This article explains how to connect a PC or Mac to a wireless hotspot, such as a public Wi-Fi access point or a mobile hotspot activated on a cell phone.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using a PC
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 1 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 1](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-15-j.webp)
Step 1. Activate the hotspot on your mobile
If you use an Android phone or iPhone as a hotspot for your computer, turn it on before continuing.
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 2 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 2](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-16-j.webp)
Step 2. Click on the icon
![Windowswifi Windowswifi](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-17-j.webp)
It is located in the taskbar (next to the clock), at the bottom right of the screen. A list of available wireless networks will open.
If you are not connected to any network, you will see an asterisk (*) at the top left of the icon
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 3 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 3](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-18-j.webp)
Step 3. Click on the hotspot name
Some options will appear.
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 4 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 4](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-19-j.webp)
Step 4. Click Connect
If the hotspot has a security key, you will be prompted to enter it before proceeding.
- If you want your PC to always connect to this hotspot automatically when it is available, check the "Connect automatically" box.
- If you are not asked for a passcode, the network may be public. However, some public hotspots (such as those in airports or bars) require an additional step. Enter the address www.wikihow.com in a browser. If you are redirected to a page that invites you to accept a regulation or create an account, follow the instructions to be able to access the internet. If you open the wikiHow home page, then the procedure was successful.
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 5 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 5](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-20-j.webp)
Step 5. Enter the security key and click Next
If you entered the right password, you should be able to connect to the internet thanks to the hotspot.
Method 2 of 2: Using a Mac
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 6 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 6](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-21-j.webp)
Step 1. Activate the mobile hotspot
If you use an Android device or iPhone as a hotspot for your computer, turn it on now.
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 7 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 7](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-22-j.webp)
Step 2. Click on the button
![Macwifi Macwifi](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-23-j.webp)
It is located in the menu bar at the top right. A list of available wireless networks will appear.
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 8 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 8](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-24-j.webp)
Step 3. Click on the hotspot you want to connect to
If it's your mobile, then select it. You will be prompted for a password.
Are you not prompted for a password? The network is likely to be public. However, some public hotspots (such as airports or bars) require an extra step. Enter the address www.wikihow.com in a browser. If you are redirected to a page that invites you to accept a policy or register an account, follow the instructions to be able to access the internet. The procedure will be successful once the wikiHow home page opens
![Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 9 Connect a Computer to a Hotspot Step 9](https://i.sundulerparents.com/images/003/image-6526-25-j.webp)
Step 4. Enter your password and click Login
You should be able to connect to the internet via the hotspot, provided you have entered the correct password.