All the ways you can use your phone as a mobile hotspot

When your boss unexpectedly calls for a last-minute video conference and your coffee shop lacks a guest Wi-Fi network, you suddenly realize Wi-Fi isn't as ubiquitous as you thought. That's when knowing how to use your phone as a mobile hotspot becomes crucial.

Don't wait for an emergency to learn this essential skill. Mastering this now will save you from future connectivity crises.

Important Note: Check your mobile plan. Not all plans support hotspot functionality. Even if your phone can share data, it won't work unless your provider allows it. Before attempting to tether, confirm your plan includes a hotspot data allowance or permits data usage on other devices.

Using an iPhone as a Hotspot

On iPhones, access the hotspot settings via the Settings app, then tap Personal Hotspot. Older iOS versions might require navigating to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot. Enable the hotspot by toggling the Allow others to join switch. However, only do this when you're sure no one else can access your data.

[Related: Top Mobile Hotspots of 2023]

Security is paramount. Before activating, set a strong Wi-Fi password on the Personal Hotspot menu by tapping Wi-Fi Password. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for optimal security.

Apple devices offer several connection methods.

Connecting via Wi-Fi (Easiest Method)

This transforms your iPhone into a router, allowing easy connection like any other Wi-Fi network. USB and Bluetooth are alternative methods, but more complex.

1. Enable your iPhone hotspot by toggling Allow others to join.
2. On your laptop or tablet, access Wi-Fi settings and scan for networks. (Mac: click the Wi-Fi icon in the top right; PC: click the three icons near the clock in the bottom right, then the Wi-Fi arrow). If your iPhone's name (the hotspot name) isn't listed, select "Other networks" (Mac) or it will be in the list of available networks (PC).
3. Select your iPhone's network, enter the password, and you're connected.

Using an Android as a Hotspot

First, configure your Android hotspot. Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to access Quick Settings, then tap the cog icon (bottom right) to open Settings. Navigate to Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering.

Here, you'll find toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and Ethernet tethering. Wi-Fi is generally the simplest.

Connecting via Wi-Fi

1. Tap Wi-Fi hotspot. Assign a name (it defaults to your device name) and create a secure Hotspot password. Use a strong password (a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols).
2. Consider toggling Turn off hotspot automatically to conserve battery when not in use. Extend compatibility improves discoverability but consumes more battery.
3. Enable the hotspot with the Use Wi-Fi hotspot toggle.

4. On your other device, open Wi-Fi settings (Mac: top right Wi-Fi icon; PC: bottom right three icons, then Wi-Fi arrow). Find your hotspot's name and connect using the password.

Using a USB Cable

USB tethering is easier with Android but may be limited between Apple devices.

iPhone via USB

This may primarily work between Apple devices.

1. Activate your iPhone hotspot and connect it to your Mac with a USB cable.
2. Trust the device on your Mac. Your iPhone should appear as a drive in Finder, providing internet access. If not, go to System Settings > Network, find iPhone USB, click Make inactive, then Make active. If it's not listed, add it as a new network.

Android via USB

This offers a seamless connection.

1. Connect your Android phone to your computer with a USB cable.
2. Go to Hotspot & tethering and toggle USB tethering.
3. Your computer should automatically connect. If not (Mac), go to Settings > Network, find your phone, click Make Inactive, then Make Active.

Using Bluetooth (Least Reliable)

Bluetooth tethering is slower and less reliable than Wi-Fi or USB. Use it only as a last resort.

iPhone via Bluetooth

1. Activate your iPhone hotspot.
2. Pair your devices via Bluetooth (Mac: System Settings > Bluetooth; PC: bottom right three icons, then Bluetooth arrow).
3. Connect to the network (Mac: Control Center > Bluetooth > Connect to Network; PC: Settings > Network & Internet > More network adapter options > Bluetooth Network Connection).

Android via Bluetooth

Some Android phones (like Pixel 7) may have compatibility issues with Macs.

1. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
2. Pair your devices (Android: notification drawer, long-press Bluetooth).
3. Connect to the network (Mac: Control Center > Bluetooth > Connect to Network; PC: Settings > Network & Internet > More network adapter options > Bluetooth Network Connection).

Remember to choose the method best suited to your needs and devices. Wi-Fi is generally the easiest and most reliable option.

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