How to connect Xiaomi Redmi to your computer as a USB-modem: full guide

Why? USB-Xiaomi Redmi modem is better than Wi-Fi hotspot?

Using Xiaomi Redmi Smartphone as a Service USB-A modem for a computer is not just an alternative to Wi-Fi distribution, but often a more stable and secure solution. Unlike wireless hotspot, cable connection eliminates packet loss due to interference, and transmission speed is limited only by the capabilities of the mobile network, not the Wi-Fi module bandwidth.

This is especially true for Redmi Note owners. 10/11/12 or flagship models like the Redmi K50, where USB-Port supports the standard USB 2.0/3.0 theoretically 480 Mbit/s (or) 5 Gbps for USB 3.0). Besides, at USB-Connecting the smartphone is charged from the computer, which eliminates the need to monitor the level of the battery – a critical plus for long-term work.

But there are nuances: not all operating systems (especially outdated versions of Windows) immediately recognize Xiaomi as a modem, and some mobile operators block the use of the device. USB-In this article, we will discuss not only the basic setting, but also the solution of typical problems, from the lack of drivers to error "NDIS-Compatible driver not installed".

What Xiaomi Redmi models support USB-modem?

Function USB-tetering (USB tethering) available on all Xiaomi Redmi smartphones released after 2016, but there are differences in implementation:

• 📱 Budget series (Redmi) 9A/10A/12C): support USB-modem, but speed is limited USB 2.0 (before 480 Mbit/s).
• 📱 Mid-size segment (Redmi Note) 8/9/10/11/12): USB 2.0 or 3.0 depending on the modification (e.g. Note) 11 Pro+ 5G has USB-C 3.0).
• 📱 Flagship models (Redmi) K40/K50/K60): full-fledged support USB 3.1 Gen1 (before 5 Gbps, but requires high-quality cable.
• 📱 Outdated models (Redmi) 4X/5A): USB-The modem is working, but there may be problems with drivers on Windows 11.

To check support on your model, go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version. If the firmware version is newer than MIUI 10, the feature is guaranteed. Devices with MIUI 9 and below may require manual activation via Developer Mode.

Step-by-step adjustment USB-modem on Xiaomi Redmi

The connection process takes no more than 2-3 minutes, but requires all the steps to be performed in strict sequence.

1. Activate mobile internet on Xiaomi Redmi: go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks and enable data transfer.
2. Connect. USB-Use the original cable or certified analogue (cheap cables may not support data transmission).
3. Select a mode. USB-Connection: On the screen of the smartphone will appear notification "USB To transfer files, tap it. Use the menu. USB choose "USB-modem" (USB tethering).

Wait for the drivers to install

MacOS/Linux

If done correctly, a network connection icon will appear in the Windows tray, and a new network connection will appear in the Network Management Center called Network Connection via Network Connection. USB".

⚠️ If the Internet does not appear on your computer after connecting, check whether your mobile operator is blocking it. USB-Tetering: Some tariffs (e.g. Tele2's Internet for Devices) only allow Wi-Fi distribution.

Typical problems with the USB-modem

Even with the right setup, Xiaomi Redmi users are faced with errors. Let’s consider the most common and ways to fix them:

For devices with MIUI 12+, there is a hidden setting that can help with connection issues:

Enter the phone code in the app: ##4636##


Go to "Phone Information" → "Wi-Fi settings"




Enable the option "Wi-Fi is always active while sleeping" (affects USB-modem)

Optimization of connection speed and stability

Speed. USB-The modem depends not only on the mobile operator's tariff, but also on the smartphone settings. Here's how to maximize it:

• 🔌 Use the port. USB 3.0 (blue connector) on a computer, even if the smartphone only supports USB 2.0, port 3.0 will provide more stable power.
• 📶 Turn off background apps on Xiaomi Redmi that consume traffic: go to Settings → Annexes → Permits → Data and Restrict Access for Unnecessary Programs.
• 🔄 Change the type of network with 4G/LTE Only 4G (non-automatic switching 3G): Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Preferred type of network.
• 🛡️ Turn it off. VPN On a smartphone, it can reduce speed by 20-30%.

For advanced users, if your Redmi supports band locking, you can manually select the most stable 4G frequency in your region.

1. Install Network Signal Guru (root or required) ADB-access).
2. Run a network scan and select the frequency with the minimum interference level (e.g. Band 3 or Band 7 for Russia).

💡

If the speed is USB-The modem is lower than when connecting directly to 4G, try to turn off USB-debugging → Additionally. → For developers, sometimes it conflicts with modem drivers.

Safety in use USB-modem

USB-Tetering via Xiaomi Redmi is considered more secure than Wi-Fi hotspot, but there are risks here too:

• 🔒 Driver Vulnerabilities: Outdated Drivers RNDIS Windows 7/8 Update them through the Microsoft Update Catalog.
• 📡 Traffic interception: Although USB-The connection is harder to intercept than Wi-Fi, an attacker with physical access to a PC can listen to traffic. HTTPS or VPN computer-based.
• 🔋 Smartphone overheating: Prolonged modem operation loads the processor. Watch the temperature through Settings → Battery status.

For additional protection:

1. Turn it off. USB-Debugging if not needed (can be used for unauthorized access).
2. Set a password to unlock Xiaomi Redmi so that no one can change the modem settings.
3. Use the NetGuard app to monitor traffic on your smartphone.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (particularly custom) USB-The modem can work even when the screen is locked, which is convenient, but increases the risk of unauthorized access. To disable this feature, go to Settings. → Password and security → Locking the device → Additionally. → Shut down. USB-lock-in.

Alternative ways to distribute the Internet with Xiaomi Redmi

If USB-Modem is not suitable (for example, due to driver problems), consider alternatives:

• 📶 Wi-Fi hotspot: Easy to set up, but consumes battery and has speed limits (up to 150 Mbps at 2.4 GHz).
• 🔄 Bluetooth tetering: Saves charge, but speeds rarely exceed 10 Mbps. Suitable for transferring small files.
• 🌐 Reverse tetering (distribution of the Internet from PC to phone): Useful if the computer has a wired connection, and on the smartphone – no.

To activate the Wi-Fi hotspot:

1. Go to Settings → Access Point and Modem → Mobile Access Point.
2. Set up a network name (SSID) and password (WPA2-PSK is recommended).
3. Connect to the network from your computer as if it were a regular Wi-Fi.

If you need Bluetooth tetering:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices and pair them.
2. On the smartphone: Settings → Access Point and modem → Bluetooth modem.
3. On PC: In Bluetooth Settings, select Xiaomi Redmi and activate Internet Connection.

💡

USB-The modem remains the most stable and fastest way to distribute the Internet with Xiaomi Redmi, but requires the correct driver configuration. If the speed is critical (for example, for streaming or downloading files), always choose USB instead of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

FAQ: Frequent questions on USB-modem on Xiaomi Redmi