Many people often don’t realize that PCs can be turned into Wi-Fi hotspots. It takes some serious tweaking into the settings and playing with your network options to do this but with Connectify, you can quickly turn your computer into a hotspot. We have already covered a guide on how to install Connectify, but here we will focus on reliability and simplicity of this software.
There are two versions of Connectify; Pro and Max. There is also a free version. We’ve covered both versions in our review.
Connectify Hotspot Review (Free Plan)
The free software comes with the features you would expect while Pro and Max offers several features that enhance this experience. For now, let’s focus on the free version.
Share Any Connection (Except 3G and 4G)
The cool thing about Connectify is the ability to share any link. Obviously, you can share the Wi-Fi connection, but you can also share an Ethernet connection.
Secure Passwords
The service sets your new Wi-Fi hotspot like a primary router, password, and everything. Connectify will automatically generate a password for you and you can customize it to whatever you would like.
Data Monitoring
If you need to keep track of your devices’ data usage (or are just curious), the service will give you access to that info. By finding the client tab in the software, you can find information on your connected devices such as:
- When it was first connected
- The total time it has been connected
- Full data used
- Download/upload speeds
Connectify Review – Pro & Max (Paid Plans)
The other versions of this software are Hotspot Pro & Max; both are paid versions priced at $35 and $50 respectively. Both these paid versions come with a lifetime license as well as a yearly license. So do check the prices carefully before purchasing your license. These days, however, they have a very cool 70% off on Max which I think is a real deal-grabber for anyone interested in owning a reliable hotspot software.
So what are the benefits of buying a Pro versus a Max? Apart from knowing that you have a 30-day money back guarantee, you also have the luxury of the following perks:
3G/4G Connections
If you have a tethering plan on your PC or mobile device you can now easily connect it through Pro and Max both.
Custom Hotspot Names
You can give your personal hotspot a unique name with both the paid versions; in the free version, the name is simply Connectify-me.
Bridging/Repeater Mode
Unique to Max version only; you get the feature of Wi-Fi bridging and repeater mode. Bridging essentially connects your devices to the actual network (which is handy for making services like online games work). Repeater mode extends the range of your Wi-Fi. Slick eh?
Unlimited Flings
The free version allows you to “fling” files between connected devices; but that was limited to few “flings”; with Max and Pro, you get unlimited sharing of data. In fact, according to Connectify website, its the only software router that lets you wirelessly send files directly to connected devices, without even needing an Internet connection. So I would say, if you have the need, the PCs and the money, grab the deal of 70% off! And even if the deal is off, $35 is not a bad price to start…
Custom IP and DHCP Controls
Unique to Max version only; if you are one of those people who want to control the custom IP and DHCP configurations for each device then this is for you. This is useful for gaming, Peer 2 peer sharing and custom applications.
Does Connectify Hotspot Work?
Setting it up was a breeze and it was just as easy to set up my phone with it. I also didn’t notice any speed difference connecting with Connectify as opposed to directly with the Wi-Fi. Really my only complaint for the software is the tutorial. It is annoying at best and completely unhelpful at worst. It only serves to tell you blatantly obvious information and slows down the entire process. But that’s a small complaint for what is otherwise a solid service. You are welcome to use our guide for installing connectify hotspot sofware.
If you have Windows 10, the program will even sync with your notifications bar which is to say that this software is compatible with Windows 10.
The Verdict
Connectify Hotspot is a simple and very reliable software for anyone who wants a personal hotspot service. It is easy to setup, comes with some useful features and a free version as well. If you want to enhance your service, of course, the Pro and Max versions have some great features, and it all comes at the low-ish price of $35 & $50 for Pro and Max versions (when they are not on any offer). All in all, it is definitely worth a try for anyone looking to share internet connection. You can grab the 70% off deal on Connectify Max now!
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