Changing the standard wireless network identifier is the first place to start getting acquainted with the new Xiaomi or Redmi router"Xiaomi_5G_1234" They look unaesthetic and may give out information about your equipment model to outsiders, which is undesirable from the point of view of basic cyber hygiene.
The renaming procedure requires no technical knowledge and takes only a few minutes. Network Name (SSID) is the visible identifier that users choose when connecting their gadgets to the Internet. In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithm for actions for different versions of firmware and device models.
Whether you’re using the compact Mi Router 4A or the powerful Ai Router AX3600 gaming station, the setup principle remains similar, although the menu interface may vary slightly depending on the device’s year of release and the software version.
Why it is important to change the standard name of the WiFi network
The factory designations often contain serial numbers or MAC-This is a very important step in security, and it's a very important step to be able to identify a particular device in the air, but it doesn't give you direct access to the data, but narrowing down the range of potential targets of an attack is an important step in security.
And in apartment buildings with dozens of neighborhood routers, a unique name helps you quickly find your hotspot on the list of connections available"TP-LINK" or"Xiaomi_2.4G".
⚠️ Note: When you change the network name, all connected devices (smartphones, TVs, laptops) will lose connection. You will need to re-enter the password on each gadget, as for operating systems this will look like connecting to a completely new network.
It’s also worth considering that modern routers often use the Smart Connect feature, which combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands under one name. If you decide to separate them, there should be two names, and they should be different so you understand what frequency you’re connecting to.
Preparation for setting up the router
Before you make any configuration changes, make sure your computer or smartphone is connected to the router in two ways: wirelessly (by connecting to your current WiFi) or via a wireless network. LAN-cable.
For stability, especially if you plan to change other security settings, a wired connection is preferable. Interrupting communication when you save the settings can cause the changes to not apply and the router will remain in its old state.
You also need to know the login address to the control panel. For most Xiaomi devices, it is 192.168.31.1 or the domain name miwifi.com. The login details (login and administrator password) are usually listed on the sticker at the bottom of the case, unless you have changed them before.
- 🔌 Make sure the router’s communication indicator is green or blue.
- 📱 If you configure from your phone, turn off the mobile Internet (4G/5G), So that traffic goes through WiFi.
- 💻 Open any browser (Chrome, Safari, Yandex) and enter the address of the admin panel in the address bar.
Changing SSID via web interface in browser
Once you've logged in successfully, you'll see the status page, which shows your current network load, the number of devices connected, and the connection, and we'll go to the settings section.
Find a tab or menu item called “WiFi settings,” “Wireless Networking,” or “Wireless Settings.” In newer versions of firmware, this section may be inside the General Settings or Common Settings category.
In the Network Name (SSID) field, delete the current value and type in the desired name. Use Latin letters, numbers and some special characters. Cyrillic is not supported by all client devices and can be displayed as a set of crankshades.
☑️ Pre-conservation checks
Once you type in a new name, scroll down and click "Save" or "Apply." The router will alert you if you're out of touch. Confirm action. In 10-15 seconds, the network will appear on the list of available names under the new name.
Configure with the Mi Home mobile app
Xiaomi’s ecosystem is convenient to use the Mi Home app (or Xiaomi Home), a method that allows you to control your router from anywhere in the world where there is Internet, not just from within WiFi range.
Open the app and find your router card. If it doesn't show up on the home screen, click Add Device and follow the instructions. After authorization, go to the router control menu.
Select "WiFi settings." Here you'll see fields for both frequency bands. If the networking function is enabled, the field will be one. Enter a new name and hit "OK" or "Save."
⚠️ Note: When using the mobile app, make sure you have administrator rights. Guest access or browse-only mode will not allow changes to the network configuration.
The advantage of this method is that the app itself will prompt you to reconnect to the updated network if you are nearby, eliminating the need to manually search the network in the phone's settings.
Separation of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands
Many modern routers by default combine two frequencies under one name to simplify the user’s life. However, for a smart home or older laptops, sometimes a forced connection to 2.4 GHz is required.
To split networks, look for the "Combine 2.4G and 5G" (or Dual-band integration) switch in the WiFi settings and turn it off. Two separate name input fields will then be available.
| Parameter | Range 2.4 GHz | 5 GHz range |
|---|---|---|
| Speed. | Up to 450 Mbps | Up to 1200+ Mbps |
| Range. | Tall (punctures walls) | Medium (extinguishes through walls) |
| Stability | Low (much interference) | Tall. |
| For what? | Smart home, old gadgets | 4K TV, games, streaming |
It is recommended to give networks clear suffixes, for example: MyHome_2.4G and MyHome_5G. This will help you instantly understand what frequency you are currently connected to.
Why divide networks?
Change the name of the access point on the smartphone Xiaomi
If by "Xiaomi network," you didn't mean the router, but the modem on the phone itself, when it distributes the Internet, the procedure is also simple. This is true if you want to hide your phone model from others.
Go to Settings → WiFi Access Point. Click on "Setting up the Access Point." In the "Sistema of the Access Point (SSID)" field, type in any name that you like.
You can also set up security here. WPA2 PSK is the best choice for compatibility with all devices. Don't leave the hotspot open unless you plan to share the Internet with everyone.
After saving the settings, turn on the switch toggle WiFi Access Point. Other users will see your phone under a new name in the list of available networks.
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Use emoji in the network name if the device allows (e.g., "WiFi") 🚀 Fast) to find your network faster in crowded air, but remember that some older devices may not display special characters correctly.
Frequent problems and their solution
Sometimes, after a name change, the network may not appear on older devices, which is due to caching DNS or network profiles, try to forget the network on the client device and find it again.
If the router stopped responding, there may have been a software failure: Reboot the device by pressing the power button or turning off power for 10 seconds, 90% of the time, this solves the problem of the interface freeze.
- 🔄 Reset the network settings on your phone ("Forget the network").
- 📡 Restart the router via the web interface.
- 🔌 Check if the antivirus has blocked access to the settings page.
In rare cases, a complete reset of the router to factory settings through the Reset button on the case helps, but this is an extreme measure that requires reconfiguration of all Internet parameters.
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If the router has stopped seeing the Internet cable after changing its name, check the WAN settings in the Internet menu – sometimes when changing the SSID, you need to reconnect PPPoE or update DHCP.