Fix hotspot and tethering issues while traveling
Using your Figabytes eSIM as a hotspot is a convenient way to share mobile data with laptops, tablets, and other devices while traveling.
If hotspot or tethering is not working correctly, the issue is usually related to settings, APN configuration, roaming, or signal quality.
This guide explains the most common hotspot issues and how to fix them on iPhone and Android devices.
Common reasons hotspot may not work
Hotspot problems are commonly caused by:
- Incorrect APN settings
- Figabytes not selected as the active data line
- Hotspot disabled in device settings
- Weak network signal
- VPN or firewall interference
- Data saver or battery saver modes
- Temporary network congestion
- Device-specific software restrictions
Most issues can be resolved with a few quick adjustments.
Fix 1: Set Figabytes as the mobile data line
Your device must use the Figabytes eSIM as the active mobile data connection.
On iPhone
- Open Settings
- Go to Mobile Data
- Select Mobile Data
- Choose Figabytes
On Android
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet
- Open SIMs
- Set Figabytes as the mobile data SIM
If another SIM is selected for data, hotspot may not function correctly.
Fix 2: Enable hotspot correctly
On iPhone
- Open Settings
- Tap Personal Hotspot
- Turn on Allow Others to Join
- Enable Maximize Compatibility if devices cannot connect
On Android
- Open Settings
- Go to Hotspot & Tethering
- Enable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Fix 3: Verify APN settings
Incorrect or missing APN settings are one of the most common causes of hotspot problems.
Use the APN details provided in your Figabytes order information.
On iPhone
- Open Settings
- Go to Mobile Data
- Select Mobile Data Network
- Enter the APN under:
- Mobile Data
- Personal Hotspot
Restart the device afterward.
On Android
- Open Settings
- Go to Mobile Networks
- Open Access Point Names
- Add or edit the APN using the provided details
- Save the APN and restart the device
Fix 4: Enable data roaming
Travel eSIMs usually require roaming to remain active abroad.
On iPhone
Settings → Mobile Data → Figabytes → Data Roaming → On
On Android
Settings → SIMs → Figabytes → Roaming → On
Without roaming enabled, mobile data and hotspot may stop working.
Fix 5: Disable VPN or battery-saving modes
Some VPNs, firewalls, or battery-saving tools may interfere with tethering.
Try temporarily disabling:
- VPN applications
- Data Saver mode
- Low Power Mode
- Battery Saver mode
- Security or firewall apps
Then test hotspot again.
Fix 6: Reset network settings
On iPhone
- Open Settings
- Go to General
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset Network Settings
On Android
- Open Settings
- Go to System
- Select Reset Options
- Tap Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth
This may remove saved Wi-Fi passwords and network settings.
Fix 7: Test hotspot with another device
If hotspot works with a different device, the issue may be related to the receiving device instead.
Try:
- Restarting the laptop or tablet
- Forgetting and reconnecting to the hotspot network
- Disabling VPN or firewall software temporarily
Fix 8: Check signal strength
Hotspot performance depends on mobile signal quality.
If signal strength is weak:
- Move closer to a window
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
- Switch between 4G and 5G if available
- Restart your device
If hotspot is still not working
If the issue continues, support may need additional information.
Prepare the following:
- Device model
- iOS or Android version
- Screenshot of APN settings
- Screenshot of hotspot settings
- Screenshot of SIM and mobile data settings
- Your order ID
Common hotspot issues summary
Most hotspot issues are caused by:
- Wrong data SIM selected
- Missing APN settings
- Data roaming disabled
- VPN interference
- Weak network coverage
In most cases, the issue can be fixed by:
- Selecting Figabytes as the mobile data line
- Adding the correct APN
- Enabling roaming
- Restarting the device
Need additional help?
If you still cannot use hotspot with your Figabytes eSIM, visit Figabytes for additional support and troubleshooting assistance.