Typical Wi-Fi hotspot venues include cafes, libraries, airports, and hotels.

You’ll find hotspots in many places.

Although many are free, some hotspots require a fee or subscription.

Screenshots of an iPhone and Android being asked to join a new wi-fi network

You could be sharing a connection with anyone at any time.

A hotspot isn’t your home or office password-protected Wi-Fi router.

Hackers can hack a public hotspot easier than a private access point.

Screenshot showing Wi-Fi and Ask to Join Networks interface in iOS

In most cases, you’re able to use a menu setting to prevent this.

The location varies by unit.

On an iPhone, clickSettings>Wi-Fiand turn on theAsk to Join Networkstoggle switch.

Screenshot showing Advanced and Network Notification screens

On Macintosh computers, go toSystem Preferences>Networkand select theAsk to join new networkscheckbox.

If you don’t want to drain your smartphone battery, buy a stand-alone rig that provides mobile hotspots.

These devices require cellular connections and contracts.

Screenshot of macOS system preferences focusing on Ask to join new networks checkbox

Also, the unit must be able to access a cellular signal.

If there is no cell coverage, look for a hotspot at a coffee shop or shopping mall.