How to set up WPS on Xiaomi router: a complete guide with nuances

What is WPS and why you need it on Xiaomi routers

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) technology was developed to make it easier to connect devices to a wireless network without entering complex passwords. On Xiaomi routers (including the Mi Router 4A, 4C, AX1800, AX3000 and AIoT Router AC2350 models), this feature is implemented both a hardware button and a software option in the web interface. The main advantage of WPS is the ability to connect a smartphone, printer or a smart Mi Home device in a few seconds by simply pressing a button on the router’s body.

But there's a flip side to the technology: security vulnerabilities, and in 2011, an exploit was discovered that allowed us to pick up the data. PIN-code WPS And even though Xiaomi has closed most of the vulnerabilities in the latest firmware, the risk remains -- especially if you're using a router in a densely built apartment building. WPS It is recommended to turn on only for the time of connecting new devices and then turn off.

In this article, we will discuss:

• 🔧 How to activate physically and programmatically WPS different models of Xiaomi
• 🛡️ Safety measures in the use of technology
• ⚠️ Typical errors (e.g, "WPS not working or the button not responding and their decisions
• 📱 Alternative ways to connect devices without WPS

Where is the WPS button on Xiaomi routers

The location of the button depends on the model. Most Xiaomi routers have it combined with the Reset button and indicated by the icon. 🔄 or WPS/Reset. Here are the exact coordinates for popular models:

If you don't find a button, check the package: in some regions (for example, for the Mi Router 4A Gigabit Edition), WPS is disabled at the firmware level, in which case only the software method of activation through the web interface remains.

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi routers with MiWiFi firmware ROM pre-2020 button WPS It can be triggered with a delay of up to 30 seconds. If the indicator does not blink, hold the button longer.

Step-by-step configuration of WPS through a web interface

The software way to enable WPS is suitable for all models, including those that do not have a physical button. Instructions are relevant for MiWiFi ROM and OpenWRT firmware (if an alternative firmware is installed).

1. Connect to the router network via cable or Wi-Fi. Open your browser and type in the address bar 192.168.31.1 (for most models) or miwifi.com.
2. Log in using the admin login and password from the sticker on the bottom of the router (by default, this is an 8-digit combination).
3. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Additional settings (or Advanced → WPS in the English version of the interface).
4. Activate the switch Turn on WPS and select the authentication method: 🔢 PIN-code (8 digits, generated automatically) 🖱️ PBC (Push Button Configuration – Emulation of a button press

Click Save and wait for the settings to apply (the router will restart).

Make sure your device supports WPS (check in Wi-Fi settings)

Place the device no further than 2 meters from the router

Disable VPN on smartphone/PC (can block connection)

Launch the regime WPS on the device (usually in Wi-Fi settings) → Additionally)-->

Once activated, you will have 2 minutes to connect the device. If the time is up, repeat the process. On routers with OpenWRT firmware, the path to settings may differ: Network → Wireless → WPS.

💡

If the Xiaomi router does not respond to the press of WPS, try to update the firmware through Settings → Software Update. In versions older than 2.0.10, bugs with the button hanging are fixed.

How to connect your device to Xiaomi router via WPS

The connection process depends on the type of device, and let's look at the most common scenarios.

📱 Smartphones and tablets (Android/iOS)

On Android (including Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO smartphones):

1. Open the Settings. → Wi-Fi.
2. Press More. → WPS (or connecting through WPS).
3. Activate WPS on the router (button or via web interface).
4. Wait for the automatic connection (it will take up to 30 seconds).

💡 Smart devices (lamps, cameras, sensors)

For Mi Home ecosystem gadgets (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Smart Socket or Aqara Camera):

1. Hold the button on the device until the indicator flashes.
2. Activate WPS on the router.
3. Wait for the beep or the color change of the LED (usually green = successful).

⚠️ Note: Some smart devices (e.g. Yeelight or Roborock) require a pre-connection to the device’s access point via an app, and then switch to the main network via a host network. WPS. Check the instructions for the gadget!

WPS Security: How to Minimize Risks

As mentioned earlier, WPS It has vulnerabilities, especially in the PIN-Here are 5 rules to help protect your network:

• 🔒 Turn it off. WPS In the router's web interface, set an automatic shutdown timer (if you have such an option).
• 🛡️ Use a complex Wi-Fi password, even if the attacker connects through a WPS, complex password protects from access to router settings.
• 📵 Turn it off. WPS If the Xiaomi router is used in a cafe or office, it is better to deactivate the function altogether.
• 🔄 Update the firmware. In MiWiFi versions ROM 3.0+ Protection against brute force attacks on PIN.
• 🚫 Don't use it. WPS For critical devices, for example, connect security cameras only through manual password entry.

If you are paranoid (which is not superfluous in the case of network security), you can completely disable WPS via SSH.

ssh admin@192.168.31.1


nvram set wps_enable=0




nvram commit




reboot

After restarting the router, the function will be deactivated at the system level.

💡

Even if you have disabled WPS in the web interface, the physical button on the router may remain active. To completely block the function, you need to edit configuration files or firmware alternative software.

Typical errors and their solutions

When setting up WPS on Xiaomi routers, users face several common problems.

If Xiaomi's router gives you a "WPS locked" error, it means there have been too many failed connection attempts.

1. Turn off the router from power for 1 minute.
2. Hold the Reset button for 5 seconds for a soft reset.
3. Repeat the connection process.

WPS Alternatives: More Secure Ways to Connect

If you are concerned about the risks of WPS, consider alternative methods:

• 📱 QR-There's a code on the Xiaomi router sticker. QR-- The code is the network data. Scan it with your smartphone camera (Android/iOS They support this, starting with 2019 year-end).
• 🔑 WPA3-Personal. In the router settings, select the security type WPA3 — It's more reliable than WPS, It is supported by all modern devices.
• 🌐 Guest network. Create a separate network for smart devices with limited rights: Settings → Wi-Fi → Guest network.
• 🔌 Ethernet: For fixed devices (e.g. Mi Box or Smart) TV) Use a cable connection.

For Mi Home devices (such as Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum), the most reliable way to connect is through the application:

1. Open the Mi Home and add a new device.
2. Choose your model from the list.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen (usually you need to enter a Wi-Fi password manually).

If you frequently connect new devices, consider buying a router with Wi-Fi Easy Connect support (e.g. Xiaomi). AX6000). This technology is safer. WPS And it works through scanning. QR-code.

FAQ: Frequent questions about WPS on Xiaomi