Shift. MAC-Addresses on the Xiaomi router are a procedure that may be required in situations where the ISP strictly binds the subscriber to physical equipment. Users often find that after replacing the old router with a new network access, there is no one, since the authorization server of the service provider is waiting for a signal from the ID of the previous device. In this case, flashing or complex manipulation of equipment is not required, it is enough to correctly copy the identifier.
The process of cloning an address fools the ISP system into thinking that a previously registered device is operating on the network, that the physical address of the WAN network card of the router will be changed software to solve the problem of blocking, and it is important to understand that this operation affects only the software part of the network interface and does not affect the factory characteristics of the chip.
Next, we will look at where to find the necessary parameters, how to enter the control panel and what nuances should be considered when working with the MiWiFi interface. Properly following the instructions steps ensures that access to the global network is restored without calling the wizard. MAC-The address only works if you connect a new router instead of the old one whose address is already registered with the provider.
Why do we change? MAC-address on Xiaomi router
The main reason users have to change their ID is because of ISP security policies, which many operators use a unique hardware ID on their first connection to prevent unauthorized access or Sharing of an account, and when you buy a new Xiaomi router, the factory address is different from the provider's, which leads to a blocking of Internet access.
In addition, a change of address may be required when routers are frequently replaced in test labs or offices where network administration requires flexibility, and some providers use this option to charge or limit the number of connected devices. In rare cases, changing the parameter helps to resolve conflicts. IP-addresses on the local network if the two devices have the same factory settings, although this is unlikely.
It's worth noting that the procedure itself doesn't increase Internet speed or improve Wi-Fi signal, but it's a method of circumventing the ISP's restrictions. If your Internet is stable without cloning, change the settings. WAN-The interface makes no sense.
⚠️ Note: Before making any changes to your network settings, make sure you have access to a computer whose MAC-The address was previously registered with the provider, or write down the old address manually.
Understanding the logic of the network helps avoid errors. The provider only sees the address that broadcasts the WAN port of your router. All other devices within your local network (phones, laptops, TVs) remain invisible to the outside world.
Preparing for changes in network settings
Before you start setting up the Xiaomi router, you need to collect the initial data. MAC-The address of a device that was previously connected to the Internet (for example, an old router or a network card of a computer that was previously logged in) If the old device is still at hand, you can find this option in its system settings or on a sticker at the bottom of the case.
Also make sure your computer or smartphone is connected to the Xiaomi router either via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi network. It is better to use a wired connection to log into the control panel, as it provides stable data transfer and eliminates breaks when settings are applied. Write or copy the desired address in XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XXX.
You'll also need credentials to log in to the web interface. It's usually 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com by default, and the password is set when you first set up the router. If you change your administrator password in the process, remember the new access data.
☑️ Preparation for cloning MAC
How do you know? MAC-address
If you're replacing an old router, look for a sticker on the bottom panel that says MAC or WAN MAC. If the provider has attached to your computer's network card, which you've connected directly to the ISP's cable, you'll need to search on that PC.
In Windows, the easiest way to use the command line is to press Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the window that opens, type ipconfig /all. In the adapter list, find the one you connect to the Internet (Ethernet or Wireless), and copy the Physical Address value.
On macOS, the path is slightly different: open System Settings, go to Network, select Active Connection, and click Advanced. The window that opens on the Hardware (or Equipment) tab will show the MAC-Address you want. On Android smartphones, this option is in the About Phone -> Status menu or in the Wi-Fi settings.
| Device/OS | Method of searching | Team/The Way | Field of interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Command line | ipconfig /all | Physical address |
| macOS | System settings | Network -> Additional -> Hardware | MAC Address |
| Linux | Terminal | ifconfig or ip link | link/ether |
| Old router | Sticker on the case | The bottom panel of the device | MAC / WAN |
After you get a combination of 12 hexadecimal characters (numbers 0-9 and letters A-F), carefully rewrite it, and even a single character error will result in the provider not recognizing the device and the Internet will not work.
Instructions: MAC cloning in the web interface
The process of changing the address on Xiaomi routers is done via a web interface. Open your browser and enter 192.168.31.1 (or miwifi.com) in the address bar. Enter the administrator password. The interface can be in English or Chinese, so focus on graphical notations and terms.
In the settings menu, look for the section that controls the Internet connection, which is called Internet Settings or Internet Settings in Russian or English. In the Chinese version, look for the characters that indicate "Internet" (usually the first item on the top menu), and it shows the current connection status and connection type (PPPoE, DHCP, Static IP).
Scroll down to the Settings block. MAC-There's a drop-down list or a manual field. Select Clone. MAC Address (Cloned) MAC-The router will suggest that you clone the address of the currently connected computer or manually enter it. If you configure from the PC whose address you want to clone, select automatic cloning.