How to distribute the Internet from Xiaomi to Xiaomi: step-by-step setting

In situations where a fixed router is unavailable or a provider has failed, the smartphone becomes a lifeline for access to the global network. Owners of the Xiaomi ecosystem often use several devices at once, and the need to transfer traffic from one device to another arises regularly. The process of creating an access point in the MIUI shell or HyperOS has its own nuances that affect the stability of the connection and data transfer speed.

Modern smartphones of the Chinese brand allow you to organize a Wi-Fi access point in just a few touches of the screen. However, to ensure that the connection between two Xiaomi phones is stable, does not rupture or overheat the device, it is important to properly adjust the security settings and frequency range. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the stages of setting, from the basic activation of the modem modem to fine-tuning the energy saving.

Given the popularity of the brand, the algorithms of network modules in devices of the same manufacturer are often optimized to better interact with each other, which means that the WPA3-Personal protocol supported by new models will provide maximum protection of data transmitted when connecting two Xiaomi devices.

Basic setting of the access point on the source device

The first step is always to prepare the main device that will broadcast the signal. You need to open the system settings and find the partition responsible for connecting and exchanging data. Depending on the version of the MIUI shell, the path may vary slightly, but the logic remains the same for all models, whether it is a budget Redmi or flagship Xiaomi.

Find Wi-Fi Access Point in the settings menu. This is where all the key parameters that govern the creation of a wireless network are concentrated. By default, the system may suggest using the device name as the network name, but for security and convenience, it is better to specify a unique name that is easy to use among the list of available connections.

Android security requires complex combinations, but you can use standard but reliable keys to connect your devices quickly, and remember that the access point password is the first step in protecting your traffic from unauthorized connections.

β˜‘οΈ Pre-launch checks

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Once you have all the data, you need to activate the power slider, the device will start broadcasting the signal, and the indicator in the status bar will notify you of the successful launch of the modem mode. If the connection does not establish, check if the flight mode is activated, which blocks all wireless interfaces.

Connecting the second Xiaomi smartphone to the network

Now, the second device that will receive the Internet. The search and connection process on Xiaomi smartphones is standardized, but has its own features in the interface. Open the Wi-Fi settings on the receiving device and wait for the list of available networks to be updated.

In the list, you'll see the name that you gave on the first phone, click on it and enter the password you previously set, the system will automatically check the credentials and establish a secure connection, and it's important to make sure that the receiving device doesn't have a restriction on connecting to networks with certain encryption settings.

If the connection is successful, a Wi-Fi icon with an activity indicator will appear in the status bar. You can now use the browser or apps on the second phone as if it were connected to a home router. The connection speed will depend on the quality of the cellular network signal and the distance between the devices.

⚠️ Warning: When connecting a second device, make sure that the mobile internet is turned off so that the system does not try to switch between traffic sources, which can cause connection breaks.

For advanced users, the quick connection function is available through QR-On the source device, the access point menu is often generated QR-This is a code that can be scanned by the camera of the second phone, which avoids manual password entry and speeds up the process of connecting guests or additional gadgets.

Security and frequency range setting

Deep access point settings allow you to optimize network performance for specific tasks. In the Wi-Fi hotspot configuration menu, you can choose the frequency range: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. The choice depends on which devices will connect and what speed you need.

The 2.4 GHz range provides wider coverage and better wall penetration, but has lower bandwidth. The 5 GHz range offers high data rates, but the signal range is much smaller. The 5 GHz range is preferable to transfer large files between two Xiaomi phones nearby.

What is the difference between WPA2 and WPA3?
WPA3 is the latest Wi-Fi security standard that provides more robust password protection by brute force. WPA2 is a more compatible standard supported by all devices, including older models. If both Xiaomi phones are modern, choose WPA3.

This section also sets up the type of encryption you want to use, and it is recommended that you choose WPA2/WPA3-Personal for maximum compatibility and security, and that using an open network or outdated WEP encryption makes your data vulnerable to interception, especially in public places.

Even if the access point theoretically supports up to 10 customers, it is better to limit the number of connections to 2-3 devices for stable operation and minimal latency (ping), this is especially true if you use a smartphone as the main source of Internet for work.

Optimizing energy consumption and stability

Access point mode is one of the most energy-intensive processes in a smartphone. Active transmission of the radio module quickly consumes battery power and can cause the case to heat. Xiaomi devices have protection mechanisms that can turn off the access point when overheated or low charge.

To extend battery life, you can set a shutdown timer. From the access point menu, find the access point's timeout option and set the time it takes for the modem to turn off automatically if no one is connected to the network, a useful feature to save power.

In addition, the system can limit the background activity of applications on the source device to save resources for the distribution of the Internet. If you notice that the data rate is falling, check the battery settings and make sure that the system processes are not set strict energy saving restrictions.

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To reduce heat during long Internet distribution, remove the protective case from the phone and place the device on a hard surface, such as a table, avoiding soft tissues.

Using the original charger while operating in modem modem mode is also critical. Third-party power supplies may not cope with peak loads, which will lead to processor trottling and reduced network speed.

Comparison of data transmission methods

In addition to the classic Wi-Fi hotspot, Xiaomi devices offer alternative ways to share Internet traffic. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered depending on the situation. Below is a comparative table of the main ways.

MethodSpeed.Energy consumptionRange.
Wi-Fi access pointTall.High.Up to 10-15 meters.
Bluetooth modemLow.Low.Up to 10 meters.
USB-modemMaximumCharging the deviceCable length (1-2 m)
NFC (Mi Share)Instant connectionMinimumContact.

A Bluetooth modem should only be used in extreme cases where you need to transfer a small amount of text data, and speed does not matter, which is extremely slow by modern standards, but consumes minimal energy, which can be important in an emergency.

A USB modem is a great option for stationary use, when you need to distribute the Internet to a tablet or laptop, and also charge the receiving device. To connect two phones, this method requires a special cable (USB-C to USB-C or OTG), but provides the most stable communication without interference.

πŸ“Š What Internet Distribution Method Do You Use Most Often?
Wi-Fi access point: Bluetooth modem:USB-cable: Mi Share (NFC)

Solving Connection Problems and Errors

Despite the system's fine-tuning, users may have difficulty configuring the network. IP-If the second phone sees the network but can't connect, try to select the "Forget Network" action on the receiving device and re-enter the password.

Another common reason is that the access point is blocked by the operator, and some plans prohibit the use of a smartphone as a modem or require additional payment for this service, in which case changing the TTL setting will help, although this requires more knowledge and may violate the terms of the contract with the operator.

⚠️ Attention: Change TTL-parameters may be regarded by the operator as a violation of the tariff conditions, which will lead to the blocking of the Internet or the withdrawal of additional funds.

It is also worth checking the date and time settings on both devices. time-dissynchronization can cause security certificate errors, making it impossible to connect to a secure network.

Use the Mi Share function for fast transfer

Xiaomi’s ecosystem offers a unique feature called Mi Share, which allows not only file transfer but also fast network access sharing, and combines the advantages of Bluetooth for detection and Wi-Fi Direct for high-speed data transfer.

To use this method, both devices must support the technology and have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled. When getting stuck one phone over the other or selecting a device from the SHARE menu, the connection is established almost instantly, without the need to enter passwords.

This is ideal for fast Internet transfer between devices of the same brand within the same ecosystem, and automatically determines the optimal connection protocol and adjusts security settings without user intervention.

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Mi Share is the most efficient way to share internet between Xiaomi devices, as it minimizes manual data entry and uses optimized transmission protocols.

But it’s worth remembering that Mi Share only works between devices that support this standard, and if you’re planning to distribute the Internet to other brands, a classic Wi-Fi hotspot will remain the most versatile and reliable solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does the phone run out quickly when you give the Internet?
The access point mode causes the radio to operate in a constant high-power signal transmission mode, which significantly increases power consumption. additionally, the processor processes network packets, which also requires resources. To save charge, reduce the brightness of the screen and close the background applications.
Can I give away the Internet if there is no SIM card on the phone?
No, for mobile Internet distribution, an active SIM card with a data plan and network coverage is mandatory, but if the phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network, some models allow you to relay this signal, but this feature is not available on all versions of MIUI.
Does Internet Distribution Affect Mobile Connection Speed?
Yes, the speed can be reduced, as the channel resource is shared between devices, and part of the power of the processor and radio module goes to the organization of the access point, and there is a slight delay when the data passes through the second device.
Is it safe to use a public name for your access point?
Using a standard name (e.g., "Xiaomi 12 Pro") makes your device visible to others, and for security, it's better to use a unique name that doesn't contain personal information, and always use a complex WPA2/WPA3 encryption password.