Adjusting Android hotspot settings allows you to customize network names, security protocols, bandwidth allocation, and advanced configurations like DHCP ranges. Most Android devices provide basic hotspot controls through the Settings menu, while some manufacturers like Samsung offer additional configuration options. For advanced users, certain settings may require root access or third-party tools, particularly for modifying default IP ranges or DHCP configurations.

Key findings from the sources:

• Basic hotspot settings (name, password, security type) are accessible via Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering on most Android devices ^[1][3][6]
• Samsung Galaxy phones allow additional configurations like timeout settings, frequency bands (2.4GHz/5GHz), and advanced LAN settings ^[3]
• Default DHCP IP ranges (192.168.43.0/24 for Wi-Fi, 192.168.42.0/24 for USB) are hardcoded in Android, though newer versions may permit UI-based changes ^[5][10]
• Quick access to hotspot toggles is available via the Quick Settings panel (swipe down from the top of the screen) ^[1][8]

Adjusting Android Hotspot Settings

Basic Hotspot Configuration

Most Android devices follow a standardized process for enabling and customizing hotspot settings, though manufacturer-specific interfaces may vary slightly. The core settings—network name (SSID), password, and security type—are universally available, while additional options like bandwidth selection or timeout features depend on the device model and Android version.

To access basic hotspot settings:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung devices) ^[1][3][6].
3. Select Hotspot & Tethering, then tap Wi-Fi Hotspot (or Mobile Hotspot on Samsung phones) ^[3][6].
4. Toggle the hotspot On/Off switch to enable or disable it.

Key customizable options include:

• Network Name (SSID): Change the default name to something recognizable. This helps distinguish your hotspot from others in crowded areas ^[3][7].
• Security Type: Choose between WPA3-Personal (recommended for newer devices), WPA2-Personal, or Open (unsecured, not advised). WPA3 offers stronger encryption but may not be compatible with older devices ^[3].
• Password: Set a strong password (minimum 8 characters) to prevent unauthorized access. Avoid using common phrases or sequential numbers ^[3][7].
• Band Selection: Samsung devices allow switching between 2.4GHz (better range, more interference) and 5GHz (faster speeds, shorter range). This option may not be available on all Android models ^[3][7].
• Timeout Settings: Configure the hotspot to turn off automatically after a set period (e.g., 5, 10, or 30 minutes) to save battery life. This feature is particularly useful if you frequently forget to disable the hotspot manually ^[3].

Carrier restrictions may apply, especially for unlimited data plans. Some providers limit hotspot usage or charge extra for tethering, so verify your plan details before relying on mobile hotspots for extended periods ^[1][6].

Advanced Hotspot Settings

For users requiring deeper customization—such as adjusting DHCP ranges, changing local IP addresses, or managing connected devices—Android offers limited native options, with additional flexibility on rooted devices or via third-party tools.

DHCP and LAN Configuration

Android assigns default IP ranges to hotspot connections:

• Wi-Fi Tethering: 192.168.43.0/24 (devices receive IPs like 192.168.43.1–192.168.43.254) ^[5][10]
• USB Tethering: 192.168.42.0/24 ^[5]

These ranges are hardcoded in most Android versions, which can cause conflicts if your work or home network uses the same subnet. Solutions include:

• Rooted Devices: Use apps like NetCut or WiFi Tether Router to modify DHCP settings. These tools require superuser access and may void warranties ^[5].
• Newer Android Versions: Some users report that newer OS updates (Android 12+) allow changing the DHCP range via the UI. Navigate to Mobile Hotspot > Advanced > LAN Settings to check for available options ^[5][10].
• Manual Workarounds: For non-rooted devices, connecting via USB tethering (which uses a different subnet) or using a secondary router to rebroadcast the hotspot signal may resolve conflicts ^[5].

Advanced Network Management

Samsung Galaxy devices provide additional controls under Mobile Hotspot and Tethering:

• Allowed Devices: Create a whitelist of MAC addresses to restrict hotspot access to specific devices. This is useful in corporate or shared environments ^[3].
• Data Usage Alerts: Set warnings when hotspot data consumption reaches predefined thresholds (e.g., 1GB, 5GB). This helps avoid overage charges on metered plans ^[3].
• AP Band Selection: Manually switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands to optimize performance based on device compatibility or interference levels ^[3][7].

For non-Samsung devices, third-party apps like ClockworkMod Tether (for USB) or PdaNet+ (for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth) can unlock additional features, though these may require technical expertise to configure ^[5].

Quick Access and Automation

To streamline hotspot usage:

• Quick Settings Panel: Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the Hotspot toggle. If missing, tap Edit (pencil icon) and drag Hotspot into your active Quick Settings tiles ^[1][8].
• Routines (Samsung): Use Modes and Routines to automate hotspot activation based on triggers like location or time. For example, enable the hotspot automatically when you arrive at a café ^[8].
• Battery Optimization: Enable adaptive battery settings to reduce power consumption while the hotspot is active. Some devices also allow lowering the hotspot’s transmit power to extend battery life ^[1][7].