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Sharing Wi-Fi with a neighbor may seem like a smart way to cut down on internet expenses. However, you must consider the potential risks of this arrangement.
Even if your neighbor agrees to equally split the internet bill, giving them access to your private home network might not be the best idea.
At the end of the day, it’s about trust and staying on the safe side of the law.
Let’s explore legal and secure options for sharing your internet with neighbors.
Is it Legal to Share the Internet?
Sharing your home internet connection with a neighbor or third party isn’t exactly illegal, but it might still violate your internet provider’s user policy and terms of service. Moreover, sharing your Wi-Fi with an outsider is strongly discouraged, as it exposes your network to major legal and security risks.
For example, if your neighbor uses your internet to carry out any suspicious or unlawful activities online, you will be held responsible. Additionally, they can hack into your devices, infect them with malware, and steal confidential information.
While these kinds of episodes aren’t common, you cannot deny the possibility of them happening to you. It’s best to refer to your internet service provider (ISP) for guidance and discuss a multi-home network setup or cost-sharing internet plan.
Pros and Cons of Sharing Wi-Fi with a Neighbor
When you share your internet with a neighbor, bear in mind that your network’s performance may take a hit. You might be satisfied with your internet plan for now, but things might change when the number of users and devices on the network multiplies.
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A robust and secure internet service can help reduce security risks and guarantee reliable Wi-Fi performance for both parties. Therefore, if you subscribe to a high-tier fiber internet plan with unlimited data, sharing your Wi-Fi network with a neighbor may work out nicely.
P.S. You can add Wi-Fi range extenders or install a mesh Wi-Fi system to increase wireless internet coverage.
How to Safely Share Wi-Fi with Your Neighbor
Even though sharing your Wi-Fi network with the neighbor is a bit of a gamble, you can take steps to minimize the risks.
1. Create a Guest Wi-Fi Network
Most modern routers and gateway devices come with the feature for creating a “Guest Wi-Fi Network”. This Wi-Fi network is separate from your primary home network, so your online activities remain private. You can set a different Wi-Fi key for your guest network, customize settings, and even impose data limits.
2. Share Internet via Cable
Sharing the internet via cable is usually safer, as it is more difficult to intercept compared to Wi-Fi. An Ethernet cable from your router can be connected to a secondary router in the neighbor’s house; this is easily manageable with adjacent apartments. For longer distances, you can employ point-to-point Wi-Fi bridging.
3. Use a Second Router
If your neighbor is already using the Wi-Fi from your primary router, invest in a second router to create a secure network for yourself. The second router will be connected to the LAN port of your primary router, and then you can connect your devices to the second router’s network.
Best Internet Options for Sharing Wi-Fi with a Neighbor
Now you know the potential hazards and benefits of sharing your internet. Are you still up for the challenge and consider your neighbor trustworthy? If yes, here are a few internet plans that can ensure a fast and smooth online experience for both of you:
AT&T Fiber Internet 1000
From $90/mo. $55/mo. plus taxes1
- Up to 1 Gbps symmetrical speeds2
- Unlimited data
- No equipment fees
1 Gig Internet
$70/mo. 3
- No data cap or annual contract
- Download speeds up to 1 Gbps
- 1-year price lock4
Fios 1 Gig
From $74.99/mo. 5
- Download speeds up to 940 Mbps
- 5-year price guarantee6
- No data limits
Disclaimers:
1- w/ elig AutoPay & Paperless bill.Price after discounts: $25/mo for new customers, and $10/mo w/ elig Autopay & Paperless bill. Monthly State Cost Recovery charge applies in NV, OH, TX. One time install fee may apply See Details
See Broadband Facts: att.com/dapbbfacts
2- Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary.
3- w/ $10 ACH Autopay discount for Internet and/or Video services. In select markets only.
4- Price lock is for Fixed Services only.
5- w/ Auto Pay & any Verizon mobile phone plan See Details
6- Price guarantee: Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotions, plan perk and any other third-party services.
FAQs
Is it illegal to share the internet or Wi-Fi?
Sharing your home internet or Wi-Fi is not illegal, but it may violate your contract with the ISP. Moreover, it can raise serious cybersecurity concerns that become your responsibility.
Can I share Wi-Fi with my neighbor?
You may temporarily share your Wi-Fi with a neighbor by creating a guest network, so they don’t gain access to your devices. However, giving permanent access to your private network may go against the provider’s policies and compromise your privacy.
