How to accurately determine the model of the Xiaomi router: from sticker to command line

Xiaomi routers are some of the most popular home networking devices because of their combination of price, functionality and design. However, when you set up, update your firmware or search for drivers, many users face the problem of how to find out the exact model of their router when the box has been thrown out long ago and the labels on the case have been erased? This information is critical — it depends on the compatibility of the boot loader, or even the choice of the optimal settings for your ISP.

In this article, we will analyze all possible ways of identification - from obvious (checking the sticker) to advanced (analysis). MAC-You will learn exactly where to look for a model on the device body, how to identify it through a web interface or Mi Wi-Fi application, and what to do if the router does not turn on or reset to factory settings. Particular attention will be paid to hidden tags on the board - this method is relevant for devices without external identification marks.

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

The easiest and most reliable way to do this is to look at the back of the router, on all Xiaomi models (including the Mi Router). 3/4, AX3600, RA75 and others) there is a factory sticker with key information, except for devices with non-original firmware, where the sticker could have been removed.

What to look out for:

• 🔍 Model No. or Model Name – Primary identifier (e.g., Model No, R3G, R4A, AX6000).
• 📌 SSID by default – often contains the abbreviation of the model (for example, Xiaomi_XXXX_R4CM).
• 🔢 Serial number (S/N) — Can be used to test the model through Xiaomi support.
• 📡 Frequency ranges (2.4G/5G) — indirectly indicate the generation of the device (for example, the absence of 5G It’s a model like the Mi Router Mini).

If the sticker is worn or missing, try to light it up with a flashlight at an angle, sometimes the labels become visible, AX9000) information is duplicated on the inside of the cover, under rubber legs.

⚠️ Note: Fake routers (especially those from unofficial stores) often have stickers forged. If the model on the sticker doesn't match the real device, check it through the web interface or app to avoid firmware errors.

2.The router web interface: where the model is hidden

If the router is on and connected to the network, you can find the model through the admin panel.

1. Connect to the router’s Wi-Fi network or connect it to your computer via cable LAN.
2. Open your browser and type in 192.168.31.1 (for most Xiaomi models) or miwifi.com.
3. Log in (the default login and password is often a combination) admin/admin or indicated on the sticker).

The model is displayed in several interface locations:

• 📱 In the upper right corner of the home page (e.g. Mi Router) 4A Gigabit Edition).
• 🔧 Status section → Device (or System Status in English version).
• ℹ️ In the Firmware Update section, it usually indicates a compatible version of the software with reference to the model.

💡

If the web interface is in Chinese, add the suffix?lang to the browser address bar=en (example: 192.168.31.1?lang)=en) – this is forced to switch the language to English.

On some firmware (e.g. Padavan), the model may appear in an unobvious place – check the Management section. → System Log, where the hardware platform is specified in the logs when booting (for example, MT7621 for Mi Router 4C).

3.Mi Wi-Fi mobile application: the fast way

The official Mi Wi-Fi app (available for Android and iOS) automatically determines the model of the connected router, which is convenient if you do not have access to a sticker or computer.

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

The model will be displayed:

• 🏠 On the main screen under the network name (for example, Mi Router) AX1800).
• ⚙️ In the Device section → Router information.
• 📦 In the section Update firmware - there is indicated the current and available version of the software with reference to the model.

If the application does not recognize the router, try:

• 🔄 Restart the application and router.
• 📱 Update your Wi-Fi to the latest version.
• 🌐 Connect to the router via mobile data (if the problem is in the local network).

4. Command Prompt and Telnet: for advanced users

If the web interface is blocked or the router runs on custom firmware, the model can be determined via the command line. SSH.

Steps for connection:

1. Activate Telnet on the router (if it is disabled).

Telnet

telnet 192.168.31.1

The default login and password are root and admin (or empty password).

cat /proc/xiaoqiang/model

or (for old firmware):

nvram get model

Examples of findings:

⚠️ Note: Using Telnet on routers with official Xiaomi firmware can lead to device locking.Before connecting, disable cloud sync in settings or use a local account.

5. Analysis MAC-addresses and network packages

If physical access to the router is limited (for example, it is installed in another room), the model can be determined by the following: MAC-address or network activity. This method is suitable for IT-Professionals or users with networking experience.

Method 1: Possible OUI MAC-address

First 6 characters MAC-address (OUI) It's unique to every manufacturer:

• 78:11:DC — most of the Mi Router routers.
• B0:E2:35 — model AX-series, for example, AX3600).
• 2C:FD:37 — budgetary models like 4C.

To find out MAC-address:

1. Connect to the router network.
2. In Windows, open the command line and do: arp -a Look. IP-router address (usually) 192.168.31.1) and appropriate MAC.
3. Check it out. OUI base MAC Vendors.

Method 2: Through Wireshark

An advanced method is to analyze network traffic using Wireshark:

1. Run Wireshark and select the network interface.
2. Filter the packages by IP router == 192.168.31.1).
3. Look for packages. DHCP or HTTP — They often transmit model information in the headers (e.g., User-Agent: Xiaomi/RA75).

6. Disassembly of the router: search for a model on the board

If all previous methods fail (e.g., the router fails to turn on or is dropped to a brick), it is left to disassemble the device and inspect the internal board, which requires care, since improper disassembly can damage antennas or connectors.

Disassembly instructions:

1. Turn off the router from power and wait for cooling.
2. Turn the device over and unscrew all the screws (usually 4 pieces under the cross screwdriver).
3. Carefully tuck the lid with a plastic card, starting at the corner without ports.
4. Check the fee - the model can be indicated:

• 📌 On a white sticker next to the processor (for example, MB-R3G-V2 For the Mi Router 3).
• 🔧 On the board itself in the form of engraving (for example, Xiaomi) RA73).
• 📡 Near the antenna connector or port WAN.

Photos of the insides of popular models:

⚠️ Attention: Disassembly AX-series (e.g, AX6000) Be careful with that. MIMO-If you're not sure about your skills, you can call the service center.

Definition of model by external features

If you don't have a sticker and you don't want to disassemble the router, you can identify the model by design and characteristics.

• 📦 Mi Router 3/3G/3C: - White glossy body with rounded edges. - 4 indicator on the front panel (power, Wi-Fi, LAN, WAN). - No port. USB.
• 🌐 Mi Router 4/4A/4C: - Matt plastic, square shape. - Mi inscription on top cover. - 4A Gigabit has yellow ports. LAN.
• 🚀 AX-series (AX1800/AX3600/AX6000): - Black or dark gray case with perforation for cooling. AX front-panel. - AX6000 has 8 port 2.5G WAN.
• 📶 Mi Wi-Fi Repeater: - Compact size, no port WAN. - Reset button hidden inside the case.

Also note:

• 🔌 Type of power connector: - Round connector - old models (Mi Router Mini). - USB-Type C - new flagships (AX9000).
• 📏 Dimensions: - Less than 10 cm - repeater or Mi Router Nano. - More than 20 cm - flagship model (AX6000, RA75).

💡

If the router is purchased in China, its model may differ from the global version (for example, the router is not a router, R4CM instead R4A). This is important to consider when choosing a firmware!

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi router models