute WiFi from your laptop. XP, the old Windows system, will not be left unattended. Configuration is carried out in three known ways:

1. Using Network Sharing Center. Such the method will work for almost all laptops that have a modern Wi-Fi adapter installed.
2. Installation from the command line. This method will be of interest to advanced users who are well versed in Windows operating systems. From the command line it is convenient to configure an access point on laptops remotely, for example, by a service operator technical support users who know how to distribute WiFi from a laptop. The second option is to write the commands sequentially in executable file and passing it on e-mail to the user, provide remote creation and setting up an access point on the required laptop.
3. Using third party software. The program for distributing WiFi from a laptop will be optimal choice if you have problems with the first two methods.

Important points in the settings

Whichever way Wi-Fi settings was selected, the user will need to specify the network name and password for the access point. The network name is specified in English letters only. But you should pay attention to the password. A simple password of numbers or English words can be quickly cracked. It is better to use a complex one - mixed letters and numbers. About setting the same password as in in social networks or mailbox. There is no need to do this. Guests may arrive at any moment and need to connect to the Internet, and therefore they will have to tell them the Wi-Fi password... What if one of them then decides to try it on your account? So, for the sake of sporting interest. And he will get access.

Nothing is simpler

Any action Windows users start with the "Start" button. And then point by point:

1. Open Control Panel and find Network and Sharing Center. Select “Set up a new connection or network” - “Set up a computer-to-computer wireless network.”
2. A new window will ask you to name the network, set the security type and set a password for connecting to Wi-Fi. The security type should be maximum - WPA2. At the bottom this menu You must select the “Save settings for this network” option and click the “Next” button.
3. A message appears indicating that the network is ready for use. At the bottom of this message, you must select the “Turn on Internet connection sharing” option and, after completing the operation, click on the “Close” button.
4. Returning to the “Network Center”, before distributing WiFi from the laptop, you must select the “Change” option Extra options public access", located in the left top corner current window. In a new window, allow network discovery and sharing. You can connect any devices via Wi-Fi that will work seamlessly on the Internet.

Good to Great - Using the Command Line

There will always be users who will be interested in using a more complex, but no less effective way to create an access point from the command line. The execution algorithm is as follows:

1. Run Command Prompt as administrator.
2. In the command line, enter the command: netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=IMYA key=PAROL, where instead of IMYA specify proper name network, and instead of PAROL write the password for the network.
3. All that remains is to launch the access point itself with the command netsh wlan start hostednetwork.
4. Before distributing WiFi from a laptop, you need to allow all users access to the Internet.

Problems and their solutions

Not all laptops can create a Wi-Fi hotspot. This is primarily due to the fact that the module installed in the laptop is a very old model. Or the driver installed for the Wi-Fi module does not understand standard Windows commands. There is no need to despair, because there is always a solution - you can install specialized software that will help resolve the issue. Having set the goal of how to distribute WiFi from a laptop using third-party programs, you need to know that most of such programs are shareware, and a dilemma arises: to find free version, figuring out how it works on your own, or using a shareware version whose functionality is limited. Alternatively, you can purchase a program, but there is no guarantee that it will be able to control the old Wi-Fi module, so you need to experiment with different programs yourself. After making sure that the utility works one hundred percent, you can make a purchasing decision.

Free Idea for Latest Windows Systems

The Switch Virtual Router program impresses not only with its great functionality and excellent stability, but also with the presence of a Russified menu. Its only drawback is its incompatibility with moral outdated systems Windows XP and VISTA. The program creates a wireless local network and allows you to use office equipment by transferring data via WiFi from a laptop. Even a beginner can understand the user-friendly interface of the program. After installing and launching the program, you are asked to fill out only two fields - give the network name and enter the password twice. By clicking the “Start” button, you can safely connect devices via WiFi.

Whatever you say, free is captivating

Owners of an old operating system should not be upset. There is one great program that doesn’t care what system it works with, and the functionality and ease of management are not inferior to the previous program. A nice bonus will automatic creation wireless network when turning on the laptop. Its name is MyPublicWiFi, and it is also free. There is only one drawback - the program is not Russified - without knowledge in English Additional settings will be difficult to master. To run the program, you will need administrator rights, and to configure, in addition to specifying the network name and password for it, you must select required connection to access the Internet from the list proposed by the program.

The best program in the world

The Connectify app has a lot of functionality, unlike its competitors. And it will help you distribute WiFi from your laptop without any problems. The program is capable of receiving Internet even from 3G networks, but you will have to pay for it. But the developers took a step toward users and created a program with reduced functionality that does not allow changing the name of the access point during setup and working with 3G networks. On the other hand, this simplifies setup: enter the network password and click “Start”. Simply and easily.

Are penguin lovers left out?

Linux is a system for advanced users. Therefore, the algorithm of actions is presented very briefly:

1. Install packages: sudo apt-get install hostapd libpam-radius-auth.
2. “Wireless networks” - “Add”.
3. In the connection name and SSID field the name of the point is indicated, the mode is set to special, and mtu is set to automatic. The remaining points can be left untouched.
4. Method, in the Ipv4 tab, be sure to select “Shared with other computers”, but with the “Security” tab you will have to experiment, apparently this is due to the type Wi-Fi module. To begin with, you can install WEP 40/128, it works on many laptops, and the key for it will be five characters, which is quite acceptable.

conclusions

Each user decides for himself which method is right for him. The main thing is to remember that the right decision can only be obtained by taking some action. If one method does not work, you need to try the next one. The result will be in any case. Before distributing WiFi through a laptop, you need to make sure that the module is physically installed in it and that it is fully functional. To do this, you need to access the Internet using a laptop via WiFi in any convenient place - an Internet cafe, with friends, or contact specialists in service center. And only after making sure that the equipment is installed and capable of working, proceed to setting up the distribution. Otherwise, you can waste a lot of time swearing about programs not working.

Today, almost every person has access to mobile devices, whose work is carried out using WiFi internet. Modern wireless networks have completely changed the approach to using computer devices, thereby making a huge contribution to computer industry. The concept of virtualization can increase existing capabilities by removing some restrictions on the use of networks. This technique has been implemented by various companies, including Microsoft (VirtualWiFi). Microsoft's VirtualWiFi technology can only create a connection with the type AES encryption, so it will not work for Android devices (they can only work with the type TKIP encryption). In addition, the stripped-down version of Windows (“Starter”) does not have very strong functionality, so they cannot distribute WiFi using this technology.

How to set up and distribute WiFi in Windows?

First you need to take a laptop that uses an adapter with VirtualWiFi technology. You need to configure it and create a network connection using the “Network and Sharing Center” and the “Create and configure a new connection” tab. This is followed by entering the network name in the SSID field, setting a password, entering a security key and saving all settings. After this, you can start using the Internet. (More details will be described at the bottom of the article)

How to distribute WiFi through the netsh service?

To Work with home network WiFi can be used using the command line, for which you should use netsh command. You need to create a file with bat format, specify in it all the settings of the future network and simply launch it. This will install the VirtualWiFiAdapter driver and create a wireless connection. Once all settings are completed, you must give permission for other users to use the network.

First, you need to press the WIN+R key combination to open the command execution window.

Then type the “cmd” parameter in the column and launch the command line.

In the window that appears, type the command “netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=”goodkomp” key=”12345678″ keyUsage=persistent”.

The parameter designations are as follows: “set hostednetwork” (network settings), “ssid=”goodkomp”” (network name), “key=”12345678″” security key, “keyUsage=persistent|temporary” permanent or temporary network key. After all the steps taken, a new device “Miniport adapter” should appear in the device manager virtual WiFi Microsoft".

Now the wireless network needs to be started. To do this, go to the command line again and enter the following command “netsh wlan start hostednetwork”.

Now you need to go to the “Network and Sharing Center”, where a new connection should appear. Next, go to “Network Connections” (“Control Panel” -> “Network and Internet” -> “Network Connections”). Next, you need to click on the connection through which you access the Internet and right-click on it. Select the “Properties” tab, then “Access”. Check the box next to “Allow other network users to use this computer’s Internet connection” and select the connection through which you connect to the wireless network and click on the “OK” tab.

By using following commands You can view the network parameters:

• “Netsh wlan show hostednetwork” - write in the command line this command. With its help you can see the number of clients connected to the network;

• “Netsh wlan stop hostednetwork” - using this command you can stop the network;

Same method only using a text file

Distribute WiFi from a laptop using a text file)

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Programs that allow you to distribute WiFi from a laptop

Virtual Router Plus

Free utility - Virtual Router Plus. You can download this program from the website software. After going to the site, you must click on the “Download Latest Release” tab (download latest version), where links to download the program will be provided.

On computer will happen downloading the program in a zip archive. The advantage of this program is that it does not need to be installed on the computer itself - you just need to download the archive, unzip it and run the program. In the unpacked archive with the program, you should run the exe file “VirtualRouter.exe”. Then the program itself will open.

The column called “NetworkName” contains access points that will subsequently distribute the Internet. The “Password” column contains the password that is required to access the network. The “Shared Connection” column contains the connection from which the Internet will be distributed. If initial settings for one reason or another they are not satisfied, they can be changed. To change the password, you need to click on the “Advanced settings” tab, where the additional settings menu will open.

This program has its drawbacks, for example, it often conflicts with drivers and adapters. If a program has a conflict with a driver, you need to find an alternative to the driver software that is available on your computer. If a conflict occurs with the adapter, then it is better to look for another program for WiFi. If a critical error occurs while using the program, the user will be redirected to the developers' website, where the necessary recommendations will be given to resolve the error.

Switch Virtual Router

Advanced user functionality Virtual programs Router Plus may well not satisfy. Perfect for such cases free utility Switch Virtual Router. This program does not support Windows XP and Vista operating systems. The program runs under Windows 7, 8, 8.1. You can purchase the program on the developer’s website by just clicking on the “download” tab. After downloading the program, you need to run the executable exe file.

Then the program’s installation window will open, which will greet you with the words “Welcome to ExcelsiorInstaller for SwitchVirtualRouter 3.3.” Below you need to click on the “next” tab. Next, you will be taken to the window for accepting the license agreement, where you need to click on the “accept” tab.

In the shortcut creation window, click on the “next” tab.

Then check the boxes where you need to create shortcuts and click on the “next” tab.

Then the installation of the program will follow.

After installation, you need to click on the “exit” tab.

When the installation of the program is complete, you need to launch it to perform the initial setup.

The “General” tab will open, where there are several columns at the bottom. One of them is called “NameRouterSSID” - in it you need to specify the name of the Wi-Fi access point. The next column is “Password” - in it you need to indicate the so-called network access key. In the “Confirmpassword” column, you must repeat the password. You can also check the “Showconnecteddevice” column if you want to see a list of connected devices to the network. Column “Auto-updateofNetworkstatus” (automatic update network status) when the system starts, it will automatically create an access point. "Soundnotification" column ( sound notification) will serve sound signal, if a new device is connected to the virtual modem.

In the program settings, in the “Language” tab, you can select your preferred language. If you want the program to start when the operating system starts, you should add it to startup by checking the “RunwitchWindows” box (run together with Windows). If during initial setup If errors occur, you should restart your PC and try to make the settings again.

It is worth noting that not a single implemented software analogue of a Wi-Fi router can replace the functionality of a real one. It is better to buy a router with Wi-Fi support. Only in a hardware router can you very flexibly set up encryption and introduce network access restrictions for a certain set of devices, which will prevent third parties from connecting to the wireless network. Hardware routers have significantly higher adapter power than a laptop. To modern wireless devices Signal amplifiers have been installed, they distribute the Internet to greater distance. Another undoubted advantage of such a router is that it does not require turning on the computer for its operation, since the power is supplied from its own unit.

Program for distributing Wi-Fi from a laptop Connectify Hotspot

Connectify Hotspot is a small program for creating wireless point access on a laptop. The program is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1. The device that will be selected for the access point must have an Internet connection, but it does not matter what type of connection is involved, be it 3G or a regular ADSL connection.

In the program menu, you can view connection statistics. You can view reports on transmitted and received information. The program's interface is easy to understand, making it great for novice users. The Wireless Access Point Creation Wizard will help you do everything in just a few clicks. required settings. The function of minimizing the program to the system tray will help avoid desktop overload.

One of the disadvantages of such a program is the lack of support for older operating systems such as XP and Vista.

How to use Connectify Hotspot

The program has an English-language interface, but in itself it is intuitive. First you need to download the program, then run installation file and perform the installation. After installation, you will need to restart your computer so that the program can install drivers for network card. After the reboot, you should launch the program. Next you need to fill in the fields:

• HotSpot Name is the name for the wireless access point;
• Password – you must specify a password in the column;
• Internet to Share – here you can specify the adapter that is used for the Internet. No need to specify wifi adapter, since it is necessary for Internet distribution;
• Share Over - this column indicates the Wi-Fi adapter itself, with the help of which the Internet will be distributed;
• Sharing Mode – network connection type. The most secure network is WPA-2;
• Next, you need to click on Start HotSpot to complete the creation of the access point.

The main advantages of the program:

• Creating an access point without using a hardware router;
• Connection creation wizard, which greatly simplifies the initial setup;
• Availability of several data encryption methods;
• Controlling the program using the icon located on the toolbar;
• A function that will help protect third parties from connecting to the network;
• Possibility of connecting to a wireless network mobile phones and game consoles (PS3, Xbox360).

MyPublicWiFi

First you need to download the program from the official website. After this, run the installation program, and then restart the computer to install the driver software for the network card.

How to use the MyPublicWiFi program:

• Right-click on the program shortcut and select “Run as administrator”;
• In the program window you need to set the “Automatic Hotspot configuration” parameter. Then, in the “Network name” column, specify the name for the wireless access point. In the “Network key” column you must specify the network key (password);
• Next, you need to select the connection type, usually a local network connection;
• Once the setup is complete, you can start distribution. To do this, click on “Set up and Start Hotspot”. After the configuration check is completed, you can detect a network connection through which you can access the Internet.

You can now join the connection using your phone or tablet. After the device detects a new network, you need to enter the created key (password). To stop Wi-Fi distribution, you need to click on “Stop HotSpot” in the program window, after which the distribution will be stopped.

Share WiFi with Windows

A simple way to distribute WiFi is the built-in MS Virtual Wi-Fi adapter. Using it you can set up a wireless network connection.

To do this, you will need to perform several sequential steps:

• You need to go to the “Start” menu, select the “Control Panel” tab, then “Network and Internet”,

then “Network and Sharing Center”;

• In the bottom menu “Change” network parameters» select “Creating and setting up a new connection or network”.

In the window that appears, you need to click on the “Creation and configuration” tab new network", then to "next" and fill in the fields that appear: "Name of the wireless network", you can use any name, "Password for WiFi", required to connect to the network, "Security type", it is recommended to select WPA2-Personal;

• At the end, check the “Save settings for this network” tab and the network is ready for use.

Thus, it turns out that you can distribute WiFi from a laptop different ways- All that remains is to decide which method you like best.