How to browse internet on Blackberry using Wi-Fi without data plan?
You can browse internet on Wi-Fi capable Blackberry devices through your wireless Internet router at home, office or at any Hotspot location and you do not need to have a data plan on your account. There are no additional charges involved when using only Wi-Fi. It is absolutely free.
Following is the step by step detailed guide on setting up Wi-Fi connection, browsing and managing Wi-Fi connections profile on your Blackberry.
Requirements:
- Wi-Fi capable Blackberry device. (BlackBerry Bold 9000, Pear Flip 8220, Pearl 8120, Curve 8900, Curve 8320 and 8820)
- Access to Wi-Fi coverage area
Steps:
- Connect to Wi-Fi network
- Change the default browser
- Browse Internet
- Wi-Fi profile settings (Optional)
A. Connect to Wi-Fi network
- Press Menu button and click on Set Up then click on Set Up Wi-Fi (Some options may be different depending on the model of Blackberry and version of operating system. But needs to go in Set up Wi-Fi option)
Or - Click on Manage Connections and then scroll down and click on Set Up Wi-Fi Network
- Click Next and then click on Scan for Networks
- If your Wi-Fi radio is OFF then it will prompt to Turn Wi-Fi on, Click on Turn Wi-Fi on and it will search for available Wi-Fi networks and will show the list of available Wi-Fi networks
- Click on your Wi-Fi network, you want to connect to. If that Wi-Fi has WEP encryption set then it will prompt you to add Network Key. Follow the prompts and later you will see Connection Successful and if you want to save it as Profile. Follow the prompts and click on Finish. That’s it. You are now connected to Wi-Fi. On your BlackBerry Home screen you will see your Wi-Fi network name besides your Wireless Carrier’s Name.
B. Change the default browser
- Click on Browser icon
- Press Menu button
- Click on Options
- Click on General Properties
- The first option is Default Browser change it to HotSpot Browser
- Press Menu key
- Click on Save Options
C. Browse Internet
Go back to browser and browse unlimited Internet without using your data plan. Just to make sure you are not using your data, turn off the Mobile Network from the Manage Connections and test, you will still be able to browse but you will not get any phone call/ Text. 
D. Wi-Fi profile settings (Optional)
Optionally, if you have multiple Wi-Fi profiles set on your BlackBerry then you can change the order how Wi-Fi connections are made and also change the Wi-Fi selection mode from automatic to manual.
Please leave comments if you see any discrepancy or have any difficulty following steps.
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Excellent directions! Thank you.
Great article! It helped me configure my phone. Thank you.
Very helpful. Thanks.
This did not work for my phone. I have the BB 8900 and went through the steps and I don’t have a data plan, and I connected through a wireless router at my home, work, and school and it wouldn’t allow me to surf any sites? What is wrong with it?
Need some more info – What error message do you get? Were you able to see the wi-fi network name (SSID) on home screen of BB besides your carrier’s name as mentioned at the end in step – 5 for all routers at your home, work and school? The wi-fi networks you tried were open networks or with WEP-WAP encryption on it?
I have the BB 8900 and am on T-mobile. When I turn the wifi on it connects to any network and displays it on the top of the screen such as (T-mobile – home network). and the wifi logo is lit white and not grey. at the top of the screen it displays uma (small caps). When I go to the browser and try to load a page it says requesting… then times out and says ( Unable to connect to the internet, please try again later. If the problem persists please contact your service provider. I have changed the options from internet browser to hotspot browser in both the browser settings and in the phone options. I have been told that changing those will fix it but it doesn’t. I can’t get a single byte of data across to my phone using wifi. And I have tried using my home network, school network, work network, and none of them will work. When I had the data plan before I canceled it, the data came through the wifi just fine, but once canceled it won’t give me anything through wifi.
Whats the problem? is it a setting I missed? or something else? does t-mobile not allow wifi without a data plan? cause they rep that sold me the phone said it would do wifi without that data plan? I just cant seem to figure this out.
The network I was able to connect to were both open and locked networks. The phone connects to them just fine but won’t transfer any data.
Have you noticed UMA in Uppercase before by any chance? Was this BlackBerry ever part of BES (BlackBerry Enterprise Server)?
Please try following.
# Delete all saved wi-fi network profiles if you have any
# Double check the default browser is set to “Hot Spot” (Very Important) – If you are making any change – Please click Menu button and Save
# Go to Options – Security Options – Firewall and make sure Status is disabled and nothing is selected in that page and try to browse on wi-fi again
# Go go Options – Advanced Options – Applications – Press “Menu” key – then click Edit Default Permissions – Allow all connections and save – try to browse again
# Reset wireless router
# If all fails- You may want to reload the latest operating system on 8900 and try
uma was never capitalized when the wifi was connected, only lower case. So i went through all those options and tried every combination i could with no success. I went into the t-mobile store and talked to one of the sales guys, and he then called technical support and the tech support guy said that blackberry doesn’t allow the use of wifi without a data plan on the 8900. older models do. Wow that is a special treat. So I gave up trying to get it to work and now I just put the data plan back on my bill until I read somewhere of someone that has been able to get theirs to work without it.
wi-fi browsing should work without the data plan. That’s what wi-fi is for. Even if you have Mobile Netwok turned “OFF” – Wi-fi browsing will work. Make sure, you have data services “ON” in Mobile Network Options as-well. Also try to take the Battery out while the phone is on. Try above troubleshooting mentioned in previous comment. It will work for sure.
Hi, I use BB8900 without a dataplan. as long as we turn the Data service on, they charge us from time to time. Turning off Mobile work does not help. Well, it makes us feel safer. If they allow using Wifi without data plan, why they require us to leave the data service on to use wifi? Does not make sense… Thinking of ridding BB…
If you do not have dataplan then there should not be any charge for mobile data from your wireless carrier.
YOU ARE THE KING!
Hey I got a new BB bold nd even I face the same problem.
Why should we enable the data service when we are using the wi- fi. and I just wan knew whether we are charged for keeping the data services ON and use browser using the wi-fi???
- Enable/Disable “Data Services” is like an ON/OFF switch which allows/blocks any kind of data transfer on a BlackBerry.
- If your default browser is set to Hot Spot browser then your data usage through browser (only) is not charged by your wireless carrier.
- If you want to take extreme precautions about charges then you can turn off “Mobile Network” while browsing on wi-fi but at that time you will not be able to make/receive calls, send/receive text or emails through BIS/BES
This is a good article. I have BB8900 and working fine on wifi browsing the web. But the problem is that I am not able to watch any youtube videos. When try to play any video, media player opens but get an error message that wifi disconnected. But when I change the browser settings to media net from hotspot browser everything works fine. I have an ipod touch too and it browses seamlessly on my wifi network. I think BB is blocking me to access streaming without data plan and may be they think that is one of the ways to make user pay extra money for data plan… wifi on bb sucks.
Sarath, I have the same problems. I have a Bold 9700 and I can browse the web all I want using wifi, but I cannot watch a single video, youtube or otherwise.
ty…
i;m new to bb9700..
i cant browse using wifi.. connected to my home wifi, wifiname appeared next to my telco on the screen..but still cant browse even with data service on..my lappy is doing fine connected to the same wifi..
any advice?
-i’ve change the browser configuration to hotspot browser..
-connected to my home wifi..
-turn on the data service
thank you in advance..
Dear sir, I’ve tried everything you mentioned and still connot connect to the internet. I have a Blackberry 8320, and WI-FI at home. I agree I should be able to get my emails and scoll the internet without a data plan.
I’ve even down loaded Opera Mini, and am still unsessfull in getting on the internet.
I have Cincinnati bell. The phone works using the Data plan. Since I pay as I go. it can be very expensive to retrive email. I use ATT.net and not Cincinnati Fuse net as my perferred email account.
Can you help
Dave Hamester
@ Dave
Thank you for visiting BlackBerry Tune.
Did you followed all the steps mentioned above?
Kindly give me following info to help you further.
What error message do you get when you try to browse on Wi-Fi?
Are you sure – You see your Wi-Fi network name on Home Screen of your BlackBerry? and your default browser is set to Hot-spot browser.
How did you downloaded and installed Opera Mini?
Do you experience any other difficulties on the BlackBerry other than Wi-Fi browsing?
——————–
If you have data plan from your wireless carrier, you need that to get emails pushed directly over the air to your device. Browsing on Wi-Fi is different which does not includes pushed emails over the air.
Using Operia Mini it says: Failed to coonect. Go to http//www.operamini.com/help?version=4.2.
When using the blackberry browser all I get is: Data is disabled. Enable Data in network settings. I’m sure it will work, but will cost.
Last night I was able to bring it up and it logged right on to Opera Mini. I checked the weather. I used my Data Plan. I then received 15 emails pushed to me. Looking at my on line bill from Cincinnati Bell that little excitment cost me $12.31.
I do make sure my Wi Fi connection is on and it shows up next to my Cincinnati Bell – with my Net work name. So this is working properly.
Browser set as follows:
Defualt Browser: Hotspot Browser
Defalt MDS browser configuration: Internet Browser
Default WAP browser Configuration: CBW Internet
No sure if TCP Setting have anything to do with this or not.
Shold the TCP left blank or should they be as follows.
Please see the follwoing web-sight inregards to TCP settings:
http://hubpages.com/hub/How-to-Connect-to-Internet-with-Your-BlackBerry-without-Paying-For-Data-Plan
1.You may want to uncheck/turn off the “Mobile Network” while you troubleshoot Wi-Fi so you do not get accidental data charges from your wireless carrier. (Turn ON later to make/receive calls after troubleshooting)
2. Go to “Manage Connections” – “Mobile Network Options” – Make Sure “Data Services” is ON and Connection Preference is “Wi-Fi preferred for now” (Be sure to change it later to “Mobile Network preferred after troubleshooting) # If you do not see this option in your device – No worries- go to next step
3. Go to “Options” – “Security Options”- “Fire Wall” and make sure Status is Disabled and nothing is checked below on that screen
4. In above 3rd step in this comment – in Fire wall status – Do you see any “lock” symbol besides status? or was this BlackBerry ever part of BES (Enterprise server before?)
5. Leave the TCP settings blank
6. Test again at your Home, if fails test again at different wi-fi network.
Yes, this Blackberry (T-molble)
Blackberry Enterprise Server: Not Connected
Well, I made the mistake of connecting via Opera Mini, Network Off, but Data Service was on. I got 60 emails sent to my blackberry. That’s alot of Kilo-bights.
I did check Under Firewall: Disabled and there are no check marks.
I do see empty boxes for SMS, MMA, PIN,Blackberry internet services and Enterprise Email. All have a 0 Blocked to the right.
Mobile Network: edge
Mobile Network provider: Cincinnati Bell
@Dave The error message we have “Data is disabled” could happen only when “Data Services” in “Mobile Network Options” is turned OFF and will show the network status on home screen as “edge” (lower case). The EDGE (upper case) status BlackBerry is good for data transfer over the air through data plan.
—————————————————————
For Wi-Fi, even if you do not have SIM card into your BlackBerry than also it should browse on Wi-Fi
———–
As per my experience, we have tried all possible options
The only two alternatives left are
1) If Opera Mini is conflicting anything – Try uninstalling it – then Reset the BlackBerry by taking the battery out while it’s ON -test again – if this fails
2) Do clean reinstall of Operating System and without restoring your data – test again – If this fails then
-Sorry – Your device is defective for Wi-Fi functionality
I want to thank you guys for everything you did. I’ve tried everything. Maybe the Opera Mini needs to be re-installed.
Very frustrating, and time consuming. A real pain.
My 17 yr old thinks I should do the same. I did everything you guys sad. When I’m on the Data Plan, the thing works. Even the Opera Mini. So this tells me the my WY-Fi is not functioning correctly. Who knows!
I’ve learned alot about this Blackberry just by contacting you.
The dare thing should scoll the internet without a data plan. What the real purchase of having hy fy? If you can think of anything else please advise.
You guys have done a good job, I wish I’d never bought this blackberry, should have bought an IPhone. It great for texting, and a few other things. the most why I wanted was for the the WY-FY. If you can think of a way that I can test my WY-FI to make sure it;s working properly, please re-advise.
Thank you and Sincerly,
Dave Hamester
@Dave I know, the device should work the way it is supposed to be and I understand your frustration too. Well, try above two remaining steps and see how it goes. Good luck.- Mike
Can you give me the step to uninsatll Opera Mini. I know the program is on this phone, and can be esily reinstalled.
Can you give we instructions om reinstall Operating System.
without restoring my data.
You should know. The phone came from an ebay sale. It looked new, but there was no disk or operating system disk that came with. I went to a local Cincinnati Bell store and received an newer version 8900 disk to install on my laptop for Syncing. I find the Blackberry much more difficault than my old Noki.
I tried some time ago to download the operating system for my 8320 via blackberry web sight. I was unsucessfull in installing it. So, I went the Cincinnati Bell store and all they had was the newer version of Blackberry. The store clerk said, it would work fine, just a newer version.
I did the steps in taking out my sim card and the WI FY worked, but did not connect. So technically, I should be able to connect to the internet with this phone.
Do you think it may have something to do when I registed my phone via Cincinnnati Bell. When I fisrt recevied my phone. This would explin the pushed emails coming to me when logging on with the data enabled. Maybe not!
One more thought and this may not play into anything. My default Browser is set for Hot Spot, with other options of Internet or CBW. (Cincinnati Bell Wireless) However, there is no WI FY Option
Dave
To uninstall Opera Mini – Go to Options- Advanced Options-Applications-highlight Opera Mini – Press Menu button – click Delete
———-
Wi-Fi is not related with SIM card or CBW – As I said before – even if you do not have SIM inserted – Wi-Fi should work
- Wi-Fi ON/OFF options are in “Manage Connections”
- As long as you see your network name on home screen, that means you are connected to wi-fi
- You may want to test it on other wi-fi router as well or double check the steps above in case if you have missed something
———-
To re-install OS see steps here – http://www.blackberrytune.com/how-to-perform-a-clean-reload-of-the-blackberry-device-software-using-the-application-loader/
———-
You do not need CD as it only contains Desktop Manager Software which any way you can download online
HELP
Ive read through all blogs about using wifi with out a data plan. Still cant get it to work.I have an BB 8120.
It has the name of the network on the screen. If I go to manage conections it shows a yellow circle. Also I tried it with out the sim card and same result.
Brendan
@Brendan, If you follow the steps mentioned above and see the comments for troubleshooting – It should work for sure.
- Good to see you’re connected to Wi-Fi network as it shows your Network Name
- Do you have HotSpot browser set as your default browser?
- What error message do you get when you try to surf?
- Where do you see yellow circle in Manage Connections? – For Wi-Fi or for Mobile Network?
I want thank your team for their time and sucessful efforts that make my 8320 connect to the internet with wi fi without having to pay through the nose for my provider’s data plan.
It took me a few times to get it! I re-installed the original OS from T-moble. The OS is already on the phone. It just needed to be re-configured. I dumped everything and started a new.
I now understand how the phone is to operate and what steps I need to follow inorder to get me on the web using my 8320. (phone’s data turned on and network turned off)
Sincerly from a person who was ready to re-sell his BB, but now will keep it! Thanks Again
@Dave. Glad to hear your BlackBerry is working fine.
Thanks
I guess it was working I just went to another web site.
Still my wifi symbol is gray and the connection shows a yellow circle. but its working I thought those two had to be the opposite.
@Brendan, Good to see it’s working for you.
Hello again thanks for your help so far.
I was just told on the curve 8900 if I cancel my data plan I still might incur charges because their automatic downloads at night. Is their a way to stop them?
@Brendan, The way it works – If you disable/ block data plan ENTIRELY then you should not get charged for it. Since there are different types of data plan (Email only / Email + Browsing / BES) It’s difficult for me to say if entire data is blocked or not. It’s better you check with your Wireless Carrier about the charges if you disable data plan.
Hello,
After reading all of the posts and sevral of the links, my 8820 is still having diffuculties connection to my home wi-fi. The phone was on BES system, so at first I was unable to disable the firewall. I used JL_Cmder to restore factory settings, reloaded my backup address book files from Desktop manager, and continued with the advice mentioned above.
Now, as someone mentioned earlier, the ‘wi-fi’ logo is gray and under manage connections the Wi-Fi has the name of my wireless router and a yellow circle. My mobile connection is turned on, but has a yellow circle as well. I called my service provider (AT&T) and had them manually disable the data service.Does the yellow circle and gray wi-fi logo indicate a poor connection?
The browser is set to hotspot and the google homepage will come up, but when I do a search it says:
“A communication failure has occurred. The server may be busy, please try again later. If the problem persists contact your service provider.”
This message pops up when I am sitting right next to the wireless router, so I do not believe that this is due to the signal strength. Any ideas?
Thanks-
Nick
Sir, here is what I did and believe you should do the same. You mentioned after restoring your BB to the manufactures settings that you reinstalled all your phone numbers and maybe all the same configurations as you had before.
That is exactly what I did! And my BB would not connect without the Data Plan. I was back to square one. However, this time I was more educated.
So, try resetting you BB back to the manufactures settings (default) But this time do not reinstalled the saved Back Up Files that you saved.
If it works, you will have to reenter the phone number manually. Or, you can save all your phone numbers to your Sim Card before resetting your BB back to its’ default settings.
Sincerely
Dave Hamester
@Nick, Double check if the BES IT policy has been removed properly. It’s bit tricky to remove it through JL_Cmder.
- “yellow circle and gray wi-fi logo” indicates connection problem with wi-fi router
- If you are not able to get the Google search pages then it should not load up Google home page too. The loaded Google homepage might have served from the cache. Delete the cache and try again.
- To trouble shoot “yellow circle and gray wi-fi logo”
Try deleting all wi-fi saved profiles (if you have any saved before) then take the battery out while device is on (hard reset) and try connecting to Wi-Fi all over again
- If above fails then try testing it on other Wi-Fi router and double check if the BES IT policy is not blocking it
Good luck!
@Dave, The OS reload process we went through before has resolved your BlackBerry Wi-Fi problem. Your device and router is properly configured and its working without data plan as per my understanding. As far as my memory goes, I remember; we turned off the Mobile Network and were able to browse on Wi-Fi. It indicates it’s working without active “Data Plan”. If you think it’s not working after you restore the data then enter the data manually. BUT, as per my experience, it’s very rare that any database corruption on BlackBerry will disable only W-Fi browsing. Try again with this settings # Turn OFF Mobile Network # Turn ON Data Services# Turn ON Wi-Fi # Connect to Router # Default the HotSpot Browser # Test # It will work. – Mike
Hi BBTune,
My friend let me use her blackberry curve 8900 from AT&T because I wanted to check it out. So far, I’ve been doing all the steps correctly in regards to turning off the TCP, APN, etc. I also altered the browser to Hotspot. However, when I’m connected to my home internet, I can’t use the browser. It only works when I turn data services ON but when I turn it off, it doesn’t work. I’m not sure whether I get charged for the data I send to my phone through my own personal internet.
I don’t plan to use the data plan but I would still like to surf the internet. I have yet to activate the phone, but I set up the wifi and it works great. The steps that I took was that I went to the Browser to check the settings. (I only have one browser unlike other ATT BB users) The browser was already set to Hotspot Browser when I went to Options then Browser Config. So I then next went to the General properties and the default browser was already set to Hotspot Browser. At this point, I am assuming that I am using Wifi only. But my concern is that since I have my mobile connection unchecked and only my Wifi connection checked. Does this mean that when I do activate the phone, I will not be able to make phone calls or receive/send sms?
Also, out of curiosity I went to Mobile Network Options under Manage Connection. There, I saw Data Services set as “on,” so I switched it to “off” cus I assumed that was related to data plan. At this point, the browser did not work. So, I switched it back on.
I have also read that if the Wifi logo at the top of the screen is grey, that means I am not connected to wifi, so I became concerned that I was using data.
Can you just list out the steps that is required to have this actually work? Because I’ve been reading all over and so far, all the methods have failed for me.
@Lewis, Will try to answer all your questions one by one.
First, You need to have “Data Services ON” in order for BlackBerry to do any Data transfer. It’s like ON- OFF Switch. So for Wi-Fi browsing you need to have it ON
If you do not want to use the data plan from your wireless carrier and still want to surf the Internet then the best way is to speak with Customer Care of your wireless service provider and put block on your account for any data usage. If you want to control this from the BlackBerry device itself then you need to uncheck (OFF) “Mobile Network” while you use the Wi-Fi. (At this time – you will not be able to make/receive (Send/Receive) phone calls / Text Messages. This is how the BlackBerry is designed to function.
The grayed out Wi-Fi logo indicates connection problem with Wi-Fi router. So, It’s not good.
What I understand is – your device is working OK. You have following three alternatives to choose (from my experience)
1) If you want to call your service provider and block all data usage to get peace of mind against any accidental data usage charges (Best option if you’re not planning to use the data AT ALL, but with this you are not utilizing the “BlackBerry” to it’s full extent. The BlackBerry Messenger and pushed emails are great features to use). OR
2) Turn OFF (Un-Check) “Mobile Network” from the manage connection while you use the Wi-Fi (Safe way to browse on Wi-Fi) OR
3) Every time you browse, Just double check that default browser is Hot-Spot on “Top Left” corner and you should be OK
If run into any technical problems then follow the steps listed above in the post.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Mike
If I have data and a wifi connection, does blackberry prioritize wifi over my data plan? I only have a limited amount of megabytes per month and would love to know the answer…
For Browsing, you do not have that option. What ever is the default browser set last time/ that time it will use the connection accordingly. The only option you have is for (Talkspot feature- making calls through VOIP) available on all GSM Wi-Fi capable devices except Bold. You can prioritize this by going into “Manage Connection” – “Mobile Network Option” – and set the Connection Pref. – Wi-Fi or Mobile Network.
I am confused. I have my default browser set under Hotspot Browser. However, if I turn off my mobile network and have ONLY wifi checked off as the only active connection, i’m still able to download things. So I’m just wondering if I need to turn off my Mobile Network every time…
So, when you have “Hotspot” as your default browser, at that time all data transfer is going through Wi-Fi router and you should not get charged for that.
Turning off Mobile Network is just the extra precaution people take for accidental data usage through carrier, but when you have HotSpot browser set while browsing, then you should be OK.
I have a blackberry Curve 8900 but do not have a data plan. I am wondering is there any way to make sure the blackberry does not access the network but WiFi only and having call text messaging services on at the same time.
I am with Rogers in Canada and am wondering if I could have my internet usage disabled from their end.
@Sam, If you do not have a data plan then the only way you can access the Internet is through Wi-Fi only.
I do have acess to the Internet through WiFi. However I am not able to configure my blackberry to recieve emails in the Inbox. Do I need to have a wireless plan to be able to activate and setup emails on my blackberry curve 8900.
Yes. You need data plan for the pushed email to work.
I have a blackberry curve, using T-Mobile as a provider. When the sim card is installed I get the “Unable to connect to the internet, please try again later. If the problem persists please contact your service provider.” error, however if I pull out the sim card I can surf the web without a problem. T-Mobile currently at least blocks Internet access over wi-fi when you do not have a data plan. I also have a G1 through T-Mobile that I can use wi-fi with, when the sim card is in place with out the data plan. I think any new plan modifications they make include a special change to your wifi capabilities. Nice. Anyways, I guess if you really need to get on the internet you can pull your sim card and surf away. Maybe some loud complaining will get them to re-enable your wifi.
@Theron It’s strange to know Wi-Fi is only working without SIM.
I am having the same problem. Can someone suggest a solution.
Hi there, i have a data plan and a curve w tmobile. my apt has absolutely NO service. it doesnt have a bar or the word EDGE or anything….it is just completely on X.
I dont have wireless but if i do get it, does that mean i will be able to connect to wi-fi and get all my data including bbms, emails, and what about phone calls?
Please advise as i will not get wireless in my home unless i know this will fix the problem.
thank you in advance.
Without T-Mo cell coverage, You will not get any phone calls/Text Messages. I have seen some GSM devices get BBMs, Emails over Wi-Fi with SIM inside and Mobile Network turned Off. (With valid service books on it). It is not guaranteed to work. I believe you have Curve – 8900 0r 8520 which has Wi-Fi on it.
I have ensured the settings mentioned in the previous posts are set on my phone so I can access wifi on my bb 8220 w/o a data plan. I am able to connect to the wifi but even with mobile network turned off I still get the message that I need to subscribe to the web2go plan in order to surf the web. Is there anything else I can do to access the web on my phone via wifi w/o paying for the data plan?
Thank you!
Test with other HotSpot-Wifi router. Possibly the Wi-Fi zone you are accessing is not free.
Well it was my wifi at home so I’m not sure why it wouldn’t work. I entered the wifi password and everything connected (I just couldn’t surf the web without signing up for T-Mobile’s data plan). I will try it somewhere else though… Thanks for the quick response.
That’s strange. I am not on T-Mo, so will not be able to confirm but I have heard similar requirements for some users on AT&T
Hi,
I’ve just looked at all the above comments and I’m still a bit confused.
I’ve just ordered a curve 8520 it’s with O2 network and has no data plan as far as I know. I just wondered whether it was possible to access the internet with absolutely no charges if I just pulled out my sim card and used it without?
Also, if I were to get on the internet would it indicate whether i’d be charged for it.
I’m a student so I have little money and realllly don’t want to be charged ridiculous amounts for using the internet thinking it was free
Thanks
xoxo
When you browse from your 8520 through your Wi-Fi router, just make sure that you are using Hot-spot browser. That’s the only indication which Internet(data) you are using.
Ideally you should be able to browse without SIM card too.
For the first month, after couple of days, I would advised you speak with O2 cust. care and double check if you have used any data from their network. OR if you are not planning to use their data then have them put the block on those data access.
Just a quick update. I talked with T-Mobile about having to remove the sim card to get on the internet and it turns out my phone apps were terribly out of date and had bugs. They had me update everything with the newest version of the App Loader and the browser works fine now with the sim card installed. Everything else is blocked though, google maps, the application store, etc. So you can browse, but you can’t do much else.
Thanks Theron for the update. Yes, with Wi-Fi capable devices, browsing over Wi-Fi is cost effective way to surf on Internet, but to get the real advantage of BlackBerry (Pushed email, twitter on the go, GPS and Maps on the move, tons of other apps) you need the browsing data plan from wireless carrier which does cost a bit for some, lot for many. Thanks again for leaving your update. So, T-Mo devices do work on Wi-Fi without data plan.
I am a T-mobile customer without a data plan. Days ago, I got a Blackberry 8900 (not thru t-mobile)a refurbished t-mobile phone. I was able to connect to the internet thru WIFI by following your steps. Thanks you. Also, I have noticed that my T-mobile profile account already has the 8900 as my phone without me even informning them. Soon after, even with the WIFI connected, I could not get the internet anymore. Have been getting this message “Unable to connect to the internet, please try again later. If the problem persists please contact your service provider.” Do you think t-mobile has caught up to me and has put a lock to my internet usage with WIFI. Any suggestions as to how I can get back the internet with just the WIFI. Thank you very much and hoping for your reply. Maria
check your settings again and make sure that under the TCP/IP settings, all fields are empty.
(Option>Advance Option>TCP/IP)
Then double check if your default browser configuration is “Hotspot Browser”
It should work.
I am looking at getting the BB8900 and have read several forums & FAQ’s on the wifi/blackberry relationship but still have a couple of questions.
1. Is there a way to detect when you are on your carriers data and thus receive charges from them? Is there an icon or anything that specifies?
2. How do you ensure that the network that you connect to is a hotspot/free wifi vs. connecting to your carriers data stream? Is there an icon or anything that specifies?
1) There is no such icon that specifies which data you’re using.
2) When you first open the Browser and what you see on top status bar “Internet Browser” or “Hotspot Browser” is the only indication that specify which data you are going to use through Browser app.
The “Internet Browser” is for Carrier data and “HotSpot” is your free Wi-Fi.
heyy llk i dont have internet browser i only have hotspot browser and i can’t download the blackberry app world without it. How can i install the internet browser can u give me the site or something?
To download and use App World, you need the data plan from carrier. In that case you’ll get Internet Browser. App world is not supported on HotSpot Browser.
what is this data plan from carrier i don’t understand what it is and how can i get it?.
plz reply i realy want the msn to work on my blackberry
that’s why i bought it.
Thanks, it’s working great!
I just bought a BB Bold from rogers and having problem with the wifi. Earlier had iphone and the wifi was running fine. The wifi on BB works in the start and then it drops and the logo grey out. I have tried using different browser configurations (internet browser, hotspot, opera) and facing the same problem. The router is from bell symaptico and i have disabled mac filteration so thats not a problem as the wifi works fine in the start. Please help me here, or i am gonna throw this guy out of the window.
Hi Najam
I just purchased a Blackbery Curve 8900 from Rogers but I have not faced any problems with WiFi. The BB Curve is made more for WiFi while the BB Bold is made for connecting through the network/service provider
@Sam,
Congrats on Curve 8900 purchase. That’s my one of the favorite BlackBerry.
Thanks Mike,
I do love it’s compact look though sometimes I wonder if a Bold would have been a better idea in terms of
@Najam,
BlackBerry Bold 9000 is one of the top of the line device from RIM. The problem you are facing “Wi-Fi connection does not stay solid all the time even if you’re in active wi-fi area & Wi-Fi logo on the device turns grayed out” I would suggest following troubleshooting.
1. Back up and wipe the device data
2. Reset your wi-fi router without any encryption (security)
3 Test the connection and see if stays solid
4. If the problem persist – test the same with other router (with and without any encryption set on it)
It could be the wi-fi router or the OS on the BlackBerry. If above fails then OS reload is recommended.
thanks Mike…im gonna try this when i go back home after work…hopefully it works.
After much to-do, I found that Wiggler was correct.
I have the Wifi working without the data plan on the Bold 9700.
I needed to access “Mobile Network” configuration in Settings and set “Data Services” and “While Roaming” to ON. (This is somewhat anti-intuitive since it appears that you are explicitly accepting the usage of a blackberry or phone company’s data plan — not true.)
It was once I made those changes above, that the phone was able to assign an IP address from my home router. (Before such time, the phone showed me indeed connected to the router, but it didn’t actually assign an IP address.)
After I set the default browser “Hotspot Browser” in the “Browser Configuration” menu, I was pretty much set.
It’s worth noting that the WiFi icon in the upper right hand corner is STILL gray, opposed to white as some others have claimed. (It turns white if you are actually using a data plan.)
Hope this helps someone.
Gideon.
That did it for me on an 8900! Thanks! Note- I also get a greyed out Wi-Fi and when I look at ‘Manage Connections’ the Wi-Fi connection always has a ‘-’ icon by the side of it (while the Mobile Network has a green tick against it) Not sure what this means?
I own a Blackberry bold 9000 and followed the instructions to the letter, I have established a Wi-Fi connection with my router on my phone however my Wi-Fi Logo on the 9000 Bold remain white still. Does this mean that I am still using data???
As long as your default browser is Hotspot browser you are not using “Data” from your wireless carrier.
The Wi-Fi Logo remaining white is a positive sign. You’re OK.
can
Pearl 8130 use wifi without data plan
I do not think 8130 is Wi-Fi capable.
I have a 8520 Curve (gemini), and when i connect my BB to my laptop using WIFI, it appear “-” white sign at MANAGE CONNECTION, but in the HOME screen, WIFI logo is still grey out, the wifi is already connected to my laptop, but i cannot access any wesite, its like i have no connection to the wifi. I also test my hotspot using my Nokia E65, its good, and i can open any website, but i still dont know why i cant access internet (any website) using BB while it already connected to my hotspot.
Hi, thanks for the tutorial. My BB bold still can’t browse online though, it says subscription is needed. Will my last choice just be to purchase the data plan?
I am not sure if you have access to your own wi-fi router, and in that case it should not ask you about subscription. Kindly check — if you are using any paid hotspot wi-fi zone then it may ask you about the subscription.
I read your instructions on how to get wi-fi, but once i turn on my t-mobile network and i decide to get on the internet, it always bring me to the “upsell” screen which is also part of “web2go”. Do i have to turn off my t-mobile network in order to get on the internet?
You should be able to browse Wi-Fi while the T-Mobile network is still ON. Depending on your default browser, wireless carriers do promote their mobile home page.
Hi, I’ve just bought BB9700 but I can’t install applications I’ve downloaded from the app store. For example this one: http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/2352
I haven’t downloaded anything such as the “App Word” and I don’t have a PayPal account. Do I need to do any of those to download or get a FREE application? I also don’t have a plan for my BlackBerry. I’m just using Wi-Fi for internet connection.
Thanks.
To download and install App World you need browsing data plan from your wireless carrier. It will not work on Wi-Fi.
Without “App World” app you will not be able to download any apps.
You can download that game from this link http://go.mobihand.com/?target=product.asp&id=41448&op=wc&posid=96&affid=2016&wid=1835
hiya i have a blackberry storm 2 9550 and its on o2 on pay as you go. when i go onto brower i keep saying contact your service provider i only wana use the internet on wifi
You should be able to browse on Storm2. Follow the steps mentioned in the post. Make sure the default browser is Hotspot Browser.
got that working if i go on o2 contract sim will they give me the settings for the internet without wifi?
Your access to Wi-Fi is entirely related with your available Wi-Fi Internet router you have. It not related to O2 (Wireless Carrier) in any way.
If you want to browse Internet via O2, all you need to do is just change the default browser to Internet Browser and it has all settings in it.
I hope this helps.
Do i have to switch data services to “off” for me not to get charged whilst using the “hotspot browswer”?
Data Services has to be ON for any browsing to work. If you want you can uncheck “Mobile Network” but you will not get calls or SMS.
So how do i make sure that i wont get charged? what are all the precautions necessary?
So how do i make sure that i wont get charged? # Double check the default browser is Hostspot
what are all the precautions necessary? # uncheck the “Mobile Network”
Hi,
After searching many different web sites and other ‘berry’ you’rs had the right answer and it was easy and quick to understand.
I used this article for my 8520 unlocked. It worked!!
I have a blackberry bold 9700. I can’t access my browser. It says its connected to my WiFi network and it has full bars. I go to Browser Config and it says HotSpot Browser. I used to have Internet Browser. I was wondering how to get Internet Browser back the way I used to have it. I think I did a wipe to erase Email and Messages and I think it erased the default browser settings. Now it only shows the hotspot browser. Anybody got any suggestions on what to do? I have no sim in my bb
You are missing service books. That’s why Internet Browser is not showing up. Insert the SIM. Turn on your Wireless Network. I believe you have the data plan. Go to Options-Advanced Options-Host Routing Table-Press Menu button- and select Register Now.
Once you get the service books. You’ll see Internet browser there.
@victor
The BlackBerry App world is only supported on data plan you subscribe from your wireless service provider (e.g. Verizon, AT&T, Rogers, O2.. etc) and pay monthly charges for it.
App World is not supported on HotSpot Browser. So, if you are missing Internet Browser on your BlackBerry, then make sure you insert the SIM and you have the proper browsing data plan as mentioned in above paragraph. This will bring the necessary service books your BlackBerry needs to show up Internet Browser as option to select.
I hope this helps.
Hi I have a BB Bold 9700. I tried connecting my BB with my school’s wifi connection and they said that BB wont connect because it doesn’t support a proxy? Is this true? What else can I do?
Wi-Fi and Proxy both are different. For BlackBerry to connect via Wi-Fi, Proxy does not come into picture.
As long as you are in Wi-Fi coverage of your school and you have all info about your school Wi-Fi router, you should be able to browse Internet on Wi-Fi.
I am a T-mobile customer without a data plan. Days ago, I got a Blackberry 8900,a refurbished t-mobile phone (but not thru t-mobile). I was able to connect to the internet thru WIFI by following your steps. Thank you. Funny thing, I have noticed that my T-mobile account profile already has the 8900 as my phone without me even informning them (t-mobile). Soon after, even with the WIFI connected, I could not get the internet anymore. Have been getting this message “Unable to connect to the internet, please try again later. If the problem persists please contact your service provider.” Do you think t-mobile has caught up to me and has put a lock to my internet usage with WIFI. Any suggestions as to how I can get back the internet with just the WIFI. Thank you very much and hoping for your reply.
The error you have now is most of the time because of default browser not being the hotspot browser. Double check again and see if it’s OK.
You may want to delete any saved Wi-Fi profiles, do a battery pull and try setting up Wi-Fi all over again.
Wi-Fi internet access is on your own and it should work without any restrictions from T-Mo.
thanks for the tips. I got it to work and I do get calls and text messages on a wifi connection with no additional charges from Tmo.
woot!
i don’t have data plan for my BB but we do have wifi subscription at home. will i be able to use BB messenger with our wifi? if so, what settings do i need to configure? thanks!
kleng
You need the Data plan to use BBM. Once you have that, your BlackBerry will get proper service books from RIM servers which will allow you to use it on Wi-Fi later on. Without first the data plan, it’s not possible.
Now this is helpful. I have an additional comment and question. I have tried two scenarios (given I have unlimited data plan but don’t want to pay extra while abroad)
Scenario 1.
I took out my sim card. Switched my bb on and enabled wifi. Wifi icon was grey and I was able to browse internet. The email push didn’t work for the reasons already mentioned above. So this insures that I am not being charged for using internet on my bb.
Scenario 2. I inserted my sim card back. Switched my bb on and enabled wifi ONLY. This time the wifi icon turned white which means the email gets pushed through using wifi connection. Internet browsing is still via “Hotspot browser”.
Now the question is: Is it possible that somehow I am not being charged by my service provider for using the full bb data support via wifi (given that Mobile network IS switched OFF)? Or is it only my illusion.
Answer to your question for Scenario 2: I have been using it like that and haven’t been charged extra by my service provider in Canada.
Based on my experience with BlackBerry and wireless carriers you should (will) not get charged.
Depending on your service provider, it’s advised to check your data usage later and see what happened to get the precise info. Please let us know if it turns out the other way.
All went well! My service provider didn’t charge anything. I basically switched off a mobile network and was operating on wifi bases only. BB gave me a full service. Hurray!
@andy
Thank you for getting back and leaving comment. Glad to hear it’s working the way you want.
Hi, i have done all the steps that shown on the side but i still cant use browser. It always show that i need to contact to my services provider. I have tried every others wi fi but still cant
Hello,
I’m on T-mobile without a data plan. When I first got the phone, I had a data plan – wifi was setup & working. After ditching the data plan, that’s when I began having problems with the wifi.
I’ve tried the steps for the Bold 9700. Using the browser, I’d get a Connection Failure message after a long request load.
I’m also trying to get MSN live messenger to work on wifi without the data plan, but keep getting Connection Error (65)
I tried other fixes like disabling the APN, setting APN to internet.com, turning off data services in Mobile Network options, and battery pulls after trying each fix. But nothing works to let me browse the internet.
Any ideas what I could do?
thanks
I am sure, you must have gone through the steps mentioned above.
My guess for your problem could be the router/BlackBerry settings as it’s giving you the Connection Failure message after a long request load. In this situation, I would advise wipe handhand and start setting up Wi-Fi all over again before you restore any data. Try the simple steps mentioned in the post first. If still doesn’t work then try with different wi-fi router before you try to configure any advanced settings like APNs/ Data Services.
Hard to say anything for MSN messanger connection error at this point.
I have the new blackberry curve and i was able to get on the internet and now i cant? Not even if i have Wi-Fi and i have a data plan. How can i connect it back or do i need to take it to the verizon store?
Try following the steps mentioned above and see if it helps. Check out some comments and see if you are getting any error message similar to other users. For me to suggest something, I need to know what error message you’re getting and what troubleshooting you have done so far.
I am not sure about going to store for technical problems but nothing wrong if other person can look at it. It might help to test your BlackBerry to their store wi-fi as well.
I have finally read through all of the comments and responses to this topic.
I have a 8900 (previously a 8310) on Centennial Wireless’s network. They were recently bought by AT&T and they are changing people over. I don’t want to change over, so I am still on a Unlimited Talk and Text plan. I want to use my WIFI whenever I can whether its at home or school. I can go without it while in the car. I also do not want any extra charges from friends forwarding stupid pictures via MMS, or my browser decides to use the mobile network for some reason.
I currently have my mobile network off (unchecked), and I have a WIFI symbol on the upper right in grey. I read 2 different instances in this thread that contradict each other on whether the grey or white is desired. Can this be totally clarified?
Also, if my Data Services are “ON”, am I getting individually charged for each picture that comes through? Or is it all over my home router? I can’t remember if the couple of pics I received were actually while at home or out somewhere. Friends would ask me if I got a certain pic, and I never even received a text at all while using the 8310.
Help on this would greatly be appreciated, and I am sure useful to others! Thanks!
It seems like the problem you are facing is: “Not able to receive pictures (MMS) and charges related to it”. Let me explain.
Wi-Fi# Wi-Fi icon in white color is normal and this is the one which is desired to work properly. Recommended troubleshooting for this if it’s grey: 1) Battery Pull 2) Delete All Wi-Fi profiles 3) Reset Router 4) Set up Wi-Fi all over again on BlackBerry 5) Test with other router 6) If all fails – Back up then wipe data and try setting up again without restoring the data.
Pictures# MMS/SMS uses GSM band for sending and receiving pictures and you’ll need Mobile Network to be turned ON for it to work well all the time. Charges related to pictures received or sent by you on a cell phone number (MMS) is part of what services/ plan you have from Centennial/ AT&T. MMS is not related to Wi-Fi at all. So, if you are getting billed for receiving MMS, that’s what you are subscribed to and unfortunately there is no work around unless you get a different plan which has MMS sending/receiving free.
MMS Provisioning at carrier level# Some carriers ask for some sort of data plan if the customer has older BlackBerry OS (e.g. 8100 with 4.2 OS), as the way MMS services are provisioned at carrier switch, for older BlackBerry OS, it needs very less amount of data for MMS to work.
MMS on 8310, Data Services ON, Charges# Charges with MMS is explained in above paragraph. If you are not receiving MMS consistently in all occasions then please try checking your Mobile Network first and see if it’s ON. As per my experience with Carriers, most of the time the problem (randomly not receiving MMS) is either at the carrier level (your wireless profile at carrier switch) or older SIM card if it’s GSM phone. If it’s happening with 8900 as well then speak with your wireless carrier tech support and ask them to refresh your profile or check if everything is OK at their end. May be something is messed up at their end while changing over from Centennial to At&T.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have more questions.
I have a bb bold 9000 and followed the instructions but when I tried to use the browser, it says “unable to connect to the internet” I have at&t
what can I do?? I really want to use my wifi connection!
Follow steps “B. Change the default browser” mentioned in above steps and try again.
The browser is set to “Hotspot Browser” but it still says “unable to connect to the internet”
My computer is connected to the wifi so that can’t be the problem.
Do I need to change the browser identification?
Changing the Browser Identification will not help. Make sure Data Services is ON. Delete all Wi-Fi profiles. Take the battery out, put it back, set up the Wi-Fi again and test.
Wi-Fi working for Computer may not gurranty Wi-Fi access for BlackBerry if any firewall is blocking it.
Reset the router and test, Trying it on other Wi-Fi router is also a good idea.
I changed my Data Services to on and the browser works!
Thank you so much!
Hi, thanks so much for this informative instructions. I’ve never used any phones that have web browser capability so here come my stupid questions.
Without a data plan, what can or cannot we do with the web? Can we be able to browse the net, send web emails via Hotmail.com/Yahoo.com, access Facebook.com or other sites and chat via instant messenger? Basically can we do anything that we can do using a computer?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
Mich
You have asked a very good question. Actually not many people know this.
Answer: If the there is no data plan at all then the BlackBerry can certainly use the Browser App. i.e. all WEBSITES you can access with browser, these include Hotmail/Yahoo/Facebook/any website. Other 3rd party apps like Weather/ Twitter may work if they have functionality to use Wi-Fi services separately.
As far as Instant Messenger apps are concerned, they will not work as they rely on servicebooks (configuration file via BlackBerry.net provisioning through dataplan & RIM servers). BlackBerry Messenger and pushed email will not work either as they do not have proper servicebooks.
If you need more info on what BlackBerry services are supported on Wi-Fi once you HAVE the data plan – check this post: http://www.blackberrytune.com/blackberry-services-supported-over-a-wi-fi-connection/
Let me know if you have more questions.
My daughter has a Blackberry Curve 8900 which is currently locked to Vodaphone, she is travelling around the world, but has left the phone at home. I am going to visit her next month and want to know if I get the phone unlocked, will she be able to use it without paying for a data plan in wifi hotspots, and will she need to put a sim in the phone just to get it working. Step by step instructions to do this would be helpful. Does she need to put her Vodaphone sim in it at all. When i put the phone on at home, it says insert sim card. How do we get round this. Many thanks. Hope this makes sense.
Your daughter can browse on WiFi hotspots anytime. Doesn’t matter if the phone is locked to Vodafone or not. Also doesn’t matter if there is SIM card inside or not. Steps by step instructions are mentioned in above post. If you are using it for Wi-Fi without SIM card, ignore the “Insert SIM” message, it will still let you browse on Hotspot.
If you unlock the BlackBerry, then you’ll be able to use SIM card other than Vodafone. See this post on unlocking BlackBerry – http://www.blackberrytune.com/how-to-unlock-blackberry-and-enter-unlock-code/
Thanks for that. One other thing without a data package will she be able to send/receive e-mails and use facebook when using a Hotspot. Sorry for sounding ignorant but I prefer a simple phone!
@ Gillian Gilbey
Pls. see my above comment, I replied to Mich on April 1, 2010 at 5:42 PM.
You’re super patient with all of these questions! I’ve read through most but still having trouble with wifi on my bold 8900. I’ve changed the settings as instructed and it shows my wifi network from the main screen (top). However, the wifi logo is still grayed out and when I shut off mobile network to make sure I’m not being charged for data, it says “the radio on the device is turned off…. cannot retreive any Web pages.” Please turn the radio on or…” This all leads me to believe I’m not surfing via wifi. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
You’ll have to troubleshoot the grayed out Wi-Fi logo on your BlackBerry Curve 8900. I believe you have set the default browser as hotspot browser properly. It looks like you’re not surfing via Wi-Fi. Please follow these steps:
Wi-Fi# Wi-Fi icon in white color is normal and this is the one which is desired to work properly. Recommended troubleshooting for this if it’s gray: 1) Battery Pull 2) Delete All Wi-Fi profiles 3) Reset Router 4) Set up Wi-Fi all over again on BlackBerry 5) Test with other router 6) If all fails – Back up then wipe data and try setting up Wi-Fi again without restoring the data.
Thanks for the response. ….still no luck. regarding option 6, (1)what’s the procedure for wiping data? Also, (2) in browser options, should “hotspot browser” be selected under Browser Config and General Properties? and (3) in TCP/IP, i’ve cleared the username and password fields. However, should both boxes still be checked? (APN Settings Enabled, and APN Authentication Enabled)
Thanks
Ok… so i came back and tried again today. this time tried another website and it works with the mobile network off! The only weird thing is that the wifi logo is still gray. Final question, for peace of mind’s sake; As long as I’m browsing with the “hotspot browser” selected in browser menu, I shouldn’t be charged, correct? …thanks again for your help.
That’s correct.
i have the curve 8330, can you go online through wifi with that phone. i do not have a data plan. thanks alot.
Curve 8330 doesn’t have built in Wi-Fi.
I have bb curve 8520. It’s successfully connected to wifi but when i started to browse, there was pop up message that “unable to…….”
“Unable to find the requested server”..
Try manually typing different website address and see if gives you the same error.
Try. http://www.google.com or http://www.yahoo.com
sad to say, it gives same error..huhu i dont know.. kasi i bought this in singapore.. maybe i need data service plaN?
hi! have BB curve 8520 and i noticed i don’t have that icon next to wifi symbol. this icon looks like a locket and a 2 small green squares… i have it before but now i cant see it anymore… pls help me! thank u. =)
It’s hard to troubleshoot missing icons on BlackBerry. Let me know the symptoms if you any have functional difficulties on BlackBerry.
Hi,
I have a question. I turned off my mobile network and use wifi to surf and use ym, aim without charge of the data plan. (Not sure if this is correct.) Also left the data service ON.
However, when i tried using Blackberry Messenger, i was able to send messages on it. Does that mean that it is consuming my data service plan?
Thanks
No.
I have explained, how Wi-Fi Services work on this post
http://www.blackberrytune.com/blackberry-services-supported-over-a-wi-fi-connection/
Thanks for replying. I did not saw that post. Thanks.
Anyway, thought it did not work here in the Philippines…
You’re welcome Eya. Feel free to drop by if you have more questions.
My Blackberry 8900 does not give me an option under default browser called “hotspot browser”. I am connected to wifi without a data plan and I am not able to get to the internet. What do I do next?
Hi,
Sorry another question since I think I am consuming my data plan. I am located here in the Philippines and not sure if it affect the phone.
I am using BB 9700, have my mobile network OFF, data plan ON, wifi ON.
I am able to access the following: Blackberry apps, able to receive email from gmail directly to my phone, able to use BBM, able to use the yahoo messenger, AIM, which I downloaded from Blackberry through my phone.
Is this normal? Am i doing something wrong here? Since i thought i shouldn’t be able to access it at all.
Thanks.
Hi,
Sorry another question since I think I am consuming my data plan. I am located here in the Philippines and not sure if it affect the phone.
I am using BB 9700, have my mobile network OFF, data plan ON, wifi ON.
I am able to access the following: Blackberry apps, able to receive email from gmail directly to my phone, able to use BBM, able to use the yahoo messenger, AIM, which I downloaded from Blackberry through my phone.
Is this normal? Am i doing something wrong here? Since i thought i shouldn’t be able to access it at all.
Thanks.
It’s absolutely normal. I am also able to use my BlackBerry exactly the same way from Canada.
Hi, so I am not being charged, right? Is it 100 percent sure?
Sorry, i keep on asking! Thanks so much!
As far as my wireless service provider is concerned, I haven’t got charged for it yet and same should apply to you in Philippines.
The best way for you to confirm this would be to use the BlackBerry on Wi-Fi for a week or two and keep an eye on your data usage. Do let us know how it goes.
@ Eya
How are you getting email directly though? and also BBM?
Don’t those require a Blackberry Data Plan plus those services depend on the Blackberry Internet or Enterprise Server depending on which one you choose (or chose).
They can’t be accessed through WiFi. Haven’t tried getting a BB Plan to setup my personal email (required) then cancelling it though then using WiFi instead.
But from my understanding if you’re using WiFi with a BB Data Plan it won’t be charged.
@Justin
Eya is able to get Emails and BBM on Wi-Fi because her BlackBerry still has those required servicebooks. As long as those servicebooks are there, she can get emails and BBM either through Wi-Fi or through data plan. She does need the data plan at the first place though to get those servicebooks and need the dataplan to have BlackBerry PIN registered to RIM servers.
Check out the second part of below post, which has more info.
http://www.blackberrytune.com/blackberry-services-supported-over-a-wi-fi-connection/
@Justin,
Hi, I think Mike just answered the question for me. Anyway, I always try to double check it at the Service Status and BIS is stated as connected to WiFi so I think it is working.
I will let you know when my bill comes in! I do hope this is working!
hi,
i followed above steps with my 8520. the connection shows as successful but when i go to the browser and select a URL, it gives me a message saying “Unable to Connect to Requested server”.
The Wifi is on and is able to connect to other wifi networks but not to mine. i dont facwe this issue with my laptop
hi,
i m using 8520 Curve aka Gemini
when im trying to connect via wifi
my phone said “a communication failuer has occured. The server may be busy, please try again later. If the problem persists contact your service provider”
why that notification appears?
is there something wrong with my bb?
i’ve followed your instruction above
i think the connection were fine, bcause my laptop were able to connect.
NB:sorry if my english is bad..
im from Indonesia
It could also happen if the website address you’re typing is not correct. Try couple of different website. Try http://www.google.com or http://www.yahoo.com to test.
Test with different Wi-Fi router.
Based on my experience, I do not see any problem with your BB.
can you get apps with the wifi and also,can you text?
@edwin
You can download most OTA themes and apps through Wi-Fi but you can’t send SMS (Text Messages) on Wi-Fi.
Hiya , I did as you instructed but upon arriving step (C.).
I get an error message saying:Unable to connect to the internet.
although, the network is working just fine on my pc and IS connected to the phone.. What seems to be the problem?
Try setting the mobile network’s data setting to “Off when Roaming.” My daughter was unable to connect to the internet even with hours of assistance from customer service. I was messing with the phone, and voila!
It worked after I messed around with it :p
Glad to know it’s working for you Rochelle.
The “off when roaming” trick worked for me, too! Thanks! This has been a headache of mine for some time.
Hi, my blackberry 8520 is able to connect and browse the internet at some wifi hotspots outside like in the cafes, but i cannot browse the internet with my home wifi, when i try to access any websites, it says unable to find the requested server.What should i do?
It seems like your home Wi-Fi router has some firewall or additional security which is causing this.
Things you can do: 1) Reset your Wi-Fi router at home (Keep it open without any security or encryption to test) 2) Delete all saved Wi-Fi profiles from your BlackBerry 3) Try setting up your BlackBerry with your home Wi-Fi router again
Hi,
Thanks for the info on wifi setup esp, the details about the browser type to avoid using the data plan. I just bought a BB 9520 Curve with Wifi. To check the wifi capabilities of my phone, I did not turn the radio on and connected the phone to my home network, but when I tried to open up the browser, it asked me to turn the radio on. In section C of the instructions above, its mentioned that with the wireless network off, one should be able to browse. Please provide some inputs as to what might be the issue here. If the phone is connecting to my home network, why is it asking me to turn the radio/mobile network on. BTW I am with AT&T.
Thanks,
Rohit
In section C above, it is asking you to turn off the “Mobile Network” not the “Wireless Network” or “Wi-Fi”.
Basically, once you’re connected to your Home WiFi router then you can turn off the “Mobile Network – through which you’re connected to At&T” and you still should be able to browse on WiFi.
I hope this helps.
Hi! I have bold 9700 here and I’m in the Philippines. I dont have a data plan here so i just use my wifi to check my mails. The problem is whenever i use the internet in my BB, it uses my globe load. So im like paying for it.. What should i do to use my wifi for free without turning off my globe signal. =)
I am not sure, what do you mean by “globe load”. If you do not have data plan from your wireless service provider then I believe you’re not paying for Internet.
All your browsing through Wi-Fi is free.
Hi! I just got my first blackberry, and just wanna check if i understood things correctly:
If i want to use wifi to surf the net, i definitely will have to be uncontactable/nobody can call or message me?
You can make and receive calls, send and receive text messages and surf the Internet on Wi-Fi.
I HAVE A BLACKBERRY FOLDING PEARL with a phone only pay as you go sim card – i.e no data plan – this is because i am British and only spend a few months in the US each year. i was told in the T mobile shop that i could log into the internet from wi-fi hotspots and also pick up email – - and i have i think successfully made an internet connection to my blackberry at home – or at least my phone says i am connected to the internet
however i cannot access the internet – or download or see emails on blackberry
did the store mislead me? or can i fix this?
You can browse the Internet without the data plan. Follow the steps mentioned in the above post. You can only access your emails through the browser only.
Emails will not be pushed and hence visible in the “Messages” folder in your BlackBerry without any data plan.
Hi
i followed above steps with my 9700. the connection shows as successful but when i go to the browser and select a URL, it gives me a message saying “Unable to Connect to Requested server”.
what should i do or is there any problem with my BB?
Seems like you need to set the default browser as HotSpot Browser. Do a battery pull and try again.
thanks so much for the replies!! i got it! =)
Hey, thanks sooooo much and i guess the key is to change default to Hotspot browser like u’ve said! but,i can’t watch Youtube vids!!!
Thank you soo much. You made my day.. all free internet at college.. Man this is good. I followed the steps and it works perfectly fine.
Hi, sorry for the question again, i have set may BB 9700 into hotspot browser but still i can’t connect to the internet. It says the same that it is “unable to connect to requested server”. I don’t know what to do or shall I configure something with my wireless router? I can’t download applications through BB app world.
To access the BB App world, you need the data plan.
i used this method however it did not work right away when i went to my browser i clicked options and hit start blackberry connection and then it started working however i cannot use my apps like myspace or facebook anyway i can use these using wifi with no data plan required?