Modern smartphones Honor allow you to share mobile internet with other devices, from laptops to tablets. This feature is called mobile hotspot and works via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB cable. However, not all users know how to properly set up sharing to avoid connection issues or rapid battery drain.
In this article, we will look at all the current methods of distributing Wi-Fi with Honor (including models Honor 90, Honor Magic 5, Honor X9b and others on EMUI/Magic UI). You'll learn how to enable a hotspot, configure security, save battery life, and troubleshoot common issues. And if your carrier blocks tethering, we'll suggest workarounds.
Important: Sharing capabilities depend on the firmware version and smartphone model. For example, on Honor 8X (2018) no function USB distribution, and on newer flagships, it works automatically when a cable is connected. Check your model in the official specifications.
1. Method 1: Sharing Wi-Fi via a mobile hotspot (the most popular)
This is a standard method that works on all smartphones. Honor under control EMUI 10.0+ or Magic UI 7.0+It allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously (on new models) and provides speeds up to 5 Gbps (on Honor Magic 5 Pro with Wi-Fi 6E).
To enable distribution:
- Open
Settings → Mobile networks → Hotspot & tethering. - Tap on
Wi-Fi hotspot. - Activate the slider in the top corner.
- When you turn it on for the first time, the system will prompt you to set up a network name (SSID) and password. Use WPA3-Personal for maximum safety.
By default the network will be called HONOR-XXXX (where XXXX are the last digits of the IMEI), and the password will be generated automatically. You can change it manually, but remember: short passwords (less than 8 characters) are vulnerable to hacking.
Mobile Internet (3G/4G/5G) available|Battery charge >30%|Power saving mode disabled|Correct operator plan (no data sharing restrictions)-->
⚠️ Attention: Some operators (eg. Tele2 or Iota) block internet tethering on cheap plans. If devices don't connect after enabling the hotspot, check your plan's terms in your personal account.
2. Method 2: Sharing the Internet via USB (for PCs and laptops)
If you only need to connect one computer to the Internet, USB sharing — the most reliable option. It doesn't drain your phone's battery (as it charges via a cable) and provides a stable connection without lag. The speed is limited only by your connection. USB ports:
- 🔌
USB 2.0— up to 480 Mbps (on older laptops) - 🔌
USB 3.0/3.1— up to 5 Gbps (on modern PCs) - 🔌
USB-C(Thunderbolt) - up to 10–40 Gbps (on MacBook or gaming PCs)
Setup instructions:
- Connect your phone to your computer using the original cable.
- In the settings Honor go to
Settings → Mobile networks → Hotspot & tethering. - Enable the option
USB modem. - On your PC, check the connection: in Windows, open
Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network ConnectionsA new connection should appear.Remote NDIS.
On models Honor With Magic UI 7.2+ USB sharing is enabled automatically when connected to a PC—just confirm the device trust request.
3. Method 3: Sharing via Bluetooth (economical, but slow)
Bluetooth sharing is suitable if you need to connect one device (for example, a tablet or another phone) and save battery power. The connection speed does not exceed 3 Mbps, but energy consumption is minimal - ideal for long trips.
How to set up:
- Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
- On Honor go to
Settings → Devices → Bluetooth. - Find the target device in the list and tap it to pair.
- After connecting, return to
Settings → Mobile networks → Hotspot & tetheringand activateBluetooth modem.
Limitations of the method:
- 🐢 Low speed - not suitable for streaming videos or downloading large files.
- 🔋 Only supported one connected device.
- 🔄 If the connection is lost, you will have to repeat the pairing process.
4. Security settings: how to protect your access point
By default Honor Creates an open network with a simple password that's easy to crack. To prevent unauthorized connections and traffic theft, adjust your security settings:
- Go to
Settings → Mobile network → Wi-Fi hotspot → Set up hotspot. - In the field Network name (SSID) Please provide a unique name without personal information (e.g. not
Ivanov_WiFi, AHonorHotspot_247). - In the field Security select
WPA3-Personal(orWPA2-PSK, if the devices do not support WPA3). - Create a password of length 12+ characters with numbers, letters and special characters (for example,
k9#pL2!mQ1$vN).
| Security type | Protection | Compatibility | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
WPA3-Personal |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Devices since 2019 | ✅ Optimal choice |
WPA2-PSK |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | All devices | ⚠️ Acceptable if there is no WPA3 |
WPA/WPA2 |
⭐⭐⭐ | Outdated gadgets | ❌ Unsafe |
Open network |
⭐ | Any devices | ❌ Highly not recommended |
⚠️ Attention: If you're sharing internet in a public place (cafe, airport), turn off the hotspot immediately after use. Attackers can connect to your network and intercept your data.
5. How to save battery life when sharing Wi-Fi
Sharing the Internet puts a lot of strain on the processor and Wi-Fi module, which is why the phone's battery drains. 2-3 times fasterTo extend operating time:
- 🔋 Connect your phone to a charger (preferably via
PD charging(18–66 W). - ⚡ Turn on the mode
Energy saving, but disable the restriction for the appSettings(otherwise the hotspot may be disconnected). - 📵 Reduce screen brightness and disable background apps.
- 📶 If the network signal is weak (1-2 bars), switch to
3Ginstead of4G/5G- this will reduce the load on the modem.
On new models (Honor Magic 5, Honor 90) there is a function intelligent energy saving for a hotspot. It automatically reduces power consumption when only one device is connected to the network. To activate it:
- Go to
Settings → Battery → Advanced. - Enable the option
Access point optimization.
6. Troubleshooting: Why Wi-Fi Sharing Doesn't Work on Honor
If your devices aren't connecting to your hotspot or your internet isn't working, check the following:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Devices don't see the network | The hotspot is disabled or the settings are incorrect. | Restart your phone and enable data sharing again. Check the network name (SSID). |
| There is a connection, but no internet | The operator is blocking distribution | Call support or change your plan. Try it. USB/Bluetooth sharing. |
| The network keeps disconnecting | Power saving mode | Add Settings in battery optimization exceptions. |
| Slow internet speed | Weak 4G/5G signal | Move closer to the window or switch to 3G (if 4G is unstable). |
If nothing helps, reset your network settings:
- Go to
Settings → System → Reset. - Select
Reset network settings. - Confirm the action and restart your phone.
What should I do if the operator blocks the distribution?
Some operators (eg. MTS Internet sharing is limited on "For Our Own" plans. Workarounds:
1. Use VPN (For example, ProtonVPN or Warp) on the connected device.
2. Connect your phone to the router via WPS (if the router supports re-distribution).
3. Install the application NetShare (requires root rights) to bypass restrictions.
⚠️ These methods may violate the operator's terms and conditions. Use at your own risk.
7. Hidden Wi-Fi Sharing Features on Honor
In firmware Magic UI And EMUI There are several useful, but little-known options for sharing the Internet:
- 🔄 Automatic hotspot shutdown: You can configure the access point to turn off after 5–60 minutes of inactivity. Path:
Settings → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi hotspot → Auto power off. - 📡 5G Wi-Fi distribution: on models with
Wi-Fi 6(For example, Honor Magic 4 Pro) you can enable distribution in the range5 GHzfor higher speed. To do this, selectBand: 5 GHz. - 🔐 List of approved devices: You can block connections from unknown devices. Path:
Settings → Mobile networks → Wi-Fi hotspot → Manage devices.
On some models (Honor 70, Honor X40) there is a function dual access point — Simultaneously distribute Wi-Fi and connect to another network (for example, a router). This allows you to "extend" the signal. To activate it:
- Turn on Wi-Fi and connect to the main network.
- Go to
Settings → Mobile network → Wi-Fi hotspot. - Activate the option
Sharing via Wi-Fi(instead of mobile data).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi hotspots with Honor
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from Honor without a password?
Technically yes, you can select it in the access point settings Open networkHowever, this is extremely unsafe: outsiders will be able to connect to your network, which will lead to:
- Traffic theft (and additional costs if you have a limited plan).
- Risk of hacking devices on your local network.
- Internet slowdown due to a large number of connections.
If you need to temporarily give access to a friend, it is better to generate QR code to connect (available in the hotspot settings on Magic UI 7.0+).
Why does my phone get so hot when using Wi-Fi?
Heating is a normal phenomenon during active internet distribution, since the following are involved:
- Modem (for receiving mobile signal).
- Processor (for processing data).
- Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module (for signal transmission).
To reduce heat:
- Remove the cover (especially if it is thick).
- Place your phone on a flat surface (not on a sofa or blanket).
- Close background applications.
- If the temperature exceeds 45°C, turn off the dispensing for 10-15 minutes.
On new models (Honor Magic 5) has a cooling system with an evaporative chamber, which reduces heating under prolonged load.
How many devices can be connected to the Honor hotspot?
The maximum number of connected devices depends on the model:
- Honor 8X, Honor 9 Lite — to 5 devices.
- Honor 20, Honor View 20 — to 8 devices.
- Honor 50, Honor Magic 3 and newer - up to 10 devices.
When connecting the maximum number of devices, the internet speed is distributed among them, which may reduce the speed. For stable operation, we recommend connecting no more than 3-4 gadgets simultaneously.
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from Honor if the phone itself is connected to another Wi-Fi network?
Yes, but only on models with support Wi-Fi Sharing (shared Wi-Fi). This feature is available on smartphones with Magic UI 5.0+ And EMUI 11+To enable it:
- Connect to the main Wi-Fi network.
- Go to
Settings → Mobile networks → Hotspot & tethering. - Activate the option
Sharing via Wi-Fi.
In this case, your Honor will act as a signal "repeater." Please note that internet speed will decrease by 20-30% due to double data transfer.
How to change the Wi-Fi channel on an Honor hotspot?
If your network is unstable (frequent drops, low speed), the problem may be a congested Wi-Fi channel. To change it:
- Open
Settings → Mobile network → Wi-Fi hotspot → Set up hotspot. - Tap on
Additionally(orAdvanced settings). - Select
Wi-Fi channeland set the value manually (we recommend6,11for 2.4 GHz or36,48for 5 GHz).
To analyze channel load, use applications like WiFi Analyzer (Android) or NetSpot (Windows/macOS).