In modern versions of Android, Google has implemented enhanced privacy protection features since version 10, a technology known as randomization. MAC-It is activated by default on most smartphones, including Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco devices that are running shells. MIUI The essence of the technology is that when connected to a Wi-Fi network, the phone does not transmit its real, physical address of the device, but generates a random set of characters.
For the average user who just connects to a home router or a public hotspot, it's invisible and even useful. However, in some situations, this anonymity becomes an obstacle. MAC-Whitelist addresses are faced with the fact that the device constantly loses connection or cannot receive IP-This is because the router doesn't recognize the phone every time it connects, because of a change in ID.
In this article, we will explain in detail why this feature needs to be disabled, how to do it on current versions of Xiaomi firmware, and what security implications may be, and learn how to manage network identifiers and configure a stable connection with any router.
What is randomization? MAC-addresses and why you need them
Every networking equipment has a unique identifier that's stitched in by the manufacturer in the factory. MAC-Media Access Control Address: In the past, smartphones, when connected to Wi-Fi, always transmitted this static code, which allowed networks to track the movement of the user: cafes, shopping malls and airports could collect data on which devices were in the coverage area, even if the owner did not connect to the Internet.
Randomization is a game changer, and now your Xiaomi generates a random address for each new network, which protects you from creating a digital profile and tracking geolocation by third parties, and Android's security system considers using a random address to be a safer default behavior.
⚠️ Attention: Randomization MAC-Addresses can conflict with parental control systems and corporate networks where access is only allowed for a strictly defined list of devices.
Despite the obvious advantages of privacy, a home network or office often requires stability, which can only be provided by a static identifier. IP-address (DHCP Reservation – a specific device, changing the phone’s passport will cause a malfunction of the smart home or loss of access to local resources.
Why Xiaomi is blocking Wi-Fi connection
Users often wonder why their new flagship or budget Redmi refuses to connect to the router, even though the password is correctly entered. 90% of the time, it is the conflict of Android security settings and router parameters. When randomization is enabled, the phone appears to the network as a new, unknown device.
If the router is hard-filtered, the network simply ignores connection requests or resets the connection immediately after authentication. IP-Addresses when the phone is infinitely in the status of "Receiving" IP-This is a classic symptom of the fact that DHCP-The server cannot match the changing MAC-address with reserved settings.
In addition, some ISPs link network access to a hardware address, if you change routers or reset your phone settings and the ISP requires registration. MAC, Randomization will make this procedure impossible without first disabling it. MAC-address.
- 📡 The network requires registration of a unique device identifier with the provider.
- 🏠 The router is set up "White List" (MAC Filter, where only the real address is listed.
- ⏱️ Stable work is needed DHCP-reservations for a smart home.
- 🔒 Corporate security policies require equipment identification.
So disabling randomization is not a step backwards in security, but a necessary measure to ensure compatibility with specific network configurations, which returns the device to predictable behavior in a familiar environment.
Instructions: disabling randomization on MIUI and HyperOS
Change of type MAC-The addresses on Xiaomi smartphones are quite simple, but the menu may vary slightly depending on the version of the shell. We will look at a universal algorithm that is suitable for most current models.
First, open your smartphone settings and go to the Wi-Fi section. Find the network you're connected to or want to set up in the list. Click the arrow to the right of the network name or the gear icon to open the advanced connectivity settings. That's where the option is hidden.
☑️ Check before changing the settings
In the menu that opens, find the Privacy or Type item. MAC-The default is "Random" and it's going to be random. MAC-address (Randomized) MAC). You need to switch this setting to MAC-Device address (Device) MAC). Once selected, the system may warn that reconnection will be required to take effect.
Path to menu: → Wi-Fi → (Selected Network) → Privacy → MAC- Device addressIf you are using older versions of MIUI (such as Android 9 or early builds of Android 10), the option may be called differently or located in the option option. In some cases, you need to click on the menu icon (three dots) in the corner of the network list screen and select Additional settings.
Configure through extended network settings
Sometimes the standard interface hides the detailed settings, especially on customized versions of firmware for different regions. If you don't find the switch in the main Wi-Fi menu, try uninstalling the network. Click Forget network, and then start connecting again.
When you first enter your password, before you finalize your password, the system often offers you to deploy additional options. Click on Advanced options. In the drop-down, look for the Privacy field. MAC-address.
⚠️ Attention: After type change MAC-The phone will automatically terminate the connection, and you will need to re-enter the Wi-Fi password, as the network will perceive you as a new device.
This method is especially useful if you have bought a new router and want it to immediately issue a reserved router. IP-By removing the old network profile with the randomized address and creating a new one with the real one. MAC, You'll avoid conflict. IP-local-network addresses.
What to do if the item is hidden?
By disabling randomization for home Wi-Fi, you don't turn it off for public networks, which keeps the balance between home comfort and city security.
Solving problems with permanent shutdown
Even after switching to the real thing MAC-The router can "remember" the old randomized address and block the new request, considering it suspicious or duplicate.
To solve this problem, perform a full reboot of network equipment. Turn the router off the socket for 10-15 seconds, then turn it back on. Wait for full load and try to connect from the phone. Also on the Xiaomi smartphone itself, you should reset the network settings.
Go to Settings → Connection & Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth. Click Reset. This action will not delete your personal data or photos, but will clear all stored Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth device settings.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Infinite IP Receipt | DHCP and MAC conflict | Change the MAC type in Wi-Fi settings |
| Denial of access | Filter on the router | Add the real MAC to the whitelist |
| Unstable ping | Frequent change of address | Lock down MAC-address |
| Smart home doesn't work | Changing IP when reconnecting | Use Device MAC for reservations |
If the problem is not resolved after all the manipulations, check whether the Wi-Fi Assistant or Game Acceleration feature is enabled, which can aggressively control the network connection by switching between mobile Internet and Wi-Fi.
💡
For stable operation of a smart home (camera, sockets) always use a real one. MAC-address and static IP, This will eliminate situations where devices become inaccessible in the application.
Security: Risks of using a real MAC
Going back to using a permanent hardware address, you should realize that you are not giving up the extra layer of anonymity: In open public networks (cafes, subways, hotels), your phone will broadcast the same identifier, which theoretically allows attackers or ad networks to track your location.
But for home and corporate networks, this risk is minimal, and in a trusted environment, stability and access control are more important. MAC-The address allows you to know exactly what devices are on the network, and block uninvited guests if they try to connect.
It is recommended to use a hybrid approach: for home network, work and networks of friends, expose the site. MAC-Device address, and for all public access points leave default setting (Random) MAC). This will provide maximum comfort and an acceptable level of protection.
- 🛡️ In trusted networks, real MAC simplifies administration.
- 👁️ In public places, randomization hides your digital footprint.
- ⚙️ Flexible setting for each network is the best use case.
- 📉 Risk of data interception through MAC-address WPA2/WPA3 minimal.
💡
Use the real thing. MAC-address only in trusted networks where stability is required, and leave randomization enabled in public areas to protect privacy.