A situation where one Android device refuses to see or connect to another smartphone's hotspot is a common problem in unstable mobile internet conditions. Users often encounter the following: Internet distribution It appears to be activated, the indicators are lit, but the target device simply doesn't detect the network or returns an error when attempting to connect. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from frequency band incompatibility to software failures in the operating system's network modules.
In most cases, the problem lies not in a hardware failure, but in incorrect security settings or operating features. Wi-Fi modules from different manufacturers. Modern smartphones use complex power-saving algorithms and encryption protocols that can conflict with each other. For example, the client device may be too old to support a new encryption standard, or the access point may operate on a frequency that the receiving device physically doesn't support.
To resolve this issue, it's necessary to conduct a thorough diagnostic, eliminating the most likely causes of the conflict. It's important to understand that settings may vary depending on the version. Android and manufacturer-specific skins (MIUI, OneUI, ColorOS). In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the technical aspects of mobile hotspots and provide a step-by-step guide to restoring a stable connection.
Incompatibility between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands
One of the most common reasons why a phone can't detect Wi-Fi from another Android device is that the access point is operating in the 5 GHz band, while the receiving device only supports 2.4 GHz. This is a classic compatibility issue between different generations of hardware. 5 GHz band Provides higher speed and lower airtime usage, but has a shorter range and is less effective at penetrating walls.
If the transmitter is configured to operate exclusively in 5 GHz mode, older smartphones, tablets, or budget models simply won't show this network in the list of available connections. They don't physically have antennas tuned to this frequency. Access point settings often have an automatic selection option, which by default may favor the faster but less compatible band.
To remedy this, you need to force the access point to switch to the 2.4 GHz frequency. This is a universal standard supported by the vast majority of mobile devices released in the last 15 years. Lowering the frequency may slightly reduce the maximum data transfer rate, but it guarantees stable network detection.
⚠️ Note: In some operating systems (such as MIUI or EMUI), switching bands may require disabling the hotspot itself. First, disable the hotspot, change the frequency, and only then re-enable the hotspot.
It's also worth considering that some modern flagships may not detect 2.4 GHz networks if they're configured in "N-only" or "G-only" mode, requiring a mixed b/g/n mode. However, this is less common than the 5 GHz issue on older devices.
Issues with security protocols and encryption
The second critical factor is the security type selected when creating the hotspot. Android allows you to choose between different encryption protocols, such as WPA2 PSK and the newer WPA3. If the sharing device has WPA3, then client devices that do not support this standard (usually these are models older than 2018-2019) simply will not be able to connect or even see the network.
Protocol WPA3 Provides enhanced protection against password guessing, but its implementation is still not widespread. When you create a hotspot, the system often selects the "Recommended" security type, which may be too advanced for the receiving device. This results in a situation where the network appears to be online, but the connection is dropped during the authentication process.
The optimal solution is to select a compatible encryption mode. In the access point settings, find the "Security Type" or "Protocol" option and change it to WPA2-Personal (or simply WPA2). This is the gold standard and works on almost all devices. Also, check if the "Hidden Network" (SSID) option is enabled, which requires you to manually enter the network name.
- 🔒 WPA3: Maximum protection, but may have problems with older devices.
- 🔓 WPA2: The perfect balance of compatibility and security for most use cases.
- ⚠️ Open: Not recommended as data is transmitted in cleartext, but it helps diagnose a password problem.
Operator restrictions and TTL blocking
Users often forget that tethering depends not only on the smartphone but also on the mobile operator's plan. Many carriers technically limit or completely block the ability to create a Wi-Fi hotspot for devices outside the carrier's ecosystem or for certain plans.
The blocking mechanism is based on the analysis of the parameter TTL (Time To Live) in data packets. When you share your internet, packets passing through your phone receive a modified TTL value. The carrier detects this change and either terminates the connection or redirects the user to a page offering the "Tethering" service. In this case, the phone may see Wi-Fi and connect to it, but the internet won't work, or the network will drop immediately after attempting to transfer data.
There are ways to bypass these restrictions, such as changing the TTL value on the receiving device itself or using special apps. However, this requires root access or complex ADB command configuration. For the average user, the simplest solution is to check the plan terms in your operator's personal account.
⚠️ Please note: Tariff terms and methods for blocking internet tethering are subject to change by operators without prior notice. For up-to-date information on using your smartphone as a router, always check your operator's official app or website.
How do operators determine the distribution?
Carriers analyze data packet headers. Computers and other phones send requests with OS characteristics different from those of Android mobile devices. Furthermore, a single app can request updates for multiple services at once, creating multiple connections that are not typical for a single mobile device.
IP address conflicts and DHCP settings
Sometimes the problem lies deep within the network settings, where an IP address conflict occurs. When you enable the hotspot, your Android smartphone acts as DHCP servers, assigning addresses to connecting clients. If the receiving device has an old IP address from another network in its cache, or if the address pool on the distributing device is limited, the connection may fail.
A common error is attempting to connect to a device that was previously part of another network with a similar configuration, and it attempts to use a static IP address that is incompatible with the current access point. This results in an address conflict, and the network becomes unstable or fails to function at all.
To resolve this issue, you need to forget the network on the receiving device. Go to Wi-Fi settings, find the name of your access point, and tap "Forget network." Then, try connecting again, entering the password. This will force the device to request a new IP address from the sending smartphone.
| Parameter | Normal value | Problematic meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IP range | 192.168.43.x | 192.168.1.x (conflict with router) |
| Gateway | 192.168.43.1 | Missing or incorrect |
| DNS | Automatically | 8.8.8.8 (may be blocked) |
| Subnet | 255.255.255.0 | Non-standard mask |
It's also worth checking whether the receiving device has "Static IP" enabled. If so, switch the settings to DHCPso that the address is issued automatically.
Impact of energy saving and background processes
Aggressive power-saving systems implemented by smartphone manufacturers (especially Xiaomi, Huawei, and Samsung) can forcibly disable the Wi-Fi module or hotspot function if the system determines the load is too high or the device is not being actively used. This is a common reason why a phone might find Wi-Fi, but then lose the connection after a minute.
Function Energy Saving may limit background network activity. If you're sharing the internet and the device's screen goes dark, the system may assume there's no active activity and throttle the sharing process to conserve battery life. This is especially true for older batteries or when "Ultra Power Saving" mode is enabled.
To prevent this, you should add the "Access Point" app or the system process that is tethering to the power-saving exceptions. It is also recommended to disable power-saving features while actively tethering. In some cases, setting a timer to turn off the access point can help, so that the system understands that the process is under user control.
☑️ Checking energy saving settings
Wi-Fi module hardware limitations and drivers
Hardware issues also shouldn't be discounted. A smartphone's Wi-Fi module is a complex electronic device that can overheat when used as a hotspot for extended periods, especially if it's simultaneously charging and transmitting data at high speeds. Overheat leads to throttling (decreased performance) or complete shutdown of the module for protection.
In addition, there are software glitches in the drivers. After updating the operating system Android Conflicts may arise when installing a security patch or installing a security patch, causing the Wi-Fi module to stop working correctly in AP (Access Point) mode. A simple network reset often resolves this issue.
If software solutions don't help, it's worth checking whether the antenna module is damaged. Drops or exposure to moisture could have disrupted the antenna connection. In this case, the phone may still see networks, but the range will be minimal and the speed will be extremely slow.
⚠️ Caution: Using Wi-Fi for long periods in hot weather or direct sunlight can cause the battery and motherboard to overheat critically. Monitor the device's case temperature.
To reset network settings, go to Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile data, and Bluetooth settingsThis action will delete saved passwords and settings, but often solves driver problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my phone see Wi-Fi but say "Unable to connect"?
The problem is most likely an incorrect password or incompatible encryption protocol. Make sure WPA2 is selected on both devices. Also, try "Forget Network" on the receiving device and re-enter the password. Changing the network name (SSID) on the sending phone can sometimes help.
Can antivirus software block Wi-Fi hotspots?
Yes, some third-party antiviruses and firewalls have a "Wi-Fi Protection" or "Access Point Control" feature that can block incoming connections, deeming them suspicious. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus to check.
How many devices can be connected to an Android hotspot?
Android typically allows you to connect 5 to 10 devices simultaneously, but the actual number depends on the smartphone's processor power and RAM. When connecting to a large number of devices, the internet speed on each device will be significantly reduced.
Does Wi-Fi sharing affect mobile internet speed?
Yes, it does. All traffic from connected devices goes through the mobile network of the distributor. If one client starts downloading a large file, the speed for everyone else will drop. Furthermore, the NAT translation process itself puts a strain on the smartphone's processor.
What should I do if the access point turns off by itself after 1 minute?
Check the timer settings in the hotspot menu. Also, make sure power saving mode, which disables Wi-Fi when the screen is off, isn't enabled. In rare cases, this could indicate a faulty battery or overheating.