If your Windows 11 computer cannot connect to a phone or another device’s mobile hotspot, check the hotspot settings, Wi-Fi adapter, saved network profile, and driver. Try these steps in order.
1. Confirm the hotspot is available
On the phone or host device, make sure Mobile Hotspot or Personal Hotspot is enabled and that its data connection works. Check whether the hotspot limits connected devices or turns itself off when idle. Keep the devices close together while testing.
2. Toggle Wi-Fi and restart both devices
Turn Wi-Fi off and back on in Windows. Disable and re-enable the hotspot on the host device, then restart both devices if the connection still fails. Confirm Airplane mode is off on the PC.
3. Forget and reconnect to the network
Open Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks. Select the hotspot and choose Forget. Search for available networks again, select the hotspot, and enter its current password carefully.
4. Check the hotspot band and security options
Some older Wi-Fi adapters have limited support for particular bands or security modes. If the host offers a compatibility option, such as a 2.4 GHz mode, try it temporarily. Use a secure password and restore your preferred settings after testing.
5. Run the network troubleshooter
Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters and run the Network and Internet troubleshooter if available. Review any suggested change before applying it.
6. Check the Wi-Fi adapter
Open Device Manager and expand Network adapters. Check whether the wireless adapter is disabled or shows an error. Install a suitable driver through Windows Update or the PC manufacturer’s official support page. If the issue began after an update, check for a supported rollback.
7. Compare with another network
Try connecting the PC to a home Wi-Fi network or another hotspot. If it connects elsewhere, the host device’s hotspot settings or carrier restrictions may be responsible. If it cannot connect to any network, focus on the PC’s adapter and drivers.
8. Use network reset only if necessary
Network reset can remove and reinstall network adapters and may require you to reconnect to saved networks or reconfigure VPN software. Use it only after simpler checks, and make sure you know the credentials needed to reconnect.
Bottom line: Verify the host hotspot, forget and reconnect, test compatibility settings, and determine whether the problem follows the PC or the hotspot.
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