If your iPhone's Personal Hotspot is turned on and your laptop connects to it, but you still can't access the internet, this guide will help you troubleshoot.
Before You Start
Make sure:
- Your phone's cellular data is working (try browsing in Safari with Wi-Fi off)
- Your APN settings are correctly configured
- You know where your Cape recovery phrase is saved — you may need it later
Troubleshooting Steps
Step 1: Check for Multiple SIMs
- Go to Settings > Cellular
- Check if you see a "Used as Secondary" entry, even if you don't have a physical SIM inserted
- If you see it, tap it and follow any on-screen prompts to dismiss it
Step 2: Turn On "Maximize Compatibility"
- Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot
- Turn on Maximize Compatibility
- Restart your iPhone
- Reconnect your laptop to the hotspot and test your internet connection
Step 3: Make Sure VPN Is Off
- Go to Settings > VPN
- If a VPN is active, turn it off
- Try connecting your laptop to the hotspot again
Step 4: Reset Network Settings
If the steps above haven't worked, try resetting your network settings. Note that this will clear your saved Wi-Fi passwords.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset
- Tap Reset Network Settings
- Your iPhone will restart
- Re-enable your hotspot and test your connection
Step 5: Delete and Re-download Your eSIM
If you're still having issues, re-installing your eSIM usually resolves it.
- Find your Cape recovery phrase and keep it handy — you'll need it to re-download your eSIM
- Go to Settings > Cellular, tap your Cape plan, and select Delete eSIM
- Re-download your eSIM via the Cape app or your activation link
- Once reinstalled, test your hotspot and check if push notifications are working again