The Solana blockchain network is thriving, and Helium (HNT) is a standout performer, climbing from under $3 in late 2023 to over $7 today. A unique feature of HNT is the ability to earn rewards by hosting a miner. But how does it work, and is it still profitable? Let’s dive in.
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What is Helium Mining?
The Helium network aims to be a decentralized wireless network capable of providing Internet and wireless connectivity to anyone, anywhere in the world, for a fraction of the price of traditional plans.
To establish this network, Helium miners are set up by individuals and companies to provide network coverage. Essentially, you’re setting up hotspots around the globe for anyone to use.
In exchange for supporting the network and, in essence, helping to run the decentralized wireless network, you earn HNT as a mining reward. You can also earn Helium IOT (IOT) and Helium Mobile (MOBILE) depending on the type of Helium miner you buy.
Initially, you could only buy devices capable of HNT mining through Helium itself, but there are now many third-party hotspot manufacturers you can buy devices from. To be able to mine all three assets (HNT, IOT, and MOBILE), you will need to pick a hotspot device capable of both (see image below).
How to Set Up a Helium Miner
Setting up a Helium miner is a straightforward process that begins with purchasing the right equipment and continues through configuring the device via a mobile app.
If you’re considering setting up a Helium hotspot, this guide will walk you through the steps from start to finish, including setting up a crypto wallet through the Helium app. Not only will you create a hotspot capable of contributing to the Helium network, but you’ll also be able to manage and monitor your rewards directly from your smartphone.
Whether you’re new to Helium mining or looking to expand your understanding, the setup process is designed to be intuitive, making it accessible even for beginners.
Your Step-by-Step Guide for Setting Up a Helium Miner
Action
Description
1. Purchase Miner
Select and purchase a Helium-approved (HIP 19) hotspot miner for your specific region (e.g., US915 or EU868).
2. Install Helium App
Download the Helium app (or the manufacturer-specific app) from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
3. Create Wallet
Set up your account and Helium wallet. It’s crucial to securely document your 12 or 24-word recovery phrase.
4. Power On
Unbox the miner, attach the antenna, and plug it into power. Ensure it is placed near a window for better signal.
5. Pair Device
Enable Bluetooth on your phone and use the app to “Add a Miner,” pairing it with your hotspot.
6. Network & Location
Connect the miner to Wi-Fi or Ethernet and “Assert Location” to set its coordinates on the Helium map.
7. Sync & Monitor
Allow the miner to sync to the blockchain (can take 24-48 hours), and use the app to track $HNT or $MOBILE rewards.
What Does a Helium Miner Do?
Helium mining devices use radio technology to provide long-range wireless coverage. LoRaWAN miners power the IoT network (Internet of Things), while specialized 5G and Wi-Fi hotspots power the Helium Mobile network.
Depending on the type of miner you buy, there are essentially three different types of hotspots you can set up:
A full hotspot, capable of supporting all types of devices and earning mining rewards for all network activities that go through it. This type of hotspot also maintains a full copy of the Helium blockchain.
A light hotspot is essentially the same as a full hotspot, but without keeping a full copy of the Helium blockchain. They can receive rewards for both proof of coverage (HNT) and data transfers (IOT).
A data-only hotspot, which only lets other validators gather information from the Helium blockchain, and they’re rewarded in IOT only.
Advantages of Helium Mining
The main advantage to Helium mining is that if you set up a full hotspot, then you can earn three different crypto assets for your efforts. By setting up a full hotspot, you can earn HNT, IOT, and MOBILE. In addition, IOT and MOBILE can easily be traded in for HNT, so you can choose which asset you want to keep the most of.
Another advantage is that you’re helping those with little to no Internet access get connected for a fraction of the price they would through a traditional service provider.
Helium Mobile is already available in the US for $20 a month, which gives you an unlimited nationwide 5G phone plan. If and when it expands to countries such as Canada, where phone plans are less affordable, having Helium miners set up could be lucrative if residents switch to the Helium network.
Disadvantages of Helium Mining
The only real disadvantage to Helium mining is that if you are in an area where the Helium miner map has numerous hotspots already, then you will receive fewer mining rewards.
It’s also possible that you can set up a Helium miner but have no one in your area access the network, in which case you also wouldn’t receive much in terms of mining rewards.
Is Helium Mining Profitable in 2025?
Helium mining can certainly be profitable in 2025, especially seeing as you can mine three assets at once. However, it’s important to do your due diligence and check things such as the Helium miner map in your area to see if it’s worth setting one up in your area.
External factors like mountains and hills in your area can cause the hotspot to perform worse than expected. As with any investment opportunity, you should research if it’s right for you.
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