If you rely on your Windows 11 PC to share the internet connection via Mobile Hotspot but it suddenly stops working, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many users face issues with the Windows 11 hotspot not working, and the good news is that it’s often an easy fix. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why your hotspot may have stopped working and how to get it back up and running quickly.
Why Is My Windows 11 Hotspot Not Working?
Your Windows 11 hotspot can fail for several reasons, including:
- Network driver issues
- Incorrect hotspot settings
- Conflicts with other network adapters or VPN
- Windows updates causing bugs
- Firewall or antivirus blocking connections
Understanding the root cause will help you troubleshoot more effectively.
Step-by-Step Fix for Windows 11 Hotspot Not Working
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before troubleshooting your hotspot, ensure the source internet connection on your PC is working correctly:
- Open your browser and visit a website.
- If the internet is down, fix your primary connection first (router reset, reconnect Wi-Fi, etc.).
2. Restart Your PC and Device
Sometimes, a simple restart can solve many issues:
- Restart your Windows 11 PC.
- Restart the device connecting to the hotspot (phone, tablet, etc.).
3. Verify Hotspot Settings
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile hotspot.
- Make sure Mobile hotspot is turned On.
- Select the appropriate internet connection you want to share.
- Review the network name and password to ensure your connecting device uses the correct credentials.
4. Run Network Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix issues:
- Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Click Run next to Network Adapter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Update or Reinstall Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause hotspot failures:
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click your wireless adapter and choose Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
- If the problem persists, right-click and select Uninstall device, then restart your PC to reinstall.
6. Reset Network Settings
Resetting network configurations can clear problematic settings:
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click Network reset at the bottom.
- Click Reset now and confirm.
- Your PC will restart and restore network settings to default.
7. Disable Conflicting Network Connections
VPNs or other virtual adapters can interfere with the hotspot:
- Temporarily disconnect from VPNs.
- Disable any virtual network adapters in Device Manager.
- Try running the hotspot again.
8. Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Sometimes, security software blocks hotspot functionality:
- Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software.
- Test if the hotspot works.
- If it does, add an exception for the hotspot under your security settings.
9. Ensure Windows 11 is Up to Date
Microsoft frequently releases fixes in updates:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install if available.
Bonus Tips to Improve Windows 11 Hotspot Performance
- Keep your PC close to connected devices for a strong signal.
- Avoid sharing hotspots on metered connections to prevent cutoff.
- Use the updated Wi-Fi 6 adapter for faster speeds if supported.
Conclusion
Dealing with the Windows 11 hotspot not working can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it for internet on the go. But by following these troubleshooting steps, you can usually get your hotspot working again quickly without needing expert help. Remember: restarting, checking settings, updating drivers, and running the troubleshooter often solves most issues.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends who use Windows 11 too! And if the problem continues, contact Microsoft Support for advanced assistance.
Keywords: Windows 11 hotspot not working, fix hotspot Windows 11, enable mobile hotspot Windows 11, Windows 11 internet sharing, Windows 11 network troubleshooting
