Data tethering is a way to share your phone’s internet connection with other devices, like your laptop or tablet. This is a great way to get mobile internet when devices can’t access 3G or 4G networks themselves.

Almost all modern phones can utilise data tethering (sometimes called a personal hotspot or mobile hotspot) in just a few simple steps.

Samsung’s Galaxy S series allows up to 10 devices to connect to your phone’s internet connection, but other models may vary. iPhone models 4 and up can usually handle up to five extra connections.

Be careful, though, because tethering can dramatically increase your data consumption and you can go over your phone’s limit without realising it.

How to:
1. Turn on data tethering in your settings menu. (This is normally under General or Network Settings.)
2. Set a WiFi password. (Your phone may automatically generate one for you).
3. Connect to your phone’s WiFi with another device and enter the password you just set up.

You’re now tethered and can use your phone’s internet on any other device. Computers tend to use a lot more bandwidth than phones so be careful not to burn through all of your data allowance too quickly.

The size of SIM card you need depends entirely on your phone.

Very few modern phones use the standard size, so you’re probably going to need a micro or nano SIM. If you know the make and model of your phone, a quick Google search should tell you what size you need.

If you do have the wrong size SIM, there’s no need to fret.

A SIM that’s too small will fit into a bigger socket with the use of an inexpensive adapter (these can cost as little as £1).

A SIM that’s too big can be fixed with a pair of scissors by simply cutting away the extra plastic. If you’re confident, you can trim a SIM card down yourself by using instructions and templates which can be found online.

Otherwise, take your SIM card to your local phone shop where a professional can cut it down for you.