How to Change Hotspot Password on Your Smartphone

Sharing your smartphone’s internet connection via a mobile hotspot is incredibly useful, but you still need to keep that connection secure. You need to know how to change hotspot password often. This guide shows you a simple yet effective way to prevent unauthorized access and protect your data.

TIP – If you’re someone with a lot of passwords, for social accounts, devices, etc., you might need assistance keeping track of them. For this, we recommend using a reliable password manager. With it, you can create secure passwords and store them in a security vault. Simply sign in with your master password, and use the autofill function wherever needed.

I’ve highlighted clear, step-by-step instructions for updating your hotspot password on both Android and iOS devices. Let’s get started. 

Before You Get Started

Your hotspot passwords are important, which is why extra care should be given when creating one. A strong password should be:

• At least 8-12 characters long.
• Always add complexity, using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Ensure that the password is unique and not identifiable to others. Especially don’t use it for any other important accounts.
• Always avoid easily guessable information like your name, birthdate, or simple sequences like “12345678”.

How to Change Hotspot Password on Android

The settings or steps vary according to what Android phone you have. However, the core process stays the same. Here’s how to change hotspot password on your Android: 

• Open “Settings” by swiping down from the top of your screen to open the notification panel. Tap the gear icon to open the “Settings” app. Alternatively, find and tap the “Settings” icon in your app drawer.
• Look for the “Connections” or “Network & Internet” option. From there, you should find a menu related to tethering or hotspots. This is often labeled: “Mobile Hotspot and Tethering”, “Portable Hotspot” or “Wi-Fi Hotspot.”
• Now, tap on the name of your active hotspot or the “Set up” or “Configure” option. You will see your current network name (SSID) and the password, which is usually hidden.
• Now proceed to change the password. To do that, tap the “eye” icon to view your current password. Then, tap on the Password field. Delete the existing password and type in your new, strong password.
• Once you have entered the new password, look for a checkmark (✓) or “Save” button. You will usually find it at the top-right or bottom of the screen. 
• Tap it to confirm and save your new password.

NOTE FOR SAMSUNG USERS: If you have a Samsung Galaxy device, you can also find this option by going to “Settings” > “Connections” > “Mobile Hotspot and Tethering” > “Mobile Hotspot.” Then tap the menu (three dots) in the top right corner and select “Configure” to change the password.

How to Change Hotspot Password on iPhone (iOS)

The process on an iPhone is also pretty straightforward compared to Android. This tutorial is somewhat similar across different iOS versions. Here’s how to get started:

• Launch the “Settings” app from the home screen. 
• Now, from the settings menu, select “Cellular.” If you’re using an iPad, it might be named “Cellular Data”.
• Under the “Cellular” settings, you will see the “Personal Hotspot” option. Tap on it. If you don’t see it immediately, ensure your “Cellular Data” is turned on.
• Go to the “Personal Hotspot” screen. There, you will see your network information. The password is displayed next to the “Wi-Fi Password” label. Tap on the password itself to enter editing mode.
• Lastly, edit and save the new password. To do that, delete the old one and type in a new, secure password. Click on “Done” in the top-right corner of the screen. Your new password is now saved and active.

NOTE – Your iPhone will show a confirmation prompt: “Turning off Personal Hotspot will disconnect any connected devices. Continue?” Select “Continue” to apply the new password, which will temporarily disconnect any devices currently using your hotspot.

Change Hotspot Password – Troubleshooting Guide

Here are a few problems that may occur and their solutions:

• Problem 1 – I can’t find the “Mobile Hotspot” settings on my Android.
  • Solution – Search for “Hotspot” in the main Settings search bar. The location may vary, but it is often under “Network & Internet” or “Connections.”
• Problem 2 – My new password isn’t working for connected devices.
  • Solution – After changing the password, all connected devices must “forget” the network and reconnect using the new password. Also, try turning your hotspot off and then back on again to reset the network.
• Problem 3 – The “Personal Hotspot” option is greyed out on my iPhone.
  • Solution – Ensure you have a cellular data signal. If the option is missing, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Transfer or Reset iPhone” > “Reset” > “Reset Network Settings.”

WARNING! This will also reset your saved Wi-Fi passwords, so use it as a last resort.

To Conclude

You now know how to change hotspot password on Android and iOS smartphones. Always remember that changing your hotspot password regularly is a simple security habit that prevents unauthorized access. Plus, ensure that the password is strong, unique, and use the best password generator to keep track of it.