How to give away the Internet with Xiaomi Redmi 8: 4 ways + error solving

Xiaomi Redmi 8 is still a popular budget smartphone, despite the release of new models. One of the key features that users often need is to distribute the Internet to other devices. Whether it is a laptop without Wi-Fi, a tablet or a second phone, the ability to properly configure the access point will save time and nerves. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to distribute the Internet with Redmi 8, including hidden MIUI chips and avoiding typical errors.

Redmi 8 features MIUI 12/13 (depending on the firmware version), where the access point configuration interface may differ from standard Android, and many users face problems such as suddenly turning off the distribution or limiting traffic from the operator, and we will tell you how to avoid this, and we will give a checklist to check the settings before activating the modem modem.

Important: if your Redmi 8 runs MIUI 14+, some menu items may have a different name - we will specify alternative ways. Also pay attention to the mobile operator's tariff: many Russian providers (for example, MTS, Beeline, Tele2) block the distribution of Internet at unlimited rates without additional options.

1. Distribute Wi-Fi via the settings menu (main method)

The most reliable and versatile method is to activate the access point through system settings, which works on all versions of MIUI and does not require additional applications.

  1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
  2. Go to the section Network and Internet β†’ Access Point and modem.
  3. Slip on the item Wi-Fi Access Point (in some versions - Modem mode).
  4. Activate the Wi-Fi Access Point slider.
  5. Click Access Point Settings to set a network name (SSID) and password.

By default, the network will be called Redmi. 8_XXXX (where XXXX β€” last-minute IMEI), And the password is generated automatically, and we recommend that you change both settings:

  • πŸ” Name of the network (SSID): Use Latin without spaces (for example, MiHotspot_2026). Cyrillic can cause connection problems on some devices.
  • πŸ”‘ Password: minimum 8 characters, with numbers and letters in different registers. Avoid simple combinations like 12345678.
  • πŸ“Ά Frequency Range: If the connected device is old, select 2.4 GHz (in settings) β†’ Additionally).

Once you save the settings, the access point will be active. Connect to it from another device using a given password. Note: up to 8 devices can connect to Redmi 8 at a time, but when you are actively using it (for example, downloading files), the speed will be shared between them.

Mobile Internet is on and running (check the 4G/3G icon in the status bar)

The fare supports the distribution (no lock from the operator)

The phone has enough charge (minimum 30%)

VPN and energy saving modes are disabled

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2. Quick distribution through the notification panel

If you need to give out the Internet urgently, you can use the Quick Settings Panel, which saves time, but has a limitation: it only works if the hotspot has been set up before.

Instructions:

  1. Swipe your finger down the screen to open the notification bar.
  2. Find the Access Point icon (usually hidden – tap the pencil icon to edit the panels).
  3. Hold the icon Access Point 2 seconds - additional settings will open.
  4. Activate the slider and change your name/password if necessary.

If the icon is not on the panel, add it:

  1. Slip the pencil icon (Edit).
  2. Find the Access Point in the list and drag it to the active area.
  3. Save the changes.

πŸ’‘

If the notification bar does not open with a swipe, check the gesture settings in Settings β†’ Screen β†’ Gestures. Full-screen gestures may be enabled.

This is a temporal method, but remember, if you haven't set up an access point before, you'll have to go back to the first one, and you can't change the frequency range or limit the number of devices you're connected to through the panel.

3. Internet distribution via USB (USB-modem)

If you do not have access to Wi-Fi (for example, a laptop adapter is broken), you can distribute the Internet through the Internet. USB-This method is more stable than wireless and uses less battery power Redmi 8.

For activation USB-modem:

  1. Connect your phone to your computer/laptop via the original cable (preferably from the set).
  2. On the phone, select the mode of connection Data transfer (a notification will appear).
  3. Go to Settings β†’ Network and Internet β†’ Access Point and modem.
  4. Activate the slider USB-modem.

Drivers will automatically be installed on your computer (if not, download them from Xiaomi or use Mi PC Suite), and then a new device will appear in the network connections - Remote NDIS or Xiaomi Mobile Device.

What to do if the computer can’t see USB-modem?
1. Check the cable - try another one (not all cables support data transfer). 2. Update drivers via Device Manager (Windows) or System Settings (macOS). 3. Enable USB debugging in the developer settings (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ MIUI version - tap 7 times, then return to Additional β†’ For Developers). 4. Reboot both devices.

Advantages USB-modem:

  • ⚑ Stable connection without interference (unlike Wi-Fi).
  • πŸ”‹ Lower battery consumption (the phone is charged while running).
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Security: No risk of connecting third-party devices.

Disadvantages:

  • πŸ–₯️ It only works with one device (unlike Wi-Fi).
  • πŸ”Œ Cable is required (not always convenient).

Distribution via Bluetooth (alternative method)

If Wi-Fi and USB are not available, you can distribute the Internet via Bluetooth, which is slower (speeds up to 3 Mbps), but is suitable for devices without a Wi-Fi adapter (for example, some smartwatches or older tablets).

Instructions:

  1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
  2. On Redmi 8, go to Settings β†’ Devices β†’ Bluetooth.
  3. Find the right device in the list and perform pairing.
  4. Go back to Settings β†’ Network and Internet β†’ Access Point and modem.
  5. Activate the Bluetooth modem slider.

On a connected device (e.g. laptop) in Bluetooth settings, select Connect via β†’ Access Point. Speed will be limited, but for instant messengers or emails, this is enough.

⚠️ Note: Some operators (e.g. MegaFon) block distribution via Bluetooth at unlimited rates.If the Internet does not work, check the terms of your tariff or try another way.

5. Solving Typical Errors in Internet Distribution

Even after setting up the access point on Redmi 8 may not work.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Access point is turned on, but devices are not connectedIncorrect password or network name (SSID)Reset the access point settings in Settings β†’ Network and Internet β†’ Access Point β†’ Reset
The Internet is distributed, but does not work on connected devicesBlocking the operator or lack of mobile InternetCheck the balance, restart the phone, try another method of distribution (USB/Bluetooth)
The access point itself is turned off in 5-10 minutes.Energy saving mode or MIUI optimizationTurn off the Adaptive Battery in Settings β†’ Battery and add an access point to exceptions
Low speed (even with a good 4G)Many connected devices or background updatesLimit the number of devices to 2-3, disable auto-update applications

If none of the solutions worked, try resetting your network settings:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ System β†’ Additional β†’ Resetting settings.
  2. Select Network Settings Reset (does not delete files, only network settings).
  3. After restarting, reset the access point.

Wi-Fi (access point)

USB-modem

Bluetooth

Another way.

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6. Hidden settings and MIUI chips for Internet distribution

MIUI has several hidden features that make it easier to work with the access point, and here are the most useful ones:

  • πŸ”„ Automatic Shutdown: In the access point settings (Additional), you can set a shutdown timer (for example, after 30 minutes.
  • πŸ“Š Traffic statistics: in Settings β†’ Network and Internet β†’ Traffic usage can be seen how much data is spent on the distribution.
  • πŸ”’ Hidden Network: If you activate Hide SSID (In the access point settings, your network will not appear in the list of available, but you can connect to it manually.
  • πŸ“± Quick switching: if you hold your finger on the access point icon in the notification bar, a menu with quick access to settings will appear.

The unique feature of Redmi 8: if you activate Wi-Fi and mobile data at the same time, the phone can use both channels to increase the speed of distribution (Wi-Fi Assist feature), however, this does not work on all firmware and can lead to additional traffic consumption.

For advanced users, if you want to change your Wi-Fi channel or signal power, use the engineering menu.

  1. Enter the code in the phone app: ##4636##.
  2. Go to Wi-Fi information (or Wi-Fi testing in some versions).
  3. Change the settings carefully – incorrect settings can lead to a network failure.

⚠️ Warning: Changing the settings in the engineering menu can disrupt the Wi-Fi module. If you are not sure about your actions, it is better not to edit the settings manually.

7. Operator restrictions and how to circumvent them

Many Russian operators block Internet distribution at unlimited rates or limit speed.

  • πŸ“„ Check the tariff conditions: some operators (e.g. Yota) allow distribution without restrictions, others (e.g. Tinkoff Mobile) require you to connect the option.
  • πŸ”„ Change. APN: Sometimes it helps to manually configure the access point. APN Internet.mts.ru, for Beeline - Internet.beeline.ru.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Use it. VPN: Some users are blocking through VPN-applications (e.g. 1.1.1.1 or ProtonVPN), but this may violate the operator's rules.
  • πŸ“± Alternative applications: programs like PdaNet+ ClockworkMod Tether can distribute the Internet without restrictions, but require root rights.

If the operator completely blocks the distribution, the only legal way is to connect a special option, for example, MegaFon has a modem option, Beeline has an Internet for devices, which usually costs 50-150 rubles per month.

πŸ’‘

Before connecting the paid option, check with the operator whether unlimited is applicable to the distribution. Sometimes even with the option, there are speed limits (for example, up to 10 Mbit / s).

FAQ: Frequent questions about giving away the Internet with Xiaomi Redmi 8

Can I share the Internet with Redmi 8 without a password?
Technically, yes, you can choose Open Network (without password) protection from the AP settings, but we don't recommend that you do that, because outsiders can connect to your network, which will reduce speed and create security risks. If you need to temporarily remove your password, you should definitely return WPA2-PSK protection after you use it.
Why does the battery run out quickly when giving out the internet?
The access point is one of the most energy-intensive features of a smartphone. The Redmi 8 has a 5,000 mAh battery, but when it is actively distributed, it can run out in 3-4 hours. To reduce consumption: Connect the phone to charge during the handout. Reduce the brightness of the screen and turn off the background applications. USB-modem instead of Wi-Fi (lower consumption) Activate Power Saving mode, but eliminate the access point from optimization.
How to distribute the Internet with Redmi 8 to a computer without cable?
There are two options: Wi-Fi: set up the hotspot as described in the first section and connect to it from your computer. Bluetooth: activate the Bluetooth modem in your phone's settings and connect via the Bluetooth menu on your PC. The speed will be lower, but for basic tasks will be enough. If your computer does not have a Wi-Fi adapter, buy an external one. USB-adapter (costs from 300 rubles).
Can I share the Internet with Redmi 8 on another Xiaomi?
Yes, there are no restrictions. The main thing is that both devices support one of the distribution methods (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB). For example, you can distribute Internet from Redmi 8 to Redmi Note 10 via Wi-Fi or vice versa. When you connect two Xiaomi devices, you can get a notification about fast file transfer β€” you can ignore it if you only need Internet distribution.
What if the distribution function is lost after the MIUI update?
Sometimes, after updating the firmware, settings are reset or bugs appear. Try: Reboot the phone. Reset the network settings (Settings β†’ System β†’ Reset β†’ Network Reset). Check if the access point icon has disappeared in the notification panel (add it back). If nothing helps, roll back to the previous version of MIUI via the Mi Flash Tool (unlocked bootloader is required). If the problem appears after upgrading to MIUI 14, check the settings in the Special Features β†’ Developers – sometimes there are reset permissions for moding.