Renaming the Xiaomi router is not just a cosmetic procedure, but an important step to improve the security and usability of the home network. Xiaomi_XXXX or MiWiFi_XXXX Not only do they look unaesthetic, they also give a model of the device to potential attackers, making it easier to pick up vulnerabilities, and the original name of the network can conflict with neighboring routers of the same brand, causing problems with connecting devices.
In this article, we will discuss three official ways to change the name of the Wi-Fi network on Xiaomi routers (including Mi Router models). 4A/4C/4Q, AX3600/AX6000 And we'll look at the common mistakes that users make when renaming, and we'll focus on the hidden firmware settings. MIUI for routers that allow you to specify different names for ranges 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz is a feature not available through the standard web interface of most budget models.
1.Rename preparation: What you need to know before you start
Before you change the name of the network, make sure you take into account all the nuances:
- π Stable power: The router must be connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or directly to the outlet. Xiaomi does not recommend using USB-Power ports during changes in settings.
- πΆ Backup link: If you are connected to a router via Wi-Fi, prepare an alternative way of access (e.g., Ethernet cable). SSID junction will break.
- π Administrator rights: Make sure you are logged into the control panel under a superuser account (admin by default).
- β³ Saving time: After the changes are applied, the router will restart (up to 2 minutes.
Please note: if your Xiaomi router is linked to your Mi Account, you may need to confirm the settings to change certain settings (e.g., separate range naming) SMS Or through the Mi WiFi app, which is for models with MiWiFi firmware. ROM 2.0 and higher.
β οΈ Note: If you use a guest network on a Xiaomi router, its name is changed separately! SSID, What can cause confusion in connected devices.
Method 2: Change the name via the web interface (for all models)
This is the most versatile method that works on any Xiaomi routers, including outdated models like Mi Router 3. ROM OpenWRT (if the official version from Xiaomi is installed).
- Open your browser and type in the address bar 192.168.31.1 (for most models) or miwifi.com. If the page doesn't open, check your connection to the router or reset your browser cache.
- Enter the login and password (by default β admin/admin, Mi Account-based models will require scanning. QR-code-by-app.
- Go to the Settings section β Wi-Fi (or Advanced) β Wi-Fi Settings for English-language firmware).
- In the field Name of the net (SSID) Type a new name. Allowable characters: Latin, numerals, hyphen and underline. Maximum length is 32 characters.
- Press Save and wait for the router to restart. All connected devices will be disabled.
On routers with dual-band Wi-Fi (for example, AX3600) In the web interface, there's usually only a common name for both bands. SSID for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, use method 3.
The new name does not contain spaces or Cyrillic.
The length of the name does not exceed 32 characters.
You are connected to the router via cable (recommended)
Wi-Fi password is recorded (it will not reset, but it is better to double-check)-->
Method 2: Rename via Mi WiFi (mobile)
The official Mi WiFi app (available for Android and iOS) offers a more user-friendly interface for router management, but has limitations, such as:
- π Separate names for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (on most models).
- π Change the security settings at the same time as renaming.
- π‘ Set up additional parameters like channel width.
Step-by-step:
- Download the Mi WiFi app from Google Play or the App Store.
- Connect your smartphone to the network of the Xiaomi router (via Wi-Fi or via the mobile Internet, if the router supports remote management).
- Launch the application and sign in via Mi Account (if the router is linked to the account).
- Select your router from the list of devices (if there are several).
- Go to the section Wi-Fi settings β Name of the network.
- Enter a new name and click Save. The app will automatically reconnect your smartphone to the updated network.
Important: if after renaming the application appeared a notification "failed to connect to the network", check:
- π Has your Wi-Fi password changed (sometimes resets when you save errors).
- πΆ Does the new name conflict with neighboring networks (use Wi-Fi Analyzer to check for the new name).
- π Is the router powered off during the save.
π‘
If you don't have a network connection after renaming your devices, try manually "forgetting" the old network in their Wi-Fi settings and reconnecting. This is especially true for smart devices (lamps, cameras) that cache. SSID.
Method 3: Separate renaming of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (hidden function)
Many users do not know that Xiaomi routers are on MiWiFi firmware ROM They allow you to set different names for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, but this option is hidden in advanced settings:
- Connect to the router via cable (required!).
- Open the web interface at 192.168.31.1 and log in under the administrator.
- In the address bar of the browser after the main URL add the suffix: /cgi-bin/luci/;stok={TOKEN}/api/xqsystem/set_wifi_ap where {TOKEN} β This is your current session token (can be obtained through the browser developer tools, looking for a request to the /cgi-bin/luci/).
- Send. POST-parameter: { "ssid_2g": "New name_2.4GHz", "ssid_5g": "New name_5GHz, "password": "your password from wifi" }
To simplify the process, you can use the ready-made MiRouter Tools utility (available on GitHub), which automates this process. Once the changes are applied, the router will create two separate networks with the specified names.
| Model router | Support for separate SSID | Is a token required | Max. The length of the name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Router 4A/4C | β No, only a common name) | β No. | 32 characters |
| AX3600/AX6000 | β Yes (through hidden settings) | β Yes. | 32 characters |
| Redmi Router AC2100 | β Yes (on the web interface) | β No. | 32 characters |
| Mi Router 3G/3Pro | β No. | β No. | 32 characters |
β οΈ Note: On routers with OpenWRT firmware or custom builds (such as Padavan), the path to settings may be different. wl0_ssid="New name_2.4GHz and nvram set wl1_ssid="New name_5GHz through SSH, Then perform nvram commit & & reboot.
5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes have trouble renaming the Xiaomi router, and here are the most common mistakes and solutions:
- π The router does not keep the new name: Check if you use prohibited characters (gaps, Cyrillic, special characters like the ones you use @#$). Also make sure that the security settings do not include Read Only mode (found on firmware for corporate users).
- π΅ Devices don't connect after renaming: Most often this is due to old caching SSID. On Android, go to Settings β Wi-Fi β Additionally. β Manage networks and remove old networks. On iOS, click on the "i" icon next to the network and select "Forget this network".
- π The router freezes after saving: This can happen if power is lost or the Internet connection is interrupted during the application of the settings (on cloud-controlled models). Solution: turn off the power for 10 seconds, then turn it on again. If the router is not restored, reset with the Reset button (hold 10).+ seconds).
- π Password from Mi Account: New firmware (MiWiFi) ROM 3.0+) Some settings are blocked without authorization. If you do not remember your account details, use the recovery form or reset the router to factory settings (all data will be lost!).
Special situation: if after renaming the access to the web interface (192.168.31.1 does not open), check:
- Hasn't changed? IP-router address (use the ipconfig command in Windows or ifconfig in Windows) macOS/Linux).
- Is the βCustomer Isolationβ mode activated (disables device interaction in the local network).
- Does the antivirus or firewall block access to the control panel (add) IP router).
What if the router after renaming distributes the Internet, but does not open the web interface?
6.The Best Names for Wi-Fi Networks: Security Tips
Choosing a name for the network is not just a matter of aesthetics, it's also a matter of security. Here are some recommendations:
- π Do not use personal information: Names like Ivanov kv56 or Petrov_Family Allow attackers to identify your network and apply social engineering.
- π Avoid standard names: Xiaomi_1234 or TP-LINK_5G The router model is immediately issued, which simplifies the selection of vulnerabilities.
- π‘οΈ Do not specify the type of network: Names like My_WiFi_5G_Fast Tell the attackers that you have a range enabled 5 GHz, which sometimes has weak protection.
- π Use neutral names: The best options β HomeNetwork-24, SecureLink-5 or random combinations like AzureDragon7.
If you want to add humor, avoid overtly provocative names (e.g., humour, FBI_Surveillance_Van_3), They may attract unnecessary attention, and it is not recommended to use them. SSID, containing:
- π Phone numbers or addresses (e.g, Moscow_Lenin_123).
- π³ Financial information (even in a joke, for example, Bitcoin_Miner_Here).
- π« Threats or insults may be grounds for a complaint from a neighbor.
For maximum security, combine a non-standard network name with:
- π Complex password (at least 12 characters, with mixed register and special characters).
- π Regular change of password (every 3-6 months).
- π‘οΈ Shutdown WPS (vulnerable protocol enabled by default on many Xiaomi routers).
π‘
The name of the Wi-Fi network is visible to all devices within range of the router. Even if your network is password protected, it's not a smart choice. SSID It can make it easier to attack your router.
7. Additional settings after renaming
Changing the network name is a good reason to optimize other parameters of the Xiaomi router.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Why is it important? |
|---|---|---|
| Channel width (2.4 GHz) | 20 MHz | The wider bandwidth (40 MHz) increases speed but interferes with neighboring networks. |
| Channel width (5 GHz) | 40 MHz or 80 MHz | At 5 GHz, there is less interference, so you can use wide channels for maximum speed. |
| Security regime | WPA2-PSK / WPA3-Personal | WPA3 It provides better protection, but some older devices may not support it. |
| SSID cover-up | Disconnected. | Hiding the network name does not increase security, but it makes it harder to connect new devices. |
| Guest network | Included (with separate password) | It allows you to isolate your guestsβ devices from your main network. |
On Xiaomi routers with MiWiFi firmware ROM Extended functions are also available:
- π Wi-Fi Schedule: Automatic network shutdown at night (saving energy and improving security).
- πΆ Parental Controls: Restricting Internet access for certain devices.
- π Traffic statistics: Monitoring Internet usage by device.
To access these functions:
- In the web interface, go to Additional settings β Device management.
- In the Mi WiFi app, select Tools section β Schedule.