Before you start
- A mobile plan that allows tethering
- Mobile data turned on
Method 1 Set up a hotspot on Android
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Step 1: Open hotspot settings
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering > Wi-Fi hotspot. On Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > Mobile Hotspot, then Configure.
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Step 2: Name it
Set a Hotspot name that doesn’t include your name or phone model, for example “Lumen-42”.
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Step 3: Choose security
Under Security, choose WPA3-Personal if all your devices support it, otherwise WPA2/WPA3 or WPA2-Personal. Never choose None/Open.
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Step 4: Set a strong password
Use 12 or more characters. Samsung lets you show a QR code so others can join without typing it.
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Step 5: Turn it on
Switch on the hotspot, then connect your laptop or tablet to that network name.
Method 2 Set up Personal Hotspot on iPhone
Maximize Compatibility switches to 2.4 GHz for older devices; leave it off for faster speeds unless a device can’t see the hotspot.
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Step 1: Open Personal Hotspot
Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot (or Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot).
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Step 2: Change the password
Tap Wi-Fi Password and set a strong one. The network name is your iPhone’s name; change it in Settings > General > About > Name.
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Step 3: Allow others to join
Turn on Allow Others to Join. Your own Apple devices signed in to the same Apple Account can join without a password via Instant Hotspot.
Stay secure on a hotspot
- Check connected devices: on Android, open hotspot settings to see the list and block strangers; on iPhone, the number of connections shows in Control Center.
- Change the password if you shared it with someone temporarily.
- Your hotspot is as private as your phone’s mobile connection, so it’s much safer than public café Wi-Fi.
Troubleshooting
Devices connect but have no internet
Check mobile data is on and you have data left. Some plans block or limit tethering; ask your carrier. Restarting the phone often helps.
My laptop can’t see the hotspot
The laptop may not support 5 GHz. On Android, set the band to 2.4 GHz; on iPhone, turn on Maximize Compatibility.
The hotspot keeps turning off
Battery saver can disable it. Turn off the automatic timeout or battery saver while using it.
Frequently asked questions
Does using a hotspot cost extra?
It uses your mobile data. Some plans have a separate, smaller hotspot allowance. Check your plan.
How many devices can connect?
Usually up to 5–10, depending on the phone. More devices share the same speed.
Is USB tethering better?
USB tethering is often faster, more stable and charges the phone at the same time. Turn it on in the same Hotspot & tethering menu.
Summary
Turn on the hotspot in your phone’s Hotspot & tethering or Personal Hotspot settings, protect it with WPA3/WPA2 and a long password, check who’s connected, and switch it off when you’re done.
