Personal Device Bridge
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Troubleshooting

Fix hotspot connection problems

The phone’s hotspot won’t start, the PC won’t join, or the devices don’t find each other on it? Check these points.

1 min read Updated Applies to
  • Windows
  • Android

The no-router mode uses Android’s local-only hotspot. Most problems come from permissions, a regular hotspot that is already on, or Windows treating the new network as public.

Steps

  1. Grant the permission

    The phone needs Nearby devices on Android 13 and later, or location on older versions. Allow it under Settings › Apps › Personal Bridge › Permissions.

  2. Turn off the regular hotspot

    If you see “Turn off the regular mobile hotspot/tethering first”, switch off the normal hotspot and USB/Bluetooth tethering, then tap Start hotspot again.

  3. Keep the hotspot screen open

    The hotspot stops when you leave the screen. Leave it open until the PC has joined and the devices are connected.

  4. Make the new network Private on Windows

    Windows treats a new network as public and blocks incoming connections. Set it to Private as described in Allow the app through the firewall.

  5. Check VPN and internet expectations

    Turn off VPNs on both devices. The PC will have no internet access on this hotspot; that is expected.