Adding Connections
Learn how to make the most of Speedify's unique channel bonding technology
Adding Connections on Windows
In the majority of cases, Speedify will automatically detect and start using all of the Internet connections available to your device.
That includes Wi-Fi, ethernet, tethered iPhones, tethered Androids, and cellular adapters. If it can get you online, Speedify can bond it.
Note: Speedify does not create an Internet connection, it combines the connections you already have to improve performance.
For best results, try and use Internet connections from different sources. In general, joining the same upstream network multiple times (such as the same router via Ethernet and Wi-Fi) will not improve performance.
Wi-Fi
Built-In Wi-Fi
Verify that your Wi-Fi is enabled on your PC and connected to a network.
Click on the Wi-Fi symbol in the lower right corner of the taskbar (systray). If you’re not already connected to a Wi-Fi hotspot, turn on Wi-Fi by clicking on the tile in the lower left side of the pop-up menu then select your desired network. Keep in mind, private networks may require you to enter a password before connecting.
USB Wi-Fi Adapter
CONNECT TO A WI-FI NETWORK
Click on the Wi-Fi symbol in the lower right corner of the taskbar (systray). If your PC also has a built-in Wi-Fi card (or if you have multiple USB Wi-Fi cards connected) you should now see a drop down menu at the top of the dialog. Choose your new Wi-Fi adapter then select your desired Wi-Fi network from the list.
Ethernet
Built-In Ethernet
Connect an Ethernet cable between your router or modem and the Ethernet port on your PC. If your computer doesn’t have a built-in Ethernet port, try using a USB to Ethernet adapter instead.
In most cases, you will connect to the Internet automatically. If it doesn’t work, see some troubleshooting options here.
USB Ethernet Adapter
Tether an iPhone
Enable Personal Hotspot on your iPhone
A Personal Hotspot lets you share the cellular data connection of your iPhone or iPad with other devices via Wi-Fi, USB, or Bluetooth.
Go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot or Settings > Personal Hotspot and flip the switch to on.
From this screen you can verify the name of the phone (which will be used as the Wi-Fi name/SSID) as well as configure the password.
NOTE: If you don't see the option for Personal Hotspot, contact your carrier to make sure that you can use Personal Hotspot with your plan.
Connect your iPhone via Wi-Fi
OR: Connect your iPhone via USB
First, be sure to install or update to the latest version of iTunes, it contains the drivers needed to enable USB tethering.
Connect your iPhone or iPad to your PC with a USB cable. If you see an alert on your iPhone or iPad that says “Trust This Computer?” tap Trust.
Make sure that you can locate and view your iPhone or iPad in iTunes. If your Windows PC doesn't recognize your device, try a different USB cable.
Your iPhone should automatically start sharing its connection to your PC. If you click on the network icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar, the iPhone should be listed at the top of the network list.
OR: Connect your iPhone to your Mac via Bluetooth
NOTE: While Bluetooth is a convenient and wireless way to get internet from your iPhone or iPad to your PC, it is limited to 1 Mbps (Bluetooth 4) or 2 Mbps (Bluetooth 5). If you have fast LTE speeds on your phone, you might get better results with USB or Wi-Fi tethering.
PAIR DEVICES
On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth and make sure that Bluetooth is on. Keep this screen open to ensure your device remains discoverable.
Then, verify that Bluetooth is Enabled on your PC by going to “Bluetooth and Other Devices Settings” in your start menu. Flip the Bluetooth switch on if it isn’t already.
Click on the option to "Add Bluetooth or other device" and let your PC detect the iPhone. This may take a while, so give it a couple of minutes. Finish the pairing process by following the instructions both on your PC and on your iPhone.
CONNECT TO PERSONAL HOTSPOT
Go to Network Connections (Windows key + X - choose “Network Connections”) and on the right side click on “Change adapter options”.
Look for the “Bluetooth Network Connection”. If it’s connected - you’re good to go. If it’s not, double click to view Bluetooth devices. If your iPhone doesn’t automatically show up here, click on “Add a device” and add it.
Click on the “Connect using” button above and choose “Access point”. Windows will set up the connection as “Network #” and you will be able to enjoy Internet connectivity.
Tether an Android
Connect your Android via Wi-Fi
ENABLE Wi-Fi TETHERING
On your Android device open Settings > More > Tethering & Mobile Hotspot > and turn on Wi-Fi Hotspot. On this screen you can also customize your Hotspot Name, password, and more.
CONNECT TO Wi-Fi HOTSPOT
On your PC, click the Wi-Fi icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar (systray). Select the Wi-Fi network being broadcasted by your Android device from the list.
Connect your Android via USB
Connect your Android to your PC using a USB cable. A notification will show at the top of the screen on your Android device. Swipe down from the top of the screen > Touch and hold Hotspot > Turn on USB tethering.
Alternatively, you can go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering to enable USB tethering.
In order to verify that your tethered connection is active, click on the computer / Wi-Fi icon in the lower right area of the taskbar (systray). Tethered devices will be recognized and treated like wired (ethernet) connections. You should see a wired connection named “Network #” which should now be connected. That is your tethered Android phone.
Please note that when USB tethering an Android phone, if that phone is connected to Wi-Fi, the tethering will share the Wi-Fi connection and not the cellular connection. In order to use the cellular connection from your Android phone into the mix, enable mobile data and turn off Wi-Fi on your smartphone.
NOTE: Some mobile carriers limit or charge extra for tethering. We recommend checking with your carrier. Additionally, Some of these steps work only on Android 9 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.
Connect your Android via Bluetooth
NOTE: While Bluetooth is a convenient and wireless way to get internet from your Android phone to your PC, it is limited to 1 Mbps (Bluetooth 4) or 2 Mbps (Bluetooth 5). If you have fast LTE speeds on your phone, you might get better results with USB or Wi-Fi tethering.
ENABLE BLUETOOTH TETHERING
On your Android device open Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > and turn Bluetooth tethering on.
PAIR DEVICES
First, verify that Bluetooth is Enabled on your PC. Go to “Bluetooth and Other Devices Settings” in your start menu. Flip the Bluetooth switch on if it isn’t already.
Then, on your Android device:- Swipe down from the top of the screen then touch and hold Bluetooth.
- Tap “Pair new device” (If you don't find Pair new device, check under "Available devices" or tap More > Refresh.)
- Tap the name of the Bluetooth device you want to pair with your device and follow any on-screen instructions.
CONNECT TO BLUETOOTH HOTSPOT
Go to Network Connections (Windows key + X - choose “Network Connections”) and on the right side click on “Change adapter options”.
Look for the “Bluetooth Network Connection”. If it’s connected - you’re good to go. If it’s not, double click to view Bluetooth devices. If your Android device doesn’t automatically show up here, click on “Add a device” and add it.
Click on the “Connect using” button above and choose “Access point”. Windows will set up the connection as “Network #” and you will be able to enjoy Internet connectivity.
Cellular
USB Cellular Adapter
Connect your Cellular Adapter to a USB port on your PC. Some Cellular adapters require the use of proprietary dialer software to connect to the Internet. Be sure to follow the manufacturers installation and operating instructions closely.
In order to verify that your cellular connection is active, click on the computer / Wi-Fi icon in the lower right area of the taskbar (systray) and check to see if a “Cellular” tile shows up.
Adding Connections on macOS
In the majority of cases, Speedify will automatically detect and start using all of the Internet connections available to your device.
That includes Wi-Fi, ethernet, tethered iPhones, tethered Androids, and cellular adapters. If it can get you online, Speedify can bond it.
Note: Speedify does not create an Internet connection, it combines the connections you already have to improve performance.
For best results, try and use Internet connections from different sources. In general, joining the same upstream network multiple times (such as the same router via Ethernet and Wi-Fi) will not improve performance.
Wi-Fi
Built-In Wi-Fi
Click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar. (If Wi-Fi is off, choose "Turn Wi-Fi on.") Select a nearby Wi-Fi network from the list. Keep in mind, private networks may require you to enter a password before connecting.
USB Wi-Fi Adapter
You can use a secondary Wi-Fi connection on your Mac computer if it's running MacOS version 11 (Big Sur) or older. You’ll need a compatible USB Wi-Fi adapter and any corresponding software or drivers from the device manufacturer. Instructions may vary for your specific make or model.
Connect your USB Wi-Fi Adapter to a USB port on your Mac. Install the necessary drivers and Wireless Utility for your USB Wi-Fi network adapter. Once complete, you may be required to restart your Mac.
Turn On the Wireless Utility of your USB Wi-Fi Network Adapter.
Next, open the Wireless Utility and select and connect to a network from the list that appears. Be aware that you usually have to enter a password for private networks.
You should now be connected to a Wi-Fi network via your USB Wi-Fi Adapter. To confirm your connection status, visit System Preferences, click Network, and look for your new adapter in the list on the left.
Ethernet
Built-In Ethernet
Connect an Ethernet cable between your router or modem and the Ethernet port on your Mac. In most cases, you’ll automatically connect to the internet. If your computer doesn’t have a built-in Ethernet port, try using a USB to Ethernet adapter, or a Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet adapter.
USB Ethernet Adapter
Connect your Ethernet Adapter to a USB port on your Mac then connect an ethernet cable to it and your modem, router, or wall plate. (Depending on the types of ports available on your Mac, you may require an Ethernet adapter like the Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, or the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter.)
To confirm your connection status, visit System Preferences, click Network, and look for your new adapter in the list on the left.
Tether an iPhone
Enable Personal Hotspot on your iPhone
A Personal Hotspot lets you share the cellular data connection of your iPhone or iPad with other devices via Wi-Fi, USB, or Bluetooth.
Go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot or Settings > Personal Hotspot and flip the switch to on.
From this screen you can verify the name of the phone (which will be used as the Wi-Fi name/SSID) as well as configure the password.
NOTE: If you don't see the option for Personal Hotspot, contact your carrier to make sure that you can use Personal Hotspot with your plan.
Connect your iPhone via Wi-Fi
OR: Connect your iPhone via USB
Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac with a USB cable. If you see an alert on your iPhone or iPad that says “Trust This Computer?” tap Trust.
Next, visit System Preferences, click Network, then select iPhone USB/iPad USB from the list on the left. In the right pane deselect the “Disable unless needed” checkbox under Status.
OR: Connect your iPhone via Bluetooth
NOTE: While Bluetooth is a convenient and wireless way to get internet from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac, it is limited to 1 Mbps (Bluetooth 4) or 2 Mbps (Bluetooth 5). If you have fast LTE speeds on your phone, you might get better results with USB or Wi-Fi tethering.
PAIR DEVICES
On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth and make sure that Bluetooth is on. Keep this screen open to ensure your device remains discoverable.
On your Mac, go to System Preferences, then click Bluetooth and make sure Bluetooth is on. Select the device providing Personal Hotspot, click Connect, then follow the onscreen instructions to pair the devices.
CONNECT TO PERSONAL HOTSPOT
On your Mac, click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar. Select the iOS device that is providing Personal Hotspot from the list, then choose Connect to Network.
Tether an Android
Connect your Android via Wi-Fi
ENABLE Wi-Fi TETHERING
On your Android device open Settings > More > Tethering & Mobile Hotspot > and turn on Wi-Fi Hotspot. On this screen you can also customize your Hotspot Name, password, and more.
CONNECT TO Wi-Fi HOTSPOT
On your Mac, click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar. Select the Wi-Fi network being broadcasted by your Android device from the list.
Connect your Android via USB
In order to get your Mac to properly interface with your Android device’s USB tethering mode, you’ll need to install some additional software.
INSTALL THIRD-PARTY DRIVER
HoRNDIS is a driver for macOS that allows you to use your Android device's native USB tethering mode to get Internet access. Download and installation instructions can be found here.
ENABLE USB TETHERING
Once installed, connect your Android to your Mac using a USB cable. A notification will show at the top of the screen on your Android device - swipe down from the top of the screen > Touch and hold Hotspot > Turn on USB tethering.
Next, on your Mac visit System Preferences, click Network, then select your Android device from the list on the left. In the right pane deselect the “Disable unless needed” checkbox under Status.
Please note that when USB tethering an Android phone, if that phone is connected to Wi-Fi, the tethering will share the Wi-Fi connection and not the cellular connection. In order to use the cellular connection from your Android phone into the mix, enable mobile data and turn off Wi-Fi on your smartphone.
NOTE: Some mobile carriers limit or charge extra for tethering. We recommend checking with your carrier. Additionally, Some of these steps work only on Android 9 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.
Connect your Android via Bluetooth
NOTE: While Bluetooth is a convenient and wireless way to get internet from your Android device to your Mac, it is limited to 1 Mbps (Bluetooth 4) or 2 Mbps (Bluetooth 5). If you have fast LTE speeds on your phone, you might get better results with USB or Wi-Fi tethering.
ENABLE BLUETOOTH TETHERING
On your Android device open Settings > More > Tethering & Mobile Hotspot. > and turn Bluetooth tethering on.
PAIR DEVICES
On your Mac, go to System Preferences, then click Bluetooth and make sure Bluetooth is on. Select your Android device, click Connect, and follow any onscreen instructions to pair the devices.
CONNECT TO PERSONAL HOTSPOT
On your Mac, click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar. Select the Android device that is providing Personal Hotspot from the list, then choose Connect to Network.
Cellular
USB Cellular Adapter
Connect your Cellular Adapter to a USB port on your Mac. Some Cellular adapters require the use of proprietary dialer software to connect to the Internet. Be sure to follow the manufacturers installation and operating instructions closely.
To confirm your connection status, visit System Preferences, click Network, and look for your new adapter in the list on the left.
Adding Connections on Linux
In the majority of cases, Speedify will automatically detect and start using all of the Internet connections available to your device.
That includes Wi-Fi, ethernet, tethered iPhones, tethered Androids, and cellular adapters. If it can get you online, Speedify can bond it.
Note: Speedify does not create an Internet connection, it combines the connections you already have to improve performance.
For best results, try and use Internet connections from different sources. In general, joining the same upstream network multiple times (such as the same router via Ethernet and Wi-Fi) will not improve performance.
Wi-Fi
Built-In Wi-Fi
Click on the arrow in the top right corner (also known as the System Menu) then Wi-Fi > Select Network and choose your desired network. Keep in mind, private networks may require you to enter a password before connecting.
USB Wi-Fi Adapter
Connect your Wi-Fi Adapter to a USB port on your Ubuntu computer. Click on the arrow in the top right corner (also known as the System Menu). Click on Click on USB Wi-Fi (the name might be different depending on the adapter model) > Select Network and choose your desired network.
Ethernet
Built-In Ethernet
USB Ethernet Adapter
Connect your Ethernet Adapter to a USB port on your Ubuntu computer then connect an ethernet cable to it and your modem, router, or wall plate.
Your Ubuntu computer will start using your Ethernet connection and you should see it in the system menu listed as “USB Ethernet” or "Wired Connection."
Tether an iPhone
Enable Personal Hotspot on your iPhone
A Personal Hotspot lets you share the cellular data connection of your iPhone or iPad with other devices via Wi-Fi, USB, or Bluetooth.
Go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot or Settings > Personal Hotspot and flip the switch to on.
From this screen you can verify the name of the phone (which will be used as the Wi-Fi name/SSID) as well as configure the password.
NOTE: If you don't see the option for Personal Hotspot, contact your carrier to make sure that you can use Personal Hotspot with your plan.
Connect your iPhone via Wi-Fi
OR: Connect your iPhone via USB
Tether an Android
Connect your Android via Wi-Fi
ENABLE Wi-Fi TETHERING
On your Android device open Settings > More > Tethering & Mobile Hotspot > and turn on Wi-Fi Hotspot. On this screen you can also customize your Hotspot Name, password, and more.
CONNECT TO Wi-Fi HOTSPOT
On your PC, click the Wi-Fi icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar (systray). Select the Wi-Fi network being broadcasted by your Android device from the list.
Connect your Android via USB
Connect your Android device to your Ubuntu computer using a USB cable. A notification will show at the top of the screen on your Android device - swipe down from the top of the screen > Touch and hold Hotspot > Turn on USB tethering.
Alternatively, you can go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering to enable USB tethering.
Your Ubuntu computer will start using your tethered Android device and you should see it in the system menu listed as a “Wired Connection.”
Please note that when USB tethering an Android phone, if that phone is connected to Wi-Fi, the tethering will share the Wi-Fi connection and not the cellular connection. In order to use the cellular connection from your Android phone into the mix, enable mobile data and turn off Wi-Fi on your smartphone.
Cellular
USB Cellular Adapter
Connect your Cellular Adapter to a USB port on your Ubuntu computer. It will most likely appear in your System menu as a “Wired Connection.”
Some Cellular adapters require the use of proprietary dialer software to connect to the Internet. Be sure to follow the manufacturers installation and operating instructions closely.
Adding Connections on iOS
In the majority of cases, Speedify will automatically detect and start using all of the Internet connections available to your device.
That includes Wi-Fi, cellular, and ethernet connections. If it can get you online, Speedify can bond it.
Note: Speedify does not create an Internet connection, it combines the connections you already have to improve performance.
For best results, try and use Internet connections from different sources. In general, joining the same upstream network multiple times (such as the same router via Ethernet and Wi-Fi) will not improve performance.
Wi-Fi
Built-In Wi-Fi
Verify that your Wi-Fi is enabled on your iPhone or iPad and connected to a network.
Go to Settings > Wi-Fi and flip the switch to on. You can then select a network from the list that appears. Keep in mind, private networks may require you to enter a password before connecting.
Cellular
Mobile Data
Verify that you have an active mobile data connection on your iPhone or iPad, and that you have your data turned on.
Go to Settings > Cellular and flip the switch to on.
Ethernet
USB Ethernet Adapter
In order to use an Ethernet connection on your iPhone or iPad, you’ll need a compatible Ethernet adapter.
IF YOUR DEVICE HAS A LIGHTNING PORT
You can use either a Lightning to USB3 adapter in conjunction with a USB Ethernet adapter or alternatively a dedicated Lightning to Ethernet adapter.
IF YOUR DEVICE HAS A USB-C PORT
You can use any USB-C hub that includes Ethernet.
Popular options include: Anker - $35 | AmazonBasics - $25 | Satechi - $80
Plug the adapter into your device and connect an ethernet cable to it and your router or modem.
To double-check your Ethernet connection is working, go to Settings > Ethernet (On iOS devices this menu is hidden unless there is a compatible Ethernet adapter detected)
Adding Connections on Android
In the majority of cases, Speedify will automatically detect and start using all of the Internet connections available to your device.
That includes Wi-Fi, cellular, and ethernet connections. If it can get you online, Speedify can bond it.
Note: Speedify does not create an Internet connection, it combines the connections you already have to improve performance.
For best results, try and use Internet connections from different sources. In general, joining the same upstream network multiple times (such as the same router via Ethernet and Wi-Fi) will not improve performance.
Wi-Fi
Built-In Wi-Fi
Verify that your Wi-Fi is enabled on your Android device and connected to a network.
Go to Settings > Connections and make sure Wi-Fi is switched on. You can then select a network from the list that appears. Keep in mind, private networks may require you to enter a password before connecting.
Cellular
Mobile Data
Verify that you have an active mobile data connection on your Android device.
Swipe down on your notification bar and check that mobile data is active. You can also go to Settings > Connections and make sure the mobile data is switched on.
Ethernet
USB Ethernet Adapter
In order to use an Ethernet connection on your Android device, you’ll need a compatible USB Ethernet adapter. Be sure to read the specifications and/or reviews of an adapter to be sure it will work with your smartphone or tablet.
Plug the adapter into your device and connect an ethernet cable to it and your router or modem.
The Speedify UI
- Settings: You can click the ☰ icon to manage Settings related to Servers, Sessions, Notifications, and Privacy.
- On/Off Switch: This switch can be used to quickly toggle Speedify on and off.
- Status: This section shows you what state Speedify is in as well as the server to which you are currently connected.
- Real-Time Graphs: View real-time performance data for each of your connections. Use the toggles to switch between Usage, Latency, and Packet Loss graphs.
- Internet Connections: Available Internet connections will automatically appear here. You can click the label to bring up detailed statistics and settings for that connection.
- Completed Streams: View past Streams and see how and when Speedify stepped in to help.
- Streams: When in Streaming mode, any current real-time streams will appear at the bottom of your Dashboard. The number of Active streams is how many streams Speedify detects right now.
- Statistics: See how much Speedify has helped you with stats like your Top Upload and Download Speeds, Connections Rescued and Captive Portal assists. All stats available for the day (24 hours), month, and all time.