Furthermore, Windows Network Discovery (the feature that lets you see other PCs on the network) is finicky. You often have to manually switch the network profile from "Public" to "Private" on both the host and the clients to get file sharing to work. Windows treats the hotspot adapter as a new, untrusted network every time, requiring repetitive firewall adjustments.
Since Windows often refuses to start a hotspot if it doesn't detect a "shareable" connection, you can "trick" it by creating a virtual network adapter. : Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager . windows hotspot without internet
Making a Windows 11 hotspot without an internet connection : r/AskAstrophotography Since Windows often refuses to start a hotspot
I tested this feature on a Windows 11 laptop hosting a local file server, connecting three other devices (a tablet, a phone, and a second laptop). , right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and under "Power
, right-click your Wi-Fi adapter, and under "Power Management," uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power". Reddit Use Cases for Local Hotspots File Sharing: Use Windows file sharing (SMB) to transfer files to a phone/tablet using an FTP app. Remote Desktop: Control a PC in the field using a laptop without a router. IoT Devices: Communicate with smart home devices, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi. Web Server: Host a local website or local database for diagnostics. Reddit +2 Summary of Troubleshooting Drivers: Update Wi-Fi drivers if
Creating a Windows hotspot without internet is possible using the built-in Mobile Hotspot feature and a few command-line tricks. This can be useful in various situations, such as sharing files or creating a temporary network. Give it a try and let me know if you have any questions or need further assistance!
Once enabled, Windows instantly creates a standalone wireless network. The SSID and password generation is seamless, and connecting devices is as standard as it gets. Your laptop effectively becomes a standard Wi-Fi router.