How to enable 4G on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: all ways and solutions to problems

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 supports fourth-generation networks, but sometimes users are faced with the fact that the device works hard only in mode 3G It can be caused by both incorrect settings and hardware limitations, for example, if you have a problem with the SIM-The card does not support the desired frequencies or the operator does not provide a service in your region.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to include 4G On the Redmi Note 9, from basic settings to hidden options in the engineering menu, you’ll learn how to check compatibility. SIM-You can use the cards, update the firmware to improve communication, even manually prioritize frequencies, and if standard methods don't work, you can find instructions for diagnosing hardware problems.

Important: Before setting up, make sure your tariff supports 4G/LTE. For that, send it. USSD-request *100# (for MegaFon/MTS or *111# (for Beeline/Tele2) β€” The answer will indicate the available Internet speed.

1. Basic 4G setup via phone menu

So, to start with, the simplest thing is to check the basic parameters of the network, and most often, the problem is solved in 3 clicks.

  1. Open β€œSettings” and go to the section SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  2. Choose yours. SIM-card (if two of them).
  3. Tap on the network type (or preferred network type).
  4. Set the 4G (preferably)/LTE value.

If there is no such item or it is inactive, then your SIM-card does not support 4G, or the phone is locked under a specific operator (for example, when buying on credit), in this case, the replacement will help SIM on USIM (universal) or unblocking through the operator.

Make sure that SIM-card 4G (written on the card or in the contract)

Check the balance and activity of the tariff with LTE

Reboot your phone before changing your settings

Disable the mode "Saving traffic" in the settings of the network-->

After a change in network type, the phone may lose connection for a short time, which is normal. If after 1-2 minutes the network indicator has not changed to 4G or LTE, move to the next section.

Verification of compatibility SIM-card-and-operator

Even if your Redmi Note 9 is technically supportive 4G, communication may not work due to limitations on the part of the operator or outdated SIM-Here's what we need to check:

  • πŸ“± Type SIM-maps: the back should be written USIM or 4G LTE. Old cards (before 2015) often only work in the 3G.
  • πŸ“‘ Network coverage: on the operator’s website (e.g. MTS coverage card) check if available 4G in your region.
  • πŸ’° Tariff Plan: Some Budget Tariffs Limit Speed to 3G. Check with the operator or in your personal account.

If SIM-The card is outdated, you can replace it for free in the cabin of the operator (you have a passport with you). For the Redmi Note 9, nano-SIM or eSIM will suit (if the model supports the model).

πŸ“Š What kind of operator are you using?
MTS
MegaFon
Beeline
Tele2.
Yota
Other
Operator.USSD-check-in 4GMinimum tariff with LTE
MTS*111*8#"Smart" (from 350""" β‚½/moss)
MegaFon*105*00#"It's just 4" (from 400) β‚½/moss)
Beeline*110*180#"All over 300" (from 300" β‚½/moss)
Tele2.*155*1#"My Tele2" (from 250) β‚½/moss)

⚠️ Note: If you are using a corporate SIM-map, access 4G It can be blocked by the administrator of the company. IT-department.

Manual LTE frequency assignment (engineering menu)

Sometimes the Redmi Note 9 can’t automatically connect to 4G due to a frequency conflict, and manual adjustment through the engineering menu will help. Be careful: the wrong changes can lead to loss of network!

Instructions:

  1. Open the phone app and enter the combination: ##4636##
  2. Select Phone Information (or Phone Information).
  3. Scroll down to the Set preferred network type block and install LTE only.
  4. If you need to set specific frequencies, go to Band Mode and select the ones supported by your operator (see the table below).

The following 4G bands are relevant for Russia:

Operator.Primary frequencies (Band)Additional frequencies
MTSBand 7 (2600 MHz), Band 20 (800 MHz)Band 3 (1800 MHz)
MegaFonBand 7 (2600 MHz), Band 3 (1800 MHz)Band 38 (2600 MHz, TD-LTE)
BeelineBand 3 (1800 MHz), Band 7 (2600 MHz)Band 20 (800 MHz)
Tele2.Band 3 (1800 MHz), Band 7 (2600 MHz)Band 38 (2600 MHz, TD-LTE)

If 4G never came up after manually configuring, return the engineering menu settings to the default state and try another method.

4. Update firmware and reset network settings

Outdated software can cause connection problems to 4G. Xiaomi regularly releases updates to correct modem errors.

  1. Go to Settings β†’ About the phone β†’ System update.
  2. Click Check Updates and install the latest version of MIUI.
  3. After the update, reset the network settings: Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Resetting mobile network settings.

If there are no updates, but the problem remains, try the manual firmware through Fastboot. You can download the official firmware on the Xiaomi Firmware website.

πŸ’‘

Before updating, back up your data via Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup and Reset. This will save your contacts, messages and application settings.

⚠️ Warning: If after the update the phone stopped seeing the network at all, perform a hard reset via Settings β†’ Additionally. β†’ Recovery and reset. This will delete all data, but it will restore the modem to work.

5. Checking hardware problems

If none of the software methods worked, the reason could be a hardware malfunction, and here are the signs that the hardware is the problem:

  • πŸ“΅ The phone does not catch the network even in areas of reliable coverage (for example, in the city center).
  • πŸ”‹ The network indicator is constantly blinking or disappears when moving.
  • πŸ› οΈ Previously, the phone fell, wet or repaired (especially if the case was disassembled).

The most common hardware problems:

  1. A damaged modem (chip that handles communications) is only diagnosed at a service center.
  2. Oxidized contacts SIM-Try cleaning them gently with a swallow or alcohol.
  3. Faulty antenna, often suffering from falls, checked by a tester.

For diagnosis, you can use the test mode:

#4636## β†’ Phone information β†’ Scroll down to β€œSet preferred network type”

If you choose LTE only phone writes Error or restarts - this is a sure sign of hardware malfunction.

How do you check the strength of the signal?
In the engineering menu (#4636##) go to the phone information tab and look at the parameters: - Signal strength (dBm signal strength): optimally from -70 to -100. If below -110 - communication is very weak. - LTE RSRP (4G quality): should be above -120 dBm. - LTE RSRQ: optimally above -10 dB.

6. Alternative ways to speed up the Internet

If 4G has not yet worked, but the Internet is urgently needed, use these methods:

  • 🌐 Wi-Fi Calling: Many operators (MTS, MegaFon) allow you to call over Wi-Fi even without a network. β†’ SIM-map β†’ Additionally. β†’ Wi-Fi calls.
  • πŸ“Ά Signal amplifier: If you live in a low-coating area, buy a repeater 4G (2000 β‚½). It will amplify the signal and distribute it to several devices.
  • πŸ”„ Modem mode: connect the phone to the computer USB and distribute the Internet through Settings β†’ Access Point and modem β†’ USB-It's sometimes more stable than mobile data.

Alternative network management applications are also worth trying, such as:

  • Network Signal Guru – shows detailed information about the network and cells.
  • 4G LTE Switch – Compulsoryly includes 4G (requires root rights).

πŸ’‘

If none of the methods worked, and the phone is guaranteed, contact the Xiaomi service center. Self-repair of the antenna or modem can deprive you of warranty.

FAQ: Frequent 4G questions on Redmi Note 9

Why is it 4G but it’s 3G-like?
This can be due to: Overloading the operator's base station (especially during peak hours); speed limiting on the tariff (check your personal account); Active VPN or proxy (turn them off in the settings); Also try in the engineering menu (#4636##) to enable the Enhanced 4G LTE Mode option (if available).
Can I turn on 4G+ (LTE-Advanced) on the Redmi Note 9?
Redmi Note 9 supports 4G+ (frequency aggregation), but only if: the operator provides this service in your region (check on the website). The phone has firmware no older than MIUI 12. The option is activated in the engineering menu: LTE CA Configuration β†’ Enabled. 4G+ speed can reach 300 Mbit / s (versus 75-150 Mbit / s in normal 4G).
After resetting, 4G has disappeared.
Resetting often resets and settings APN (access points, to restore 4G: Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN). Press Reset to default values. APN your operator did not appear automatically, add it manually (options can be found on the operator's website). APN: Name: MTS APN: Internet.mts.ru Proxy: not specified Port: not specified Username: mts Password: mts Authentication type: PAP or CHAP
The phone says "3G only" in network status. How do you fix it?
This means that the phone is forced to work in the mode. 3G. Causes and solutions: πŸ“΅ SIM-card does not support 4G β†’ replace her with USIM. πŸ”§ In the settings selected "Only 3G" β†’ change 4G (preferably). πŸ“‘ Operator temporarily shut down 4G in your zone β†’ Check the coverage on his website. πŸ› οΈ Damaged modem. β†’ Diagnostics are required in the service.
Will 4G work on the Redmi Note 9 overseas?
Redmi Note 9 supports most European and Asian frequencies 4G (Band 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40. In the U.S. and Canada, there may be problems - Band 2, 4, 12, 13 are used there, which are not supported. SIM-Check compatibility at Will My Phone Work.