Cloning MAC-Xiaomi addresses: why you need and how to do it right

Modification or cloning MAC-Addresses on Xiaomi devices can be needed in a variety of situations: from circumventing the limitations of the provider to solving problems with connecting to corporate networks. Although the manufacturer does not always provide direct tools for this operation, there are working methods for both smartphones and the likes of the smartphone. MIUI, It's also important to understand that the procedure has technical nuances and potential risks, from loss of network connection to violation of warranty obligations.

In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of cloning. MAC-Addresses on Xiaomi devices in 2026, including software methods for smartphones (with root access and without), routers settings via the web interface, as well as workarounds for smart speakers and TVs. Why some methods can lead to a device being blocked on the network, and how to avoid it. If you encounter an error like "This device is not allowed on the network" or need anonymity, here you will find proven solutions.

What is it? MAC-The address and why to clone it on Xiaomi

MAC-Media Access Control is a unique identifier assigned to each network interface at the hardware level, used for identification in local networks (Wi-Fi, Ethernet) in Xiaomi devices, and can be linked to a Mi Account or ecosystem services. IP-Addresses that are dynamically assigned, MAC It is permanent unless it is forcibly changed.

The main reasons for cloning are:

• 🔒 Bypassing ISP restrictions: Some ISPs link access to specific MAC-addresses (for example, in student dormitories or hotels).
• 🛡️ Anonymity in public networks: change MAC It can make it harder to track your device in cafes, airports or shopping malls.
• 🔄 Solving compatibility issues: Enterprise networks sometimes block devices with unknowns MAC-address.
• 📦 Networking testing: Developers and administrators use cloning to simulate different devices.

⚠️ Attention: Change MAC-Addresses on Xiaomi smartphones without root rights can cause resets after rebooting. On Mi Routers, incorrect address entry can cause loss of access to the web interface.

It is important to distinguish cloning from substitution: cloning involves copying. MAC-And so, you can use the same number of addresses from one device to another (for example, from laptop to smartphone), and the substitution of random addresses, and both methods have their pros and cons, which we'll look at later.

Cloning techniques MAC-addresses on Xiaomi smartphones

On Xiaomi smartphones (Redmi series, POCO, Mi) amend MAC-The address can be in several ways, but their availability depends on the version. MIUI And root rights. Let's look at all the options.

Method 1: No root rights (for MIUI 12–14)

In the latest versions of MIUI, the manufacturer removed the possibility of changing the MAC through standard settings, but there was a workaround through the developer mode:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version and tap 7 times on the build number.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
3. Find a point "MAC-Wi-Fi address (may not be available on new models).
4. If there is a paragraph, select "Change" and enter a new address in the format XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX.

This method doesn’t work on most devices due to Xiaomi’s limitations, and only root or third-party utilities will help.

Method 2: Using root rights

If you have root access, it's a simplified process, and you'll need Terminal Emulator or ADB.

su


ifconfig wlan0 hw ether XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX

Where wlan0 — Wi-Fi interface name (may be different) XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX — new MAC-The change will reset after the reboot, so you need to edit the file for permanent effect. /data/nvram/APCFG/APRDEB/WIFI (knowledge!).

Method 3: Applications for changing the MAC

Google Play has utilities like MAC Address Changer or Change My MAC, but they only work on older versions of Android (up to 9.0) and require root. For new Xiaomi smartphones, these apps are useless without additional manipulation.

⚠️ Attention: Use of applications for change MAC without root can lead to blocking IMEI on some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) if they define a spoof as an attempted hack.

Cloning MAC-Addresses on Xiaomi routers (Mi Router)

Xiaomi Routers (Mi Router 4 Series, Mi Router Series) AX, Redmi Router) cloning MAC It runs through a web interface and doesn't require any additional software, and this method is often used to link to a provider that captures the data. MAC-plug-in.

Step-by-step instructions for Mi Router

1. Connect to the router via cable or Wi-Fi.
2. Open your browser and type 192.168.31.1 (or miwifi.com).
3. Log in (username and password is usually admin + password from the sticker on the router).
4. Go to Settings. → Internet → MAC-cloning.
5. Select "Cloned." MAC-Computer address (router will automatically determine the computer address) MAC the device from which you came) or enter the address manually.
6. Save the settings and restart the router.

If the option "MAC-cloning" is missing, update the firmware router through Settings → Software Update. On older models (for example, Mi Router 3) may require manual firmware via MiWiFi ROM.

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If the Internet does not work after cloning, check if the provider does not block the modified ones. MAC-In this case, try using an address that was previously registered with the provider's network.

MAC cloning on Xiaomi smart devices (columns, TVs, cameras)

Xiaomi smart devices such as Mi Smart Speaker speakers, Mi TVs TV Mi Home Security Camera – usually not allowed to change MAC-The address is through the standard settings, but there are workarounds:

For smart speakers (Mi Smart Speaker, Redmi SonikBass)

MAC-The speaker address is linked to a Wi-Fi chip and cannot be changed by software, the only option is to use an intermediate device (e.g., a router with a cloned router). MAC), This is true for networks where the constraints are imposed on end devices.

For Mi TVs (series A, P, Q)

On Xiaomi TVs with PatchWall or Google TV shift MAC possible only through ADB-commands (requires activation of debugging by USB):

adb shell


su




ifconfig eth0 hw ether XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX

This method is temporary and will reset after the reboot. To permanently change, you need a firmware with a modified kernel (for example, LineageOS for Mi TV Stick).

For cameras and sensors Mi Home

Mi Home ecosystem devices (sensors, cameras, light bulbs) do not support changing MACs. If the provider blocks them, the only solution is to connect via a router with a cloned MAC or use a VPN at the network level.

Risks and consequences of cloning MAC-address

Change of change MAC-Addresses are not harmless, but they can cause both technical and security problems:

• 🚫 Device lock: Some ISPs and corporate networks detect a spoof MAC and lock the device at the level DHCP.
• 🔄 Network Conflict: If Two Devices Have the Same Device MAC, This will cause a failure in the router.
• 📵 Loss of warranty: on devices with root access or modified firmware, Xiaomi may refuse warranty service.
• 🕵️ Mi Account Issues: Some Xiaomi Services (such as Mi Cloud) Are Linked to the Mi Account MAC-Change of the device address may cause synchronization errors.

Especially careful should be the owners of devices with a locked bootloader (most Xiaomi smartphones after 2020), improper manipulation of the MAC can lead to a “hard brick” – a state where the device does not turn on even in Fastboot mode.

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Before you clone a MAC, make sure to write down the original address, which you can find in your device settings or on your router's sticker, and it will help you reset your work if something goes wrong.

How to bring back the original MAC-Xiaomi address

If, after experimentation, MAC-The address has problems, the original address can be returned in the following ways:

On smartphones.

• 🔄 Reboot the device – on most models without root, it will reset the changes.
• 📱 Reset network settings: Settings → Wi-Fi → Additionally. → Resetting network settings.
• 🛠️ For root devices: run the ifconfig command wlan0 hw ether ORIGINAL_MAC, where ORIGINAL_MAC — reference.

On Mi Router routers

• ⚙️ Go to the web interface and manually enter the original MAC cloning.
• 🔧 Press the Reset button for 10 seconds for a full reset (all settings will return to factory settings).

On smart devices.

For TVs and speakers, the only reliable way to reset to factory settings is through a menu or hardware button, and this will delete all user data.

Alternative solutions: when MAC cloning is not necessary

In some cases, the purpose for which you wanted to change MAC-Address can be reached in other ways:

• 🌐 Problems with the provider: instead of cloning MAC Ask the provider to link your current address to your account (many operators do so on request).
• 🔒 Blocking in public networks: use VPN (Like Mi. VPN or ProtonVPN) to circumvent restrictions.
• 📡 Local Network Conflicts: Change IP-Handheld address in Wi-Fi settings, avoiding duplication.
• 📱 Mi Account Limitations: If the problem is with your Xiaomi account, try logging out and logging in again.

For example, if your Redmi Note 11 is not connected to Wi-Fi at university due to MAC restrictions, it’s easier to contact your network administrator and request that your address be added to the whitelist, saving time and eliminating potential risks.

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MAC cloning is not a panacea, and 80 percent of the time, you can solve the problem by setting up a network or agreeing with a provider without having to do any technical tricks.

FAQ: Frequent questions about MAC cloning on Xiaomi