Combining the functionality of a proxy server and a firewall, internet connection sharing software provides connection sharing for a home network similar to a network router. Compared to Microsoft Windows ICS, these products offer additional features, which may be more reliable and easier to use. They allow you to connect all your devices to the internet through one connection with your service provider.

Connectify Hotspot

Use Connectify, a virtual router app, when you want to share an internet connection with all your devices at home or in the office. No additional hardware, like a wireless router, is necessary. 

  • Simplistic interface.

  • Fast download.

  • Ad blocker.

  • Starting and stopping takes time.

  • Restart sometimes required to connect.

  • May not reconnect automatically.

The free Connectify Hotspot shares a wireless internet connection. If you have wired, mobile, or other VPS virtual adapters, you’ll need to upgrade to Connectify Hotspot PRO or MAX.

Ositis WinProxy

WinProxy has been in existence for a long time. The latest version bundles internet connection sharing with antivirus, anti-spyware, URL filtering, and other security options. WinProxy includes a built-in firewall, parental site restrictions, and privileges that put the user in control of internet access.

  • Easy setup.

  • Firewall security capabilities.

  • Browser-based maintenance.

  • Only for Windows.

  • No native logfile.

  • Spam filter not practical.

MyPublicWiFi

MyPublicWiFi turns your computer into a Wi-Fi access point with URL tracking and firewall protection. Anyone nearby can use your connection to reach the internet.

  • Easy to set up and use.

  • Supports accountability with tracking.

  • Blocks other network users from using P2P.

  • Requires restarting the device.

  • Prolonged connection.

  • Doesn’t support Google Sync.

MyPublicWiFi can be set to prevent the use of some internet services, such as file-sharing programs. It records and tracks all URL pages that are accessed on your virtual hot spot.

Virtual Router Manager

If you run Windows 7 or 8 and are looking for a simple way to share your internet connection, Virtual Router Manager software may be the way to go. It is beginner-friendly and easy to use.

  • No background applications.

  • User-friendly.

  • Includes encryption.

  • Security level lacking.

  • Not compatible with Mac OS.

  • Very simplistic interface.

Create a hotspot on your Windows 7 or 8 computer using this simple application. It offers no options, but that keeps it simple.

AllegroSurf

AllegroSurf combines internet connection sharing with content filtering and network resource management into one package. AllegroSurf can be used on personal, school, and office networks for parental control, bandwidth control, and remote access support.

  • Easy to define users or groups.

  • Supports safe list or exclude list.

  • Can build content filters.

  • No longer supported or updated.

  • Doesn’t recognize all spam.

  • Can be buggy.

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