How to turn Phone Link Instant Hotspot on or off in Windows 11
Instant Hotspot in Windows 11 lets your PC connect to your phone’s mobile data automatically without manual Wi-Fi setup. The feature links your computer and phone through the Phone Link app so you can get online with a single click.
You need a Windows 11 PC running version 22H2 or later and a compatible Android phone to use this feature. Turn Instant Hotspot on or off at any time directly inside the Phone Link settings on your desktop.
Open Phone Link on your PC, go to Settings , then Features, and click Setup Instant Hotspot. Follow the on-screen prompts to send a notification to your phone. On your phone, open the Link to Windows app and turn on Instant Hotspot.
Your Computer’s Needs
Windows 11 computers require specific updates and Bluetooth hardware to run Instant Hotspot. Verify that the PC runs Windows 11, version 22H2 build 22621 or newer, and contains an active Wi-Fi adapter. Press the Win, type `winver`, and press Enter to check your version.
- Your computer must be running Windows 11, version 22H2 build 22621 or newer. To check your version, type
winverinto the Windows search bar and press Enter. - Your computer needs Bluetooth . This helps your devices talk to each other wirelessly.
- Your computer needs a Wi-Fi adapter. This is how your computer will get internet from your phone.
- You need the Phone Link app. Make sure it’s updated to version 1.22092.211.0 or newer. This app helps manage the connection between your phone and computer.
Your Phone’s Needs
Phone firmware versions must match precise software standards for compatibility. Manufacturer requirements vary by device ecosystem:
- A Samsung phone running One UI 4.1.1 or newer.
- An HONOR phone running HONOR Magic OS 8.1 or newer.
- An OPPO, OnePlus, or Realme phone running ColorOS 14.1 or newer.
- A vivo phone running Funtouch 15.0 or newer.
- A SIM card with a plan that lets you use your phone as a hotspot. This means your phone company allows you to share your data.
- The Link to Windows app. Make sure it’s updated to version 1.22093.2.0 or newer. This app works with the Phone Link app on your computer.
Setting Up Instant Hotspot: Step-by-Step
Now set up the connection across both your PC and phone.
Step 1Start Setup on Your Computer
Open the Phone Link app on your computer, then click the gear icon in the bottom-left corner to open Settings .
- Open the Phone Link app on your computer. If you don't see it on your taskbar, search for it in the Windows search bar.
- Once the Phone Link app is open, go to Settings. You can usually find this by clicking the gear icon.
- In the Settings menu, look for the Features tab.
- Under Features, find and click on Instant Hotspot.
- Click Setup Instant Hotspot.
Step 2Follow the Instructions on the Screen
Selecting "Setup Instant Hotspot" on the Windows 11 computer launches a window with further instructions. Click Send Notification to send a prompt to your phone, and keep your computer screen awake.
- The pop-up window will guide you. You will likely need to choose an option to Send Notification. This sends a message to your phone.
- Keep your computer screen open because your phone needs to get this message to continue.
Step 3Approve on Your Android Device
Approve the incoming connection request from the Android phone. Tapping the incoming notification and selecting 'Allow' confirms the link. Banners appear at the top of the display or inside the primary notification panel.
- You should get a notification on your Android phone. It might show up at the top of your screen or in your notification list.
- Tap on this notification to open it.
- You will be asked to Allow the connection. Tap "Allow" to confirm. This connects your phone and computer for Instant Hotspot.
Step 4Turn On Instant Hotspot on Your Phone
Activate the Instant Hotspot feature inside the phone's Link to Windows app to finalize the connection protocol.
- Open the Link to Windows app on your Android phone.
- Find the Instant Hotspot setting in the app.
- Slide the switch to ON to enable the feature.
Step 5Connect Using Your Computer's Wi-Fi Menu
Join the phone's wireless network from the Windows 11 computer to complete the procedure. Clicking the Wi-Fi icon near the system clock displays available networks. The mobile hotspot appears in the list, ready for connection.
- On your computer, click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (usually near the clock).
- You should now see your phone's hotspot listed among the available Wi-Fi networks. It might have your phone's name or a general hotspot name.
- Click on your phone's hotspot name and choose Connect.
Reference:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/instant-hotspot-9c448dff-509c-4bc5-9c18-a8595511deea
Summary
Instant Hotspot in Windows 11 shares Android cellular data with a PC via the Phone Link app. Completing the setup transforms the mobile device into a portable wireless router, providing connectivity away from standard networks.
Can 🪟 Windows 11 act as a hotspot?
Windows 11 functions as a hotspot, routing internet connections to external hardware. Sharing Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular signals works over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through Settings or Quick Settings panels.
What is an instant hotspot phone link?
Cellular hotspots integrate into the PC Wi-Fi menu after initial pairing. Instant Hotspot remembers authorized devices, bypassing password prompts on subsequent connections.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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