How to distribute the Internet from the phone Xiaomi Redmi Note 8: Full guide

Modern smartphones like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 have long since ceased to be just a device for calling and have become full-fledged mobile hubs that can provide access to the global network of other gadgets. This feature becomes critical in travel, business trips or situations when the home provider suddenly loses communication. Owners of devices based on the shell MIUI often wonder how to properly and safely activate the modem modem so as not to drain the battery in an hour and not to exhaust the traffic limit.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at all the ways you can create a hotspot on the Redmi Note 8, including standard Wi-Fi, wired USB connectivity, and the less popular but energy-efficient Bluetooth. You’ll learn about hidden frequency settings that can dramatically improve data speeds, and learn to limit the number of connected users to protect your traffic.

Internet distribution is a process that requires smart security and energy-saving settings. The wrong configuration can cause your laptop to simply β€œnot see” the network, or your phone to heat up to critical temperatures. We’ll look at each step in sequence so you can turn your smartphone into a reliable Wi-Fi signal source.

Setting up a Wi-Fi hotspot on the Redmi Note 8

The most common and convenient way is to create a wireless hotspot. First, go to your device's settings menu. Find the Settings section and select the Wi-Fi hotspot, which is often located in the "Additional Features" or "Connections and Sharing" category depending on the version of MIUI. This is where the main controls for your virtual router are.

The first thing that catches your eye is the ability to set a network name (SSID) and password. It is strongly recommended to use a complex password containing letters and numbers so that neighbors or passers-by can not connect to your network without permission. Unlike older versions of Android, Xiaomi's system allows you to change these settings instantly, without having to reboot the communication module.

⚠️ Please note: Do not use simple passwords like β€œ12345678” or date of birth. In public places, attackers can intercept traffic on open or poorly protected networks, gaining access to your personal data.

Next, you should pay attention to the frequency range. By default, the smartphone can operate in the 2.4 GHz band, which provides a longer range, but less speed. If you are in an apartment building where the air is clogged with signals from other routers, it makes sense to switch to 5 GHz. This action will reduce the range of the signal, but significantly improve the stability of the connection and the speed of loading pages on the connected device.

You can also set a traffic limit on this menu, Traffic Limiting allows you to set a volume of data, after which the Internet will automatically stop being used, saves you from unexpected expenses if you do not have an unlimited plan, you can set a limit in megabytes or gigabytes, and also choose a reset period (monthly or weekly).

πŸ“Š What Internet Distribution Method Do You Use Most Often?
Wi-Fi access point
USB-cable
Bluetooth
SIM-card tablet

Use of the USB-stable-connection modem

When you need maximum stability of the connection or you need to charge the smartphone at the same time, the optimal solution is the best solution. USB-This method is especially relevant for the Redmi Note 8, because it allows you to transmit data over the cable, eliminating interference from radio signals. USB-cable and computer running Windows, macOS or Linux.

The activation process is simple: connect your phone to your PC via USB-Then the Wi-Fi hotspot will be an active item on the menu. USB-If it's gray, check the cable -- some cheap ones only support charging and don't have data lines. Once the tumber is turned on, the computer recognizes the phone as a new network device.

  • πŸ”Œ Connect the original cable USB Type-C to the computer port.
  • βš™οΈ Activate the mode. USB-modem in smartphone settings.
  • πŸ’» Wait for network card drivers to be installed on your computer (automatically).
  • 🌐 Check for network icon in the operating system tray.

Important advantage USB-The connection is no delay (ping), which is critical for online games or video conferencing. In addition, in this mode, the phone continues to charge from the computer, although slower than from the network adapter. However, it is worth remembering that with active exchange of large amounts of data, the battery can still heat up, so temperature control remains relevant.

β˜‘οΈ Checking before connection USB-modem

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Distribution of the Internet through Bluetooth modem

A third, less popular but highly energy efficient way is to use a Bluetooth modem, which has significantly lower data rates than Wi-Fi or USB, and rarely exceeds 1-2 Mbps. However, for simple tasks like checking email, reading news or navigating online, this is enough and battery life is minimal.

To activate this function, you must first pair your phone with the receiving device (tablet, laptop or other phone). After successful pairing in the Wi-Fi Access Point menu, you must activate the Bluetooth modem switch. On the receiving device, select your Redmi Note 8 from the list of available Bluetooth devices and select the Internet connection option.

The main advantage of this method is the ability to connect several devices in series without creating a heavy load on the processor of the smartphone. Bluetooth protocol consumes much less power, a Wi-Fi radio module. This is ideal for emergency situations when you need to urgently send a text message or document, and the phone’s charge is running out.

Why is Bluetooth modem so slow?
Bluetooth was originally designed to transmit small data packets (audio, commands) rather than streaming the Internet. The maximum theoretical speed in modern versions of Bluetooth is limited, and in reality it is even lower due to protocol overhead and interference.

Table of comparison of methods of distribution of the Internet

For the convenience of choosing the optimal connection method, let’s compare the main characteristics of the three methods discussed. This table will help you quickly navigate depending on your current needs and operating conditions of the device.

ParameterWi-Fi Access PointUSB-modemBluetooth modem
Maximum speedHigh (up to 100+ Mbps)Very tall (stable)Low (1-2 Mbps)
Battery consumptionHigh-pitchedCharging from a PCMinimum
Number of devices10.1 (PC)Up to 5 (depending on device)
Radio of actionUp to 15-20 metersCable lengthUp to 10 meters.

As you can see from the comparison, there is no one-size-fits-all solution: Wi-Fi is better for watching 4K video on a tablet, USB is better for working with documents behind a laptop, and Bluetooth is for a navigator in a car, and understanding these differences allows you to extend the life of the battery and optimize network operation.

Solution: Phones don't give away the internet

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the access point is created, but connected devices can not access the network or do not see the smartphone at all. The first reason is often a malfunction of the network module. Try to turn on the flight mode for 10 seconds, and then turn it off. This action will force the phone to reconnect to the operator's base station and update it. IP-address.

The second common problem is incompatibility of security standards: some older laptops or tablets may not support modern encryption protocols. WPA3, which may be included on new versions by default MIUI. In the access point settings, try changing the security type to WPA2 PSK. It is also worth checking if the filter is on. MAC-Addresses that block all unknown devices.

⚠️ Note: If you are giving away the Internet to a Windows laptop, make sure that the network connection properties do not tick the β€œAllow other network users to use an Internet connection” box if you are using it. USB-modem, as this can cause address conflict.

Another nuance is that some mobile carrier plans prohibit or require separate payment for the Internet, in which case the Internet on the connected device may not work, although the phone itself opens the sites, check the terms of your tariff or contact the operator's technical support.

πŸ’‘

If the internet on the connected device is slow, try changing the Wi-Fi channel to a less loaded one (for example, from 6 to 1 or 11) or switching the range to 5 GHz in the access point settings on the Redmi Note 8.

Optimization and security: expert advice

Constant operation of the smartphone in the router mode leads to increased heat generation. the Redmi Note 8 processor and radio module are in a high mode, which can cause trottling (decreased performance) and accelerated wear of the battery. It is recommended to remove the protective case during prolonged distribution of the Internet to improve heat sink.

To protect your personal information, use Hide Device, where you can hide the network name (SSID) in the AP settings, so only those who know the exact name and type it in manually can connect, making life difficult for potential neighbors looking for open networks.

Also, don't forget about the software. Make sure your Xiaomi has the latest firmware installed. Engineers regularly release updates that optimize network drivers and fix security bugs. You can check for updates in About Phone β†’ MIUI.

πŸ’‘

Regularly restarting your smartphone (once a week) helps to clear the cache of network services and prevent the Internet distribution module from hanging.

Why does the battery run out quickly when you give Wi-Fi?
When activated, the smartphone simultaneously performs two energy-intensive tasks: receives a 4G/LTE signal from the base station and broadcasts it through the Wi-Fi module. Double load on the RF circuits and the processor leads to accelerated charge consumption. In addition, if the cellular signal is weak, the phone increases the transmitter power, which further reduces battery life.
Can I give away the Internet if there is a traffic restriction on the phone?
Yes, you can. The Xiaomi hotspot traffic limiter works regardless of the operator's limitations. It only turns off the hotspot when you use up your specified limit (e.g., 1 GB). However, if the operator itself has blocked the distribution or speed after the packet has been exhausted, the phone settings will not help circumvent this restriction.
How do I know who is accessing my access point?
The access point control menu on the Redmi Note 8 usually displays a list of connected devices. MAC-If you notice a stranger, you can block them right from this menu or just change the password, which will break the connection for all users.