What is a common first troubleshooting step for issues with a personal hotspot?

The first step in troubleshooting issues with a personal hotspot is to check if data is enabled. This is crucial because the personal hotspot feature relies on cellular data to function properly. If cellular data is turned off or if the device is in an area with no cellular service, the personal hotspot will not work, meaning no devices can connect to it for internet access. Ensuring that data is enabled sets the foundation for further troubleshooting steps.

While other options, such as restarting the iPhone, disabling and re-enabling Bluetooth, or checking for software updates, can also be helpful in resolving various connectivity issues, they are typically secondary steps. If cellular data is not activated, other features will not have a proper connection to rely upon for providing internet access through the hotspot feature. Therefore, confirming that data is enabled should always be the initial action taken when addressing problems with a personal hotspot.