Tech & Gadgets

How to Use Your Phone as a Wi-Fi Hotspot

Share your mobile data with a laptop or tablet in seconds — plus how to avoid big data bills.

Editorial TeamNovember 4, 20261 min read

A personal hotspot lets your phone share its mobile internet with other devices, like a laptop or tablet. It's perfect when travelling or when home Wi-Fi is down.

iPhone

  1. Go to Settings → Personal Hotspot.
  2. Turn on "Allow Others to Join".
  3. Note the Wi-Fi password shown.
  4. On your other device, connect to your iPhone's network name.

Android

  1. Go to Settings → Network & internet (or Connections) → Hotspot & tethering.
  2. Turn on Wi-Fi hotspot.
  3. Set a name and strong password.
  4. Connect your other device.
Check your planSome mobile plans limit or charge extra for hotspot use. Check your data allowance before using a lot of data.

Save data

  • Pause automatic updates and cloud backups on the laptop.
  • Lower video streaming quality.
  • Turn the hotspot off when you're done.

Battery tips

Hotspot drains your phone battery quickly. Keep the phone plugged in if possible, or use a USB cable to share the connection and charge at the same time.

Always use a password so others can't use your data.

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Written by Editorial Team

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