A WiFi hotspot allows you to share your device’s cellular or WiFi data connection with other devices. By default, most devices use a generic name for the hotspot network like “My iPhone” or “Galaxy S22 Hotspot”. You can customize this name to make your hotspot easier to identify.
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Why Change the Hotspot Name
Here are some reasons why you may want to change your hotspot network name:
- Make it easier to find when connecting devices – A customized name like “John’s Hotspot” stands out from default names.
- Security – Default hotspot names reveal device make/model, making it easier for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.
- Personalization – Choose a fun name that expresses your personality.
Before Changing the Name
Before changing the name, keep a few things in mind:
- Connected devices may need the password reentered after changing the name, since it appears as a new network.
- The name cannot be longer than 32 characters.
- The name is case sensitive (MyNetwork is different from mynetwork).
Instructions to Change Hotspot Name
On iPhone
The iPhone hotspot name matches the device name. To change it:
- Go to Settings > General > About
- Tap the existing device name
- Enter new name
- Tap Done
This changes the device name and hotspot name.
On Android
The steps can vary by device, but generally:
- Open Settings
- Tap Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering
- Tap the existing hotspot name
- Enter new name
- Tap Save
On Windows 10
- Open Start Menu
- Choose Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Hotspot
- Tap “Edit” next to the hotspot name
- Enter new name
- Tap Save
Choosing a Good Hotspot Name
When deciding what to name your network, keep these tips in mind:
- Be unique – Helps your device stand out from nearby hotspots.
- Avoid personal info – Don’t use real names, addresses, etc.
- Use a passphrase – Multiple random words are most secure.
- Be brief – Long names may get cut off.
- Add humor – Show your personality with a clever name.
Changing your hotspot name only takes a few minutes. A customized name makes your mobile hotspot easier to find and more secure. Express your creativity while keeping it simple enough for devices to connect.