Toolkit

Hotspot Resources

Know Your Device: T-Mobile Hotspot Resource Guide

We are so excited to announce that the Georgia Department of Education is partnering with T-Mobile to provide mobile internet connectivity.  This resource guide will assist you as you set up your hotspot device.

What’s in the Box?

The hotspot includes everything you need to get you started:

  • Device
  • Nano SIM Card
  • Charger
  • USB Type C Cable
  • Quick Start Guide

Icons and What They Mean

Buttons and Their Locations

Getting Connected

Review the steps below to help get you started. Note that there are different steps depending on the computer or WiFi enabled device you use, so follow those steps accordingly.

Turning on Your Hotspot

  1. Remove the back cover of your device which is the blank black cover. Remove the battery to find the WiFi Name (SSID) and its current password inside the back panel of your mobile hotspot. Note: Keep a copy of the password for later use.
  2. Confirm that the SIM card is inserted. Place the battery back into the hotspot and close with the back cover.
  3. Hold the Power button for 3 seconds until all the LED indicators light up.

Connecting Your Hotspot

On your computer or other WiFi enabled device, search for available WiFi networks and select the network name (SSID). If you have a Windows PC:
  • Click Wireless Network Connection on the taskbar to view available networks.
  • Choose the SSID from the list of available networks.
If you have a Mac computer:
  • Select System Preferences > Network > Airport
  • Click Advanced to choose SSID from the list of available networks.
  • Choose the SSID from the list of available networks and enter your hotspot password.
If you have an IOS device:
  • Go to Settings > WiFi
  • Choose the SSID from the list of available networks and enter your hotspot password.
If you have an Android device:
  • Go to Settings > WiFi
  • Choose the SSID from the list of available networks and enter your hotspot password.

Questions?

Your school district and T-Mobile want to make sure you are able to successfully connect your device. If you have a question, do the following:Contact T-Mobile’s Government Team of Experts – this customer support team provides support for troubleshooting hotspots.
  • Our dedicated T-Mobile’s Government Team of Experts (GTEX) is available Monday—Friday 5:30AM–5:30PM
    • Dial 1-844-361-1310
    • Once dialed you will be connected to a Support Representative.
    • Please tell the rep you are calling that you need technical support with your hotspot, which is not working.
    • Inform the Rep that you are an end user and that they should be able to assist you with technical support since it is not revenue impacting.
    • After Hours -Dial 1-800-375-1126 to reach Business Care for 24/7 assistance
  • If you are still experiencing issues after speaking to technical support such as insufficient signal issues or defective devices, please reach out to your school district.
  • For other information, resources, and school district contact information, visit www.GAStudentConnect.org.

Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF)

ECF is a temporary $7.17 billion program that will help schools close the digital divide by providing funding for devices and broadband connectivity purchases for off-campus use by students and school staff in need. More information on the ECF can be found at the FCC website. Georgia Student Connect has also developed an ECF Guidebook to help districts navigate the program. You can also access the guidebook. Your ambassador is available to field your questions.

Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB)

The EBB provides a temporary discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households. The EBB is limited to one discounted monthly service plan per household and will continue until funds are expended or until six months after the declared end to the COVID-19 health emergency. Students in your district may be eligible for this program. Information about the program is available for students and their households at GetEmergencyBroadband.org

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