How to create a Wi-Fi network on a Windows 10 computer

Users often find themselves in situations where they urgently need to share internet from another device. Whether it's a lack of a wired connection on a tablet or a need to update the software on a TV, built-in operating system tools allow you to quickly resolve this issue without purchasing additional hardware.

operating system Windows 10 offers powerful tools for managing network connections, which are often underestimated by regular users. Unlike previous versions, the access point creation process has been simplified to a separate interface, although advanced settings remain accessible through the console.

Before you start setting up, you should make sure that your wireless network adapter The device is functional and supports access point mode. Most modern laptops and USB dongles support this feature by default, but in rare cases, manufacturer-supplied drivers may be required.

Checking compatibility and preparing equipment

The first step before activating internet tethering should be a hardware diagnostic. Not all network cards are capable of simultaneously receiving a signal from the router and transmitting it further, although this is a standard feature in modern devices.

To check, launch the command prompt as administrator and enter a special query. This action will not make any changes to the system, but will only generate a report on the current driver status and supported operating modes.

In the window that opens, enter the command:

netsh wlan show drivers

In the resulting list of lines, find the parameter "Hosted network support." If the value next to it is "Yes," then your Wi-Fi adapter It's fully ready to work in access point mode. If it says "No," the problem is most likely due to outdated network card software.

⚠️ Note: If the driver does not support access point mode, updating the software from the laptop or chipset manufacturer's website (e.g. Intel or Realtek) will usually solve the problem.

It's also important to understand that for the network to function properly, the computer itself must have an active internet connection. This could be a cable connection. Ethernet, as well as a signal from another wireless source, if the adapter allows operation in two ranges simultaneously.

📊 What type of connection does your PC have for sharing?

Ethernet cable

Mobile Internet (USB)

Other Wi-Fi

Don't know

Configuration via the standard parameters interface

The easiest and fastest way to set up an access point in Windows 10 — using the built-in "Mobile Hotspot" module. This method doesn't require knowledge of console commands and is suitable for most everyday use cases.

To get started, open the Start menu and go to Settings by selecting the gear icon. Next, navigate to "Network & Internet" and select "Mobile Hotspot" in the left menu.

In the window that opens, you'll see a switch that needs to be activated. The system will automatically prompt you to select the internet connection source to be broadcast and the network type. Wi-Fi is selected by default, but if you have multiple adapters, you can select the desired one.

Pay special attention to the network name and password fields. Click the "Change" button to set a unique name (SSID) and a secure access key. Use WPA2-Personal encryption, as it is the most secure standard for home networks.

Once the switch is turned on, the computer will begin broadcasting a signal. Connected devices will be displayed in the list below, along with their IP and MAC addresses.

☑️ Checking hotspot settings

Open Windows SettingsGo to the Network and InternetSelect Mobile HotspotSet a name and passwordTurn on the switch

Completed: 0 / 5

Creating a network via the command line (CMD)

For users who prefer full control over the system, or in cases where the graphical interface is not working correctly, a console-based configuration method is available. This method allows for creating networks with more flexible parameters.

Launch the command prompt with administrator privileges. The first step is to create a virtual adapter configuration. Enter the command, specifying the desired network name (SSID) and a password of at least 8 characters:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyNetwork key=MyPassword123

After the command has successfully completed, you need to start the created network. To do this, use the following command:

netsh wlan start hostednetwork

However, at this stage, the internet will not work on the connected devices, as we've only created a local network. One more important step remains: expanding the connection.

⚠️ Note: When using the command line, the network does not start automatically when you restart your computer; you will have to enter the start command again.

To display the status of the created network and view connected clients, you can use the command:

netsh wlan show hostednetwork

This method is especially useful if the default Mobile Hotspot is failing or is hidden by Group Policy in a corporate environment.

Setting up Internet sharing

After creating a virtual adapter (especially via CMD), it's critical to properly configure traffic routing. Without this step, devices will be able to connect to the computer but won't have access to the global network.

Press the key combination Win + R, enter ncpa.cpl and press Enter. The Network Connections window will open, where you need to find your primary adapter, which is the one your computer uses to connect to the internet (for example, Ethernet or Wi-Fi).

Right-click on it, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Here, check the box next to "Allow other network users to connect through your Internet connection."

In the "Home network connection" drop-down list, select the virtual adapter you created (usually it is called "Local Area Connection" with a number or has the name specified in the SSID).

Parameter	Description	Recommended value
Allow access	Enabling NAT for clients	Enabled (check mark)
Home network	Selecting a virtual adapter	Wireless Network 2
Control	Permission to disable	Allow

After applying the settings, the system may warn you about the change in the IP address of the main adapter. 192.168.137.1This is normal behavior and means that the computer has become a gateway for clients.

Troubleshooting common connection errors

Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users often encounter issues where devices see the network but are unable to connect, or where the connection is established but there is no internet. One common cause is frequency band incompatibility.

Some older smartphones and gadgets do not support the standard. 802.11ac or operate in the 5 GHz band. If your laptop only broadcasts in this range, older devices simply won't see it.

To fix this, go to Device Manager, locate your wireless adapter, open its properties, and in the Advanced tab, look for the setting related to the operating mode or preferred frequency. Set it to a value compatible with 2.4 GHz.

Another common problem is conflicts with antivirus software or firewalls. They may block incoming traffic, deeming it suspicious.

⚠️ Note: If you experience problems, temporarily disable your third-party antivirus to check if it is blocking the connection.

It's also worth checking the Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc, find the specified service in the list and make sure that it is running and the startup type is set to "Automatic".

Why does the hotspot turn off?

Windows 10 has a power saving feature that can disable the adapter to conserve battery power. Go to Device Manager -> Adapter Properties -> Power Management and uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device."

Questions and Answers (FAQ)

Is it possible to share Wi-Fi if the computer is connected to the network via Wi-Fi?

Yes, this is possible, but only if the network card supports both client and access point mode (Concurrent technology). This works on most modern laptops, but the speed may be lower.

How many devices can be connected to the created network?

Theoretically, an operating system Windows 10 Allows you to connect up to 8 devices simultaneously via a standard mobile hotspot. Using CMD methods may remove these restrictions, but stability will be reduced.

Will distribution work if the main Internet provider blocks distribution?

Some providers determine traffic distribution based on the TTL parameter. This isn't hidden in the default Windows settings. Bypassing this requires more complex registry manipulation or specialized software, which is beyond the scope of the standard instructions.

How can I find out the password for the created network if I forgot it?

If the network was created via "Settings," the password can be found there in the "Mobile Hotspot" section. If via CMD, the password is stored in saved profiles and can be found using the command: netsh wlan show profile name="Network_Name" key=clear.