How to accurately identify the model of the Xiaomi router: from sticker to hidden menus

Have you bought a used Xiaomi router, lost your box, or simply forgotten what model you have? Without a precise name, it is difficult to download firmware, find instructions, or even set up the network correctly. In this article, we will examine all possible ways of identifying, from the obvious (viewing the case) to the hidden (tells via Telnet).

Xiaomi routers are often the same in appearance: for example, Mi Router 3 and Mi Router 3G differ only in one letter, but have different hardware. and models for the Chinese market (Mi Wi-Fi Router 3C) may not support Russian without firmware, so it is important to know the exact modification, not just the series.

We tested all the methods on popular models, from the Mi Router 4A to the AX3600, and in this article we found step-by-step instructions with photos, warnings about possible errors and a table with differences between similar devices.

1. Inspection of the case: where to look for a model on a sticker

The fastest way is to look at the sticker on the back of the router. on all Xiaomi devices (except some of them). OEM-versions) the model is specified in the format Mi Router [number/letter] or Xiaomi Router [modification].

What to look for on the sticker:

• 📌 Model or Type - the main name (for example, R3G for Mi Router 3G).
• 🔢 S/N (serial number - sometimes contains the model code (first 3-4 symbol).
• 🌐 MAC-Address – indirectly helps to define a generation (old models address begin with the 78:11:DC, new- E8:94:F6).

⚠️ Note: Some routers for the Chinese market (e.g. Mi Wi-Fi Router) 3C) The model can only be listed in Chinese – look for the characters (router) next to the numbers.

If the sticker is erased or missing (for example, on used devices), proceed to the next method.

2. Router Web Interface: Where Model Information Is Hidden

Any Xiaomi router has a web-based control panel where you can find data about the model.

1. Connect to the router network (via Wi-Fi or cable).
2. Open your browser and type in 192.168.31.1 (for most models) or miwifi.com.
3. Log in (by default login / password — admin/sticker).
4. Go to the Status or About Device section (in new firmware – System settings → About the router).

In the device information block, the Model string (e.g., Mi Router AC2100) or Hardware Version (e.g., R1D for Mi Router HD) will be used.

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If the web interface is in Chinese, copy the characters (model) to the translator – this is the name of your router.

⚠️ Note: On routers with custom firmware (for example, Padavan), the original model name can be replaced by a common one (RT-AC68U). In this case, use the methods from the following sections.

Mobile application Mi Wi-Fi: automatic determination

The official Mi Wi-Fi app (available for Android and iOS) automatically recognizes the router model when you connect.

1. Install the app from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Connect to the router network.
3. Open the application and wait for the automatic device definition.

The model will appear at the top of the screen (e.g., Xiaomi Router AX1800).If the app shows an unknown model, update it or check your Internet connection (the app checks the data with Xiaomi servers).

✅ Plus method: the application shows not only the model, but also the firmware version, which is useful for updating.

❌ Disadvantage: does not work with routers untied from the Xiaomi account (requires authorization).

4. Command Prompt: How to Know a Model via Telnet/SSH

For power users, the most reliable way to connect to a router is by Telnet or SSH and execute a command, which works even on customized firmware devices.

Instructions:

1. Turn on Telnet on the router (in the web interface: Advanced Settings → Telnet or through the hack.sh script for older models).
2. Connect via Telnet (for example, via PuTTY): telnet 192.168.31.1 Login/password — root/Password from the sticker (or admin for new models).
3. Run the command: cat /proc/xiaoqiang/model or for new firmware: nvram get model

The answer is model code (e.g. R4A for Mi Router 4A or R3D for Mi Router 3 Pro).

Make sure the router is on and connected to the network

Download PuTTY or use the Linux/macOS terminal

Check the password from the sticker (often admin or blank by default)

Disable the firewall if the connection is blocked

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⚠️ Attention: On routers with Padavan firmware, the command may differ:

cat /etc/board

5. By external features: the differences of popular models

If access to a router is limited (for example, it is installed in the office), you can determine the model by design and ports.

🔍 Hint: Pro Series routers (such as Mi Router 3 Pro) typically have a metal case and additional ports.

✅ Tip: Take a photo of the router front and back, then compare it to the images in the official Xiaomi directory.

6. MAC-Address: Manufacturer's decoding

Each network adapter has a unique MAC-The address, the first 6 characters of which indicate the manufacturer:

• 🔹 78:11:DC — model (2014–2017 e.g. Mi Router 1/2).
• 🔹 E8:94:F6 — model (2018–2023 d., for example, AX1800/AX3600).
• 🔹 B0:BE:76 — routers for the Chinese market (for example, Redmi Router) AC2100).

How do you know? MAC-address:

1. Connect to the router via Wi-Fi.
2. On Windows: Open the command line (Win) + R → cmd) and enter: arp -a Look. IP-router address (usually) 192.168.31.1) and appropriate MAC.
3. On Android: Use the Fing or Network Analyzer app.

📌 MAC-The address can also be found on the router sticker (line). MAC or WAN MAC).

7.By serial number: code decryption

The serial number (S/N) on the router sticker contains encrypted model and production date information. Code format: [Model][Year][Month][Serial number][Serial number]

Examples of decryption:

• 📅 R3G2005XXXX — Mi Router 3G (R3G), May 2020 (2005).
• 📅 R4A2107XXXX — Mi Router 4A (R4A), July 2021 (2107).

🔍 How to find a serial number:

• On the sticker under the S/N line.
• In the web interface: Status → System information.
• In the box (if saved) - on the label with a barcode.

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The first 3-4 characters of the serial number almost always coincide with the model code (for example, R1CM = Mi Router Mini).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When determining the model of the Xiaomi router, users often face the following problems:

⚠️ Don’t confuse Mi Router 3 and Mi Router 3G — They look identical, but 3G plug-in SIM-If you put a card in the wrong model, the router won't turn on!

• 🚫 Error: Reading the model from a box from another device (for example, if the router was bought by a used one). Solution: Always check the data with the sticker on the router itself.
• 🚫 Mistake: Using utility like AIDA64 To determine the model (they show only iron, but not exact modification.
• 🚫 Mistake: Ignoring regional anchorage (e.g. Mi Router) 4C Solution: Check the last letter in the model - C often means Chinese version.

💡 Tip: If the router does not turn on, but you need to know the model, inspect the board through the vents - it can be applied code (for example, MS01 For the Mi Router Mini).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions