How to transfer files over Wi-Fi Direct to Xiaomi: Full Guide 2026

Transferring files between devices without access to the Internet or mobile network is a task that users of Xiaomi, Redmi and other devices regularly face. POCO. Wi-Fi Direct remains one of the most reliable ways to share data directly, especially when you need to send large files (video to the Internet). 4K, However, many users face problems: the connection is not established, the transfer speed decreases, the files freeze during the sending stage.

In this article, we will discuss all the steps of transferring files via Wi-Fi Direct to Xiaomi – from basic configuration to solving typical errors. You will learn how to connect smartphones from different brands (including Samsung, Huawei and iPhone), what limitations the technology has, and how it differs from Mi Share or Bluetooth, and why it is sometimes easier to use alternative methods like Mi Share or Bluetooth. FTP-server or localsend.

What is Wi-Fi Direct and how does it work for Xiaomi?

Wi-Fi Direct is a wireless standard that allows devices to connect directly without a router intermediary, and unlike traditional Wi-Fi, where both devices connect to the same network, one is an access point and the other is a client. On Xiaomi smartphones, this feature is integrated into firmware MIUI It is available on all models, starting with Redmi. 4X (2017) and newer.

Key features of the technology:

• 🔄 Two-way communication: Devices can send and receive data simultaneously (unlike Bluetooth, where transmission is usually one-way).
• 🚀 High speed: up to 250 Mbps (theoretically), which is 5-10 times faster than Bluetooth 5.0.
• 📶 No dependence on the Internet: connection is established even in the absence of a network.
• 🔒 Protection WPA2: data is encrypted, which reduces the risk of interception.

However, Wi-Fi Direct has its downsides, such as some Xiaomi models (e.g., the Wi-Fi Direct, POCO X3 Pro) the function may conflict with the module NFC, And the connection automatically breaks down if one of the devices goes into sleep mode or is blocked.

Preparing Xiaomi devices for file transfer

Before transferring, make sure that both devices meet the minimum requirements:

• 📱 Version. MIUI: at least 10.0 (on older firmware, Wi-Fi Direct may not work smoothly).
• 🔋 Battery charge: at least 30% (at low charge, the system can forcibly turn off energy-intensive functions).
• 📂 Free space: The receiving device must have enough memory for files.
• 🔄 Flight mode: disabled (otherwise, the Wi-Fi module will be blocked).

If you are transferring files between Xiaomi and another brand device (such as Samsung Galaxy), check compatibility:

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) after upgrading to MIUI 14 Wi-Fi Direct can be hidden in the developer menu. To return it, go to Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI and tap 7 times on the build number, then activate the Wi-Fi Direct option in Settings → Additionally.

Step-by-step: how to transfer files via Wi-Fi Direct

Consider the process of transferring photos from Xiaomi 13 Pro to Redmi Note 12. The algorithm is the same for most models, but the names of menu items may differ.

Step 1: Activate Wi-Fi Direct on the sending device

1. Open the Settings. → Wi-Fi.
2. Put three points on it (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Wi-Fi Direct (or Transfer files on new versions) MIUI).
3. Wait for the device to find the available connections, and the name of your smartphone will appear on the screen (for example, on the screen, Redmi_Note12_1234).

Step 2: Connecting the receiving device

1. On the second smartphone, repeat steps 1–2.
2. In the list of available devices, select the name of the first smartphone (for example, Xiaomi_13_Pro_5678).
3. Confirm the connection on both devices (entry may be required) PIN-code or button confirmation).

Step 3: File transfer

1. On the sending device, open the Explorer (or Gallery if you are transferring a photo/video).
2. Select the necessary files, tap Share → Wi-Fi Direct.
3. Select the receiving device from the list and wait for the transfer to be completed.

⚠️ Note: If files are “hanging” during the Pre-Transfer stage, check if the transmission is blocked by antivirus (for example, Avast or built-in). MIUI Try temporarily disabling protection or adding Explorer to exceptions.

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If the transfer is interrupted, try to reduce the size of the file packet, for example, instead of sending 500 photos, send them in parts of 50 to 100 pieces.

Typical errors and their solutions

Even when set up properly, Xiaomi users often encounter problems when transferring files over Wi-Fi Direct. Let’s look at the most common cases and ways to fix them.

1. The devices don't find each other

Causes and solutions:

• 📵 Wi-Fi is off: check that the module is activated on both devices.
• 🔄 Conflict with other networks: disconnect from your current Wi-Fi network (if connected).
• 📱 Incompatible firmware: if one device on MIUI 14, and the other on MIUI 12, try updating the software.
• 🔒 Firewall blocks connection: disable Data Protection in Settings → Annexes → Permits.

2.The transmission begins but is interrupted

This is most often related to:

• 🔋 Energy Saving: Turn off the Adaptive Battery in Settings → Battery.
• 📶 Interference: Move the devices closer together (maximum distance – 10 meters without obstacles).
• 📁 • Intrude files: try to transfer another file (for example, instead of a video, a photo).

3. Low transmission speed

If the speed is below 50 Mbps, check:

• 📶 Wi-Fi Channel: In Settings → Wi-Fi → Select a 5GHz channel (if supported).
• 📱 Background Processes: Close all applications except Explorer.
• 🔄 Compatibility Mode: Older models (Redmi 5) can be enabled 802.11n instead 802.11ac.

Comparison of Wi-Fi Direct with other file transfer methods

Wi-Fi Direct isn’t the only way to share data between Xiaomi devices.

⚠️ Note: If you need to transfer files to a MacBook or iPhone, Wi-Fi Direct won’t work. Instead, use LocalSend or configure it. FTP-server via Mi File Manager → Network drive. On an iPhone to connect to FTP You need an app like FileExplorer.

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To transfer files between Xiaomi and iPhone, it is better to use applications like LocalSend or Snapdrop - they work through the browser and do not require complex settings.

How to speed up file transfer via Wi-Fi Direct

If the transmission speed leaves much to be desired, try the following optimization methods:

1. Change the Wi-Fi channel

Xiaomi uses automatic channel selection by default, but it's not always optimal.

1. Open the Settings. → Wi-Fi → Additionally. → Wi-Fi mode.
2. Choose 5GHz (if supported) and a minimal interference channel (such as 36 or 149).
3. Restart Wi-Fi Direct.

2. Turn off background processes

Apps like Telegram, YouTube, or TikTok can consume processor resources and slow down the transfer.

• 📱 Close all applications through recent tasks.
• 🔄 Enable Performance Mode in Settings → Battery.
• 🚫 Turn off Adaptive Brightness and Autosynchronization.

3.Use the archiving

Transferring a single large archive (.zip or.rar) is often faster than sending hundreds of small files.

1. Select files in the Explorer.
2. Slip again. → Archive.
3. Choose the compression level Quickly (so you don’t waste time packing).

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi 11 Ultra) may have an error when transferring archives larger than 4GB via Wi-Fi Direct. FTP-server.

Alternatives to Wi-Fi Direct for Xiaomi

If Wi-Fi Direct doesn’t work or isn’t suitable for your task, consider these options:

1. Mi Share (built-in function) MIUI)

Advantages:

• 🚀 Up to 20MB/s (faster than Bluetooth, but slower than Wi-Fi Direct).
• 📱 It works without an internet connection.
• 🔒 Automatic data encryption.

How to use:

1. Open the Conductor. → Select files → Share. → Mi Share.
2. On the receiving device, turn on Mi Share in the notification curtain.
3. Confirm the transmission on both devices.

2. LocalSend (cross-platform solution)

LocalSend is an open application for transferring files between Android, iOS, Windows, macOS and Linux. It works over a local network (Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot).

Instructions:

1. Install LocalSend from the official website or Google Play.
2. On both devices, turn on Wi-Fi and connect to the same network (or create a hotspot).
3. In the app, select Send or Receive and follow the instructions.

3. FTP-server via Mi File Manager

Ideal for transferring files to a PC. How to configure:

1. Open the Conductor. → Network disk → FTP-server.
2. Write down the address (for example, ftp://192.168.1.100:2221).
3. On PC, open Windows Explorer → Connect the network disk and enter the address.

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Use it for convenience. FTP-Customers like FileZilla (PC) or AndFTP (Android) – they support the resumption of interrupted transmissions.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi