My router suddenly stopped working, and the repair or replacement may take around 10 days. My landlord, who normally handles the internet account, is also away, and I work from home most of the time. I've been using my phone as a hotspot, but I'm worried that running it for roughly eight hours a day will use too much data. I'm not very tech-savvy, so I'm looking for a cheap and reasonably simple temporary solution.
4 Answers
Depending on how the connection is set up, the router might not be the only option. If there’s a separate modem or network termination box, try connecting one computer directly with an Ethernet cable—but only if the provider supports it. This usually allows just one device online and may require login details, so ask the provider first.
Contact the internet provider and ask whether you can use a replacement or third-party router temporarily. You may be able to buy or borrow a compatible router and have them register or activate it on the connection. It isn’t always plug-and-play, especially if the account is in your landlord’s name, but the provider can tell you what’s allowed.
For workdays, consider using a public library, coworking space, café, or another location with reliable Wi-Fi. A library is usually better for spending several hours, and you could also ask your employer whether you can work from the office temporarily. If you keep using your phone hotspot, disable automatic updates, cloud backups, video streaming, and other high-data activities, and check whether your mobile plan has a hotspot limit.
A prepaid mobile broadband dongle or hotspot could work well. Some offer a fixed amount of data, while others provide unlimited use for a set number of days. Check the terms carefully, since “unlimited” plans may still have speed limits or restrictions on hotspot use.
Buying a basic compatible router could be useful even after this problem is fixed, since it gives you a spare for future failures. Just confirm compatibility and any activation requirements before purchasing.