Forgot your home Wi-Fi password or want to update it for security? Xiaomi routers (including the popular Mi Router 4A, AX3600 and Redmi Router AX6) allow you to change the network key in a few minutes, both through the Mi Wi-Fi mobile application and through the web interface. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways, including resetting to factory settings if access to the router is lost.
Importantly, the procedure differs depending on the firmware and device model. For example, on routers with MiWiFi ROM (Chinese firmware), the settings menu may look different than on global versions with Padavan or OpenWRT. We will focus on official Xiaomi firmware, but also point out the key differences for alternative software.
If you've never logged into the router control panel, don't worry: changing a password doesn't require technical knowledge, just follow the instructions and remember a few security rules, for example, a new password must contain at least 8 characters and include upper/lowercase letters, numbers or special signs, otherwise the router can block a weak key.
1.Preparation for changing the password: what to check in advance
Before you start changing your password, make sure that:
- πΆ Xiaomi router is on and stable on the grid. If the power indicator flashes red, first solve the problem with the power supply.
- π± You have a smartphone with Mi Wi-Fi app (for the first time) Android/iOS) or a computer with access to the browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox).
- π You know your current Wi-Fi password or have physical access to your router (to reset your settings).
- π‘ No device is connected to the router via cable (Ethernet) β this can block access to settings.
If you use a router with an alternative firmware (like Padavan), check the version in the System Status menu. Some builds require manual updates before changing security settings.
β οΈ Note: If the router is connected to the Xiaomi Home system, changing the Wi-Fi password will break communication with all Mi Home devices (lamps, sensors, cameras!
2. Method 1: Change password through the Mi Wi-Fi application (the easiest one)
The Mi Wi-Fi mobile app is Xiaomi's official router management tool, which automatically determines the device model and offers the best settings. Here's how to change the password:
- Open the app and wait for the router to connect, and if the app asks you to log in, use the Mi Account account that's linked to the device.
- Go to the Wi-Fi section (the antenna icon in the bottom menu).
- Click on the current network (usually) Xiaomi_XXXX) and select Change password.
- Enter the new password twice. The app will show its reliability (weak/medium/strong).
- Save the changes. The router will restart (~1 minute) and all devices will be disconnected from the network.
If the app does not have a Change Password option, upgrade to the latest version in Google Play or the App Store. Older versions (before 2023) may not support new router models.
Check if Bluetooth is on on your phone (required for initial setup)
Restart the router (power button or pull out the plug for 10 seconds)
Make sure your phone is connected to the routerβs Wi-Fi.
Update the application to the latest version-->
Method 2: Change password through the web interface (for PC)
If you don't have a smartphone or the Mi Wi-Fi app doesn't work, use your browser on your computer.
- Connect your computer to the router via cable (recommended) or Wi-Fi.
- Open your browser and type in the address bar 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com. Click Enter.
- Enter the login login and password. By default, it is: Login: admin Password: admin or the last 8 characters MAC-router address (indicated on the sticker below).
Wi-Fi β Security settings
Wi-Fi password
Google Chrome
Save the changes and wait for the router to restart.
On Padavan routers, the path to settings will be different: Network β Wireless β Basic. You can change the network name (SSID) and broadcast channel.
| Model router | Web interface address | Default login/password |
|---|---|---|
| Mi Router 4A/4C | 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com | admin/admin |
| AX3600/AX6000 | 192.168.31.1 | admin/last 8 characters of the MAC |
| Redmi Router AC2100 | 192.168.31.1 or redmi.router | admin/password |
| Padavan firmware | 192.168.1.1 | admin/admin (or your own) |
β οΈ Note: If you see a 404 Not Found error when trying to access miwifi.com, check your router connection. DNS-server, try to enter IP-direct.
Method 3: Reset the router to factory settings (if you forgot the password)
If you don't remember your current Wi-Fi password or your login data, the only way out is hard reset, which will put the router back out of the box, but all settings (including network name, password, and associated devices) will be erased.
Instructions for discharge:
- Find the Reset button on the back of the router (usually deepened into the case).
- Take a paper clip or toothpick, press and hold the button for 10-15 seconds until the indicators start flashing yellow.
- Release the button. The router will restart (~2 minutes).
- Connect to a network with a name Xiaomi_XXXX (The default password is on the bottom sticker).
- Go to the web interface or Mi Wi-Fi app and set up the router again.
To generate a strong password, use the built-in tools:
In Google Chrome: When you create an account or change your password, the browser offers to generate a reliable option.
- On passwordsgenerator.net (select 16+ characters and mark all character types).
Don't store your password in plain sight! Use password managers (Bitwarden, KeePass) or write it down on paper, hidden in a safe place. Never send your password over SMS or messengers, even those close to you.
π‘
Use WPA3 encryption instead of the outdated WPA2. It protects against dictionary attacks and password selection. In router settings, select Security β WPA3-Personal (if available).
7. Additional security settings for Xiaomi router
Changing your password is just the first step to protecting your network, and to make it really secure, you can set these parameters up:
- Disable WPS: Wi-Fi Protected Setup is vulnerable to brute force attacks. In the web interface, go to Wi-Fi β WPS and deactivate it.
- Turn on the filter. MAC-Addresses: Allow connection only to verified devices. MAC-Addresses can be found in the router settings (DHCP β List of clients).
- Update firmware: Outdated versions of software contain vulnerabilities. Check for System Updates β Update to firmware.
- Disable Remote Access: In System β Remote Management, disable access to the router from the Internet.
- Set up Parental Controls: Limit access to certain sites for children (Moreover β Parental Controls).
On routers with Padavan firmware, advanced features are available, for example:
Firewall (blocking suspicious connections)
DDNS (Dynamic DNS for Remote Access)
- VPN-server (creating a protected tunnel).
Caution: Incorrect settings can disrupt the network.