How can we help?

Why won’t the hotspot turn on?

The hotspot only starts when a VPN is connected and routing. Connect a profile or your VPN app first. TetherNode never shares your normal connection.

My .ovpn profile won’t connect

OpenVPN profiles need OpenVPN 2.6 or later installed on your PC. It’s free, and TetherNode uses your own install. Then check the username and password: many providers use separate VPN credentials, not your website login. WireGuard .conf profiles need nothing extra.

Can I use the VPN app I already have?

Yes. Connect your VPN app as usual, then pick its network adapter in TetherNode instead of importing a profile. TetherNode shares that connection with the devices on your hotspot.

Does it work offline?

Yes, for up to 72 hours. TetherNode needs the internet to sign in and check your plan, then keeps working for 72 hours without reaching our servers. Your devices still need the VPN connected to get online.

How do I change the network password?

Open the hotspot settings in TetherNode to change the network name (TetherNode-Me by default) and its password. Devices that were already connected will need to rejoin with the new password.

Why does TetherNode need administrator rights?

To install its packet-filter driver. TetherNode uses WinDivert, a signed open-source Windows driver, to catch your devices’ traffic before Windows routes it and send it into your VPN. Some antivirus tools flag WinDivert because other software uses it too, but TetherNode only filters hotspot traffic.

Can I use it on a Mac?

Not yet. TetherNode runs on Windows 10 (1809 or later) and Windows 11, 64-bit. A Mac can still join the hotspot as a device and go out through your VPN like any other.