What is USB Tethering (And Why It Sometimes Breaks)?
USB tethering is a simple feature that lets you share your phone’s internet connection with your computer by plugging it in with a USB cable.
It’s supposed to be a lifesaver when your Wi-Fi fails…
Until it doesn’t work at all.
Suddenly your phone is connected, but your computer says “No Internet.” Or worse—your computer doesn’t even recognize the connection.
Don’t stress!
Most USB tethering problems are super common and totally fixable with a few easy steps.
Why USB Tethering Might Not Be Working
Here are the biggest reasons you’re running into USB tehtering not working issues:
- Wrong USB cable (yes, not all cables can transfer data)
- Tethering not enabled on phone settings
- Missing or outdated drivers on your computer
- Phone’s data plan not supporting tethering
- Software bugs after a phone or Windows/macOS update
- Disabled or unstable mobile data
Sound familiar? Let’s dive into fixing it.
Step-by-Step Fixes for USB Tethering Not Working Problems
Step 1: Use the Right USB Cable
Not all USB cables are created equal!
- Charge-Only cables won’t transfer internet data.
- You need a Data+Charge USB cable (the one that came with your phone usually works).
Try swapping cables if you’re unsure.
Step 2: Enable USB Tethering Properly
On Android:
- Plug your phone into the computer.
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering.
- Toggle on USB tethering.
On iPhone:
- Connect the iPhone via USB.
- Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot.
- Turn on Allow Others to Join.
Important: The USB tethering option only appears after you plug in the cable.
Step 3: Restart Everything
- Restart your phone.
- Restart your computer.
- Then reconnect via USB and try again.
You’d be surprised how many weird glitches this clears up.
Step 4: Update or Install Drivers (for Windows Users)
Sometimes your PC doesn’t recognize your phone because the drivers are missing or outdated.
To fix:
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
- Look under Network Adapters or Other Devices.
- Right-click your phone name.
- Select Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
If you see a yellow triangle ⚠️, that’s a dead giveaway a driver problem exists.
Step 5: Check Mobile Data Connection
Remember: USB tethering uses your mobile data, not your home Wi-Fi.
- Make sure Mobile Data is turned on in your phone’s settings.
- Check if your SIM plan allows tethering (some carriers block it unless you pay extra).
Step 6: Disable Battery Saver Modes
Both Android and iPhone might block background activities (like tethering) when Battery Saver or Low Power Mode is turned on.
- Turn off any Battery Saving settings while tethering.
- Plug into a charger if your battery is low.
Step 7: Try a Different USB Port or Computer
Sometimes the USB port is just glitchy.
- Switch to another USB port.
- Try another computer if available.
If it works on another computer, the issue is with your PC, not your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why doesn’t my computer detect USB tethering even after I enable it?
You might be using a charge-only USB cable, or your computer’s drivers need updating.
Q2: My phone shows USB tethering is on, but the internet doesn’t work. Why?
Check that your mobile data is active. Also, confirm your mobile carrier allows tethering on your plan.
Q3: Can I tether USB on a Mac?
Yes! iPhone tethering via USB works seamlessly with Macs. For Android, you might need the HoRNDIS driver (or use Bluetooth/Wi-Fi tethering).
Q4: Does USB tethering use my phone’s Wi-Fi connection?
No. It uses your mobile data connection unless you enable “Wi-Fi sharing” (available on some Android phones).
Q5: Is USB tethering faster than hotspot Wi-Fi?
Generally yes! USB tethering offers a more stable and faster internet connection compared to Wi-Fi hotspots, especially for laptops.
Final Thoughts: Back Online, the Smart Way
USB tethering not working issues can be annoying, but now you know how to tackle them easily:
- Right cable ✔️
- Proper settings ✔️
- Updated drivers ✔️
- Good mobile data connection ✔️
Next time your Wi-Fi lets you down, your phone and a USB cable will have your back.