Connecting to the internet through a mobile phone hotspot

There are times when your normal network may not be available.

The local version of TaxCalc only needs an internet connection when filing/submitting or upgrading the licence/program. The CloudConnect version of TaxCalc requires an internet connection to function.

This article will help you get online to resolve the problems above, when all you have is a suitable mobile phone or other hotspot device.

Android phones

In Android the option to turn on a hotspot is under the Settings option.

• To use it for the first time. Go to Settings > Wireless and Network > Tethering and portable hotspot > Wi-Fi hotspot > Set up WiFi Hotspot
• Give the Wi-Fi network a name and a password. The password must be at least eight characters.
• Select Save
• Slide the Wi-Fi hotspot toggle so it is turned on.
• You can now connect to the hotspot (SSID) you configured using the credentials you set up
• When you have finished using it, turn off the hotspot. Subsequently the hotspot just needs to be turned on to use, as the credentials are now saved. 

Apple Phones

In iOS the option to turn on a hotspot is in the Settings app. To use it for the first time. 

• Open the Settings app > Mobile Data > Personal Hotspot
• Turn on the personal hotspot
• Select WiFi and USB only
• Enter a WiFi password and make a note of the hotspot name
• You can now connect to the hotspot (SSID) you configured using the credentials you set up
• When you have finished using it, turn off the hotspot. Subsequently the hotspot just needs to be turned on to use, as the credentials are now saved. 

PLEASE NOTE: Using the phone as a WiFi hotspot will increase your data usage and drain the battery more quickly, so be aware of data usage and if possible plug the phone in while using it as a hotspot.

MiFi/USB Dongle

If you dont want to use your phone as a hotspot, but visit locations where you need internet connectivity and there is no existing network that can be used, then the best option is a device like a MiFi or similar USB/Wireless dongle.

These requires their own sim card and data plan. They could be PAYG or Monthly subscription. Users will be provided with all the relevant sign on details when they purchase said device. Simply turn on the hotspot and connect to it from your computer, entering the credentials supplied.

PLEASE NOTE: TaxCalc have noticed an issue if using a USB dongle on an Apple Mac in that the mac treats the device as a modem not a network card, this can cause issues with licensing. It is recommended to use a wireless hotspot with a Mac, not USB.