Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteTo share a Samsung Galaxy phone’s internet, open Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering, turn on Mobile Hotspot, then connect your other device to the phone’s Wi-Fi network. For a wired or paired connection, Samsung also documents USB, Bluetooth, and Ethernet tethering, when supported by the phone and software.
Menu names and available options can vary by carrier, model, and software version. Samsung’s mobile hotspot guide covers the general Galaxy path.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Set up a Wi-Fi mobile hotspot
- On your Galaxy phone, open Settings.
- Tap Connections, then Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.
- Switch on Mobile Hotspot.
- On the device you want to connect, open its Wi-Fi settings and select the Galaxy phone’s hotspot network. Enter the hotspot password. If your phone offers a QR code for the hotspot, scan it with the second device instead.
To change the network name, password, security, or band, open the hotspot configuration on the phone. Use a password-protected network. Exact configuration choices depend on the device and software.
Choose a tethering method
| Method | Connection and equipment | How to start |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi hotspot | Wireless connection to devices with Wi-Fi | Turn on Mobile Hotspot in Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering. |
| USB tethering | USB data cable compatible with the phone and computer | Connect the phone to the computer, then enable USB tethering in Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering. |
| Bluetooth tethering | Paired Bluetooth connection | Pair the devices, then enable Bluetooth tethering in the same settings area if the option is available. |
| Ethernet tethering | Compatible Ethernet hardware | Connect compatible equipment and enable Ethernet tethering if the phone offers it. |
Samsung notes that USB tethering may not become selectable until the phone is connected to a computer. For USB, the cable must support data transfer, and its connector must fit both devices. Bluetooth and Ethernet options, like other tethering features, depend on the model and software. See Samsung India’s tethering overview.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
If another device cannot find or join the hotspot
- Check visibility and band: A hidden network or an incompatible band can keep the hotspot from appearing in the Wi-Fi list. Check that the network is not hidden and, if the option is available, try 2.4 GHz for broader compatibility.
- Confirm the phone has internet: Check that mobile data works on the Galaxy itself, and review SIM and account status.
- Check carrier eligibility and data: Some plans require a tethering feature, and the carrier controls account-specific eligibility and allowances. A connected device may have no internet if the tethering allowance is exhausted. Contact the carrier to check plan rules and remaining tethering data.
- Review restrictions: Carrier restrictions, provisioning, or VPN behavior can affect tethering. Samsung’s troubleshooting pages explain checks for hotspot and tethering issues and mobile hotspot connection problems.
Keep data use and battery in mind
Connected devices use the phone’s mobile data connection, so their browsing, downloads, and other online activity count against applicable data or tethering limits. A hotspot also consumes phone battery power. Samsung does not publish a quantitative speed or battery comparison between Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, and Ethernet tethering in the cited guidance, so the best method depends on available hardware and how you need to connect—not on an assumed performance ranking.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why the settings may look different
Samsung cautions that menu labels and options vary by carrier, Galaxy model, and software version. If the path above does not match your phone, search Settings for “Mobile Hotspot” or check the support information for your specific device. Samsung’s general guidance is collected in Use a mobile hotspot on your Galaxy phone or tablet and Connection options for your Galaxy phone or tablet.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Recommended Free Tools
