Why my laptop is not connecting to mobile hotspot windows 11
Sometimes, when you're out or have no Wi-Fi, you might use your phone's hotspot to provide internet for your laptop. However, some users encounter problems where the laptop cannot connect to the mobile hotspot even though it's enabled. Here are some practical solutions to fix this issue:
Step 1: Check and Set Up Your Phone's Hotspot
Ensure the Hotspot is Properly Enabled
Open your phone's Settings > Personal Hotspot (or Tethering & Hotspot) and ensure the feature is turned on.
Ensure that the hotspot name and password are correct; you may try changing them to simpler characters.
Adjust the Device Connection Limit
Check how many devices are already connected to the hotspot. Some phones limit connections to five devices. Disconnect other devices and try again.
Restart the Hotspot
Turn off the hotspot, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on. This simple action often resolves minor connection glitches.
Step 2: Check Your Laptop's Network Settings
Reconnect to the Hotspot
Open the Wi-Fi list on your laptop. Right-click the target hotspot and select Forget this Network.
Reconnect by selecting the hotspot again and entering the correct password.
Enable Wireless Network Functionality
Use the wireless shortcut key on your keyboard (commonly Fn + F2/F3) to ensure Wi-Fi is turned on.
Check your wireless adapter status in the Device Manager:
Right-click This PC > Manage > Device Manager.
Expand Network Adapters, find the wireless device, and right-click to enable it if it's disabled.
Verify IP and DNS Settings
Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
Right-click your Wi-Fi network, choose Properties, and double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
Step 3: Update Network Drivers
Outdated drivers can prevent your laptop from detecting the hotspot. To update them:
Download and install Driver Sentry to scan your device drivers.
If outdated drivers are found, click Repair Now to update them.
Alternatively, go to the network adapter's settings and click Upgrade manually.
Step 4: Optimize Signal Connection
Reduce Distance
Move your laptop closer to the hotspot to avoid signal obstruction from walls or other barriers.
Minimize Interference
Turn off nearby devices that may interfere with the signal, such as Bluetooth headphones or wireless mice.
Step 5: Check System and Hardware Compatibility
Restart Both Devices
Temporary issues in your laptop or phone's system may disrupt the connection. Restart both devices and try again.
Update Your Operating System
Ensure your Windows system is up to date. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve issues connecting your laptop to a mobile hotspot. If you encounter driver-related problems, Driver Sentry can help you easily detect and fix them.
See also:
Guide to Fix Laptop Keyboard Not Working
How to Fix USB Ports Not Working in Windows 11
Why Is My Computer Overheating and How to Fix It
