Xiaomi as a modem: how to distribute the Internet from phone to computer without a router

Xiaomi smartphones are not only devices for calls and social networks, but also full-fledged modems that can replace them. USB-router or dedicated Internet distribution equipment: situations when it comes to handy: remote cottage without wired Internet, urgent work on a laptop on a trip or a sudden failure of the main provider. 4G-With modems, the smartphone is always at hand, and its mobile traffic can be converted into a stable connection for PCs.

However, not everyone knows that Xiaomi offers three different ways to distribute the Internet – through the Internet. USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, each with its own nuances in speed, security and battery power, USB-modem consumes 30-40% Less power than a Wi-Fi hotspot, but requires a physical connection to a computer. In this article, we will discuss all options with step-by-step instructions, compare their pros/cons and give recommendations for optimizing the connection.

It is important to note that the distribution of the Internet depends on the version. MIUI And the smartphone models, like the old devices on the phone. MIUI The 10 may not support Bluetooth, and the flagships of the Xiaomi 13 series offer advanced QoS (Quality of Service) settings to prioritize traffic.

1. Preparation of Xiaomi smartphone for the distribution of the Internet

Before you turn on modem modem, you need to follow a few mandatory steps. First, make sure that your Xiaomi is activated mobile Internet (icon) 4G/5G or LTE If the connection is not available, check the:

• 📶 Signal level – in the basement or elevator, communication may disappear.
• 💳 Account balance – some operators block the Internet at zero balance, even if no-limit is enabled.
• 🔄 Data Transfer Mode – Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Transfer data and select active SIM-map.

Second, check the tariff limits. Many operators (such as MTS or Beeline) limit speed after high-speed traffic has run out or completely block Internet distribution at some tariffs. To avoid unexpected costs, open your operator's application and clarify the terms. For example, Tele2's My Online rate allows distribution, but limits its speed to 64 Kbps after 10 GB.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 12.5 and later, the modem function can be hidden if the power saving mode is enabled. → Battery and productivity → Energy saving regime.

We also recommend updating the firmware to the latest version. MIUI (for example, MIUI 11) there were cliff-bugs USB-- connection for long-term distribution. To check for updates, go to Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.

2. Method 1: Distribution of the Internet via USB (the most stable)

USB-Modem - the best option for long-term operation, as it provides maximum speed (up to 300 Mbit / s per day). 4G) It's good for laptops and PCs running Windows, macOS or Linux, and it's good for original or high-quality stuff. USB-cables (cheap cables may limit speeds to the speed limit) USB 2.0).

Step-by-step:

1. Connect Xiaomi to your computer via USB-cable.
2. On the phone in the notification line tap on the option "Charging through" USB" (or "Connected as...") and select "File Transfer" (MTP).
3. Open the Settings. → Access Point and modem → USB-modem and activate the switch.
4. On the computer, wait for the driver installation (in Windows it may take). 1-2 minute).

If the connection is not working:

• 🔌 Check the cable - try another, original.
• 🖥️ On Windows, update drivers in Device Manager (Network adapters section").
• 📱 On Xiaomi, turn on Developer Mode (7 taps by "Version") MIUI" In "About the phone" and activate "Debugging by" USB".

The cable supports data transfer (not just charging)

The phone has enabled File Transfer (MTP) mode.

In settings activated "USB-modem"

On the PC installed drivers for Xiaomi-->

Speed. USB-The modem depends on the port generation:

⚠️ Note: MacOS may require additional network setup. Go to System Settings → Network, select Xiaomi Connection and manually specify DNS (For example, 8.8.8.8 from Google).

Method 2: Wi-Fi Hotspot (comfortable for multiple devices)

Distribution of the Internet via Wi-Fi is the most universal method, as it allows you to connect several devices at the same time (up to the same time). 10 However, this method has two significant disadvantages: high battery consumption (up to the maximum). 1-1.5% per minute when used actively) and potential security issues if you don't configure your password.

How to turn on the hotspot:

1. Open Settings → Access Point and modem → Wi-Fi Access Point.
2. Set up the network name (SSID) Password and password (we recommend using it) WPA2-PSK).
3. Choose a frequency range: 2.4 GHz (better for range) or 5 GHz (higher speed but smaller radius).
4. Activate the switch and connect the devices.

Optimal settings for stability:

• 🔒 Password: at least 8 characters, with numbers and ebooks (example: XiaomiHotspot2026!).
• 📶 Wi-Fi Channel: manually select the least loaded (e.g. 6 or 11 for 2.4GHz).
• ⏱️ Timeout: Turn off the automatic hotspot shutdown when inactivity.

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If the Wi-Fi hotspot speed is low, try turning off the Smart Network Selection feature in the access point settings. It can automatically switch to congested channels.

Comparison of Wi-Fi ranges:

If the devices are not connected to the hotspot:

1. Reboot your phone and gadget.
2. Check if the phone is on the plane mode.
3. Reset network settings: Settings → Access Point and modem → Reset the settings.

4. Method 3: Distribute via Bluetooth (economical but slow)

Bluetooth modem is a compromise option when USB It's a low-speed, low-speed, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, low-power, high-power, even when jammed, suitable for text, mail, or instant messengers, but not for streaming or downloading files.

Instructions for setting:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and computer.
2. Connect devices: on Xiaomi go to Settings → Bluetooth and select your PC from the list.
3. On your computer in the Bluetooth panel, select "Connect via" → Access Point (Windows) or Use as a modem (macOS).
4. On the phone, confirm the request for distribution of the Internet.

Features of Bluetooth modem:

• 🔋 Energy consumption: in 2-3 less than Wi-Fi.
• 🛡️ Security: the connection is encrypted, but the range is up to 10 m.
• 📱 Compatibility: works even on older Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) 4A).

⚠️ Note: Linux may require manually configuring the Bluetooth modem via the terminal. Use the command: sudo rfcomm connect hci0 [MAC-phone] 1 MAC-Address can be found in Settings → The phone. → General information → Bluetooth address.

5. Comparison of distribution methods: which to choose?

The choice of method depends on your priorities, and below is a comparative table of key criteria:

Selection recommendations:

• 💻 To work on a laptop: USB-Modem (maximum speed and stability).
• 📱 For tablet or second phone: Wi-Fi hotspot.
• 🔋 To save battery: Bluetooth (if you don't need high speed).
• 🚗 On the trip: Wi-Fi with power saving mode enabled (included) MIUI 13+).

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USB-Modem is the best choice for stable operation, Wi-Fi for multiple devices, Bluetooth for saving charge in the background.

6. Solving Internet Distribution Problems

Even with the right setup, there can be errors, and let's look at the typical scenarios and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Devices connect to a hotspot, but the internet doesn't work.

• 🔄 Reboot your phone and gadget.
• 📵 Check if the phone is on Airplane Mode or Traffic Saving.
• 📡 Make sure that the mobile Internet works (open the browser on your phone).
• 🔧 Reset the settings. APN: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Access points (APN) → Reset to standard.

Problem 2: USB-The modem is connected, but the speed is very low.

• 🔌 Try another one. USB-cable (preferably original).
• 🖥️ On Windows, update drivers for Xiaomi in Device Manager.
• 📱 Turn on Developer Mode and activate Debugging by USB".
• 📊 Check network load on your phone: it’s possible background apps (like downloads to Google Play) are taking up the channel.

Problem 3: The hotspot spontaneously shuts down.

• ⏱️ Turn off automatic shutdown in the access point settings.
• 🔋 Check if the energy saving mode is activated.
• 📴 Update the firmware -- in MIUI 12 was a fault with a connection break at low charge.

7. Optimization of traffic and battery consumption

With long-term Internet distribution, it is important to control mobile traffic consumption and battery power, here are some tips for optimization:

How to reduce traffic consumption:

• 📵 Turn off automatic app updates in Google Play and App Store.
• 🎵 Limit music/video streaming (on Spotify or YouTube, select low quality).
• 📊 Use traffic monitoring apps like GlassWire or My Data Manager.
• 🔄 Enable “Traffic Savings” in the settings MIUI (limit background activity).

How to extend the battery life:

• 🔋 Connect your phone to charge (even) USB-modem discharges battery on 0.3-0.5% minutely).
• 🌑 Turn on Dark Theme and reduce the brightness of the screen.
• 📴 Turn off unnecessary background processes in Settings → Battery → Consumption management.
• 📡 When using a Wi-Fi hotspot, reduce the radius of coverage by choosing 2.4 GHz instead of 5 GHz.

Additional settings in MIUI:

8. Alternative ways of distributing the Internet

If standard methods don't work, consider alternatives, which require additional action but can help in unusual situations.

1. Distribution through ADB (for advanced users)

If the operator blocks the standard distribution, you can turn on the modem through ADB:

adb shell settings put global tether_dun_required 0

This team is shutting down the check. DUN (Dial-Up Networking, which some operators use to block.

2.Using Xiaomi as a Wi-Fi repeater

If you have access to another Wi-Fi network (such as a cafe) but it is weak, you can amplify the signal via your phone:

3. Distribution through USB OTG + Ethernet adapter

If you have wired Internet (for example, in a hotel), but no Wi-Fi, you can connect Xiaomi to the network via a USB-Ethernet adapter and distribute the Internet over Wi-Fi:

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Alternative methods require manual adjustment, but allow you to bypass operator restrictions or improve connection stability.

FAQ: Frequent questions about giving away the Internet with Xiaomi