This article explains how to set up USB tethering on Windows 10 devices, allowing you to use your phone’s mobile connection to access the internet from your computer. Troubleshooting tips are included if something doesn’t work right.

How to Set Up USB Tethering on Windows 10

To begin, activate the hotspot feature on your phone. Your computer should manage the rest automatically. Here’s what to do:

1. Connect your phone to your computer using its USB cable.

   Newer phones typically use USB-C, but some still connect via micro USB or the Lightning connector. If your computer lacks a compatible port, an adapter is necessary.”

2. Access your phone’s Settings app and navigate to Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering for Android, or go to Cellular > Personal Hotspot for iPhone..

3. Select USB tethering to tether your Android, or choose Personal Hotspot to set up your iPhone as a hotspot. Your PC should now connect to the internet using your phone’s mobile connection.

Troubleshooting Windows 10 USB Tethering

USB tethering should function immediately once you toggle the hotspot on your phone. If it doesn’t, try these steps:

What Is USB Tethering?

Tethering is the process of sharing your phone’s mobile data to access the internet on another device, such as a laptop. You can also tether using Bluetooth, but USB tethering is the fastest and most effective method. That said, USB tethering can’t compete with the speeds of a solid Wi-Fi connection.

Be careful about how much data you use when tethered. Since many data plans charge incremental amounts based on data usage, watching videos, downloading files, or updating Windows on a tethered connection can quickly increase your phone bill. In some cases, it’s possible to reverse tether and share Wi-Fi from your computer to your phone to save data.