While using an eSIM during your trip to Japan, you may encounter situations where "the smartphone can connect to the network, but tethering is not possible" "the computer or tablet cannot connect."
The reasons for not being able to tether are not just related to device settings. There are various factors to consider, such as the conditions of the eSIM plan you are using, APN settings, the tethering function of the smartphone, and the settings on the connecting device.
In this article, we will clearly explain the main reasons why tethering may not work with a Japan eSIM and the troubleshooting methods you should check in order.
Main Reasons for Not Being Able to Tether
| Reason | What to Check |
|---|---|
| eSIM plan does not support tethering | Check the product page and usage conditions |
| Tethering setting is off | Check Internet Sharing and Mobile Hotspot settings |
| APN settings are required | Check the setup guide from the provider |
| Wi-Fi settings on the connecting device | Turn Wi-Fi off and then on again |
| Limit on the number of connected devices | Check the number of devices currently connected |
| Temporary device error | Try restarting or toggling airplane mode |
First, let's check if the eSIM plan you are using supports tethering.
Check if the eSIM Plan Supports Tethering
Not all eSIMs guarantee the ability to use tethering.
Depending on the plan, tethering may not be available, or there may be specific usage conditions. Be sure to check the product page and usage guide for the eSIM you purchased.
- Is there a mention of tethering support?
- Are there any data capacity limits?
- Are there limits on the number of devices that can connect?
- Are there conditions for high-speed data usage?
Check the Tethering Settings on Your Smartphone
On iPhones, it is displayed as "Internet Sharing," while on Android devices, it may appear as "Tethering" or "Mobile Hotspot."
Make sure that the eSIM you are using is selected for mobile data, and then turn on the tethering function.
- Open "Settings"
- Check mobile data or network settings
- Select the Japan eSIM for mobile data
- Turn on Internet Sharing or Tethering
- Select the Wi-Fi network on the connecting device
- Enter the password to connect
The names of the settings may vary depending on the device and OS.
Check the APN Settings
For some eSIMs, even if there are no issues with the smartphone's communication, APN settings may be relevant when using tethering.
However, for many eSIMs, the APN is set automatically, so manual input is not always necessary.
- Is there guidance on APN settings from the provider?
- Is the APN set correctly?
- Have you not changed any unnecessary items?
Changing the APN on your own may result in loss of connectivity, so always follow the guidance from your eSIM provider.
Check the Connecting Device
Even if tethering is functioning properly on the smartphone, issues with the Wi-Fi settings on the computer or tablet may prevent a connection.
- Turn Wi-Fi off and then on again
- Delete the saved network and reconnect
- Double-check the password
- Try connecting from another device
If you can connect with another device, the issue may lie with the connecting device rather than the eSIM.
If Tethering Works but You Can't Connect to the Internet
If you can connect to Wi-Fi but cannot use the internet on the connected device, check the mobile data settings for the Japan eSIM.
- Check if the eSIM itself can connect to the internet
- Select the correct eSIM for mobile data
- Check data roaming if necessary
- Ensure you haven't exhausted your high-speed data allowance
- Restart the device
If the smartphone itself cannot connect to the internet, the issue may be with the mobile data rather than tethering.
What to Do If You Still Can't Tether
- Turn off tethering and then turn it back on
- Toggle airplane mode on and off
- Restart the smartphone
- Restart the connecting device
- Update the OS to the latest version
- Recheck the tethering conditions of the eSIM service
- If the issue persists, contact support
It is not advisable to delete the eSIM just because you cannot tether. Depending on the eSIM, you may not be able to reinstall it from the same QR code after deletion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tether with an eSIM?
Yes. If you have an eSIM plan and device that support tethering, you can share your smartphone's mobile data with a computer or tablet. However, the usage conditions vary by eSIM service, so be sure to check before purchasing or using.
Why can I connect on my smartphone but not tether?
The reasons may include the tethering support status of the eSIM plan, the smartphone's internet sharing settings, APN settings, and the Wi-Fi settings on the connecting device. First, check if your eSIM plan supports tethering.
I can't use internet sharing on my iPhone with eSIM.
Check if the eSIM you are using for mobile data is correctly selected and verify the "Internet Sharing" settings. If the settings do not appear or cannot be used, also check the usage conditions and APN settings from the eSIM provider.
What if I can't tether with eSIM on Android?
On Android, the names may vary by manufacturer or OS, such as "Tethering," "Mobile Hotspot," or "Wi-Fi Access Point." Ensure that the eSIM you are using is selected for mobile data, and then check the hotspot settings.
Is APN setting necessary for tethering?
It varies by eSIM service and device. Sometimes the APN is set automatically, while other times the provider may instruct you to set it manually. Avoid entering APN information on your own without guidance.
I'm connected to Wi-Fi but can't use the internet.
First, check if the smartphone itself can use the internet. If the smartphone cannot connect either, the issue may be with the mobile data settings of the eSIM rather than tethering.
Does tethering increase data consumption?
The data used on the connected computer or tablet is generally counted as data consumption under the eSIM plan. Activities like video streaming, online meetings, and file syncing to the cloud can significantly increase data usage, so be cautious.
If I have an unlimited eSIM, is tethering also unlimited?
Not necessarily. Even if an eSIM is advertised as "unlimited," there may be separate conditions for tethering, or data speeds may be throttled after a certain usage amount. Check the usage conditions of the plan you purchased.
If I can't tether, should I delete the eSIM?
It is not advisable to delete it immediately. Depending on the eSIM, you may not be able to reinstall it from the same QR code after deletion. First, check the usage conditions of the plan and device settings, and contact support if necessary.
Conclusion
If you cannot tether with a Japan eSIM, there are multiple potential causes to consider, including not only the eSIM itself but also the plan's usage conditions, smartphone settings, APN, and the settings on the connecting device.
- Check if the eSIM plan supports tethering
- Select the correct eSIM for mobile data
- Check Internet Sharing and Mobile Hotspot settings
- Check APN settings only if necessary
- Check the Wi-Fi settings on the connecting computer or tablet
- Check data capacity and speed limit conditions
- If the issue persists, contact the eSIM provider
If you plan to use a computer or tablet during your trip to Japan, it is advisable to check the tethering support status before purchasing an eSIM. Choose a Japan eSIM that fits your usage needs.
