# How to Enable or Disable Personal Hotspot?

The **Enable/Disable Personal Hotspot** remote actions allow IT administrators to remotely control cellular data tethering on managed **iOS devices**, providing a secure alternative to risky public Wi-Fi networks.

**What is Personal Hotspot?**
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A **Personal Hotspot** is a smartphone or tablet feature that shares cellular data with other devices via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB. It ensures secure internet connectivity for employees on the move, bypassing insecure public access points.

- **Security:** Offers a private, encrypted connection superior to public Wi-Fi.
- **Versatility:** Supports multiple connection methods including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB.
- **Administrative Control:** MDM enables or restricts tethering to manage data usage and security posture.

**Prerequisites**
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FeatureRequirement**Platform**Managed **iOS** or **iPadOS** devices.**Carrier Support**A cellular plan that supports tethering/Personal Hotspot.**Hardware**Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB cable (depending on connection method).**Step-by-Step Guide: MDM Remote Actions**
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Administrators can toggle the hotspot state instantaneously from the **Hexnode UEM** portal.

### **1. How to Enable Personal Hotspot**

1. Log in to the **Hexnode portal**.
2. Navigate to **Manage > Devices**.
3. Select the target **iOS device**.
4. Navigate to **Actions > Network** and select **Enable Personal Hotspot**.
5. Click **Continue** in the confirmation pop-up.

### **2. How to Disable Personal Hotspot**

1. Log in to the **Hexnode portal**.
2. Navigate to **Manage > Devices**.
3. Select the target device.
4. Navigate to **Actions > Network** and select **Disable Personal Hotspot**.
5. Click **Continue** to stop data sharing.

**Methods for Sharing Cellular Data**
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Once enabled via MDM, the connection must be established using one of the following methods:

### **A. Wi-Fi Tethering**

- **Host Device:** Navigate to **Settings > Personal Hotspot** (or **Cellular > Personal Hotspot**). Toggle **Allow others to join** to **ON**.
- **Client Device:** Go to **Settings > Wi-Fi**, select the host’s device name, and enter the password provided on the host screen.

### **B. Bluetooth Tethering**

Supported for Mac and PC. For connecting other iOS devices, Wi-Fi is recommended.

- **Host Device:** Enable **Personal Hotspot** and turn **Bluetooth** ON in **Settings**.
- **Client (macOS):** Go to **System Preferences > Bluetooth**, pair the device, then use the Bluetooth menu bar icon to select **Connect to Network**.
- **Client (Windows):** Right-click the Bluetooth icon in the Notification area > **Join a Personal Area Network**. Right-click the iOS device and select **Connect using > Access Point**.

### **C. USB Tethering**

Requires the latest version of **iTunes** on the computer.

- **macOS:** Connect via USB. Navigate to **System Preferences > Network**, select the iOS device, click the gear icon, and select **Make Service Active**. Uncheck **Disable unless needed** and click **Apply**.
- **Windows:** Connect via USB and select **Trust** on the iOS device if prompted.

**Troubleshooting Guides**
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ProblemResolutionPersonal Hotspot option is hiddenContact the cellular carrier to verify if the current data plan supports tethering.MDM action remains pendingEnsure the device has an active internet connection to receive the remote command.USB connection fails on WindowsUpdate **iTunes** to the latest version and ensure the computer is “Trusted” by the iOS device.Bluetooth pairing failsVerify the code appearing on both devices matches and click **Pair** on both simultaneously.**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**
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#### **Is there a limit to how many devices can connect to a Personal Hotspot?**

The maximum number of simultaneous connections depends on the specific cellular carrier and the device hardware model.

#### **What is the range of a Personal Hotspot connection?**

Range varies by method: **USB** has the most limited range (cable length), **Bluetooth** reaches a couple dozen feet, and **Wi-Fi** offers the longest range.

#### **Why is Personal Hotspot missing from iOS Settings?**

If the option is not visible, it usually indicates that the cellular carrier has not enabled it for the current plan. Users should contact their service provider for assistance.

#### **Can a second iPad be connected to an iPhone hotspot via Bluetooth?**

While possible, it is officially recommended to connect iOS-to-iOS devices via **Wi-Fi** for better stability and performance.