To turn on hotspot on your phone, open Settings and find the Personal Hotspot option on iPhone or the Wi‑Fi hotspot option on Android. This guide gives you the exact steps for both platforms, plus hotspot basics and troubleshooting to help you share your cellular data connection with other devices.
Turn on hotspot on iPhone
- Open Settings.
- Tap Personal Hotspot. If you don't see it, tap Cellular, then Personal Hotspot.
- Turn on Allow Others to Join.
- To change the password, tap Wi‑Fi Password and enter a password that is at least 8 characters long, using only ASCII characters.
Personal Hotspot uses your iPhone’s cellular data connection, not a Wi‑Fi connection. Keep the hotspot screen open until the other device connects. Devices should be near each other, with Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth turned on. Apple's Maximize Compatibility setting is available on iPhone 12 model or later and specific iPad models: iPad Pro 11‑inch (3rd generation or later), iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (5th generation or later), and iPad mini (6th generation).
Turn on hotspot on Android
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering > Wi‑Fi hotspot.
- Turn on Wi‑Fi hotspot.
You can also swipe down from the top of the screen and tap Hotspot. If Hotspot is missing, tap Edit and drag it into Quick Settings. To change the hotspot name or password, tap the setting itself. To remove the password requirement, swipe down from the top of the screen, touch and hold Hotspot, then under Security, tap None.
Tips for a successful connection
Keep the hotspot screen open on your phone until the other device connects. Make sure devices are near each other and that Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth are turned on. Monitor your data usage, because using a hotspot uses your cellular data allowance. Apple's Instant Hotspot feature works between an iPhone and another iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows device, and more, with devices within 30 feet (10 meters).
Troubleshooting when your hotspot won't turn on
If Personal Hotspot does not appear or turn on, check with your carrier to make sure your plan supports it. If Personal Hotspot is missing or unavailable, the carrier must enable it and the wireless plan must support it. Update your device to the latest version of iOS or Android. Restart both devices. If the problem continues, reset network settings. Hotspot devices can overheat during prolonged usage, especially with multiple devices connected; allow the device to cool down by turning it off and placing it in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat-generating objects. Check whether a device is compatible with the hotspot's network technology (e.g., GSM, CDMA) and supported frequencies if it has trouble connecting or staying connected. Updating the firmware of your hotspot device to the latest version can resolve frequent disconnections, as newer firmware often includes bug fixes and performance improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does using a hotspot use my data?
Yes. Any data used by devices connected to your hotspot counts toward your cellular data plan.
Can I connect multiple devices?
Yes, you can connect multiple devices at the same time. The exact number depends on your phone and your carrier's plan.
How secure is a mobile hotspot?
Your hotspot is protected by the Wi‑Fi password you set. Using a strong password helps prevent unauthorized access.
Can I use a hotspot while roaming?
Using a hotspot while roaming may incur additional charges. Check with your carrier about roaming terms and costs before you travel.
