How to turn your phone into a mobile hotspot
Need to get online while you're out and about, or dealing with unreliable internet at home? Skip the public Wi-Fi and use your smartphone as a mobile hotspot to connect your laptop or other devices through your cellular data.
Verizon Security Advisor experts are here to help you find solutions for all your everyday tech issues. In this guide, we’ll explain how mobile hotspots work, how to set them up on your Android™ or iPhone® device, and tips how to keep your hotspot secure from unwanted users.
What is a mobile hotspot?
A mobile hotspot lets your phone share its internet connection with other devices, allowing them to get online wherever you have a signal. Most smartphones come with built-in hotspot features that you can easily activate through the Settings menu. While public Wi-Fi might be available in places like cafes or parks, using these networks can expose you to security risks, often requiring you to provide personal information to log on. Setting up your own mobile hotspot is a safer alternative, giving you more control over your online security.
Pro Tips:
- Using a mobile hotspot can quickly drain your phone’s battery. To avoid running out of juice, it’s best to keep your phone connected to a charger while using the hotspot feature. Concerns about your battery? Verizon Mobile Protect customers can check battery health through the Tech Coach app.
- Using your phone as a hotspot can also drain data quickly, especially if you’re streaming, downloading large files, or connecting multiple devices. Keep an eye on your data usage and check your plan to avoid overage charges or reduced speeds.
How to turn your iPhone into a mobile hotspot
- Open Settings and select Personal Hotspot.
- Toggle Allow Others to Join and customize your Wi-Fi password to secure your connection.
- Connect your laptop or device to your phone’s hotspot via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or USB.
Bonus: Your iCloud® devices will automatically connect to your iPhone's hotspot.
How to use your Samsung Galaxy as a mobile hotspot
- Go to Settings and tap Connections.
- Select Mobile Hotspot and Tethering, then toggle Mobile Hotspot on.
- Tap Configure to set up a password that will keep others from accessing your connection.
How to use your Google Pixel as a hotspot
- Open Settings and navigate to Network & internet, then tap Hotspot & tethering.
- Tap Wi-Fi hotspot and switch it on.
- Customize your hotspot password to ensure no unwanted users can join.
Securing your mobile hotspot
The best way to keep others off your hotspot is by setting a strong, complex password. Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters like @, #, or $. Stay away from easy-to-guess passwords, like your birthday or pet’s name. Aim for a password that’s at least eight characters long.
If you suspect someone is using your hotspot without permission, check your phone’s Hotspot settings and review the list of connected devices. If you spot an unfamiliar device, you can disconnect your hotspot and change the password. Some phones also let you block specific users from reconnecting. Still need help? Call or chat with a Verizon Security Advisor expert today for fast, personalized support.
Still need help? Call or chat with a Verizon Security Advisor expert today for fast, personalized support.
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