Using the hotspot feature on Windows 11 is a convenient way to share your internet connection with other devices. However, sometimes this feature might stop working unexpectedly. When your hotspot is not functioning, it can disrupt your ability to connect other devices to the internet.
Fixing hotspot issues on Windows 11 usually involves simple steps that anyone can follow. This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand, step-by-step solutions to get your hotspot working again.
Each step includes explanations to help you understand why it’s important. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, these instructions will assist you in troubleshooting your hotspot.
Let’s get started and fix your Windows 11 hotspot problem quickly and effectively.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
Before diving into fixes, ensure your device meets basic requirements for using a hotspot:
- Wi-Fi Adapter: Your PC must have a working Wi-Fi adapter to create a hotspot.
- Internet Connection: Verify that your PC is connected to the internet, either via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
- Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date, as updates often fix bugs.
- Device Compatibility: Check if the device you want to connect supports Wi-Fi.
Step 1: Restart Your PC and Devices
Restarting is the simplest troubleshooting step that can resolve many temporary glitches.
- Click on the Start menu.
- Select Power and then Restart.
- After your PC restarts, try turning on the hotspot again.
- Also, restart the device you want to connect to the hotspot.
This clears temporary system errors and refreshes network settings.
Step 2: Check and Enable Mobile Hotspot Settings
Ensure the hotspot feature is turned on in Windows 11 settings.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Click on Network & internet in the left menu.
- Select Mobile hotspot.
- Toggle the switch to On next to Mobile hotspot.
- Check if the network name (SSID) and password are set properly. You can click Edit to change them if needed.
Turning on the hotspot here activates the sharing of your internet connection over Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Verify Network Adapter Settings
Your Wi-Fi adapter must support hotspot features and be enabled.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Look for your Wi-Fi adapter. It usually has “Wireless” or “Wi-Fi” in the name.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select Properties.
- Under the Driver tab, check the driver version and date.
- If the driver is outdated, click Update Driver and follow prompts to update it automatically.
- Make sure the adapter is enabled. If you see Enable device instead of Disable device, click it to enable.
Updating and enabling the Wi-Fi adapter ensures it can properly broadcast your hotspot.
Step 4: Run the Network Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix network issues automatically.
- Open Settings using Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Network Adapter in the list and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This tool scans your network devices and settings, and tries to fix common problems.
Step 5: Reset Network Settings
If your hotspot still does not work, resetting the network settings can clear out any misconfigurations.
- Open Settings with Windows + I.
- Go to Network & internet.
- Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
- Select Network reset.
- Click Reset now and confirm.
- Your PC will restart automatically.
This resets all network adapters, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and VPN settings, returning them to default.
Step 6: Check Sharing Settings
Your hotspot requires internet connection sharing to be enabled.
- Press Windows + R, type
ncpa.cpl, and press Enter. This opens Network Connections. - Right-click your internet connection (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and select Properties.
- Go to the Sharing tab.
- Make sure Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s Internet connection is checked.
- From the dropdown below, select the hotspot adapter (usually named something like “Local Area Connection* xx” or “Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter”).
- Click OK to save.
This step enables your PC to share internet from your main connection to the hotspot network.
Alternative Methods and Advanced Options
If the above steps don’t work, you can try these more advanced methods:
Use Command Prompt to Start Hotspot
Sometimes manually starting the hotspot via command line can help:
netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyHotspot key=MyPassword
netsh wlan start hostednetwork
Replace MyHotspot and MyPassword with your preferred hotspot name and password.
Check Windows Firewall and Antivirus
Sometimes firewall or antivirus software blocks hotspot connections. Temporarily disable them and test the hotspot. Remember to turn them back on afterward.
Update Windows
Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for any pending updates. Keeping Windows updated can resolve bugs affecting hotspot functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my hotspot not showing on other devices?
Make sure your hotspot is turned on and broadcasting the correct network name. Also, verify your other devices’ Wi-Fi is on and they are within range.
Can I use a hotspot without internet on my PC?
No. The hotspot shares your PC’s internet connection, so your PC must have active internet access.
How many devices can connect to a Windows 11 hotspot?
Windows 11 typically allows up to 8 devices to connect simultaneously.
Is it safe to use a hotspot on public Wi-Fi?
Using a hotspot over public Wi-Fi can expose your data. Use a VPN or secure your hotspot with a strong password.
What if my Wi-Fi adapter doesn’t support hotspot?
Some older adapters do not support hosted networks. In that case, consider upgrading your adapter or using a different device.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and your hotspot still doesn’t work, consider these final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for help.
- Check Hardware: Your Wi-Fi adapter might be faulty. Testing with an external USB Wi-Fi adapter can help diagnose this.
- System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous state when the hotspot was working using System Restore.
- Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, reinstalling Windows 11 can fix deep system issues affecting the hotspot.
Conclusion
Fixing a hotspot not working on Windows 11 usually involves straightforward steps like restarting devices, enabling hotspot settings, updating drivers, and resetting network configurations. Understanding why each step is important helps you troubleshoot more effectively.
Start with the easiest solutions and move to more advanced ones if needed. With patience and following this guide, you’ll likely get your hotspot up and running in no time.
Remember, keeping your system updated and checking hardware compatibility can prevent many hotspot issues in the future.