How to turn on the distribution of the Internet on the smartphone Xiaomi: all ways and solutions to problems

Distribution of the Internet from a Xiaomi smartphone is one of the most popular functions when there is no router at hand or you need to urgently connect a laptop, tablet or other gadget. 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T etc.) and firmware versions (MIUI 14/15) The process may be slightly different, but the overall scheme remains universal. In this article, we will examine all the available methods, from the classic Wi-Fi hotspot to hidden functions like USB-terminal and Bluetooth modem, and solve typical problems such as the error "Can not turn on the access point».

Xiaomi devices feature branded features like Dual Apps or Second Space, which sometimes conflict with the distribution of the Internet. In addition, some models (for example, Redmi 10C or POCO M4 Pro) may require additional APN configuration for the correct operation of the mobile hotspot, we took into account all these nuances and prepared current instructions for MIUI 14 and later, including bypassing the restrictions of operators like MTS or Beeline.

1. Preparation of the smartphone before the distribution of the Internet

Before you turn on the hotspot, make sure your Xiaomi is ready to give away traffic.

• 📶 Mobile Internet: Make sure that the smartphone has mobile data enabled (icon) 4G/5G Without an active connection, the distribution will not work.
• 🔋 Battery charge: Internet distribution actively consumes energy. If the charge is below 20%, the smartphone can automatically turn off the hotspot.
• 📱 Updates MIUI: Check the relevance of the firmware in Settings → The phone. → Update of the system in older versions (below) MIUI 12) some functions may be missing.
• 🛡️ Operator restrictions: Some tariffs (e.g. Tele2's "For Laptop" block distribution.

If you are using a double SIM-card (for example, in Xiaomi 12 Pro or Redmi Note 11 Pro)+), select the main SIM for mobile Internet in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Mobile Internet: Otherwise, the access point can connect to the network, but not transmit traffic.

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In the models with IR-blaster, POCO F4) Wi-Fi distribution may conflict with remote control. Turn off infrared port in Settings → Connection and sharing → IR-blaster if the hotspot is not operating smoothly.

2. Method 1: Distribution of the Internet via Wi-Fi (classic hotspot)

This is the most popular and versatile method, working on all Xiaomi smartphones - from the budget Redmi A2 to the flagship Xiaomi 13 Ultra. Instructions are relevant for MIUI 14/15:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to Connection and Sharing (on some models, the Internet and the Network).
3. Select Modem Modem (or Access Point and Modem).
4. Activate the Wi-Fi Access Point switch.
5. Set up network settings: Network name (SSID): Think of a unique name (for example, Xiaomi_Hotspot_123). Password: Minimum length — 8 Use a combination of letters and numbers. Security: Select WPA2-PSK (Range: On models with Wi-Fi support 6 (for example, Xiaomi 12T) choose 5 GHz for higher speed.

Once activated, other devices will see your network in the list of available Wi-Fi. Connect to it by entering a password. The maximum number of connected gadgets depends on the model: usually 8-10 devices, but on budget smartphones (for example, Redmi 9A), the limit may be lower than 5 devices.

Is the device connected to the network?|Does the hotspot icon appear in the notification panel?|Is there Internet access on a connected gadget?|Is the smartphone overheating?-->

3. Method 2: Distribution of the Internet via Bluetooth

If Wi-Fi is not available for some reason (for example, on an airplane or on the subway), you can use a Bluetooth modem, which is slower (speeds up to 3 Mbps), but more economical in battery charge, suitable for connecting laptops, tablets or other smartphones.

Instructions for MIUI 14/15:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
2. On Xiaomi, go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → Modem Modem.
3. Activate the Bluetooth modem option.
4. On a second device (like a laptop), find your smartphone in the list of available Bluetooth devices and connect.
5. In the connection settings on the laptop, select the option “Connect through the access point”.

Note: Windows 10/11 may require manual network setup.

1. Open the settings → Network and Internet → State.
2. Select Adapter settings.
3. Find a Bluetooth connection, right-click and select Properties.
4. Make sure that the items are marked IP version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and get IP-address.

Method 3: Distributing the Internet via USB (Reverse Tethering)

A little-known but useful method is the distribution of the Internet through the Internet. USB-Suitable for laptops without Wi-Fi or when you need to save battery power on your smartphone. MIUI 12 and newer, but requires additional settings on PC.

Step-by-step:

1. Connect your smartphone to your laptop/PC via USB-cable (preferably original).
2. On Xiaomi in the notification panel, select the connection mode File transfer (MTP) → USB-modem.
3. On your computer: Windows: Drivers are automatically installed. If the Internet is not available, check Device Manager for unknown devices. For MacOS: Install HoRNDIS (free driver for the Internet). USB-For Linux: Use the sudo dhclient command usb0

Advantages of this method:

• ⚡ Stability: No interference like Wi-Fi.
• 🔋 Saving charge: the smartphone is charged during the handout.
• 🛡️ Security: Connection over cable is harder to intercept.

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USB-The modem is the only way to distribute the Internet that charges the smartphone at the same time, and this is critical for long-term work (for example, at conferences or on trips).

5. Solving Internet Distribution Problems on Xiaomi

Even after you set it up correctly, you can still get errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them:

If the problem persists, try resetting the network settings to factory:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → Reset settings.
2. Select Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth settings.
3. Confirm the action and restart the smartphone.

Wi-Fi hotspot|Bluetooth modem|USB-modem|I don't use the handout.-->

6. Hidden functions and life hacks for distribution of the Internet

There are several hidden features in MIUI firmware that will make it easier to use a hotspot:

• 🔄 Automatic Shutdown: In the settings of the access point (Modem mode) → Wi-Fi hotspot → In addition), an automatic shutdown timer may be set by 5/10/30 minutes or inactivity.
• 📊 Traffic statistics: In the same menu, enable the “Show traffic used” option to track how much data connected devices consume.
• 🔒 Hidden Network: In the Wi-Fi Hotspot settings, activate Hide Network so your access point doesn’t appear in a public list (you can only connect manually, knowing the network name).
• 📶 Network priority: On models with Dual 5G (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro) In Settings → SIM-Maps and mobile networks can be selected priority network for hotspot (4G/5G).

For POCO and Redmi users with an unlocked bootloader, another life hack is available: changing the firmware region, for example, if you use Global ROM but live in Russia, some hotspot features may be limited.

1. Install the MIUI Region Changer application (root rights required).
2. Choose India or Russia (there are no restrictions on distribution).
3. Reboot your smartphone.

7. Security in the distribution of the Internet

Internet sharing opens up potential vulnerabilities for your smartphone. Follow these guidelines to avoid problems:

• 🔐 Difficult password: Do not use simple combinations like 12345678 or qwertyui.+ symbols.
• 🛡️ Device Limitation: In the hotspot settings, set a limit on connected gadgets (e.g., 3-5).
• 🔄 Regular password change: If you use handouts in public places, change your password every 1-2 weeks.
• 📵 Shutdown when simple: Do not leave the hotspot on unnecessarily – this reduces the risk of unauthorized connection.

Xiaomi smartphones with MIUI 14+ have the new connection notification feature, to activate:

1. Go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → Modem Modem.
2. Select the Wi-Fi Access Point → Additionally.
3. Enable the option to Notify about new connections.

Now you'll be notified every time a new device connects to your network, which will help you detect suspicious activity in time.

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If you often distribute the Internet in cafes or airports, turn on the VPN on the connected device, which will protect your data from possible interception through the public network.

8. Alternative ways of distributing the Internet

If standard methods don’t work, consider these options:

• 🌐 Distribution apps: Utilities like NetShare or PdaNet+ They can bypass operator restrictions, they require root rights or connections through USB.
• 📡 Portable router: If you often need a handout, buy a compact 4G-router (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router) 4C). It supports up to 64 devices and works autonomously.
• 🔗 USB-ethernet adapter: For stationary PCs without Wi-Fi, you can use the USB-to-Ethernet adapter and connect your smartphone as a modem via cable.

For users POCO F3, Xiaomi 11T and other models with IR-There's another non-obvious way of doing this with a blaster, which is to distribute it through an infrared port:

1. Install the IR Net Share app from Google Play.
2. Connect two devices through IR-Port (should be pointed at each other with infrared windows).
3. Activate data transfer in the application.

The speed will be low (~115 Kbps), but it will be enough for texting or easy surfing.

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If you need a stable distribution of the Internet on a regular basis (for example, for work), it is better to purchase a separate Internet service. 4G-This will save the battery of the smartphone and eliminate problems with overheating.

FAQ: Frequent questions about giving the Internet to Xiaomi