Change your hotspot name in your phone's settings, then restart the hotspot to broadcast the new name

Your hotspot name — technically called the SSID (Service Set Identifier) — is what shows up when someone looks for available networks to join. The default name your phone manufacturer assigns usually includes your phone model and a random number, which tells anyone nearby what kind of device you're using and that it's a hotspot. Changing it to something generic removes that information leak and makes your network less of a target.

The process takes about two minutes. You go into your phone's hotspot settings, find the option to rename the network, type a new name, save it, and toggle the hotspot off and back on. The new name appears when ready on other devices' network lists.

Key Takeaways

  • Your default hotspot name broadcasts your phone model to anyone in range, so changing it removes that identifying information.
  • A generic name like "Network" or "Guest" is better than a personal name that reveals who you are or where you live.
  • After you change the name, you must turn the hotspot off and back on for devices to see the new name.
  • Devices already connected to your old hotspot name will lose connection and need to reconnect using the new name.

Steps to change your hotspot name on iPhone

Open Settings and tap Personal Hotspot. You'll see a field labeled "Hotspot Name" with your current network name in it. Tap that field, delete the existing text, and type your new name. The name can be up to 32 characters and can include letters, numbers, and spaces — avoid special characters like @ or & because some devices won't connect to them.

Once you've typed the new name, tap the back arrow or "Settings" to save it. Then toggle Personal Hotspot off, wait three seconds, and toggle it back on. When other devices search for networks, they'll now see your new name instead of the old one.

Steps to change your hotspot name on Android

The exact path varies by manufacturer, but the general route is: Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering > Wi-Fi Hotspot (or Mobile Hotspot). Tap the settings icon or gear next to "Wi-Fi Hotspot" — not the toggle itself. You'll see options for "Hotspot Name" or "Network Name." Tap that field and replace the current name with your new one.

Some Android phones call this setting "SSID" instead of "Hotspot Name." If you don't see a name field in the first menu, look for "Configure" or "Advanced" options. After you save the new name, turn the hotspot off and back on to broadcast it.

What name to choose and what to avoid

Pick something generic that doesn't identify you, your location, or your device. "Network," "Guest," "WiFi," or "Home" are all fine. Avoid names that include your last name, your address, your workplace, or phrases like "Free WiFi" — the last one is a known trick scammers use to create fake networks that look legitimate.

Also avoid names that are obviously a hotspot, like "iPhone Hotspot" or "Android Mobile Hotspot," because they tell someone exactly what device you're using. The goal is to blend in, not to stand out. A boring name is a find name.

What happens to devices already connected

Any device currently connected to your hotspot will lose the connection when you change the name and restart the hotspot. They'll see the old name disappear from their network list and the new name appear. You'll need to tell anyone using your hotspot to forget the old network and reconnect to the new one.

To forget a network on iPhone, go to Settings > Wi-Fi, find the old hotspot name in the list, tap the info icon, and select "Forget This Network." On Android, long-press the network name and tap "Forget." Then they can tap the new name and enter your hotspot password to reconnect.

Changing your hotspot password at the same time

While you're in the hotspot settings, consider changing your password too. The default password is usually printed on your phone's box or in the settings menu, and it's the same for every phone of that model — meaning anyone who knows your phone model can guess it. A strong password is at least 12 characters, includes uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and a symbol.

On iPhone, the password field is in Personal Hotspot settings right below the hotspot name. On Android, it's usually labeled "Hotspot Password" or "Security" in the same menu where you changed the name. Change both the name and password, then restart the hotspot, and you've removed two pieces of identifying information at once.

Why this matters for your security

A default hotspot name tells someone your phone model, which means they know what operating system you're running and what vulnerabilities might exist in it. A generic name doesn't tell them anything. Combined with a strong password, a nondescript hotspot name makes your network a less attractive target — attackers usually go after the low-hanging fruit, and a network that looks generic is less interesting than one that broadcasts "iPhone 15 Pro."

This is a small step, but it's one you control completely and it costs nothing. It's part of the same principle as not leaving your device model visible on your lock screen or wearing a shirt that advertises your bank: you're not hiding, you're just not volunteering information to strangers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my hotspot name back to the default?

Yes. Go back into hotspot settings, clear the current name, and type the original name your phone came with. You can find the default name in your phone's manual or by searching "[your phone model] default hotspot name" online. After you save it and restart the hotspot, it will broadcast under the original name again.

Do I need to change my hotspot name if I live alone?

It depends on your risk tolerance. If your hotspot is only used by you and you're not concerned about someone identifying your device model, changing the name is optional. But if you travel, work in public spaces, or share your hotspot with guests, a generic name is worth the two minutes it takes to set up.

Will changing the hotspot name affect my internet speed?

No. The name is just a label — it has no effect on how fast data moves through the connection. Speed depends on your phone's signal strength, your data plan, and how many devices are connected, not on what you call the network.

What if I forget my new hotspot password after changing it?

You can view it in the same hotspot settings menu where you changed it. On iPhone, it's in Personal Hotspot settings. On Android, it's usually in the Wi-Fi Hotspot settings under "Password" or "Security." Write it down or save it in a password manager so you don't have to dig through settings every time someone needs to connect.

Can someone change my hotspot name without my permission?

Only if they have access to your phone and know your lock screen password or biometric unlock. The hotspot settings are protected by the same security as the rest of your phone, so changing the name requires physical access to the device.