The process of enabling a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection on an Android device and subsequently sharing that connection via Wi-Fi tethering is a multifaceted procedure. This functionality allows other devices to utilize the VPN’s secure tunnel through the Android device’s Wi-Fi hotspot. An example would be configuring a VPN on an Android phone and then enabling the phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot so that a laptop can access the internet through the phone’s VPN connection.
Circumventing geo-restrictions, enhancing online privacy, and securing internet access for multiple devices through a single VPN subscription are key advantages. This capability proves valuable in scenarios where certain devices lack native VPN support or when attempting to protect all network traffic within a specific local area network. Historically, achieving this required more complex configurations, often involving rooting the Android device and utilizing specialized third-party applications. However, advancements in Android operating systems and third-party VPN applications have streamlined the process.