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Have you ever been on a business trip and found yourself without a wifi connection for your laptop? Yes, free wifi can be found in almost all hotel/motel rooms these days, but service outages and other factors can still come into play, leaving you with no connectivity and no way to get the days work from your laptop into the hands of your team back home. Luckily for you BlackBerry owners, there is another great option available. Of course I am referring to the fact that you can use your BlackBerry as a modem during times of limited or non existent wifi access.
In this article, I will discuss the process of implementing your BlackBerry as a modem. I will make note of all the required files and equipment and link to as many resources as possible to ensure you have all the information necessary to take on this task yourself. while the concept of using the BlackBerry as a modem itself is straight forward, the process involved has quite a few nuances unique to various model/carrier combinations.
Sit back, take a deep breath and lets get into it!
Required items and software
BlackBerry Smartphones
The first thing you will need to have on hand is a BlackBerry smartphone. Various models of BlackBery are available; however, not all models include “tethered modem functionality”. The following list includes all BlackBerry models that will perform as a modem when tethered to a laptop.
- BlackBerry 7130c
- BlackBerry 7130e
- BlackBerry 7250
- BlackBerry Curve 8300
- BlackBerry Curve 8310
- BlackBerry Curve 8320
- BlackBerry 8703e
- BlackBerry 8705g
- BlackBerry 8707g
- BlackBerry 8800
- BlackBerry 8820
- BlackBerry 8830 World Edition
Cables and Software
In order to utilize your BlackBerry as a modem you will need to have a USB cable connected and have the BlackBerry Handheld Manager installed on your laptop. The BlackBerry Handheld Manager is a component of the BlackBerry Desktop Manager software. In order to initialize the BlackBerry Handheld Manager, simply activate the Desktop Manager software. The BlackBerry Handheld Manager will now be running in the background.
Drivers
Most versions of the BlackBerry Desktop will have shipped with the necessary modem drivers installed. In the event that you do not have a set of modem drivers installed with your current BlackBerry desktop, you will need to either install them manually or download the latest release of the BlackBerry Desktop Software. If you require more information about the installation of modem drivers for your BlackBerry, please check out the discussions at the BlackBerry Forums.
The Set Up
Verifying your Modem Configuration:
Once you have made sure that you have all of the essential items listed above, it is time to verify that your set up is complete. This includes verifying that your modem driver exists and is functioning correctly. This step requires going into the control panel settings of your BlackBerry and configuring specific properties related to your chosen provider. For complete step-by-step instructions on how to verify your modem installation and functionality, check out the BlackBerry Forums related post.
Adding a New Internet Connection:
The next step in the process is to add a new internet connection within your laptop. This connection will be reserved for internet usage via the BlackBerry as modem only. Set up this new internet connection like any other, the process will vary depending on if you are using Windows XP or Vista.
If you are having issues, simply perform a Google search for the term “new internet connection” plus the OS you are using. Additionally you will have to enter some carrier specific details when assigning the required usernames and passwords. A complete list of supported carriers and their username/password details can be found in this BlackBerry Forum discussion post.
Disabling the IP Header Compression:
It is important to disable IP header compression along with disabling hardware flow control, modem error control and modem compression. These can be disabled by following these simple steps:
- Start Menu->Network Connections->”BlackBerry Modem”
- Click Properties Button
- Click Networking Tab
- Select “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)”
- Click Properties Button
- Click Advanced… Button
- Disable “Use IP header compression” checkbox
- Click all OK buttons to close all dialogs
Configuring your BES:
If you have your BlackBerry service set up through a BlackBerry Enterprise Server, you will need to contact your Exchange hosting provider and ask that they enable the “BlackBerry IPModem” setting on the BES. This setting was introduced in Version 4.0 of BES.
Fire up your Laptop and get to surfing:
Once you have your BlackBerry and laptop configured using the steps laid out here and in the information contained in the BlackBerry Forum post, you are ready to begin surfing. Simply connect the BlackBerry to your Laptop via USB, run the BlackBerry Desktop Software and click on the BlackBerry Modem icon in your list of available network connections. You will now be surfing the web at broadband speeds using nothing more than your BlackBerry for your internet connection.
A Word of Warning
While most wireless carriers offer you an “unlimited” data plan for the duration of your service contract, it is quite common for there to be small print that protects the carrier from excessive usage on your part. It is always a good idea to discuss any plans of this nature with your provider to ensure that you are within their terms of service. You do not want to check the mail next month and find an $85,000 data charge on your statement. These words to the wise also apply to anyone who is not currently using a plan that allows for unlimited data transfer. If you do not have unlimited data plan, do not even think of using your BlackBerry as a modem.
How about some Bluetooth Connections?
The previous method explained above required that you have your BlackBerry and your laptop connected through USB cable in order to facilitate the tethered relationship. Depending on what model of BlackBerry you are using, you may also have the option to tether your BlackBerry to your laptop via Bluetooth connectivity.
Enabling Bluetooth connections on your BlackBerry and PC:
The Bluetooth functionality of your BlackBerry can be enabled in a few minutes. Once it has been setup, you can then use your BlackBerry to wirelessly transfer files, synchronize your PC and function as a modem. For a step by step guide to the process of enabling Bluetooth on your BlackBerry, head over to the somelife blog where it is discussed in detail.
The Setup:
The first step you will need to take is setting up your ISP or cellphone provider specific information and a new internet connection. This is very similar to the process as described above. There are a few variances however, so I would suggest heading on over to Somelife and reading another one of their posts containing specific detailed instructions.
For BlackBerry Users who do not have a device that supports tethering
OK so we have discussed how to connect your BlackBerry to your PC so that it can act as a modem during times of limited connectivity. We have even shed some light on the two methods available to do so. The question remains however, for all BlackBerry owners who do not have the latest and greatest models, is there any way that they can play the modem game too?
The answer is yes. Despite older models of the BlackBerry not having the advanced modem functionality, there is a third party solution which is available to all.
Introducing the MobiShark Modem:
The MobiShark BlackBerry Modem supports connections via USB and Bluetooth. It is an straight forward solution for anyone who is trying to squeeze modem functionality out of an outdated handheld model. Conveniently, it also helps to connect users who have service with carriers who do not support tethering. Built to help you avoid data charges (extra tethering charges levied by most cellphone companies), the MobiShark modem pays for itself($49.97) in a short amount of time. The MobiShark software is available as a free trial download.
The process of setting up the MobiShark modem is quick and painless. Simply download and install the software onto your PC. Once this is complete, use the BlackBerry Application loader to place the required files onto your BlackBerry. Once you have both elements installed, you will be surfing without a hitch.
Stay tuned to BBGeeks in the coming weeks for a full featured review of the MobiShark software.
Finally, what if I have a Mac?
Last but not least, we have the Mac crowd. If you are the proud owner of both a BlackBerry and a Mac machine, give yourself a pat on the back and do not feel left out. There is also a process which can be completed to hook your BlackBerry up to the Mac to act as a modem. The process is quite similar to the PC method described above, but with a few specific differences due to the Mac OS. Take a look at the instructions which were put together by Dave Taylor at www.askdavetaylor.com
Thats it folks, hopefully I have pointed you to a bunch of valuable resources that will provide you will all the details you need to get your BlackBerry operational as a modem whether it be through USB tether or via Bluetooth connectivity.
Good luck and if you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments and I will do my best to answer them for you.
Here is a list of additional resources you might find handy:
- Using your BlackBerry as a Modem
- Blackberry Modem Mash – Addendum
- HOWTO: Use BlackBerry As Modem For Laptop
- Using Your BlackBerry As A Modem
- Using the Blackberry as a tethered modem
- BlackBerry as a tethered modem
- HOWTO: BlackBerry As Modem For Laptop
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70 Comments ↓
[...] to help you trouble blackberry as a modem. This post doesn’t include all instruction on how to configure your modem as a blackbery to a tee. Let’s get’s [...]
Do you know if the Blackberry 8700g or the 8700c is able to be used for internet modem use
yesthe Blackberry 8700 and 8700c can be used as a modem
When I teether via my blackbery (i’ve got sprint service) I am not able to use my phone.. is this normal. I was under the impresssion that I could teether and make calls.
@Ivette- Typically it will be either voice or data service from my experience. However I have noticed that if I receive an incoming call and I don’t talk too long, my data connection won’t drop. Of course this could be provide specific. I don’t have Sprint so I can’t vouch for that.
Thanks. I just bought a blackberry curve after reading its fantastic reviews. I will set it up as a modem for emergency
Would anyone know if this is legal? Many carriers charge extra for sending data outside Blackberry (ie computer). Wouldn’t this be breaking the contract with them? I love the whole concept, but skeptical if it’s done illegally.
yes its legal, its a good sales feature for network; AT&T EDGE is fastest right now and Blackberry Bold on 3G will fly like a broadband modem …if you can keep the battery from melting
When I use my Blackberry Pearl as a modem for my desktop computer I can’t get into anything on yahoo which is where my email is. Is this because I already have it on my phone or is their something I might be doing wrong?
When I use my Blackberry Pearl as a modem for my desktop computer, I can’t manuever around facebook. It lets me login, and then, that’s it! I can’t access any links on the homepage. Very frustrating! Any suggestions?
I am thinking of getting a blackberry to use as my modem for my desktop computer, instead of the internet service we have.
Any comments, thoughts, recommendations?
The only problem I can see is that you’re going to have a 5 GB cap. I know I go far above 5 GB on my laptop monthly.
[...] can also check out our guide to using your BlackBerry as a modem for additional information. Subscribe to the BBGeeks RSS [...]
I am currently using the Sprint Blacberry Curve 8330. It works flawlessly as a tethered modem. The Curve uses the EVDO high speed through Sprint which has some nice bursts of over 1mb at times. I use it to download and to up load with beautiful speeds. I have had no problem making and recieving calls while tethered as well as emails. The one catch is your sms messages will not come through till after you disconnect. Other than that the tethered modem has saved me on numerous occasions.
How do I set up outlook express so it will send email when tethered to my blackberry curve. (I get my email ok, but cant send it) I’m not the most tech savvy :)
Hello, I’m having issues with my connection. I have everything set up exactly as the steps say and it connects. But it only connects “locally” it won’t connect to the internet at all. If there is anyone who can help email me at emofox@sbcglobal.net. Also I have a blackberry curve 8310.
OK, now I have a question… I can get online with my laptop via the connection from my Blackberry and even download my emails with Outlook express but, what is the outgoing “smtp and password” so we can SEND emails?!?!
P.S. I’m on cingular in the U.S.
Hi Stefy, I can help you. I just sent you an email.
Hi, I see that you are all users in the US. Can this be done in Mauritius? I got my blackberry with unlimted data, but wanna maximise its usage, using the BB as a modem. The service provider is Emtel Limited. Don’t know which username and password to use.
Yes you can do this with Emtel service – you should contact your customer service rep to ask detailed questions but it is listed on this page as one of the services offered:
http://tinyurl.com/b7up65
fishboy: go get yourself a free Gmail account. Even if you never tell anyone your email address, and thus get nothing but spam as incoming mail, you can still use its SMTP server for sending. Just make sure you set the “reply to” address as your regular email, so when people hit “reply” it doesn’t go back to this dummy Gmail account.
WILL THE BLACKBERRY BOLD WORK USING THESE INSTRUCTIONS?
THANKS
I have a blackberry bold how can I use it as a modem on my laptop. Will the Shark Modem work on bb 9000 v.4.6.Thanks
Yahoo answers will solve your blackberry bold modem problems.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081204132749AA0R5nE
[...] models, but some will require the aid of a third-party program. For starters, you can check out our guide to using your BlackBerry as a modem. This should give the basics. Mac users can try pairing the BlackBerry with Bluetooth. For those [...]
I installed my BB as a modem adhering to the instruction to the tee and I still cant connect to the internet by dialing up. I have a BB curve 8320, T-mobile carrier. Its frustrating, I’ve been up and down the instructions and checked everything, and I still fail to connect to the modem
Problem: I have BB curve 8320, T-mobile carrier. I have followed the instructions to the tee and I am still unable to connect to the modem. I went and checked my setup several times and I cant find where the problem is. My Desktop manager is up and running, I have a signal and everything, I unchecked boxes, but nothing..please help.
I have the 8350i with boostmobile. I have unlimited internet (free) and i use ramble im (free aim) I would like to use it as a modem but the speeds with mobishark is too slow. You think tetherberry is any better or is it just cuz boostmobile is slow period?
Can any one vouch that Mobishark will allow you to surf with out incurring charges from the carrier. I am looking at purchasing this software because I liked the demo, but am afraid that it will incur charges from the carrier. I currently have a BB curve 8330 through Alltel. If any one has any more info or advice you can contact me at Robertlamont80@gmail.com Thanks
Built first processer w/ relays
In the our LORD 1966
This will take a while for me to digest thank for the map
Rick
Oh, no — I have a Curve 8330. It’s not on the list. Am I out of luck?
will my blackberrie bold work with these instructions?
yup – should work fine with the Bold
will the blackberry tour work with these instructions
Hey guy I’m just got my blackberry conected to my lapto but what is happening is that I come across with a verizon page every time I try it they want me to buy the monthly fees why is that happening and how I could avoid it?I went to see a friend who works for verizon I told him what I was trying to do and did’nt tell a shit any advise?
[...] Tethering your BlackBerry is not that complicated to setup for free using one of the multitude of guides available online. Even RIM provides you with basic instructions on how to set it up and offers the [...]
http://www.tetheerberry.com
try that website, it;s simple. Downlaod application to your cell phone & PC. check it out
I just upgraded to a blackberry tour and can’t get windows to recognise my device. After reading the blog I am now wondering, does the new Tour tether????? any help would be greatly appreciated.
Ok I’m not quite understanding how to use my bb as a wi fi hot spot can someone explain this a little better I think it was in to little of words. Lol
@penteco Verizon locks out this functionality because they want you to pay for a premium service they offer that does the same thing =(
@Joanna You first need to make your phone discoverable – options > memory > mass storage mode support > on
@fisheyes Not sure what you are asking here – this post is not about setting up a hotspot – it is about using your BlackBerry as a modem for your PC.
Is there any way to use the blackberry curve 8330 work as a wifi hotspot to connect to an ipod?
not that I am aware of no
This was the poorest piece of information ever published to a site. If I ever get my lap top back to where it was, I will never follow no one elses advice on how to connect anything to my lap top.
I have done a few speed tests (www. mobilespeedtest dot com, speedtest dot net etc) and noticed that when I browse direct with the BB (not via tethering) the sppes are like 10x faster than when I am using the BB as a modem (tethering).
Is that normal … if so how can I grab those extra kbps whilst using tethering?
Sppeds have been incostistent but something like 240kbps with BB direct, 34kbps whilst tethering for example.
I have searched all over Google and had no luck with any answers.
I am going to get an 8330 from sprint. Sprint says the “unlimited internet” means unlimited internet, and there will be no additional charges. Can anyone confirm this?
Ok,I have the curve 8330.can I tether 2 the internet on my laptop?my provider is us cellular and I’ve tried 4 weeks now 2 no avail.its so frustrating and all I wanna do is light surfing.if u can walk me through this please email me @ JonAsh@uscellular.blackberry.com
Can I do this with my PC at home or just my laptop? When I downloaded the desktop manager onto my laptop the last catagory was IP modem but when I downloaded manager on my home computer that option is not there. Anyone know why?
Found this on one of the forums – should work for you:
If the icon is gone, close BB Desktop Manager, and go to c:/Documents and Settings\all users\application data\research in motion\blackberry to find a file, “ip_modem_configuration.xml”.
Edit it, find your carrier, and set the “enabled” from “false” to “true.”
Then launch Desktop Manager again and it should be there.
Remember, application data is a hidden folder, so make sure you can see hidden folders.
BTW – this will probably not work on Windows 7 as the config file is locked.
after all the reading I have done I finally got my BB Tour hooked up via USB only to come across a Verizon page wanting more effing money from me! How can I sidestep this?
hello, i have got the blackberry storm 9500 and i had it off someone that was on contract and im on pay as you go and i dont know how to get on to the internet because it is registerd with a contract sim. do you know how i can change this or registar is with my pay as you go sim? thanks.
Unfortunately you will not be able to use BBM or the internet services etc unless you have a BlackBerry data plan on your device.
@Pangeist
Unfortunately with Verizon as your carrier you will not be able to side step this.
i want to use 8310 as a modem for 3g internet connection, is it possible to get the desktop software by email? my connection is 2 slow to download it
could anyone pleaseeeeeeeeeee email me the desktop software for blackberry 8310
if anyone can, please email it to me xzyte5@hotmail.com
If I am about to purchase blackberry service. Which provider will this work best with? I have a macbook pro. I am thinking AT&T or Sprint but leaning towards AT&T because they claim to be fastest. What do you guys say?
Also, is any particular blackberry better than others. Do you know if this can be done with an iphone?
Does anybody know if sprint is still allowing its customers to do this for free or have they started charging to tether as well?
I have a BB Curve 8320 on T-mobile unlimited data plan. A couple weeks ago I started tethering it to my laptop no problems, then one day it would only do a Local Area connection, so I re-did the whole thing and now it doesn’t connect at all please help you can email me at carpenter.erin@gmail.com
@rawdawg This shoul;d work with all models of BlackBerry but you will probably have better functionality using a newer model. Yes you can tether using an iPhone as well.
Can anyone tell me if I will be able to teather my blackberry, I have curve 8330 boost mobile prepaid unlimited. I have desktop manager and tried to connect but I receive an error.
Hello,
Can you tether BB Bold with ATT without the tether plan? I’m using the software from tether.com, it works on and off, can upload fast but can’t pull data.
@wade I do not suggest tethering on ATT without their plan. As soon as they identify your actions you will be charged for usage at a rate that will blow your mind!
Just not worth it – You can tether without the plan, but if you use a high volume of traffic you may get caught and either terminated or have the tethering plan added to your plan.
I have beenusing my BB as a modem for quite a while. Since we have moved, I have been doing it alot while I wait for regular service to be installed. It works well for a while, and I have 2 bars. Then after a while, I lose my signal. This happens over and over. How the signal vary so much in one spot and does it have to do with the amount of time I am using this?
ive always used my tmobile blackberry curve 8320 as a tethered modem on my laptop. Ive curently bought a new HP laptop from best buy but now im having issues, everytime i get connected to the internet it works for prob about 5mins then I get a pop up that says “internet explorer 8 cannot website” “diagnose problems”. I dont know why this happens, computer says i still have a connection and ive been everywhere on the net with my dash to try and solve this. please help!
i just got my BB curve a couple days ago. i have an unlimited data plan but not sure if sprint will charge me for tethering. can anyone help me?
@Dick yes if they catch you you will be charged a hefty price per MB.
I have tried all the steps and it comes up on my phone that its tring to connect but will not please e-mail me if you have the fix leewrichter@yahoo.com
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