Modern Xiaomi smartphones often act not just as a means of communication, but also as a full-fledged tool for providing Internet access on other devices. When a Wi-Fi router is unavailable or unstable, using a mobile device as an access point becomes the only option, especially for laptop owners without built-in laptops. SIM-cards or tablets with Wi-Fi only module.
Unlike standard Wi-Fi, wired connectivity has a number of undeniable benefits that are often ignored by users. USB modem provides a more stable signal, eliminates speed losses due to radio interference and, crucially, allows you to simultaneously charge the battery of a smartphone, this solves the problem of fast discharge characteristic of wireless access point mode.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the configuration process that MIUI and HyperOS users face, learn how to activate the desired mode in hidden menus, what drivers may be needed for Windows, and how to avoid typical errors when connecting to a computer.
Advantages of wired connection over Wi-Fi
Using a cable to transmit data is a choice for stability, and wireless networks are affected by many factors: walls, neighborhood routers, microwave ovens, even mirrors. USB-The connection transmits the signal directly, without loss of data packets, which is especially important in online games or video conferencing.
Another important aspect is power consumption: when operating in wireless access point mode, the smartphone heats up very much, as the radio module runs at its limit. In wired mode, the main load is placed on the power controller, and the energy comes from the computer, saving the battery life of Xiaomi.
Data security is also important: Open Wi-Fi networks in public are often targeted by hackers; a cable connection creates a direct line between two devices, eliminating the possibility of third parties intercepting traffic through the air, making it ideal for dealing with sensitive information.
Conditions and equipment preparation
Before you start setting up, make sure your equipment meets the minimum requirements. Not every cable is capable of transmitting data; many cheap analogues only support charging. You will need a quality cable labeled Data or an original wire from the delivery kit.
The basic drivers must also be installed on the computer side. In modern versions of Windows 10 and 11, they boot automatically, but older systems such as Windows 7 may require manual installation of ADB components or Qualcomm/MediaTek drivers.
Check your status. SIM-Make sure the tariff does not run out of traffic and activate the data service. PIN-code on the SIM card before connecting, as the unlock request may interrupt the process of establishing a connection with the PC.
- π± Smartphone Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco tariff-plan.
- π Correct. USB-data-couple.
- π» Computer with worker USB-port and operating system.
- π Battery charge of the smartphone at least 20% (in case of failure).
π‘
Use USB 3.0 (blue) ports on your computer for maximum bandwidth, although USB 2.0 is enough for the internet.
Step-by-step activation of USB modem
The process of enabling the function in the MIUI shell is as simple as possible, but has one feature: the menu item is often hidden until the cable is physically connected, this is done in order not to clutter the interface with unnecessary options.
First, connect your smartphone to your computer. Once you have a charging notification, go to settings. You need to find the partition responsible for connecting and sharing the Internet. The path may vary slightly depending on the version of Android.
In the menu that opens, you'll see a item that was previously unavailable (gray). Now it should activate. Switch the switch to "On" position. The computer will emit a characteristic sound of connecting the new hardware, and in the tray will appear a wired connection icon.
βοΈ Algorithm for modem inclusion
If the computer doesn't have Internet after switching on the switch, try switching USB mode. Sometimes the default mode is "Charge Only", which blocks data transfer, change it to "File Transfer" or "MTP", and then re-activate the modem.
Configuring network parameters on the computer
After successful activation of the mode on the smartphone, the computer operating system should automatically receive IP-address DNS-However, in some cases, manual verification of network settings is required, especially if corporate networks or specific configurations are used.
In Windows, open Network Options and the Internet and go to Adapter Settings. You should see a new connection, commonly referred to as "Ethernet" with a phone number or brand name. If the status is "Unidentified Network," try restarting the network adapter.
For macOS users, the process is even smoother, with a new RNDIS/Ethernet Gadget profile appearing in the network settings menu. Apple's system usually tightens all the configurations it needs, making the process almost invisible to the user.
| Operating system | Type of connection | Need for drivers | Average speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 10/11 | RNDIS | Automatically. | Up to 100 Mbps |
| Windows 7 | RNDIS | Often required | Up to 40 Mbps |
| macOS | Ethernet | Not required | Up to 100 Mbps |
| Linux (Ubuntu) | USB Ethernet | In the core. | Up to 100 Mbps |