How to connect a Xiaomi device via WPS: full instructions with pictures and tips

Connecting Xiaomi devices to Wi-Fi via WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is one of the fastest ways to set up a network without entering a password. This technology is supported by most of the modern routers and gadgets of the brand, from Redmi smartphones to Mi TV smart TVs and Yeelight lamps. However, many users face problems: the WPS button does not respond, the device does not find the network or emits an error “failed to connect”.

In this article, we’ll look at all possible WPS connection scenarios, from basic setup to solving common bugs, how to activate mode on a router, which Xiaomi models support the function, and what to do if the standard method doesn’t work, and a secret way to turn on WPS on devices where the option is hidden in the developer menu.

What is WPS and why is it needed for Xiaomi devices?

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is a wireless standard that allows devices to connect to a Wi-Fi network without entering a password.

• 🔘 Button on the router – physical or virtual in the web interface;
• 📱 PIN-code – 8-digit code that is entered on the device;
• 🔄 NFC — rarely used in household devices.

Xiaomi WPS is relevant for three reasons:

1. Smart devices (lamps, sockets, sensors) often do not have screens for entering a password;
2. Mi TVs and Mi Box consoles may not support a keyboard for complex passwords.
3. Redmi/POCO smartphones in the "access point" mode can distribute Wi-Fi via WPS.

However, the technology has critical shortcomings:

• ⚠️ Vulnerability to brute force attacks (PIN-The code can be found in a few hours);
• ⚠️ Not all routers support WPS (especially new models with WPA3);
• ⚠️ On some Xiaomi devices, the function is disabled by default.

What Xiaomi devices support WPS connectivity

WPS is not available on all of the brand’s gadgets, and below is the compatibility table for popular categories:

Important: Mi Mesh-based devices (such as smart home systems) may require mandatory connectivity via a mobile phone. WPS If your model doesn't support the function, use alternative methods (QR-code).

Check the support of WPS on your gadget in two ways:

1. Look into the instructions (section "Wireless communication");
2. Try to find the option in the Settings menu → Wi-Fi → More.

Step-by-step: how to connect Xiaomi to Wi-Fi via WPS

The connection algorithm depends on the type of device, and below is a universal instruction that is suitable for most Xiaomi gadgets.

1. Router preparation

Before connecting the device, activate WPS on the router:

• 🔌 Find the button. WPS on the body (usually with an inscription or icon) 🔄);
• 🖥️ Or go to the router’s web interface (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), look for the Wi-Fi section. → WPS and turn on the function.

⚠️ Attention: After pressing the button WPS The router will wait 2 minutes for the connection. If the device does not connect during this time, repeat the process.

2. activate WPS on Xiaomi device

The action depends on the type of gadget:

For smartphones Redmi/POCO (Access Point mode):

1. Go to Settings → Access Point;
2. Click Access Point Settings → WPS;
3. Activate the WPS button on the router client.

For Mi TVs:

Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Additional settings → Connection via WPS

For Yeelight smart bulbs:

1. Open the Mi Home app;
2. Select the lamp → Settings → Connect to Wi-Fi;
3. Press WPS and activate the button on the router.

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If the device doesn’t find the network through WPS, try restarting the router and repeating the process. Sometimes it helps to change the Wi-Fi channel to 2.4 GHz (WPS often does not work at 5 GHz).

3. Solving typical errors

If the connection fails, check:

• 🔋 Device charge level (below 20% can block the network);
• 📶 Distance to the router (should be no more than 5 meters);
• 🔄 Router mode (WPS It may be disabled in the security settings).

What to do if WPS is not working: 5 alternative ways

If the standard method doesn’t work, use one of these options:

1. Use the Mi Home app: How to connect a smart device via Mi Home?Open the app →Add the device →Select Connect via Wi-Fi → Follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Firmware Update: Outdated software can block WPS. Check for updates in Settings → About TV → System Update.

⚠️ Note: On routers with Padavan or OpenWRT firmware WPS It can be disabled by default. To turn it on, go to the Web interface. → Network → Wireless network → WPS and activate the function.

Hidden Settings: How to Enable WPS on Xiaomi if Options Aren’t on the Menu

On some Xiaomi devices (especially older models), the WPS option is hidden to activate:

For Mi TVs (firmware until 2021)

1. Go to Settings. → On TV;
2. Click 5 times in a row on the Mi Logo (in the top left corner) to open the developer menu.
3. Enable the option to Show hidden Wi-Fi settings;
4. Return to Settings → Network – now there will be a WPS item.

For smartphones Redmi (Access Point mode)

If it's not on the menu WPS, use ADB-team:

adb shell settings put global wps_enabled 1

After that, restart the device and check for the option in Settings → Access Point.

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Hidden WPS settings are not available on all devices, and if you don't have an option after you activate the developer menu, your model doesn't support the feature.

Security: The Risks of WPS and How to Minimize Them

Despite its convenience, WPS is considered an insecure protocol, and here are the main risks and ways to protect:

Safety recommendations:

• 🛡️ Use a complex Wi-Fi password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special signs);

⚠️ Note: On routers Xiaomi Mi Router by default enabled mode WPS Lockdown, which blocks the function after 5 failed connection attempts. To reset the meter, restart the router.

FAQ: answers to frequent questions about WPS on Xiaomi