Modern wireless networks require not only high speed, but also easy connection of new devices. Owners of the Xiaomi ecosystem often wonder how to quickly transfer passwords to guests or synchronize smart gadgets without entering complex characters. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) technology allows you to solve this problem in a single touch, simplifying the interaction between the router and client devices. However, in recent models of routers, access to this feature can be hidden or changed for security reasons.
In this article, we will take a closer look at all the nuances of WPS activation on Redmi and Mi Router devices, where to look for the appropriate settings in the web interface and mobile application, and understand why some firmware may not have this option.
It's worth noting that security algorithms are constantly being improved, and some methods that used to work on older routers can now be blocked by the manufacturer. However, understanding the principles of the security protocol will help you configure hardware correctly. We'll look at both classic methods through the browser and modern ways of controlling via the smartphone.
What is WPS Technology and Why is it Needed?
WPS stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup, a security standard designed to simplify the process of connecting devices to a wireless network. The main idea is that the user does not have to manually enter a long and complex password, especially if the connection is required to be performed on a device without a full keyboard, for example, on a wireless printer or smart socket.
There are several methods of authorization, but the most popular is to use a physical button on the router body or a software button in the interface. When activated, the Xiaomi router briefly opens a channel for secure encryption key exchange. The client device in search mode automatically receives the necessary data and connects to the network.
⚠️ Attention: Keeping the mode on constantly WPS, You're theoretically vulnerable to pin-code selection using brute-force, and it's recommended that you activate the function only while you're connecting the new gadget, and then turn it off.
The technology also supports connectivity through NFC markings QR-codes, although in budget models of routers Xiaomi these functions are less common. Understanding the principle of operation allows not only to quickly connect guests, but also to quickly restore the network after resetting, when you need to reauthorize all home devices.
- 🔹 Instant connection without password on devices with standard support.
- 🔹 Possibility of generating a random pin code for additional verification.
- 🔹 Simplified configuration of range extenders (repiters) into a single network.
- 🔹 Support for encryption WPA2 and WPA3 key-transfer.
Where is the WPS button on Xiaomi routers
The physical location of the control depends on the specific model of your router. In most Mi Router and Redmi Router devices, the manufacturer tries to make the process as intuitive as possible. On classic models such as the Mi Router 4A or Mi Router 3G, the WPS button is often combined with a reset button or placed on the sidebar.
If the case does not have a separate "WPS" marking, the function can be performed by the "Mi" button or the brand logo. Short pressing on it (usually less than 3 seconds) activates the device search mode, while prolonged retention (more than 5-10 seconds) leads to a complete reset to factory values.
In new hardware lines, such as the Mi Router AX3600 or Redmi Router AX6, the physical button may be missing, and in such cases, the function is completely transferred to the software shell, which is done to minimize the risks of accidental activation and improve the overall aesthetic of the device without unnecessary holes.
For an accurate definition of the purpose of the buttons on your device, consult the technical documentation or inspect the bottom of the case, where the diagram with explanations is often applied. If the button is combined, it is critical to observe the timing of the press so that you do not accidentally lose the settings of the provider.
Activation of WPS via the router web interface
The most reliable way to manage security settings is to log into the administrator panel via a browser. To do this, you need to connect to the router network via cable or Wi-Fi and go to 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com. After entering the administrator password, you will be taken to the main menu where the main network settings are located.
The interface may vary depending on the firmware version (Chinese or global). Global versions of the menu are often more concise. You need to find the section responsible for settings Wi-Fi or network status. In some firmware, WPS is included in a separate menu "Common Settings" or "System Status".
After finding the appropriate item, you need to switch the switch to the position "On" or press the "Start" button. The router will go to the waiting mode for connection for 2 minutes. WPS.
☑️ Checking before setting up
If there is no obvious switch on the menu, try going to the Wi-Fi Settings section and looking for the "WPS Function" option. In Chinese firmware, it may be called "WPS." The absence of this option in the interface may indicate that the manufacturer has blocked the feature in this version of the software.
Configure via the Mi WiFi mobile application
Smartphone owners will appreciate the ease of management through the official Mi WiFi app (or Mi Home depending on the region), which is preferred for modern models, since the application interface is more adaptive and often contains features hidden in the web version.
After adding the router to the list of devices, click on its icon. In the control menu that opens, select "Wi-Fi settings" or "Tools." There should be a "WPS" button. Pressing it will trigger a two-minute timer during which the router will search for connection requests.
The application also allows you to generate QR-Guest code, which is a modern alternative to the classic WPS. The guest scans the code with the smartphone camera and instantly connects to the network without entering a password. QR-The code can be hidden after use.
What to do if the app does not see the router?
If you're far from the router, you may not be able to control it, and in such cases, you'd better use a cable connection or get closer to the source of the signal.
Comparison of models and support of functions
Not all Xiaomi routers support WPS in the same way, but also the software implementation, and here is a table that helps you navigate the capabilities of popular devices.
| Model router | Physical WPS button | Support in the web interface | Support in the annex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Router 4A Gigabit | No (combined with Reset) | Yes (in extended settings) | Yes. |
| Mi Router 3G | Yes (separate) | Yes. | Limitedly. |
| Redmi Router AX6 | No. | No (depending on firmware) | Yes. |
| Mi Router AX3600 | No. | No. | Yes (main method) |
| Mi WiFi Router Nano | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
As you can see from the table, in the current AX series, the manufacturer relies on software management through the cloud, which allows you to control access to the network remotely, but makes it impossible to quickly connect the device “blindly”, without access to the Internet and phone.
If you have an older model, such as the Mi Router 3G, you may find that new firmware has removed the WPS function, in which case it is often recommended to use third-party firmware, such as OpenWrt or Padavan, where the functionality is restored completely.
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In modern Xiaomi routers, the physical WPS button has been abolished in favor of software management through the Mi WiFi app to improve security.
Connection problems and their solution
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users often encounter errors when trying to connect. The most common problem is timeout. The client device does not have time to find the WPS signal in the allotted 2 minutes, in which case the procedure should be repeated, making sure that the devices are in close proximity to each other.
Another common error is the incompatibility of security standards. WPA3, a) the client device supports only WPS paired WPA2, The connection may not be established. It is recommended to choose mixed mode in the router settings WPA2/WPA3 Personal.
⚠️ Note: If the indicator on the router flashes yellow or red during the connection attempt WPS, This could mean a system error or a device overheating.
It is also worth checking whether filtering is included. MAC-If the router has a strict ban on connecting unknown devices, the technology WPS It's not going to be able to break through that protection even if the button is activated. MAC-address.
In some cases, rebooting the router helps. Accumulated errors in the wireless module can block the fast connection function. Turn the device off the socket for 10-15 seconds, then turn it on again and try to activate the WPS.
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If WPS doesn’t work, try updating your router’s firmware to the latest version via a web interface – this often fixes the bugs of the wireless module.
Alternative ways to connect quickly
If classic WPS doesn’t work or isn’t in your model, don’t despair. Xiaomi’s ecosystem offers other convenient methods, one of which is the Guest Network feature. You can create a separate network with a simple password (like, “12345678”) that’s easy to dictate to guests without opening access to the main smart home devices.
Another modern method is the use of NFC-If your smartphone supports NFC, You can tag your Wi-Fi data, and guests can simply put their phone on a tag on the router's case (or a sticker) to connect, which is faster and safer than the phone. WPS.
For smart home devices that don’t have a screen, Bluetooth-enabled pairing mode is often used. Mi routers with Bluetooth Mesh support can transmit Wi-Fi settings to light bulbs and sockets directly from your smartphone, bypassing the need to enter a password or use WPS.
- 🔸 QR-Code: Generate and print the code for guests.
- 🔸 Guest mode: Isolated network with easy access.
- 🔸 Bluetooth-connection: Automatic transfer of keys to gadgets.
- 🔸 Cloning Settings: Transferring a Network Profile from Another Xiaomi Phone.
The choice of method depends on your priorities: maximum connection speed or the highest level of security. For permanent use at home, it is better to set up a static password and use a password manager, and leave WPS as an emergency option.