How to Enable Mobile Hotspot in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a built-in Mobile Hotspot feature that allows you to share your PC’s internet connection—whether from Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular data—with up to eight other devices wirelessly. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to turn on the hotspot, configure security and network settings, manage connected devices, and quickly toggle the connection using Windows 11 shortcuts.

How to Turn On Mobile Hotspot in Settings

1. Open the Start Menu and click on Settings (or press Win + I).
2. Select Network & internet from the left-hand sidebar.
3. Locate the Mobile hotspot option in the main panel.
4. Toggle the switch to On to immediately start broadcasting your connection using default settings.

How to Configure Network Name, Password, and Band

Before connecting other devices, you should customize your hotspot credentials and connection type for better security and performance:

1. In Settings > Network & internet > Mobile hotspot, click the arrow next to the toggle switch to expand the settings.
2. Under Share my internet connection from, choose the active internet source you want to share (e.g., Ethernet or Wi-Fi).
3. Under Share over, select Wi-Fi (recommended for speed) or Bluetooth.
4. In the Properties section, click Edit.
5. Set your preferred Network name (SSID) and a secure Network password (must be at least 8 characters).
6. Under Network band, choose Any available, 5 GHz, or 2.4 GHz depending on device compatibility.
7. Click Save.

Managing Connected Devices and Power Settings

• Monitor Connections: The Mobile hotspot page displays the total number of connected devices (maximum 8) along with their device names and IP/MAC addresses.
• Power Saving: Enable the Power saving toggle to automatically turn off the mobile hotspot when no devices are connected, which preserves your laptop’s battery life.

Enabling Hotspot from Quick Settings

Once configured, you can turn the hotspot on or off quickly without opening the full Settings menu:

1. Press Win + A or click on the Network, Sound, or Battery icons in the system tray to open the Quick Settings panel.
2. Click the Mobile hotspot tile to toggle the connection on or off instantly.