Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Win10 Error: "We can't set up mobile hotspot."

Windows 10 mobile hotspot error fix

Quick Answer: Try disabling and re-enabling the cellular USB-stick or updating the Wi-Fi adapter drivers.

The 'We can't set up mobile hotspot' error in Windows 10 is a frustrating issue that affects users trying to configure their devices for mobile hotspots. This error message does not provide clear instructions on how to resolve the problem, making it difficult for users to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Disabling the settings dialog without providing any explanation can be confusing and time-consuming for users. In this troubleshooting guide, we will walk you through the possible causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve the issue.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary cause of the 'We can't set up mobile hotspot' error in Windows 10 is often related to the cellular USB-stick or Wi-Fi adapter not being recognized by the system. This can be due to various reasons such as a faulty device, incorrect driver installation, or conflicts with other network adapters.
  • Another possible cause of this error is when the 'MyPublicWiFi' app is installed and running in the background, interfering with the Windows 10 mobile hotspot settings. Although you have uninstalled the app, it's essential to check for any remaining processes or services that might be causing the issue.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Update Network Adapters and Drivers

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Open the Device Manager on your Windows 10 VM. You can do this by searching for 'Device Manager' in the Start menu or by pressing the Windows key + X and selecting Device Manager.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: In the Device Manager, expand the 'Network adapters' section and look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark or a red X. Right-click on these devices and select 'Update driver'. Follow the prompts to search for and install any available updates.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: After updating the network adapters and drivers, restart your VM and try setting up the mobile hotspot again. If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.

Disable and Re-enable the Cellular USB-Stick

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Open the Device Manager on your Windows 10 VM and expand the 'Network adapters' section. Look for the cellular USB-stick device and right-click on it. Select 'Disable device'.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Wait for 10-15 seconds and then enable the device again by right-clicking on it and selecting 'Enable device'.

🎯 Final Words

If you have tried the above steps and still encounter the 'We can't set up mobile hotspot' error, consider reinstalling the cellular USB-stick or seeking further assistance from your network provider. Additionally, ensure that your VM is properly configured to use the Wi-Fi adapter and cellular USB-stick. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and successfully set up your mobile hotspot.

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