Xiaomi smartphones have long ceased to be just devices for calls β they have turned into full-fledged hubs for distributing the Internet. WedΕug 68% of users have used their phone at least once as an access point to connect a laptop, tablet or even another smartphone, but not everyone knows that Xiaomi can do this in three different ways: via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and other devices. USB-Each method has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on your tasks.
In this article, we will analyze not only the basic settings, but also hidden functions. MIUI, They're going to save you battery power, increase your data speed, and even get around carrier restrictions, like, did you know that on some Xiaomi models, you can distribute Internet simultaneously over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without losing speed? MIUI 14+ There is an option to automatically disable the access point in the absence of connected devices?
If you have encountered errors such as βCanβt Enable Access Pointβ or βConstrained by Operatorβ, here you will find working solutions for Redmi, POCO And for those of you who are worried about security, we've put together a checklist to protect your network from unauthorized access.
1. Preparation of Xiaomi phone for the distribution of the Internet
Before you turn on the hotspot, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for this task.First, check for mobile internet: no active internet connection. SIM-The second thing you have to do is pay attention to the battery level, because the Internet is a lot of power, and if it's below 20 percent, the phone can shut down at the most inopportune moment.
It is also worth updating the firmware to the latest version. MIUI. In older versions (below). MIUI 12) important functions, such as speed limiting for connected devices or filtering, may be missing MAC-You can check the version in the Settings menu. β The phone. β Version. MIUI.
Make sure that the mobile internet is turned on|Check the battery charge (minimum 30%)|Update. MIUI last-minute|Turn it off. VPN (may block the distribution)|Check the traffic limit with the operator-->
Pay special attention to the tariff plan. Many operators (for example, MTS, Beeline, Tele2) limit or completely block the distribution of Internet at cheap rates. If you have errors when you turn on the access point, contact the operator and check whether your tariff supports tethering (as the Internet distribution is called in English).
β οΈ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) POCO X3 Pro) when the access point is first turned on, a warning may appear about additional payment, this is not a mistake - so the operator informs that a fee may be charged for the distribution of the Internet.
2. Internet distribution via Wi-Fi (modem mode)
The most popular and convenient way to do this is to create a Wi-Fi hotspot, which is suitable for connecting multiple devices at once (usually up to 10) and provides high data rates. To enable this mode on Xiaomi, follow the following steps:
- Open Settings and go to the Network and Internet section β Access Point and modem.
- Select Wi-Fi Access Point (on some models it may be called Modem Modem).
- Turn on the Wi-Fi Access Point slider.
- Click Access Point Settings to change the network name (SSID), password, and other settings.
By default, Xiaomi generates a random network name (e.g., a random name, Xiaomi_1234) We recommend changing them to more memorable ones, but don't use simple combinations like this "12345678" Or "qwerty." Better think of a password that's at least as long. 8 symbols with numbers and letters in different registers.
How to hide the access point from outsiders
If you want to limit Internet speed for connected devices (for example, so that someone does not eat all your traffic), in the access point settings, find the Speed Limit. Here you can set a limit on downloads and outputs. This feature is available on Xiaomi with the help of the Internet. MIUI 13 and newer.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Network name (SSID) | Xiaomi_[name] | It is best to avoid personal information (such as last name or phone number) |
| Type of security | WPA2-PSK | The most reliable option for home use |
| Password. | 12+ symbols (numbers, letters, special symbols) | Do not use dates of birth or simple sequences. |
| Frequency range | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz | 5 GHz faster but shorter range; 2.4 GHz more stable over distance |
| Auto-disconnection | Through 5-10 minute | Saves battery power if no one is connected |
3. Internet distribution via Bluetooth
If you only need to connect one device (like a laptop or tablet) and want to save battery power, a Bluetooth modem is a great option, which consumes less power than Wi-Fi, but the data rate will be lower (usually up to 10 Mbps), but the connection is more stable, especially in the face of interference.
To distribute the Internet via Bluetooth on Xiaomi:
- Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
- On Xiaomi phone, go to Settings β Network and Internet β Access Point and modem.
- Activate the Bluetooth modem option.
- On a second device (like a laptop), find your Xiaomi in the list of available Bluetooth devices and connect.
Note: on some models (e.g. Redmi) 9A or POCO M3) The Bluetooth modem option may be hidden:
- Open the Settings. β The phone.
- Click on the MIUI version several times until the message βYou became a developerβ appears.
- Go back to the main settings menu and find a new section for developers.
- Enable the Bluetooth modem option in this menu.
β οΈ Note: When giving the Internet via Bluetooth to Xiaomi, there may be a problem with automatic disconnection through the Internet 5-10 This is due to energy saving settings. To fix, turn off Bluetooth battery optimization from the Settings menu. β Battery β Optimizing the battery.
The speed of the Bluetooth modem depends on the protocol version:
- π΅ Bluetooth 4.0: Up to 3 Mbps (older models, such as Redmi) 4X)
- π΅ Bluetooth 5.0: up to 10 Mbps (most modern Xiaomi)
- π΅ Bluetooth 5.2+: Up to 50 Mbps (flagships like Xiaomi 13 Pro)
Wi-Fi|Bluetooth|USB|Never handed out.-->
4. Internet distribution through USB (surest)
If you want maximum connection stability and minimum battery consumption, USB-The modem is the best choice, and it's suitable for connecting to a laptop or PC when Wi-Fi or Bluetooth are not available, and the data rate will be maximum (limited only by the options of your data plan).
To distribute the Internet through USB Xiaomi:
- Connect your phone to your computer using the original USB-cable.
- On the phone in the notification menu, select File Transfer mode (MTP) Or just charging (it's important!).
- Go to Settings β Network and Internet β Access Point and modem.
- Turn on the option. USB-modem.
If a new network connection does not appear on your computer, check:
- π Whether you use the original cable (poor cables may not transmit data).
- π Are drivers installed for Xiaomi (usually installed automatically when you first connect).
- π Does the antivirus or firewall block the new connection.
On Windows, there is sometimes an "Unidentified Device" error when you connect Xiaomi in modem mode.
- Open Device Manager (click Win + X).
- Find a device with a yellow exclamation point (usually in the "Other Devices" section).
- Right-click and select Update Driver β Automatic Search.
π‘
If USB-The modem does not work with Xiaomi MIUI 14+, Try to turn on the developer mode and activate the debugging option USB. Sometimes it helps to solve connection problems.
5. Solving common Internet distribution errors
Even on todayβs Xiaomi, users are faced with errors when trying to distribute the Internet.
Error: "I failed to turn on the access point"
This error usually occurs for three reasons:
- Operator restriction: Many tariffs block the distribution of the Internet, check the terms of your tariff or call for support.
- Conflict with VPN. If you have it on. VPN (for example, Turbo VPN or 1.1.1.1., turn it off and try again.
- Failure in settings. Reset network settings: Settings β System system β Resetting settings β Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth.
Error: "It's connected, but the internet isn't working"
If your device connects to your access point but the internet is not available:
- π΅ Check if mobile internet is enabled on Xiaomi.
- π΅ Reboot the phone.
- π΅ Change the network mode with 4G on 3G Or vice versa (sometimes helps).
- π΅ Check if the daily traffic limit is not exhausted (especially important for unlimited tariffs with a "soft" restriction after the end of the day). 20-30 GB).
Error: "The access point shuts down by itself"
If the Wi-Fi access point is turned off after a few minutes, the reasons may be as follows:
- β‘ Power saving: Turn off battery optimization for the Access Point function in the Settings menu β Battery β Optimizing the battery.
- β‘ Overheating. Xiaomi automatically shuts down the Internet distribution at high CPU temperature.
- β‘ Firmware failure. MIUI Up to the latest version or reset the network.
π‘
If none of these methods worked, try resetting your phone to factory settings. Before you do, remember to back up your data to Settings. β System system β Backup!
6. How to save battery power when giving the Internet
Internet sharing is one of the most energy-consuming functions of a smartphone. 4000-5000 The access point can discharge the phone for 3-4 To extend your work hours, follow these tips:
- π Use it. USB-It's the most economical way to use it. 30-40% Less power than Wi-Fi).
- π Limit the number of devices connected. Each new device increases the load on the processor.
- π Reduce the brightness of the screen. Even if you don't use your phone, the display in the background consumes charge.
- π Turn on the power saving mode. MIUI There is an option "Ultramode", which disables background processes.
- π Use an external battery. Powerbank on 10000 mAch will extend the work by 8-10 hours.
On models with support for fast charging (for example, Xiaomi) 12T pro POCO F4 GT) You can connect your phone to a charger while you're giving the Internet:
- π When used intensively, the phone can discharge even during charging (if the adapter power is less than 18 watts).
- π Using unoriginal cables or adapters can cause overheating.
If you often give away the Internet, consider buying an external one. 4G-modem or router with support SIM-This will unload the phone and save it life.
7.Security when giving out the Internet with Xiaomi
An open hotspot is a potential threat to your data, and attackers can connect to your network and intercept traffic, especially if you use public Wi-Fi or a weak password, to protect yourself:
- π Always set a complex password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special characters).
- π Turn off the access point when it's not needed. Even if no one is connected to it, it remains visible to scanners.
- π Use it. VPN It encrypts all traffic and protects against wiretapping.
- π Turn on the filtering by MAC-In the settings of the access point (MIUI 13+) You can specify which devices are allowed to connect.
If you are sharing the internet in a public place (such as a cafe or airport), avoid:
- π« Connecting to open Wi-Fi networks on Xiaomi itself (this could lead to data leakage).
- π« Entering personal accounts of banks or social networks without VPN.
- π« Use of the protocol WEP (obsolete and unreliable instead of WPA2.
On Xiaomi models with MIUI 14: "Secure hotspot" is coming in, and it automatically blocks suspicious connections and encrypts them. DNS-To turn it on:
- Go to Settings β Network and Internet β Access Point and modem.
- Click Access Point Settings β Additionally.
- Activate the option of a secure access point.
π‘
Never give out the Internet from a phone that stores critical data (such as access to cryptocurrency wallets or corporate mail (VPN + two-factor authentication).
8. Hidden Internet Distribution Features on Xiaomi
V MIUI There are some little-known features that make sharing the Internet more convenient:
1. Simultaneous distribution over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
In most cases, Xiaomi (starting with the MIUI 12.5) You can distribute the Internet simultaneously over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which is convenient if you need to connect a laptop (wi-fi) and wireless headphones (by Bluetooth) without losing speed:
- Turn on the Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Activate the Bluetooth modem.
- Connect devices to the appropriate networks.
Speed limit for individual devices
V MIUI 13+ You can set speed limits not only for all devices at once, but also for each device individually, for example, you can give a laptop full speed, and a tablet to limit to 5 Mbps:
- Open Settings β Network and Internet β Access Point and modem.
- Press Connected Devices.
- Select the device and set a limit in the Speed Limit menu.
3. Automatic shutdown at low charge
So that the phone does not run out to zero, in MIUI You can set up an automatic shutdown of the access point when you reach a certain level of charge, for example, at 15:
- Go to Settings β Battery β Battery Optimization.
- Find the access point and click on it.
- Select Limit Background Activity and set a charge threshold.
4. Modifying Wi-Fi Channel to Reduce Interference
If the speed of the Internet is unstable, try changing the Wi-Fi channel. In a city, many networks work on the same channel, which creates interference, to choose the best channel:
- Install the WiFi Analyzer app from Google Play.
- See which channels are the least loaded.
- In the settings of the access point (Settings) β The Internet and the Internet β Access Point and modem β Setting up the access point, select the free channel manually.
These features arenβt available on all Xiaomi models, but if your phone is running on the same device, itβs not. MIUI 12.5 or later, they probably do. To find out the firmware version, go to Settings. β The phone. β Version. MIUI.