How to turn on modem modem on Xiaomi Redmi 9: step-by-step instructions

The modern Xiaomi Redmi 9 is capable of many tasks that were previously solved exclusively with laptops or desktop computers. One of the most popular features in the absence of wired Internet is the ability to distribute Wi-Fi, turning the device into a full-fledged router. This is especially true for those who often travel, work remotely or just want to provide access to the network your tablet or laptop on the road.

The process of activating this option on the shell MIUI It is implemented intuitively, but users may have questions about fine-tuning the frequency, security passwords, or connection via a secure connection. USB-Modem mode allows you to use mobile Internet SIM cards to connect other gadgets, which makes the smartphone an indispensable tool in the arsenal of any user.

In this guide, we will take a closer look at all the ways to organize a wireless access point, as well as the nuances of wired connectivity, and learn how to optimize power consumption and protect your network from unauthorized access using built-in Android security.

Preparation of the device and checking the mobile Internet

Before you start setting up the handout, you need to make sure that your Redmi 9 is ready to work as a signal source. First of all, check whether the data transfer on the SIM card itself is activated, since without incoming traffic, the handout will be useless. Make sure that 4G or LTE icons are on the upper right screen, which indicates a stable connection to the operator tower.

It is important to consider that the distribution of the Internet significantly consumes battery power. If you plan to use a smartphone as a modem for a long time, it is recommended to connect it to a power source or have a power bank on hand. It is also worth checking the current balance of traffic in your operator’s personal account to avoid unexpected locks or additional charges.

⚠️ Warning: When the modem is active, the smartphone may heat up more than usual due to the simultaneous operation of the communication modules and the processor.

Make sure the device has the latest version of MIUI firmware installed. Developers regularly release updates that may include patches for communication modules and improve connection stability. Check for updates in the system settings section.

Activate the Wi-Fi access point through settings

The most popular and convenient way to turn your Xiaomi into a router is to use the built-in Wi-Fi module. First, you need to get into the settings menu, where all the network settings are located. The standard path is through the main application menu or through the Quick Settings panel, but for a full configuration, you better use the system menu.

Go to Settings, then select Wi-Fi Access Point. In some versions of the shell, this section may be called Modem Mode or be inside the Connections and Sharing tab, and that's where the key switches and security settings for your future network are located.

Once you log in, you'll see the Wi-Fi Access Point switch. Before activating it, click on your network name (usually the same as a phone model like Redmi 9) to go to advanced settings. Here you can change the network name (SSID) to more recognizable and set a strong password so that neighbors can't use your traffic.

Note the "Frequency Range" option. The default can be 2.4 GHz, which provides better compatibility with older devices, but less speed. Switching to 5.0 GHz will increase data transfer speeds, however, some older laptops may not see your network. Choose the value that best suits your connected devices.

Set up security and network parameters

The security of your personal network is the number one priority, especially when you are in a public place. The access point settings on Redmi 9 use the WPA2 PSK encryption protocol by default, which is sufficiently robust for household use. Never leave the network open (without a password), as this will allow attackers to intercept your data.

The access point settings menu also has a Hide Device feature, which if you activate this option, your network will not appear in the list of available connections on other gadgets, and you will need to manually enter the network name (SSID) and password in the Wi-Fi settings on your laptop or tablet to connect.

Another useful feature is the shutdown timer, which allows you to set up an automatic turn off if no device is connected to the access point for a certain time (e.g. 5 or 10 minutes), which helps save battery power if you forget to turn off the modem manually.

Below is a table with recommended settings for different use cases:

Use of the USB-wire-wire modem

If you want the most stable connection with minimal delays, such as for online games or video conferencing, it is best to use the wired method. USB-The modem on Xiaomi Redmi 9 allows you to transfer the Internet connection directly to the computer via cable, eliminating interference and signal loss typical of wireless communication.

First, connect your smartphone to your computer or laptop with high-quality USB-Make sure the cable supports data transfer, not just charging (use the original cable or a certified analogue). USB (Charging, file transfer, etc. is normal, but for a modem settings are taken from the phone menu.

Go to the Settings menu → Wi-Fi hotspot → More (or a three-dot menu). In the list that opens, select a paragraph. USB-If this item is inactive (grey), check the cable or try another one. USB-port on your computer. Once activated in a Windows tray or in the macOS network settings, a new wired connection will appear.

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Use the ports. USB 3.0 (usually blue) on a computer to ensure maximum data transfer speed when connected via a computer USB-modem.

The advantage of this method is that it charges your smartphone at the same time. Unlike Wi-Fi, which quickly lands the battery, a wired connection powers the device from the computer port, and the computer will not “see” the phone as a media device until you switch modes yourself, which provides additional file privacy.

Distribution of Internet via Bluetooth

Although this method is less commonly used due to relatively low data rates, it can be useful in emergency situations where the Wi-Fi module is damaged or a very old device that does not support modern standards is required to connect.

To activate, you first need to pair your smartphone with the receiving device (laptop or tablet). Go to the Bluetooth settings on both devices, find your phone in the list of available and execute (pair) by confirming the code on the screens. After successful pairing, go to the access point settings on your phone and turn on the Bluetooth modem switch.

On a receiving device (like a Windows laptop), you need to go to Devices and Printers, find your phone, right-click, and select Connect via → Access Point. The driver installation process can take some time. The connection speed in this mode rarely exceeds 1-2 Mbps, which is enough for messaging or navigation, but not enough for watching videos.

Solving Connection Problems and Errors

Despite the ease of setting up, users may find themselves in situations where connected devices don’t have access to the Internet or don’t see the access point at all. One common cause is a malfunction of Android network services, in which case a banal smartphone reboot helps, which clears the cache of network modules.

If there is internet on a connected laptop but the pages are not loading, check the DNS settings. Sometimes providers block the distribution of traffic by determining TTL (packet lifetime). To circumvent such restrictions on Redmi 9, you may need to change the TTL value in the engineering menu or use specialized applications, although this requires more in-depth knowledge of the system.

⚠️ Note: If you are connected through USB The computer gives an error "Unidentified network", try to install drivers for your smartphone from the official Xiaomi website or through the Mi program PC Suite.

It's also worth checking if Traffic Saving is enabled in the app you're sharing the Internet with, or in your system settings. Some antiviruses and firewalls on your computer may block a new network connection as suspicious.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

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The best way to distribute depends on your tasks: Wi-Fi for mobile devices, USB for stability and charging, Bluetooth for emergency energy savings.