Using Xiaomi as a modem: a complete guide USB-connection

In situations where wired internet is unavailable and Wi-Fi signal is too weak or missing, a smartphone becomes the only window into the digital world. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco devices often use them not only for calls, but also as full-fledged tools for accessing the network on other gadgets. USB-A modem is a technology that allows you to turn your phone into a network card for a computer or laptop.

Use of a wired connection through USB-The cable is often more stable and faster than the Wi-Fi signal, which is because the smartphone’s radio module does not overheat and the data transfer speed is limited only by the operator and interface. USB. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to configure the modem on the shell MIUI or hyperos.

You don't need to be an expert in networking to do this. Modern versions of Android and Xiaomi's proprietary shell have made this as easy as possible, but there are nuances about drivers, security settings and power consumption that need to be considered for stable operation.

Advantages USB-modem before Wi-Fi access point

Many users are in the habit of turning on a Wi-Fi hotspot without thinking that the cable can give you a better result. USB-modem, you charge the device at the same time, and this is critical for long sessions, because the Wi-Fi signal is discharging the battery very quickly, sometimes over time. 2-3 high-hour.

In addition, the wired connection provides lower ping and stable speed. the Wi-Fi radio channel is subject to interference from neighboring routers and household appliances. USB-This is especially true for online games or video conferencing, where every millisecond of delay matters.

⚠️ Note: When using the phone as a modem USB, Android can restrict background activity of some applications to save traffic.

Another plus is security: Open Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to data interception. Xiaomi’s cable connection to the PC creates a closed channel that is almost impossible to listen to remotely, making it ideal for handling sensitive information in public places.

Basic modem settings on Xiaomi

The activation process in modern Xiaomi smartphones is as standardized as possible. You do not need root rights or third-party applications. All the necessary tools are already built into the system. First, make sure that the phone is on mobile data and there is a confident reception of the network. 4G/LTE.

Connect your smartphone to your computer with high-quality USB-It is advisable to use the original cable or certified analogue, which supports data transfer, not just charging. Once connected, Windows or macOS should emit a characteristic sound of detecting a new device.

Then you go to the settings of the smartphone itself. The path may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI, but the logic remains the same. Find the partition responsible for network connections and activate the desired switch. The computer must automatically install the necessary network protocols.

If the connection is successful, the USB icon or network type designation (4G/5G) will appear in the smartphone status bar, and the wired connection icon will appear in the computer tray. The connection speed now depends on the quality of your carrier’s signal.

Step-by-step activation instruction through settings

For those who prefer to act for certain, here is a detailed algorithm of actions. The interface can be in Russian or English, so we will specify the names of items in both versions.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select Connection and Sharing (Connection & Sharing)
3. Find a point. USB-modem (USB tethering).
4. Move the switch to the active position.

In some versions of the HyperOS shell, the path may look different: Settings → Wi-Fi Access Point. Inside this menu, a USB switch is often hidden. If you don't see this item, try connecting the cable first and then logging into the menu - the option can only be activated if there is a physical connection.

Once turned on, the computer will begin to recognize the new network device. In Windows Device Manager, this can appear as Remote NDIS based Internet Sharing Device. If the drivers are installed correctly, a new Ethernet adapter will appear in the network connections.

Solving problems with drivers and recognition

The most common problem when setting up Xiaomi as a modem is the lack of response from the computer. Windows 10 and 11 usually automatically find the right drivers through the update center, but sometimes this process comes to a dead end.

In this case, you need to check the Device Manager. If you see an unknown device with a yellow exclamation point, you will need manual installation. Often it helps to install the official Mi PC Suite utility or Google USB Driver drivers. You can also try to enable debugging mode over USB, although this is not always necessary for a modem.

To enable debugging:

• 📱 Go to Settings. → About the phone and 7 times click on the Version MIUI.
• 🔧 Go to the Advanced Settings → For developers.
• ⚙️ Activate the Debugging Point USB.
• 🔌 Reconnect the cable and select the mode of operation USB (charging, file transfer).

Sometimes it helps to switch the mode of work USB-Click on the notification "Charging through" USB» and select "File Transfer" or «USB-modem" if this option is offered by the system. then try to activate the function again in the settings.

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Use it. USB-3.0 ports (blue) on your computer to ensure maximum bandwidth and stable power to your smartphone during Internet distribution.

Compatibility and requirements table

Not all computers and operating systems work equally well with Android modems. Below is a table that will help you navigate the possible nuances of compatibility between different platforms and Xiaomi devices.

Note that macOS is the hardest part of the situation, because the standard Mac is not always looking at Android modems, and in these cases, you have to use third-party software like HoRNDIS, which emulates the network adapter.

Energy saving and stability settings

Shell MIUI It's known for its aggressive energy-saving policies, and it can turn off its own power. USB-modem if it thinks the application is not being used actively, or to save charge, to avoid connection breaks, you need to make changes to the battery settings.

Go to Settings → Battery and Performance. Find a list of applications and go to system processes. You need to find the process responsible for network connections (often hidden or called MIUI or Android System), and set the background activity limit in the No Limit mode.

⚠️ Warning: Disabling background activity restrictions for system processes can lead to increased battery consumption, even when the phone is not actively used.

Also worth checking is the screen settings. If the screen goes out, the phone can go into sleep mode, interrupting data transfer, increase the time before the screen turns off, or use the "Do not turn off the screen when charging" feature in the developer menu.

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For stable operation of the modem, be sure to turn off traffic savings and energy saving for system network processes in the MIUI settings.

Frequent Questions and Challenges (FAQ)