T-Mobile’s “Uncarrier” initiative has done wonders for my wallet and my data usage. Before I had to deal with being throttled down to 2G speeds after passing my data limit, but thanks to their unlimited data plans, I’m free to use as much LTE data as I possibly can. The only downside is, when sharing data through a mobile hotspot (tethering), T-Mobile imposes a 5 GB limit (which was recently upped to 7 GB for some).
Of course, you can pay up to increase this limit, but why not get it for free? With a simple edit to your device’s APN, or access point name, you can skirt the limit and no one will be the wiser. If you tend to stream a lot of videos on your phone, this should make a helluva difference.
Step 1: Finding Your Network Settings
The APN is what’s presented to your carrier when your smartphone tries to establish a data connection, so by adding a new entry into it, you’ll be able to bypass the tethering restriction.
Your phone’s APN settings can be changed from the Mobile Networks section in your Settings app. Most manufacturers have their settings apps themed and reorganized, but there should be a section clearly marked for configuring your mobile network.
Step 2: Edit APN
Tap the option labeled Access Point Names, then select the T-Mobile APN currently in use. Scroll down towards the bottom of the page and look for a section labeled APN type. Add the word “dun” to the section, then save your changes.
Step 3: Create APN (Optional)
If you can’t edit APNs, you will have to create a new one by tapping the + icon at the top of the screen.
Use the settings listed below to create the proper hotspot-hacked-APN for T-Mobile:
- Name: T-Mobile US LTE
- APN: fast.t-mobile.com
- MMSC: http://mms.msg.eng.t-mobile.com/mms/wapenc
- MCC: 310
- MNC: 260
- APN type: default,supl,mms,dun
- APN protocol: IPv4
- APN roaming protocol: IPv4
There will be additional fields available when creating a new APN, but just leave those blank. You may also need to reboot your device for the new APN to take effect, but then you’ll be set to tether to your heart’s content.
Were you able to get past your tethering limit with this trick, or do you have a different method to bypass it?
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