How to Share Wi-Fi Network Connections in Windows 11

Whether you’re trying to connect another device or help a friend get online, Windows 11 makes it surprisingly easy to share your Wi-Fi connection. This guide will show you three practical methods to do it: using a mobile hotspot, generating a QR code, and enabling network sharing.

Method 1: Share Wi-Fi Using Mobile Hotspot

If your PC has both Wi-Fi and Ethernet capabilities, you can use the built-in Mobile Hotspot feature to turn your PC into a Wi-Fi router.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings
   Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet > Mobile Hotspot
3. Turn on Mobile Hotspot
4. Choose How to Share
   • Share my Internet connection from: Choose Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
   • Share over: Choose Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (Wi-Fi is faster).
5. Edit Hotspot Settings (Optional)
   Click Edit to change the network name and password.
6. Connect Devices
   On the other device, find your PC’s hotspot name and connect using the password you set.

✅ Good for: Sharing Ethernet or a second Wi-Fi connection with phones, tablets, or other PCs.

Method 2: Share Wi-Fi with a QR Code

If you just want to let someone else connect to your Wi-Fi quickly without telling them the password, use a QR code.

Steps:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi
2. Click on the name of the currently connected network
3. Click the QR code icon next to the network name
4. Ask your guest to scan the QR code with their phone’s camera

✅ Good for: Quick sharing with friends or family, especially on mobile devices.

Method 3: Enable Network Sharing

If you’re on the same network and want to share files or printers, you can enable network sharing features in Windows.

Steps:

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center
2. Click Change advanced sharing settings
3. Turn on:
   • Network discovery
   • File and printer sharing
4. Share specific folders or devices as needed

✅ Good for: Office or home environments where multiple devices need access to shared resources.

Final Tips

• Keep your network secure. Don’t share passwords or hotspots with strangers.
• Use strong encryption. Always keep WPA2 or WPA3 enabled on your Wi-Fi router.
• Disable sharing when done. Turn off Mobile Hotspot or network discovery when you no longer need it.

Got questions or run into issues? Drop a comment below, and I’ll help you troubleshoot.

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Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!