WPS button on Xiaomi router: where is it, how to turn it on and why it may not be

You bought a Xiaomi router and you're trying to connect your device using WPS, but you can't find the cherished button? Or you have one, but you can't turn it on? This problem is familiar to many users of the brand's routers - especially those who have switched from devices from other manufacturers (for example, TP-Link or ASUS), where the button is displayed on the case and signed explicitly.

In this article, we will not only show you where the WPS button is located on popular Xiaomi routers (including Mi Router 4A, AX3000, AX6000, and others), but also explain why it sometimes doesn’t physically exist, how to activate the function through the web interface, and what to do if the connection does not work, and also reveal the hidden WPS mode on some firmware, which is not written in the official instructions.

What is WPS and why you need it on the Xiaomi router

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup is a standard for easy connection of devices to a wireless network without entering a password. Instead of searching for a network in a list and typing in a complex security key, you simply press a button on the router and device (or enter a button). PIN-code) and the connection is automatically established.

On Xiaomi routers, WPS is supported, but its implementation is different from other brands.

  • πŸ”„ Two modes of operation: button (PBC) and PIN-Xiaomi uses a button more often.
  • ⚑ Fast Connection: Ideal for screenless devices (printers, IP-cameras, smart light bulbs).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Vulnerability: WPS is considered less secure than manual password entry (more details in the security block).
  • ❌ Not on all models: some Xiaomi low-end routers are devoid of a physical button.

Important: WPS only works with WPA/WPA2-protected networks. If your router uses an outdated WEP, the feature will not be available.

πŸ“Š How You Usually Connect Devices to Wi-Fi?
Through password entry
WPS (button)
Through QR-code
I'm using a WPS PIN.
Another way.

Where is the WPS button on Xiaomi routers: photo and description

The location of the button depends on the router model, below is the current information for popular Xiaomi devices (2020-2026 release), If your model is not on the list, check the section on alternative ways to enable WPS.

Model routerPhysical WPS buttonWhere to findNotes
Mi Router 4A (all versions)❌ No.β€”The function is enabled only through the web interface
Mi Router 4C❌ No.β€”WPS is not available in the firmware
Mi Router AX3000 (RN8A)βœ… Yes.On the back, next to the ports. LAN. No signature, but there's a badge. πŸ”„The button is combined with Reset (holding 5+ seconds resets settings)
Mi Router AX6000βœ… Yes.On the back, right of the power port. πŸ”„The button is recessed in the case - press with a pencil or paperclip
Xiaomi AIoT Router AX3600βœ… Yes.On the bottom panel, next to the label.The button is small, easy to miss

If your router has a button but is not signed, look for the icon of the two arrows forming a circle (πŸ”„). New models (AX5400, BE7000) The button can be touch-sensitive – check the instructions for the device.

How to distinguish the WPS button from the Reset button?
On most Xiaomi routers, the WPS button is combined with Reset. A short press (1-2 seconds) activates WPS, a long (5+ seconds) resets. If the button is one and not signed, try a short press - if the Wi-Fi indicator is flashed, it is her.

How to turn on WPS on Xiaomi without a physical button

If your model (e.g. Mi Router 4A) doesn’t have a physical button, the WPS function can still be accessed via a web interface.

  1. Connect to the router network (via Wi-Fi or cable).
  2. Open your browser and type in the address bar 192.168.31.1 (or miwifi.com).
  3. Enter the login and password (by default – admin and password from the router label).
  4. Go to Settings β†’ Wi-Fi β†’ Additional settings.
  5. Find the WPS and activate it. Some firmwares have it hidden β€” see spoiler below.
Where to find WPS in a hidden menu?
On firmware for the Chinese market (or modified), the WPS section may be called Quick Setup or One-Touch Access. If it isn't in the basic settings, try the path: Advanced β†’ System β†’ WPS Settings.

Once activated, you'll have 2 minutes to plug the device in. If the time has expired, repeat the process.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for connection to WPS

Done: 0 / 5

Why WPS May Not Work for Xiaomi: 5 Reasons and Solutions

If the WPS button doesn’t respond or the connection doesn’t get installed, the problem may be at one of the following points:

  • πŸ”Œ Router overheated: turn it off for 5 minutes, then try again.
  • πŸ“Ά Too many connected devices: WPS It can be blocked when the limit is exceeded (usually 8-10 devices.
  • πŸ”„ Outdated firmware: update the router software through Settings β†’ Update.
  • πŸ”’ Unplugged. WPS in settings: check the web interface (see previous section).
  • πŸ› οΈ Hardware malfunction: if the button is not pressed or the router does not respond, contact the service.

⚠️ Note: On routers with firmware for the European market (for example, Mi Router) 4A Global function WPS It can be disabled at the software level due to security requirements, in which case only the firmware on the Chinese or custom version (risky) will help!).

If your WPS connection is permanently terminated, try:

  1. Change the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings (for example, from Auto to 6).
  2. Turn off the Smart Connect function (if it is active).
  3. Reboot the router and the connected device.

WPS Security: Why This Function Is Better to Disable

Despite its convenience, WPS is considered a vulnerable protocol, and here are the main risks:

  • πŸ”“ Vulnerability PIN-Code: Even if you don’t use it PIN-The method, some devices can request it, and the attackers can pick up the code in a few hours.
  • πŸ•΅οΈ Time-based attacks: after activation WPS The router remains vulnerable for 2 minutes, allowing you to intercept traffic.
  • πŸ“‘ Connecting unauthorized devices: If someone pushes the button (such as a neighbor), they will gain access to your network.

Safety recommendations:

  • Turn off WPS after use (in the web interface).
  • Do not use WPS to connect permanent devices (smartphones, laptops) – it is better to enter the password manually.
  • Regularly check the list of connected devices in the router settings.

⚠️ Note: If you use a router in an office or public place, turn off WPS For guest networks, set up a separate network. SSID limited-access.

πŸ’‘

To quickly disable WPS on Xiaomi, go to Settings β†’ Wi-Fi β†’ Additional and uncheck the box from Enable WPS. After that, even the physical button will stop working.

WPS Alternatives: How to Connect Devices Without a Button

If the WPS on your Xiaomi router is not working or you don’t want to risk security, use alternative methods:

MethodHow it worksPlusesCons
QR-codeScan code from the router or web interface labelQuickly, safely.Not all devices support all devices
WPA3-PersonalUse a complex password with WPA3 encryptionMaximum securityOlder devices may not be connected
Guest networkCreate a separate network with a simple passwordIsolation from the main networkLimited speed

For non-screen devices (such as printers), it is convenient to use the Mi Wi-Fi Easy Connect feature in the Mi Home app:

  1. Open the app and select your router.
  2. Go to Wi-Fi Settings β†’ Easy Connect.
  3. Follow the instructions on the screen (usually hold the button on the device).

Frequent questions about WPS on Xiaomi routers

Can I turn on WPS on Mi Router 4A?
Yes, but only through the web interface (192.168.31.1). There is no physical button on this model. Go to Settings β†’ Wi-Fi β†’ Additional and activate the feature. Note: on global firmware versions, WPS can be disabled at the software level.
Why does the indicator flash after pressing WPS, but the connection does not occur?
There are several reasons: the device does not support WPS (check documentation); the router is overloaded (turn off some devices and try again); Smart Connect is enabled (turn it off in Wi-Fi settings); too much distance between the router and the device (bring them closer); If the problem repeats, try resetting the router to factory settings (hold the Reset button for 10 seconds).
How to turn off WPS permanently?
To fully deactivate the function: Go to the router's web interface (miwifi.com). Go to Settings β†’ Wi-Fi β†’ Additional. Uncheck the box from Enable WPS. Save settings and restart the router. After that, even the physical button (if any) will stop working.
Can I use WPS to connect to 5 GHz?
Depends on the router model. Most Xiaomi devices (e.g, AX3000, AX6000) support WPS Only for 2.4 GHz network. If you need to connect your device to 5 GHz, use manual password or QR-code.
What to do if the WPS button is broken?
If the physical button doesn’t work: Try activating WPS via the web interface (see section above). If the router is warranty, contact Xiaomi Service Center. For older models (such as Mi Router 3), you can try reflashing the device to custom firmware (such as OpenWRT), but this is risky.

πŸ’‘

If your Xiaomi router doesn’t have a physical WPS button, it doesn’t mean that the feature is missing completely, but 80 percent of the time it can be activated via the web interface or the Mi Home app.