Wi-Fi hotspot on Xiaomi phone: how to turn on and configure in 3 minutes

Modern Xiaomi smartphones (including the Redmi, POCO and Mi lines) are able to distribute Internet over Wi-Fi on the same routers. This feature is called an access point (or modem), and it saves when there is no fixed Internet at hand β€” whether it is a trip, a team in nature or a sudden disconnection of the provider. But many users face problems: the settings are hidden in an unexpected menu, the devices do not connect, then the speed leaves much to be desired.

In this article, we will discuss all the ways to include an access point on Xiaomi – from the standard method to alternative options for older versions. MIUI. You will also learn how to increase the speed of the transfer, save battery power and solve common errors (for example, when the phone does not give the Internet, although the Wi-Fi network is visible). 13/14, Redmi Note 12/11, POCO F5/X5 and older devices on MIUI 12–14.

1. Standard method: how to enable the access point through settings

The most reliable method is to use the built-in MIUI settings, which works on 99% of Xiaomi devices, regardless of the firmware version.

  1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
  2. Go to the Network and Internet section (on some models – Connections and Sharing).
  3. Select Modem Modem and Access Point (or Wi-Fi Access Point in older versions).
  4. Activate the Wi-Fi Access Point slider.

Then your Xiaomi will start giving away the Internet (SSID) It will be the same as the phone (for example, Redmi_Note_12_5G), The password is generated automatically, and you can change it in the same menu by clicking Setting up the access point.

Mobile Internet enabled (4G/5G icon in status bar)

The phone has enough charge (minimum 30%)

The devices for connection are within a radius of 10 meters

Disabled. VPN and energy-saving regimes-->

Important! Some MIUI firmware may have a different name for the menu item, like on POCO F3 with global firmware, the path will be: Settings β†’ Connection and Sharing β†’ Personal Access Point.

2. Alternative method: Quick settings panel

If you need to quickly enable the access point without digging into the menu, use the notification bar:

  1. Swipe your finger down from the top of the screen to open the notification bar.
  2. Find the Access Point icon (usually two arcs with a dot in the middle). If it's not there, click on the pencil icon (Edit) and add it to the panel.
  3. Tap the icon once to activate the handout.

This method is convenient when you need to urgently share the Internet, but remember: network settings (name and password) can not be changed here - you will have to go to the main menu.

Every day.

1-2 times a week

Rarely, only in emergency cases.

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3. Network Name (SSID) and Password Setup

Xiaomi Assigns defaults to a random name and a complex password, which is not always convenient.

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Network and Internet β†’ Modem mode and access point.
  2. Press the Access Point Settings.
  3. In the field Network Name enter the desired SSID (for example, Xiaomi_Hotspot_Pro).
  4. In the Password field, specify a new key (minimum 8 characters).
  5. Select the Security Type – we recommend you keep WPA2-PSK (the most reliable).
  6. Press Save.

Tip: If you give Internet to friends often, set a simple password (for example, 12345678), but remember to change it after using. For personal use, it is better to come up with a complex key to avoid unauthorized connection.

ParameterRecommended valueExplanation
Network name (SSID)Latin, no gaps.Special characters can cause problems on some devices
Password.8+ characters, with numbers and lettersA password that is too simple is vulnerable to hacking
Type of securityWPA2-PSKThe best balance between safety and compatibility
Frequency band2.4 GHz (or Auto)5 GHz has a higher speed, but a smaller range

πŸ’‘

If you often distribute the Internet in one place (for example, at home), set a static system. IP-Address for connected devices, which will speed up their connection in the future.

4.Why the access point doesn't work: typical problems and solutions

Even after setting it up properly, the hotspot on Xiaomi may not work, and here are the most common bugs and ways to fix them:

  • πŸ”΄ Devices are not connected Check if the mobile Internet is on on the phone, sometimes after the hotspot is activated. MIUI It automatically shuts down the data transfer. Also try to restart the phone.
  • πŸ”΄ Internet is available, but pages are not loaded Perhaps Traffic Saving Mode in the settings is enabled SIM-Disable it in Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Transfer of data β†’ Savings regime.
  • πŸ”΄ Speed is very low If there are many devices connected to the point, limit their number in the settings (max. connected devices). Also try to change the frequency band from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz (if supported).
  • πŸ”΄ Access point itself disables The culprit is Adaptive Battery or Energy Optimization. Add the Settings app to the exceptions: Settings β†’ Battery β†’ Optimizing the battery β†’ All applications β†’ Settings β†’ No restrictions.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI In China, the access point can be blocked by the operator, in which case the change of the firmware region to global (Global) or European will help (EEA).

5 How to Save Battery Charges When Distributing Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi Internet service puts a lot of battery life on the phone, and it can run out in 2-3 hours, to extend the battery life:

  • πŸ”‹ Reduce screen brightness to a minimum – even if the phone is lying idle, the backlight consumes energy.
  • πŸ”‹ Disable background apps through Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Auto-start.
  • πŸ”‹ Use the plane mode with Wi-Fi on (unless you need mobile internet) to turn off the energy-consuming search.
  • πŸ”‹ Connect your phone to charge – if possible, use an adapter on your phone. 18W+ cost-compensation.

With wireless charging support (such as the Mi 13 Ultra or Redmi Note 12 Pro+), Xiaomi can distribute the internet while charging your phone at a wireless station, which is convenient if you need to stay connected for a long time without wires.

What to do if your phone gets hot when you give Wi-Fi?
If Xiaomi’s body heats up above 45Β°C, this can cause the hotspot to automatically shut down. To avoid overheating: 1. Remove the case (especially silicone). 2. Put the phone on a flat hard surface (not on the sofa or bed). 3. Close all background apps, especially games and social media. 4. If possible, plug in a cooler or fan for additional cooling.

6 Advanced settings: how to increase speed and stability

If you don’t like standard settings, you can optimize the access point for maximum performance:

  • πŸš€ Change Wi-Fi Channel In the Access Point Settings menu, select Channel and try 6 or 11 (2.4GHz) values - they are least affected by interference.
  • πŸš€ Turn on 5GHz mode if your Xiaomi supports dual-band Wi-Fi (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T or Redmi K50), Choose 5 GHz in the bandwidth settings, which will increase speed, but reduce range.
  • πŸš€ Limit the number of connected devices In the Wi-Fi Access Point menu, set a limit (e.g. 5 devices). The fewer connections, the more stable the speed.
  • πŸš€ Turn off automatic shutdown In some firmware, the access point turns off after 5-10 minutes without activity. To avoid this, set Never in Auto Shutdown settings.

For advanced users, there is another way to change the settings through the engineering menu, but it requires caution:

Enter the phone app: ##4636##


Go to the section "Information about Wi-Fi"




Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Wi-Fi settings"




Change the "Wi-Fi region code" to your country (e.g. RU for Russia)




Save and restart the phone

⚠️ Warning: Incorrect settings in the engineering menu can cause the Wi-Fi module to crash. If you are not sure about your actions, it is better not to change the settings marked as Advanced.

7. Access Point via USB or Bluetooth: alternative methods

If Wi-Fi doesn’t work for some reason, you can distribute the Internet in other ways:

πŸ”Œ Distribution USB (USB-modem)

Suitable for connecting to computers or laptops:

  1. Connect Xiaomi to your PC via USB-cable.
  2. In the phone settings, select Modem Modem and Access Point β†’ USB-modem.
  3. A new connection will appear on the computer in Network Connections.

Advantage: more stable connection and lower battery consumption (the phone charges while running).

πŸ“Ά Bluetooth distribution

Suitable for connecting to tablets or other phones:

  1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
  2. Conjugate them in the Settings menu β†’ Bluetooth.
  3. On the handset phone, activate modem modem and access point β†’ Bluetooth modem.

Cons: low speed (maximum 2-3 Mbit / s), but the minimum battery consumption.

πŸ’‘

USB-A modem is the most reliable way to distribute the Internet if you need stability (for example, for online games or video conferencing).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I give away Wi-Fi with Xiaomi without a password?
Technically, yes, but it's extremely insecure. To remove the password, select Security Type β†’ No in the AP settings, but in this case, strangers will be able to connect to your network, which will lead to: Slowing down the speed; The risk of hacking your phone; Exceeding the mobile traffic limit (if it's limited); It's better to set a simple password (for example, 12345678) and report it only to trusted people.
How many devices can be connected to Xiaomi’s hotspot?
The maximum number depends on the model: Budget models (Redmi 10A, POCO M5) - up to 5 devices; Medium segment (Redmi Note 12, Xiaomi 12 Lite) - up to 8 devices; Flagships (Xiaomi 13 Pro, POCO F5 Pro) - up to 10 devices. When connecting a large number of gadgets, the speed will be distributed between them, so for stable operation we recommend limiting you to 3-4 devices.
Why does the operator block the access point?
Some mobile operators (such as Tele2 or Iota) restrict the distribution of Internet at tariffs with unlimited traffic. APN (access point) in settings SIM-Maps to the universal (for example, the Internet); VPN on your phone (e.g. 1.1.1.1 or ProtonVPN); Go to the tariff with official modem support (check with the operator). SIM-card of another operator (for example, MTS or Beeline) that does not block the distribution.
How to distribute the Internet from Xiaomi on iPhone or Mac?
Apple devices sometimes don’t connect well to access points on Xiaomi due to protocol conflicts. To solve the problem: On Xiaomi, select Security Type β†’ WPA2-PSK (AES) in the AP settings; Turn off Private Wi-Fi address on iPhone (in network connection settings); Reboot both devices. If the iPhone still doesn’t connect, try changing the network name (SSID) to a simpler one, without special characters.
Can I share Wi-Fi with Xiaomi if the phone is connected to another network?
No, it's impossible. Xiaomi's phone can't both get Wi-Fi and distribute it. In this case, there are two options: Connect your phone to the Internet via a mobile network (3G/4G/5G) and distribute Wi-Fi; Use a Wi-Fi repeater or a second router in bridge mode. Except that some flagship models (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra) support the Wi-Fi Bridge feature, but it is unstable and requires manual setup.