Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones have long since ceased to be just callers, becoming powerful multimedia centers that can completely replace the home router. In situations where wired Internet is not available or urgently requires a laptop connection to the network, the mobile access point function is an indispensable tool. Users often look for ways not only to enable data transfer, but also to optimize this process for maximum speed and security.
The MIUI shell and its successor HyperOS provide advanced capabilities for managing network connections that are hidden from view in standard use. You can not only distribute the Internet, but also limit the number of devices you connect, choose the optimal signal frequency or even hide your network from outsiders. Understanding these nuances will allow you to use your smartphone as a full-fledged Wi-Fi router without unnecessary costs.
In this article, we’ll take a look at all the steps of setting up, from basic inclusion to advanced options available in the engineering menu or hidden system settings. We’ll look at how to avoid overheating your device and why some gadgets don’t see your network, even if it’s active. Ready to work anywhere in the world starts with the right configuration of your Xiaomi.
Basic activation of Wi-Fi access point
The process of turning on the Internet on Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones is as simplified as possible by developers and takes only a few seconds. To quickly access the function, just lower the notification curtain down and find the Access Point (or "Hotspot") icon. Clicking on this switch instantly activates the Wi-Fi module in broadcast mode, allowing other devices to search for your phone in the list of available networks.
However, before you connect important devices, you need to configure security settings to avoid unauthorized access. By default, the system can use a standard name or a weak password that is easy to match. Go to the Settings menu → Wi-Fi Access Point to change the network name (SSID) to a unique one and set a complex password containing letters and numbers.
In the same section, you'll see a list of connected devices in real time, and if you notice an unfamiliar gadget here, it allows you to block access instantly, a critical traffic control feature that will save your mobile data from running out quickly.
☑️ Pre-introducement checks
It is worth noting that when activated, the system will automatically prompt Bluetooth to be turned on if it is turned off, as some protocols use it for the initial handshake of devices. Do not ignore this requirement if you plan to connect devices via Wi-Fi Direct or via the Internet. QR-code.
Frequency and security standards setting
One of the most important hidden settings is the choice of frequency range. By default, many Redmi models operate in the 2.4 GHz band, which provides better signal range but lower speed. For modern devices that support the 802.11ac standard, it is recommended to switch to 5 GHz.
To change this setting, go to Settings → Wi-Fi Access Point → Access Point setting → Frequency Range. Here you will see the options "2.4 GHz" and "5 GHz". Choosing 5 GHz will provide high data rates, which is especially important for watching 4K video or online games on a connected laptop.
⚠️ Attention: The 5GHz range has a shorter range and can penetrate walls worse. If you're in another room, the signal can become unstable or disappear completely.
Also in this section, you can set up a security standard: always choose WPA2-Personal or WPA3 if your devices support this protocol. Outdated encryption standards can be easily broken by special utilities, which will compromise your personal data transmitted over the network.
Some users face the problem when older devices (such as 5-year-old tablets or game consoles) simply do not see a network built at 5 GHz. In this case, the only solution is to return to the 2.4 GHz standard, which is universal for any Wi-Fi-enabled equipment.
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Use the 5GHz band only in the vicinity of your smartphone. To distribute the Internet to your TV or laptop in the next room, you should leave 2.4GHz.
Managing Connected Devices and Limits
Shell function MIUI Not only does it allow you to see who's connected, but it also allows you to tightly regulate access. There's a "Connected Devices" option on the access point menu, where you can see the connected devices. MAC-Addresses and names of gadgets. By clicking on a particular device, you can block it without even changing the network's shared password.
An even more useful feature is setting a limit on the number of connections you have, so you can set a limit on, say, 3 or 4 devices, and that will prevent dozens of devices from connecting to your access point at the same time in a crowded place, which is guaranteed to bring mobile internet speeds down to zero.
To set the limit, go to Settings → Wi-Fi Access Point → Access Point settings → Device management. Here you can activate the Connection Limit switch and select the desired number, and this is especially true in public places where fraudsters may try to use your data.
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Max. Devices. | Limit of simultaneous connections | 3-4 |
| Time out | Automation in the absence of customers | 10 minutes. |
| Range. | Broadcast frequency | 5 GHz (for speed) |
| Encryption | Data protection protocol | WPA2/WPA3 |
A Time Out hotspot feature is also available. If no one connects to the network within a given time (e.g. 10 minutes) or all connected devices are disconnected, the smartphone will automatically turn off the distribution module, which helps save battery power and prevents battery life from being wasted when you forgot to turn off the hotspot.
Network Hiding (SSID) for enhanced security
For users who are concerned about privacy, Xiaomi has the ability to hide the network name (SSID), in which case your smartphone will not appear in the general list of available Wi-Fi networks on surrounding devices, and you can only connect to such a network manually by entering the exact name and password.
To activate this feature, go to Settings → Wi-Fi Access Point → Adjust the Access Point and find the Hide Network switch. Once turned on, the network will disappear from the listing, but will continue to work. This creates a level of security through non-obviousness, although experienced users with special software will still be able to detect activity.
Connecting to a hidden network requires manual configuration on a client device (laptop or tablet), you will need to select the option "Connect to a hidden network" and enter the name (SSID) exactly as it is set in the phone settings, observing the letter register.
⚠️ Attention: Hiding SSID The data is transmitted in the same way as on a regular network, so be sure to use a strong password. WPA2.
Using a hidden network is convenient in offices or hotels, where multiple access points create a mess of signals, and by hiding your network, you reduce visual noise in the list of available connections on your devices and reduce the likelihood of an accidental connection.
Distribution of Internet via USB and Bluetooth
Wi-Fi is not always the best option for data transfer. If you want maximum stability and minimal latency (ping), as well as simultaneous charging of your smartphone, use it. USB-This method allows you to turn your Redmi into a wired modem for your computer.
To activate, connect your smartphone to a PC or laptop through a high-quality USB-cable. Then go to Settings. → Wi-Fi hotspot. Point"USB-The modem will become active (previously it was gray). Turn it on and the computer will recognize the new network connection as if you had connected an Ethernet cable.
Advantages USB-The obvious distributions are no speed loss due to radio interference, no heat from the smartphone (since it is charging from the PC), and no interception of the signal through the air. USB.
Why is the point USB-grey-modem?
The other alternative is a Bluetooth modem, which is much slower than Wi-Fi and USB, but uses less power, and only makes sense in emergency situations where you need to send a small amount of text or check your email and the Wi-Fi module is damaged or unavailable.
Connection problems and their solution
Despite the reliability of Android, users sometimes experience errors: devices can't see the network, connections are there, but the Internet is not working, or speeds are extremely slow. One of the common causes is the failure of network services by the operating system itself.
The first thing you need to do is reboot your smartphone. This trivial action clears the cache of network services and resets the errors of the communication module. If that doesn't work, check if the traffic restriction in the Xiaomi Security app is worth it. There can be a limit that blocks the distribution after a certain threshold is reached.
The problem may also be in the settings. APN (access points) of your mobile operator. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → SIM-card (yours) → Access points (APN). Make sure your operator's active access point is selected. APN to the standard, by pressing the corresponding button in the menu.
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If the internet on the connected device is not working, try switching the network mode from 4G/LTE to 3G and back on the phone to restart the session with the operator.
In rare cases, network resets help.This action will remove stored Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth settings, but often resolve deep software conflicts.Path: Settings → Connection and Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth.
Effect of Dispensing on Battery and Heating
The hotspot mode is one of the most energy-consuming for a smartphone. The Wi-Fi module is worn out, constantly transmitting and receiving data packets, which leads to significant heating of the case. In summer or when using cases with poor heat transfer, this can cause trottling (decreased performance) or even emergency shutdown.
When you run in router mode, the battery temperature can reach critical values. The MIUI system has built-in protective mechanisms, but the physical wear of the battery during these heating and cooling cycles accelerates. If you need to distribute the Internet for several hours (for example, on a train), try to remove the protective case.
The ideal solution for stationary use is to connect your smartphone to an external power source or power bank during the handout, which compensates for the high energy consumption. However, make sure that the device does not lie in direct sunlight, since the combination of heating from the sun and the operation of the communication module is dangerous for lithium polymer batteries.
⚠️ Warning: Do not leave the access point on unattended on a soft surface (sofa, bed) and lack of ventilation can cause the battery to overheat and bloat.
You can use built-in diagnostics or third-party applications to monitor the temperature of the battery to monitor the condition. If the phone gets hot, it is better to turn off the distribution for a while or switch to a wired one. USB-modem that warms less.