IPhone hotspot keeps disconnecting

Hello!


Ever since I updated my iPhone software to iOS 16.5.1, my iPhone hotspot has refused to stay connected to my Windows 10 PC, I've tried the following steps with no progress;

  • Changed my hotspot name and password
  • Powered off and on my iPhone
  • Reset my network settings


Whenever I apply the last 2 steps, the hotspot will connect for 5 minutes only, then get disconnected after that.


What am I supposed to do to rectify this?

iPhone 13, iOS 16

Posted on Jul 8, 2023 10:59 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 12, 2023 04:57 AM

Hi there!


Firstly, I have always known about the ‘Maximize Compatibility’ function, so it is never on intentionally, it definitely isn't the problem.


Secondly, I can't find ‘Wifi Assist’ option in my settings, I don't think that's the problem either.


Thirdly, the main problem I have is not able to connect my hotspot to my Windows PC, the ‘low data mode’ is out of line in that case. It doesn't take away the fact that I couldn't connect to other android mobile though.

9 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 12, 2023 04:57 AM in response to ace1018

Hi there!


Firstly, I have always known about the ‘Maximize Compatibility’ function, so it is never on intentionally, it definitely isn't the problem.


Secondly, I can't find ‘Wifi Assist’ option in my settings, I don't think that's the problem either.


Thirdly, the main problem I have is not able to connect my hotspot to my Windows PC, the ‘low data mode’ is out of line in that case. It doesn't take away the fact that I couldn't connect to other android mobile though.

Jul 11, 2023 01:27 AM in response to jmarse1

Hello jmarse!


The only other devices that get connected to my iPhone hotspot are other iPhone mobiles, and they can only connect by sending me a request to join because I have them as ‘family’ on my icloud.


I tried connecting to my Android mobile, and it always disconnects after 5 minutes, the same way it does to my windows PC.


The keynote is I can't connect any device to my hotspot, even the iPhones that got connected have to send a request to join which I’ll have to either accept or decline, they don't connect manually.

Jul 11, 2023 07:38 AM in response to emmarwonder

Hello emmarwonder,


If devices are disconnecting from your Personal Hotspot, there are a few things to check. First, on your iPhone, see if you have Maximize Compatibility turned on. If so, see if the issue continues if you turn it off. "When you turn on Maximize Compatibility, internet performance, and Wi-Fi security might be reduced for devices connected to the hotspot." If Personal Hotspot is not working on your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular) - Apple Support


Also, if you have Wi-Fi assist turned on, see if the issue continues when you turn it off. About Wi-Fi Assist - Apple Support


If the devices you're connecting to your iPhone have a Low Data Mode, you can also try to turn those off. Use Low Data Mode on your iPhone and iPad - Apple Support


Thanks.




Jul 9, 2023 01:06 PM in response to emmarwonder

Hi emmarwonder,


We'll be glad to look into this with you further. To start, you specifically mention this happening with your PC. Are you able to connect other devices to the hotspot and have them stay connected? If so, that would insinuate an issue on your PC's end of things. If you haven't tried, try connecting another device to the hotspot to see if it experiences the same behavior.


Aside from there, there are some things listed in If Personal Hotspot is not working on your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular) - Apple Support that you may find helpful as well, depending on the specifics of your situation.


Cheers.

Jul 12, 2023 07:49 AM in response to emmarwonder

emmarwonder,


Thanks for the additional information regarding your Personal Hotspot issue.


The next step is to make sure that your Windows computer is up to date. This simple step can resolve issues like this. We will need to refer you to Microsoft on how to check.


Also, have you confirmed that your wireless provider fully support Personal Hotspots and that it is set up correctly on their end? Wireless carrier support and features for iPhone in the United States and Canada - Apple Support

 

Take Care!


Jul 20, 2023 11:21 AM in response to emmarwonder

Hi!

There are many reasons why this might happen, but here are some solutions you might try:

1) Check the usage of personal hotspot data on iPhone. It will give you a detailed breakdown of the data consumed by each connected device. You may have limited monthly data to consume from your carrier. You can control the use of personal hotspot data from the Settings > Mobile Data menu. Find your personal hotspot from the Mobile Data menu and check your device for failure. If necessary, subscribe to an additional data plan from your local carrier.

2) Disable power saving mode from Settings or Control Center to save battery.


If you need to connect the hotspot to your Windows 10 PC, try these steps:

1) Disable power saving mode on your Windows 10 PC.

2) Update network adapter drivers on your Windows 10 PC.

3) Disable the firewall on your Windows 10 PC.

4) Reset network settings on your Windows 10 PC.

5) Update the version of Windows 10.


To update network adapter drivers on Windows 10, you need to open Device Manager. Here’s how to do it:

1) Press the Windows key + X on the keyboard.

2) Select Device Manager.

3) Expand the Network Adapters category.

4) Right-click the network adapter you want to update and select Update driver.

5) Select Automatically search for an updated driver.

6) Select Update driver.


If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.


I hope I helped you!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

IPhone hotspot keeps disconnecting

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.