Xiaomi Redmi’s “Security Can’t Use the Network” Error: What Does It Mean and How to Fix It?

The message “Security can’t use the network” on the Xiaomi Redmi screen is one of the most mysterious mistakes users face, which appears suddenly, blocks access to mobile Internet or Wi-Fi, and sometimes even interferes with the installation of applications. Unlike typical connection problems, it is a failure in the system component responsible for the security of network connections.

Most of the time, the bug is due to the built-in Mi Security, Google Play, or a VPN/proxy conflict, but the reasons go deeper than that, from corrupted system files to operator traffic blocking. In this article, we’ll look at all the possible scenarios for why the problem occurs and give step-by-step instructions for fixing it, from simple reboots to manually editing settings.

Important: If the error occurred after updating MIUI or installing a new application, try rolling back the change first, and in 70% of cases, it helps to return the network without complex manipulation.

What does the “Security Can’t Use the Network” error mean?

This system notification indicates that the Mi Security Center component (or similar security module) has lost access to the network, resulting in the smartphone being unable to:

• 🔄 Update antivirus databases and check applications for threats.
• 📱 Connect to mobile internet or Wi-Fi (even if there is a signal).
• 🔒 Check the security of network traffic (for example, when using the VPN).

The error can manifest itself in different ways:

• 📛 A pop-up notice with the text “Security cannot use the network».
• ⚠️ Warning Badge in Status Line.
• 🚫 Inability to upload data in a browser or applications.

In MIUI 12-14, the problem is often with com.miui.securitycenter, which monitors network activity, and if it is blocked or malfunctioning, the system considers the network to be “unsafe” and restricts access to it.

The main reasons for the error

Studies of users of Xiaomi Redmi Note 10/11/12 and other models have shown that the error occurs due to the following factors:

The most common reason is conflict with VPN-The security module Xiaomi can perceive them as a threat and block network access. MIUI, When new security settings conflict with old configurations.

Less commonly, the problem is that the carrier locks ports (especially in corporate or educational networks), in which case the smartphone cannot establish a secure connection, and the system issues a warning.

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If the error occurs after connecting to a new Wi-Fi network (such as a cafe or hotel), try to forget the network in the settings and connect again.

How to Fix an Error: Step-by-step Instruction

Start with the simplest methods and move on to the hard ones if the problem is not solved.

1.Rebooting the smartphone

In 20 percent of cases, the error disappears after a normal reboot, which is due to temporary security service failures.

2.Verify VPN and proxy

Open Settings → Connections → VPN and disable all active connections. If you use proxy (for example, in Wi-Fi settings), reset them:

Settings → Wi-Fi → [click on your network] → Additional → Proxy → No

3. Resetting network settings

This will remove all stored Wi-Fi and mobile network settings, but often helps:

Settings → About phone → Resetting settings → Resetting network settings

4.Cleaning up the Mi Security cache

Go to:

Settings → Applications → Application Management → [three dots] → Show system → Security → Storage → Clear cache

5. disabling the function "Traffic Protection"

In some versions of MIUI, this option blocks network connections:

Settings → Memory and applications → Security → Traffic Protection → Disable

Save important data to Google Drive or PC|

Record passwords from accounts (Mi Account, Google) |

Delete your Mi Account if you plan to sell your phone |

Check that the phone has enough charge (minimum 50%)-->

6.Reset to factory settings

If nothing helps, do a full reset:

Settings → About the phone → Reset settings → Erase all data

⚠️ Warning: Once reset, the phone will return to the out-of-the-box state, all data (photos, messages, apps) will be deleted. → Additionally. → Backup.

If the error persists: advanced methods

For experienced users who are ready for experimentation:

1. Manual removal of Mi Security updates

Sometimes an error occurs after the automatic update of the security module.

Settings → Applications → Security → [three dots] → Remove updates

2.Amendment of DNS

Try using Google’s public DNS or Cloudflare:

Settings → Wi-Fi → [your network] → Additional → IP settings → Static → DNS1: 8.8.8.8, DNS2: 1.1.1.1

3. Checking the hosts file

If you previously edited a hosts file (for example, to block ads), it could block system domains.

Use a root file manager (such as Root Explorer) and delete all lines in /system/etc/hosts except "127.0.0.1 localhost".

⚠️ Warning: Editing system files without root rights or through unverified applications can result in a complete loss of phone performance.

4.Flashing through Fastboot

If the error occurred after a failed update, try to reflash the phone with the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

1. Download the firmware for your model from the official Xiaomi website.
2. Unpack the archive and connect the phone in Fastboot mode (press Power + Vol− when the phone is turned off).
3. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware folder and press Flash.

How can we prevent the error from recurring?

To prevent the problem from returning, follow these recommendations:

• 🔄 Update regularly MIUI and Application Security through Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🛡️ Don't install it. VPN Antiviruses from third-party developers, if you are not sure of their compatibility with Xiaomi.
• 📱 Avoid manual editing of system files without the need.
• 🔌 Use only official firmware. Castom builds (e.g. LineageOS) may conflict with the security module.

If you frequently connect to public Wi-Fi (at airports, hotels), turn on the option “Disable Automatic Connection to Unreliable Networks” in your security settings to reduce the risk of traffic blocking.

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The “Security Cannot Use the Network” error is most often caused by a VPN conflict or a Mi Security malfunction, and 90% of the time, it helps to reset network settings or clear the cache of system applications.

Frequent Questions (FAQ)