Back in the day, only mobile networks had roaming services. It allowed users to change their network when traveling outside their carrier’s coverage area. All you had to do is enable the “roaming” feature on your phone and the switch would happen automatically.
With technological development, we can now enjoy WiFi roaming services. Your WiFi network will automatically switch, without you providing your login details. It’s indeed a great thing for users, especially for those who have to travel often for work purposes.
Amongst many notable roaming services is Passpoint, which allows you to access the internet wherever you go. At present, this roaming service is offered by only some companies, including AT&T.
Since AT&T WiFi Passpoint is a new thing, many of you are yet to get familiar with it. To help you out, we have laid down a detailed post below. Here we will discuss everything you need to know about AT&T WiFi Passpoint.
What is AT&T WiFi Passpoint?
Before we dig deeper into the topic, it is important to understand what AT&T WiFi Passpoint is.
To put it in simple words, it is a WiFi roaming service provided by Boingo Wireless in association with AT&T.
It allows your device to automatically connect to a Passpoint-certified network the moment you get into the coverage area. It happens automatically, so it doesn’t require users to enter their login details.
With this secure WiFi roaming service, you no longer have to search or find a nearby WiFi hotspot. This service will automatically switch the WiFi network on your device and connect it to an available wireless network without you having to intervene.
The advantage of this service is smooth connectivity between mobile devices and WiFi networks. Having this service means, you no longer have to travel without internet access on your phone. Also, it provides a secure service for a better connection experience.
As of now, AT&T WiFi Passpoint hotspots are supported in 80 locations. It is set up in crowded areas like coffee shops, airports, bus terminals, public parks, shopping malls, and military bases.
However, to use this service, you have to be a Boingo or AT&T subscriber. This innovative WiFi technology is extremely beneficial for everyone.
How Does AT&T WiFi Passpoint Work?
AT&T WiFi Passpoint works using interoperable wireless technology. It allows roaming between WiFi and mobile networks, allowing users to enjoy WiFi roaming service anywhere they go.
The good thing about this service is that it eliminates the need for repetitive authentication processes. It automatically connects a device to a Passpoint WiFi network as soon as it reaches its coverage area.
Once you log in for the first time, you no longer have to repeat that step. Your device will automatically connect to a Passpoint hotspot the next time you are within the network’s jurisdiction.
The initial login process is straightforward. All you need to do is enter your login credentials and you are done. This eliminates the need for you to search for a WiFi hotspot whenever you are within a Passpoint area.
The Passpoint roaming feature uses automatic network discovery technology to find the best wireless connection users. It allows you to enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted WiFi connection even when you are traveling.
Despite the automatic authentication process, the Passpoint service is extremely safe to use. It has WPA3 security encryption to keep your data protected.
Steps To Enable AT&T WiFi Passpoint On Android Phone
To use the AT&T WiFi Passpoint service, you need to first enable the Passpoint option on your phone. Thankfully, the steps are very simple. But since many of you are using it for the first time, we have detailed the steps below.
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Go to the Network and Internet section.
- Tap on the WiFi option to access WiFi settings.
- Select More or Advanced.
- Select the Hotspot 2.0 or Passpoint box to enable the function. By deselecting the option, you can disable the Passpoint service at any point.
Steps To Enable AT&T WiFi Passpoint On iOS
You can also enjoy the Passpoint service on your iOS device. It is compatible with iOS 10+ and above. To check your iOS version, you should follow these steps.
- Access the Main Menu by pressing the Home button multiple times.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap About to see the software version of your device.
If you are using iOS 10+ or above, use the Passpoint service on your device. If not, then you need to update your software version.
Enabling the Passpoint option on an iOS device is super easy. The feature is integrated with your phone’s WiFi Settings. So all you need to do is turn on your WiFi.
To disable the Passpoint service, just turn off your phone’s WiFi.
Is it Possible to Use AT&T WiFi Passpoint on a laptop?
You will be glad to know that AT&T WiFi Passpoint can also be used on a laptop. This will be beneficial for people who prefer to travel with their laptops.
To use Passpoint on your laptop, you need to first hook your phone to the Passpoint network. After that, you can tether the connection to your laptop with a USB cable or via Bluetooth.
Or, you can simply convert the connected smartphone into a hotspot and then share the network with your laptop.
How much Does AT&T WiFi Passpoint cost?
AT&T WiFi Passpoint is completely free to use. It doesn’t even include any additional or hidden fees.
The only requirement is that you need to be a Boingo or AT&T subscriber. So if you are using a different carrier, you will have to switch to AT&T.
How to Check if a Device is Eligible for AT&T WiFi Passpoint?
As a user, you would want to know if your device is eligible for AT&T WiFi Passpoint. For this, you will need to check if your device has the Passpoint option or not. To get a better understanding, read the steps below.
- Access your phone Settings.
- Select Network and Internet.
- Tap WiFi.
- This will give you access to your phone’s WiFi Settings.
- Select More or Advanced.
- If you see the Passpoint or Hotspot 2.0 option under Advanced Settings, it means your phone is eligible for AT&T WiFi Passpoint.
- In case, your phone doesn’t have the option, then you should use another device that has the feature.
Just so you know Boingo provides free devices to users to use the Passpoint feature. This is only if you have subscribed to AT&T.
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Advantages Of AT&T WiFi Passpoint
AT&T WiFi Passpoint has many benefits. It is a great solution for IT professionals, WiFi service providers, end users, and telco carriers.
The main benefits of AT&T WiFi Passpoint are:
- WiFi roaming agreements
Passpoint helps WiFi providers and telco carriers to create agreements for WiFi roaming services. This will help in the development of interoperable technologies.
- Streamlined wireless access
Passpoint allows your device to automatically connect to available wireless networks without asking for you to repeat the authentication process.
- Reduced dependency on mobile data
The availability of Passpoint WiFi networks will help reduce dependency on mobile data. This can help you save a lot of money on your mobile data.
Final Words
AT&T Wifi Passpoint is a great innovation. It is a complete game-changer for Wifi connectivity. It lets you take full advantage of seamless wireless connectivity while traveling.
With Passpoint networks, you can stay connected to the internet wherever you go. Also, the service is 100% free to use as long as you are an AT&T subscriber.
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Hi, I am James Burns a skilled and experienced network engineer with a passion for optimizing digital connectivity. With a wealth of expertise in designing and managing intricate network infrastructures, I excel in enhancing performance and security. I hold a distinguished record of delivering top-notch results in various Network courses, including the Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA) certification, demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. My dedication to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies makes me an invaluable asset in ensuring seamless and reliable network operations. Whether troubleshooting complex issues or implementing innovative solutions, I am dedicated to creating robust and efficient network environments for businesses and individuals alike.