Question: What Does Tethering Mean?
A visitor has written in asking to learn more about what the word tethering means and how it applies to cell phones.
Answer: In relation to cell phone use, tethering has two definitions and both can apply to mobile professionals' use of their cell phone.
- The first definition of tethering refers to using a cell phone as a modem for your laptop or PDA. Creating a connection either with cables or wirelessly "tethers" your cell phone to your other mobile device.
When reading User Agreements for cell phone service providers make sure to pay attention if the Agreement prohibits the use of "tethering your cell phone" or using your cell phone in a "tethered capacity".
If you do not have a cell phone service package that allows you to use your cell phone as a modem you could be in violation of your User Agreement and lose your service. You may also find that you have incredibly high bills for your connection time.
- The second definition of tethering for cell phones refers to using a safety strap or lanyard to keep your cell phone securely connected to you or your laptop case.
Safety tethers can be made from a variety of materials and many have retractable cords which means you don't have to disconnect the cell phone from the tether in order to use it.
For those who like to keep their cell phone handy but worry that a belt clip or pouch is not going to be secure enough, a cell phone tether is a wise solution.
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