“Network access is limited” (Error 138) on Xiaomi: reasons and how to fix it

If your Xiaomi smartphone suddenly shows a notification with an error code 138, it means that the device cannot connect to mobile Internet or Wi-Fi despite the visible presence of the network, POCO Mi, but its causes and solutions often depend on the specific situation: a failure in the settings. APN lock-in IMEI operator.

In this article, we will look at all possible causes of error 138, from basic (wrong network settings) to complex (hardware malfunctions of the communication module), you will receive step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and fixing the problem, as well as tips on how to avoid it recurring. We pay special attention to hidden settings MIUI, which are often ignored in standard guides.

What does the 138 error mean for Xiaomi?

Code 138 in the system MIUI This is not a universal Android bug, it is specific to Xiaomi firmware and can manifest in different ways:

• 📵 Mobile Internet is not working, although the network indicator shows 4G/5G.
• 🔄 Signal! or R near signal level.
• 🚫 The message "Access to the network is limited" in the notification curtain.
• 🌐 Wi-Fi connects, but pages don’t load (other devices are working normally).

It is important to distinguish Error 138 from other network problems.

Error 138 may be temporary (for example, after an update) MIUI), and permanent (if blocked) IMEI). In 80% of cases, it is possible to eliminate it without contacting the service center.

The main reasons for the error 138

The reasons are divided into software (settings, firmware) and hardware (communication module, antenna).

1. Incorrect settings APN

The most common reason is the reset or incorrect parameters of the access point (APN). It could happen after that:

• 🔄 Updates MIUI.
• 📱 Resetting to factory settings.
• 🔧 Manual editing of network settings.
• 📲 Custom firmware installations.

Operators periodically update the parameters APN, But the smartphone doesn't always pull them up automatically. For example, MTS changed its address in 2026. APN from Internet.mts.ru to mts for new SIM-map.

2.Problems with IMEI

If IMEI your Xiaomi:

• 🔍 Blocked by the operator (for example, for late payments under the contract).
• 🛠️ Reset or damaged after firmware.
• 📱 Does not match the model (found on "gray" devices).

— The network will be limited, and the logs will appear error 138. IMEI You can use the *#06# command or the Settings menu → The phone. → General information.

Failures in the communication module

Hardware malfunctions are manifested as follows:

• 📶 Network signal disappears in random places (even where it was previously caught).
• 🔌 Rebooting the smartphone temporarily solves the problem.
• 🛠️ The service menu (#4636##) displays the status "Disconnected" or "Error».

Most often it's the fault:

• 📡 Antenna cable (running or moving away from the connector).
• 🔋 Communication module (overheating or failing).
• 📱 Slot SIM-maps (contact oxidation).

💡

If the 138 error occurs after a phone falls or moisture hits, there's a 95% chance that the problem is hardware. Don't try to solve it software--it can make the breakdown worse.

4. Blocking by the operator

Operators may restrict access to the network in the following cases:

• 💳 Unpaid bill (even if the balance is positive, there may be delay restrictions).
• 📱 Suspicion of fraud (e.g. frequent shifts) SIM-map).
• 🌍 Roaming (some tariffs block internet abroad).
• 📡 Network congestion (time limit during rush hour).

To check the lock, call your operator's hotline or send USSD-request:

• MTS: *111*0887#
• Beeline: *102#
• MegaFon: *105*00#
• Tele2: *155*1#

5. Firmware conflict or MIUI

Error 138 may occur after:

• 🔄 Updates to MIUI (especially in beta versions).
• 📱 Custom firmware installations (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS).
• 🔧 Reverse to the old version (downgrade).

In such cases, it helps:

• 🔄 Resetting network settings (Settings) → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings).
• 📥 Flashing through the Mi Flash Tool (only for experienced users!).

💡

If the error 138 is detected immediately after the update MIUI, Try to revert to the previous version through Settings. → The phone. → Updating the system → Three points. → Select a Service Package.

How to Fix Error 138: Step-by-step instructions

Start with the simplest ways and gradually move on to the most complex ones, and after each step, check if the error has disappeared.

1. Reboot the smartphone and SIM-map

It is very common, but it helps in 30% of cases:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Get it. SIM-Check the card for damages.
3. Clear the contacts. SIM-cards and slots with dry soft fabric.
4. Push the card back in and turn the device on.

If SIM-card damaged (scratching contacts, cracks), replace it in the cabin of the operator.

2.Appointment of APN manually

Automatic setup APN It might not work properly. Add the parameters manually:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Yours. SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. Press. + (Add APN).
3. Enter the parameters for your operator (see table below).
4. Save and select a new APN.

After saving, reboot your phone if you want to. APN does not persist or disappears after restarting - this is a sign of a failure in the firmware.

3. Resetting network settings

This method removes all stored Wi-Fi networks, passwords and mobile Internet settings:

1. Open Settings → System → Reset.
2. Select Network Resetting.
3. Confirm the action (it may be necessary to enter) PIN-code).

After discharge:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone.
• 📶 Connect to Wi-Fi and check your mobile internet.
• 📱 If the error persists, move on to the next step.

💡

Before resetting the network, save Wi-Fi passwords in notes or take screenshots with settings APN — This will save time after the reset.

4.Verification IMEI and re-establishment

If IMEI It is damaged or reset, and can be restored without contacting the service:

Step 1. Verification IMEI:

1. Dial *#06# and display a 15-digit number (or two dual-SIM numbers).
2. Compare it to the number on the box or under the battery.

Step 2: Recovery IMEI (for root users only!):

1. Install the MTK Engineering Mode app (for MediaTek processors) or the Qualcomm IMEI Tool (for Snapdragon).
2. Enter the original IMEI (from the box and save.
3. Reboot the phone.

⚠️ Attention: Incorrect change IMEI This can lead to a complete loss of communication and cancellation of the warranty.If you are not sure about your actions, contact the service center.

5. Update or roll back firmware

If the error occurred after the update MIUI:

• 🔄 Try to revert to the previous version through the update menu.
• 📥 If rollback is not possible, install the full firmware via the Mi Flash Tool (instruction below).

Flashing instructions:

1. Download the official firmware for your model.
2. Unpack the archive and place the.tgz file in the folder downloaded_rom phone-on.
3. Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update → Three Points → Select an Service Pack.
4. Select the downloaded file and wait for the installation to be completed.

⚠️ Warning: Flashing through Mi Flash Tool erases all data! pre-backup through Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset.

6. Diagnostics of hardware malfunctions

If none of these methods worked, the problem could be the iron.

Antenna test:

1. Click ##4636## and select Phone Information.
2. Look up Service State status – if it’s Out of Service or Emergency Only, the problem is in the communication module.

Contact checks SIM-map:

• 🔍 Check out the slot. SIM-maps for oxidation or contamination.
• 📱 Try inserting. SIM-Map to another phone – if it works there, the problem is your Xiaomi.

If you suspect a hardware malfunction, contact the service center.

• 🔧 Replacement of antenna cable: 1,500–3,000 ₽.
• 📡 Repair of the communication module: 3000-8000 ₽.
• 📱 Replacement of motherboard: from 10 000 ₽.

Additional solutions

If the standard methods don’t work, try these:

1. Change of network regime

Sometimes the smartphone can’t connect to the 4G/5G - Forced set the mode. 3G:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Yours. SIM] → Type of network.
2. Select Only. 3G (or 2G/3G).
3. Reboot the phone.

If the Internet is working, the problem is in the settings 4G/5G. Return the Auto mode and check for firmware updates.

2. disable VoLTE and VoWiFi

VoLTE functions (voice by voice) 4G) VoWiFi (Wi-Fi calls) may conflict with the network:

1. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Yours. SIM].
2. Turn off VoLTE and VoWiFi options.
3. Reset the device.

If the Internet is running after that, the problem is with the operator's settings. Contact support to clarify VoLTE settings.

3.Use of VPN

In rare cases, error 138 is linked to operator blocking traffic. VPN:

1. Install the app VPN (For example, ProtonVPN or Warp).
2. Connect to a server in your country.
3. Check the Internet.

If VPN It works, it's on the operator's side.

4. Virus testing

Some viruses block network traffic. Scan the device.

1. Install antivirus (Dr.Web, Kaspersky, Malwarebytes).
2. Run a full check.
3. Remove the detected threats and restart the phone.

If viruses are found, reset your network settings after removing them (Settings) → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings).

What do you do if nothing helps?

If you have tried all the methods, but the error 138 remains, there are two options:

1. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center

It is worth choosing this path if:

• 📱 Phone guarantee (repair will be free of charge).
• 🔧 You suspect a hardware malfunction (for example, after a fall).
• 📡 IMEI It has fallen off and you can’t repair it yourself.

How to prepare for your visit:

• 📄 Take a check or a guarantee card.
• 📱 Write it down. IMEI from the box (if saved).
• 🔄 Make a backup copy of the data.

The average time of repair under warranty: 5-14 days, without warranty - 1-3 days.

2. Smartphone replacement

If the phone is old (released before 2019) and it costs more than 50% to repair, it is more advisable to consider buying a new device.

• 📱 Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ (Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, support 5G).
• 📱 POCO X6 Pro (Dimensity 8300-Ultra, double 5G).
• 📱 Xiaomi 14 (flagship chipset, best antenna).

Before buying, check your carrier’s support on Xiaomi’s support site.

How to avoid the 138 error in the future?

To minimize the risk of recurrence of the error, follow these tips:

1. Update regularly MIUI

Firmware updates often contain patches for network modules.

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Press three points. → Update settings.
3. Turn on Automatic Download over Wi-Fi.

2. Use official firmware

Custom firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience) may conflict with network settings. If you're not an experienced user, stay on the official website. MIUI.

3. Check it out. IMEI post-fix

After any interference with the system (firmware, root, reset) check IMEI *#06# If it resets, restore it before the phone restarts.

4. Avoid mechanical damage

Strikes and falls often cause failure:

• 📡 Antenna module (thin wires are detached from the board).
• 📱 Slot SIM-cards (contacts bend).
• 🔋 Power module (responsible for signal stability).

Use a cover with shock protection and avoid getting moisture.

5. Watch out for balance and status SIM-map

Operators may restrict access to the network:

• 💳 In a negative balance.
• 📱 If fraud is suspected (for example, if the SIM-The map is used in another region).
• 🔄 Upon expiration of the tariff period.

Regularly check the status of services through USSD-requests or personal account of the operator.

💡

If you travel frequently, turn off automatic roaming in the settings SIM-This will help to avoid unexpected blockings abroad.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Error 138