Connecting your computer to the Internet via a Xiaomi smartphone is a universal solution when there is no router or cable connection at hand, POCO and Mi) support the distribution of the Internet USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but each method has nuances. USB-Some models require the inclusion of debugging USB, A Wi-Fi hotspot can automatically shut down when the battery is low.
In this article, we will discuss the current configuration schemes for MIUI 14/15 and Android 13/14, including bypassing common errors (for example, when the PC does not see the network or outputs a “Limited Connection”). We will analyze all three ways with step-by-step screenshots, compare them in speed and stability, and provide security recommendations – for example, how to protect the access point from connecting third-party devices.
1. Preparation of Xiaomi phone for the distribution of the Internet
Before setting up the connection, check two key parameters:
- 📶 Mobile Internet – the phone must be active data transfer (icon) 4G/5G/E in the status bar. If you use two SIM-maps, select the main one for the Internet in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Mobile Internet.
- 🔋 Battery charge – when handed over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the phone discharges 2-3 times faster. If the charge is below 20%, connect the charger (preferably original from Xiaomi with Quick Charge support).
Also make sure that the phone has the latest MIUI updates installed. Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update. Outdated firmware versions can cause Internet outages, especially on the Redmi Note 10/11 and POCO X3/X4 models.
⚠️ Note: If you are using a corporate or training network (e.g., with an authorization portal), the Internet distribution may be blocked by the operator. VPN phone-on.
2. Method 1: Distribution of the Internet over USB (USB-modem)
Connection through USB-cable is the most stable and energy efficient way, data speed is close to the maximum for your tariff, and the phone hardly discharges (if connected to charging). 9A or POCO M3) additional adjustment is required.
Step-by-step:
- Connect your phone to your PC with the original cable (preferably from the kit). Using uncertified cables can lead to the error "USB device not recognized."
- On the phone in the notification line tap on the message "Charging through" USB" and select "Data Transfer" (or "USB-"modem" if such a point exists).
- Go to Settings. → Access Point and modem → USB-modem and switch on. A new network connection should appear on the PC.
After inclusion USB-Internet modem on PC did not appear:
- 🔄 Restart your phone and PC.
- 🔧 Install Xiaomi drivers for your model (you can download on the official website in the Support section). → Drivers).
- 🛠️ In Windows Device Manager, check if there is an exclamation mark next to Network Adapters".
☑️ Verification USB-Xiaomi modem
| Parameter | USB-modem | Wi-Fi hotspot | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (max) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (limited to the Wi-Fi standard) | ⭐⭐ (up to 3 Mbps) |
| Battery consumption | ⭐ (minimum) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high-end) | ⭐⭐ (middle-class) |
| Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ (may break off) | ⭐⭐ (cluttered) |
| Security | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (only your PC) | ⭐⭐ (Risk of connecting other people's devices) | ⭐⭐⭐ (radius-bound) |
Method 2: Wi-Fi Access Point (mobile hotspot)
Wi-Fi Internet sharing is convenient if you need to connect several devices (laptop, tablet, other phone), but this method has disadvantages:
- 🔋 Fast battery discharge (up to 1% in 2-3 minutes with active use).
- 📶 The limit on the number of connected devices (usually up to 8, but on budget models Redmi can be 4 or less).
- 🛡️ Risk of connecting third-party devices if the password is not configured.
How to set up an access point on Xiaomi:
- Open Settings → Access Point and modem → Wi-Fi Access Point.
- Click on "Access Point Setting" and ask: 🔐 Name of the network (SSID) — any convenient (for example, Xiaomi_Hotspot). 🔑 Password - at least 8 symbols (letters, numbers and special symbols are recommended). 📡 Range — 2.4 GHz (better through walls) or 5 GHz (higher speed but smaller radius).
Wi-Fi hotspot.
On a PC, find a new network in the Wi-Fi list and connect by entering a password.
⚠️ Note: On some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 8 Pro), the access point automatically shuts down after 5-10 minutes without activity. To avoid this, activate the "Disable if no devices are available" option in the access point settings and set the timer to "Never".
How to increase the speed of Wi-Fi access point?
4. Method 3: Connect via Bluetooth
Bluetooth Internet is the slowest but most cost-effective way to transmit small amounts of data (e.g., checking email or messengers), rarely faster than 3 Mbps, but the connection is resistant to interference and does not require cables.
Instructions for Xiaomi:
- Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and PC. On Xiaomi, it's done through Settings → Connections and Sharing → Bluetooth.
- Connect devices: On the phone, click "Device Search", select your PC and confirm the pairing code.
- Return to Settings → Access Point and modem and turn on the “Bluetooth modem”.
- On the PC in the Bluetooth control panel, select your phone and click "Connect through" → Access point".
If the problem persists, try connecting the phone to another. USB-port (preferably) USB 3.0).