Laptop connect to mobile hotspot with message “connected no internet”

Troubleshooting: Resolving the “Connected, No Internet” Issue When Using a Mobile Hotspot on Your Laptop

Introduction

In today’s digital age, reliance on mobile hotspots for internet access has become commonplace, especially when traditional Wi-Fi networks are unavailable. However, users may encounter frustrating issues where their device shows as “connected” but reports “no internet access.” In this guide, we will explore common causes behind this problem and provide effective solutions, using a real-world scenario involving a new ASUS Zenbook S16 and an iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Scenario Overview

A user recently acquired a ASUS Zenbook S16 UM5606WA. Despite successfully establishing a mobile hotspot connection via their iPhone 16 Pro Max, the laptop displays a “connected, no internet” message. The built-in troubleshooting tool indicates that no DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) was found, implying that the laptop is unable to obtain an IP address from the phone, preventing internet access. Although the user has attempted restarting devices, connecting to different networks, and verifying that their phone functions correctly with other devices, the issue persists.

Common Causes

Several factors can contribute to this connectivity problem:

Incorrect Hotspot Settings on the Phone: Improper configuration, such as a disabled DHCP server or misuse of network modes, can prevent proper IP assignment.
Network Configuration Issues on the Laptop: Static IP settings or outdated network adapters may interfere with DHCP processes.
Compatibility or Driver Problems: Outdated or incompatible network drivers can hinder proper network communication.
Limited or Restricted Hotspot Functionality: Some mobile carriers impose restrictions or settings affecting device connectivity.
Firewall or Security Software Interference: Overly restrictive security settings on the laptop might block network traffic.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Solutions

To resolve the “connected, no internet” issue, follow these systematic steps:

1. Verify Hotspot Settings on Your iPhone

Ensure Proper Hotspot Configuration:
Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot.
Confirm that Allow Others to Join is enabled.
Check if your data plan supports tethering.
Consider toggling the hotspot off and on again.
Use the Correct SSID and Password:
Ensure you are connecting to the correct network name and using the latest password.