How to improve the reception of the Internet on the smartphone Xiaomi: effective methods

The problem of weak signal or unstable connection on Xiaomi smartphones is often a source of irritation, especially when the speed drops at the most inopportune moment. Users may encounter a situation where the indicator shows a confident reception, but the pages in the browser do not load or video communication is interrupted. This can be due to both software failures of the MIUI shell or HyperOS, and physical environmental factors.

Before looking for complex technical solutions, it is worth eliminating trivial reasons, such as an overload of the operator's base station or the planned work of the provider. However, if the problem is systemic in nature for your device, you need to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis of settings. In this article, we will discuss proven ways to improve Internet reception and stabilize the connection.

It is worth noting that some methods require careful attention, as they affect the system parameters of the radio module. Incorrect configuration can lead to temporary loss of communication, so follow the instructions consistently. We will look at software tweaks, engineering menu settings and the physical aspects of using the gadget.

Diagnostics and initial network configuration

The first step should always be to check the status of the SIM card and the settings of the access point. Often users forget that the old SIM cards released 5-7 years ago may not support modern standards for high-speed data exchange 4G+ or LTE-A. Replacing the SIM card from the operator with a new one with support for USIM often works wonders without any additional manipulation of the phone.

It is also critical to check the access point settings. APN. This is the gateway through which your smartphone connects to the operator's network, if it has outdated parameters or a type of network. GPRS instead LTE, You don't have to wait for high speed. Go to Settings to check. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN).

⚠️ Attention: When changing parameters APN Do not delete the standard operator profiles. Create a new access point with the relevant data obtained on your provider's website, so that in case of an error, you can simply delete the created profile.

Another important aspect is the choice of priority network type: the menu of mobile networks often has a mode "preferably LTE", but in areas with a very weak signal, the phone can endlessly try to "catch" 4G, losing stable 3G. Forced switching to 3G mode preferably in such cases can give a more stable, albeit less fast Internet.

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Use In-Air mode for 10-15 seconds to force your phone to re-register at the nearest base station if the signal is lost abruptly.

Optimizing Wi-Fi Connection Settings

If you're having problems connecting to your home network, you should look at frequency bands. Modern routers broadcast signals in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The 5 GHz band provides high speeds but has less penetration through walls. If you're far from the router, switching to 2.4 GHz can significantly improve signal strength.

Xiaomi smartphones have a feature called "Wi-Fi Assistant" that automatically switches the device to mobile Internet if the quality of the Wi-Fi signal drops below a certain threshold. Sometimes this function works incorrectly, causing permanent breaks. You can turn it off in the Settings β†’ Wi-Fi β†’ Wi-Fi Assistant section.

Also worth considering is resetting network settings.This action won't delete your personal files or contacts, but will clear all stored Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth pairs and mobile network settings, returning them to factory values.This often resolves driver software conflicts.

  • πŸ“Ά Check if power saving mode is enabled, which may limit the operation of the Wi-Fi module in the background.
  • πŸ“Ά Make sure that the router does not have a limit on the MAC-address.
  • πŸ“Ά Try changing the router’s broadcast channel to a less busy one using Wi-Fi analyzer apps.
πŸ“Š Which type of connection is causing you more problems?
Mobile Internet (LTE/3G)
Home Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi
Both options are equivalent.

Use of engineering menus and hidden settings

For advanced users who want to gain full control of the radio module, an engineering menu is available, which is logged in through a set of special code in the Phone application. For most Xiaomi devices, the code ##4636## is relevant. Once you enter the Phone Information menu, you will see advanced network settings.

You can find the item "Set preferred network type." The standard value is usually NR/LTE/TD-SCDMA/CDMA/EvDo/GSM/WCDMA. If you have problems switching between generations of networks, you can try to choose the option only with LTE or, conversely, a broader range of standards. This allows you to "pin" the phone on a certain type of tower.

Code for entry: ##4636##


Way: Phone Information -> Set your preferred network type

The same menu also includes a "Ping Test" feature that allows you to check the quality of the connection to the Google server in real time. If the ping jumps or packets are lost even at the full signal scale, the problem may be on the provider's side or in the overheating of the smartphone modem.

What if the code doesn't work?
On some global versions of MIUI firmware, access to the engineering menu via dialing may be blocked, in which case you can use the "Activity Launcher" application from Google Play, find the "Testing" activity list and run the menu from there.

Resetting network settings and software updates

The accumulation of errors in system configuration files over time can lead to unstable operation of communication modules. Regular updates to the MIUI or HyperOS operating system often contain patches that fix radio part bugs. Check for updates in the Settings β†’ About phone section.

If the update didn't work, reset the network, which is a radical but effective method, and it brings all Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and mobile data back to factory status, and after that, the phone will behave like a new connection, which often eliminates software glitches.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before network reset

Done: 0 / 4

Once reset, you'll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords and re-enter Bluetooth gadgets. Don't be afraid if the phone is going to be searching for the network longer than usual after the reboot, which is a normal process for re-registration on carrier networks.

Physical factors and the impact of accessories

The physical impact on the antennas of a smartphone cannot be ignored. In modern devices, antenna lines are often located along the perimeter of the housing. Density metal cases, cases with magnetic clasps or inserts can shield the signal, reducing its level by 10-20%.

Human factors should also be considered: when using a smartphone in a horizontal position (for example, when watching videos or playing games), the palms can overlap the areas of the antennas. Try changing the grip of the device or its position in space to see changes in the indicator.

Type of obstacleEffect on signalRecommendation
metal caseStrong (up to 50% loss)Replace it with plastic or silicone
Thick walls (concrete)Medium/strongUse a Wi-Fi repeater
Microwave ovenCritical (at work)Move away from the radiation source
Mirror surfacesWeak (reflection)Change the angle of reception

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Removing a thick protective case is the fastest way to check whether the accessory is the cause of poor signal reception.

Problems with SIM-map-and-operator

Sometimes the root of the problem lies in the physical state of the SIM card itself, the contacts can oxidize, and the chip itself can wear out from frequent permutations. If your SIM card is over 3-4 years old, it makes sense to visit the operator's salon and replace it for free. New cards better hold the network and support all modern security protocols.

Also, check the balance and availability of services that block the Internet. Some tariff plans have hidden traffic limits, after which the speed is cut to a minimum, which the user perceives as a loss of signal.

  • πŸ“ž Check if VoLTE is activated, which improves voice quality and allows you to not interrupt the Internet during a conversation.
  • πŸ“ž Make sure the SIM card is properly installed in the slot, especially if you use a combined tray (SIM + microSD).
  • πŸ“ž Try to move the SIM card to another slot if your smartphone supports two SIM cards, as slots can have different reception characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is Xiaomi not catching the network well after the MIUI update?
After major shell updates, network settings are often reset or conflicts with the old configuration cache arise. It is recommended to reset the network settings or clear the cache of the Phone and Google Play services application.
Does the energy saving mode affect the speed of the Internet?
Yes, in hard power mode, the system limits application background activity and can reduce network polling frequency, leading to delays in receiving notifications and lower download speeds.
Will the app help to amplify the signal?
Google Play apps can't physically amplify the signal because they don't have access to the hardware-level power management of the antenna, and they just reset the network settings, which you can do on your own through the phone's menu.
What if the internet is lost in just one place?
Chances are that your carrier's coverage is missing or shielded in this area, and try switching to 3G Only or 2G Only mode, as low-frequency bands are better at penetrating walls.