Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi: how to configure and use data transfer without a router

Wi-Fi Direct allows Xiaomi devices to share data directly, without an intermediary like a router or mobile Internet, which is convenient for transferring photos, videos, documents between smartphones, as well as connecting to TVs, printers or speakers. However, many users face difficulties when using it first: where to find settings, how to confirm connection and why devices “can’t see” each other.

In this article, we will discuss all the steps of working with Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi – from basic setup to solving typical problems. LG), And the limitations that the manufacturer doesn't mention, if you want to quickly transfer a file from your phone to your laptop or print a document without cables, this guide is for you.

What is Wi-Fi Direct and Why You Need It on Xiaomi

Wi-Fi Direct is a wireless standard that allows two devices to create a peer-to-peer (peer-to-peer) access point. Unlike classic Wi-Fi, it doesn't require a connection to a router: your Xiaomi smartphone becomes the router for the other gadget itself.

• 📱 Smartphones and tablets (Android, iOS with restrictions)
• 🖥️ Laptops and PCs with Wi-Fi adapters
• 📺 Televisions (Samsung, LG, Sony, Xiaomi TV)
• 🖨️ Printers and MFPs (Canon, HP, Epson)
• 🎵 Wireless speakers and headphones

The main advantages of Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi:

• 🚀 High transfer speed (up to 250 Mbps – faster than Bluetooth 5-10 times).
• 🔒 Secure connection (encryption) WPA2, It's like home Wi-Fi).
• 🌐 Cross-platform: works even between devices of different brands.
• 🔋 Savings in charge compared to mobile hotspot.

But there are some nuances, too: on iPhones (iOS), Wi-Fi Direct is only supported for AirDrop and some accessories — you can't have a full Android connection, and it's not designed to be Internet-enabled, because it only creates a local network between two devices.

What Xiaomi models support Wi-Fi Direct

Wi-Fi Direct is available on all Xiaomi smartphones released after 2016, but its implementation depends on the version. MIUI And the hardware platform. Below is the compatibility table for popular models:

On devices with MIUI 12-14 can be hidden under the name “Fast Transfer” or “File Transfer”. If the menu does not have a Wi-Fi Direct option, try updating the firmware or using alternative methods (we will discuss them below).

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi smartphones with MediaTek Helio G processors (for example, Redmi 9), Wi-Fi Direct may work unstable when transferring files larger than 1 GB.

How to enable Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions

The activation algorithm of the function depends on the version MIUI. Let’s look at two options: new and old.

Method 1: MIUI 12–14 (modern models)

1. Open the Settings. → Wi-Fi.
2. Swipe down the three dots in the upper right corner (or swipe down for additional options).
3. Choose Wi-Fi Direct or Quick Transfer.
4. Turn on the function with a slider and wait for the search for devices.

Method 2: MIUI 10–11 (old models)

1. Go to Settings. → Connections and sharing.
2. Select Wi-Fi Direct (may be in the Additional section).
3. Activate the feature and confirm permission to access the location (required for Android 10)+).

Once turned on, your Xiaomi will start scanning the nearest devices to connect:

1. On the second device, activate Wi-Fi Direct.
2. In the list, find the name of your smartphone (for example, Redmi_Note_12_XXXXX).
3. Confirm the connection on both gadgets (entry may be required) PIN-code).

Enable Wi-Fi on both devices |

Activate Wi-Fi Direct in the settings|

Allow access to location (for Android 10)+)|

Make sure the devices are within a 10m radius-->

⚠️ Warning: If file transfer does not start after connection, check if the connection is blocked by power saving mode or VPN. Turn them off temporarily.

How to transfer files over Wi-Fi Direct between Xiaomi and other devices

Once you've connected successfully, you can share data. Let's look at three popular scenarios.

1. Transfer between two Xiaomi smartphones

The easiest way is to use the built-in “Fast Transfer” function:

1. Open the Files (or Gallery for Photo/Video)
2. Select the necessary files and tap Send → Quick transmission.
3. Select the recipient device from the list.
4. On the second phone, confirm reception.

The transmission speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard:

• 📶 Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n): up to 50 Mbps.
• 📶 Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): up to 150 Mbps.
• 📶 Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): up to 250 Mbps.

2. Connection to TV (Samsung, LG, Xiaomi TV)

To broadcast the screen or transmit media files:

1. On the TV, activate Wi-Fi Direct (in the Network menu or Screen Mirroring).
2. On Xiaomi go to Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi Direct.
3. Select the TV from the list and confirm the connection.
4. Use Screen Mirroring (some Xiaomi models call it a Wireless Display).

3. Print on a printer without a router

Many printers (such as Canon) PIXMA or HP DeskJet) supports Wi-Fi Direct to print a document:

1. On the printer, activate Wi-Fi Direct mode (usually with a button on the panel).
2. On Xiaomi, connect to the printer network (the name will be like DIRECT-xx-HP_DeskJet_3700).
3. Open the file in the application (for example, Google Docs or Google Docs). WPS Office) and select Print.
4. Your device will appear in the list of printers – confirm the print.

💡

If the printer is not detected, try adding it manually. IP-To do this, print the page with the network data (usually hold the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds).

Typical Wi-Fi Direct Errors on Xiaomi and How to Fix Them

Even when you set it up properly, users face problems, and here are the most common ways to solve them:

If none of these methods worked, try resetting your network settings:

1. Go to Settings → System → Resetting settings.
2. Select Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth settings.
3. After restarting, reconnect.

💡

Before resetting the network, save your Wi-Fi passwords – they will be deleted!

Xiaomi’s Wi-Fi Direct Alternatives: What to Use If It Doesn’t Work

If Wi-Fi Direct is not working, there are several alternative ways to transfer data:

• 📲 Bluetooth: slower (up to 2-5 Mbps), but more reliable for small files.
• 🔗 Mi Share (formerly Mi Drop): Xiaomi’s proprietary file sharing solution for the brand’s devices.
• 🌐 Local. FTP-server: applications like FX File Explorer or Solid Explorer lets you create a temporary server to download files over Wi-Fi.
• 📎 QR-code: some applications (e.g. Xender) generate QR fast-transmit.

To connect to the TV, instead of Wi-Fi Direct, you can use:

• 🖥️ Miracast: Built into Xiaomi (called Wireless Display).
• 📡 Google Cast: If the TV supports Chromecast.
• 🔌 HDMI-Adapter: for stable broadcast without delay.

If you need to print a document and Wi-Fi Direct is not working, try:

• 🖨️ USB-OTG: Connect the printer directly to the smartphone via the adapter.
• ☁️ Cloud Services: Upload a file to Google Drive or Mi Cloud and then print it from your PC.

Wi-Fi Direct Security: Risks and How to Avoid Them

Despite the convenience, Wi-Fi Direct has vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit:

• 🕵️ Data Interception: If the connection is not password protected, third parties can connect to your network.
• 📡 Man in the middle attacks: at public access points (for example, in a cafe) it is possible to change the device.
• 📱 Personal information leakage: Some applications transmit metadata via Wi-Fi Direct (e.g. phone model, OS version).

How to protect yourself:

1. Always confirm the connection on both devices.
2. Use complex ones. PIN-codes (if requested).
3. Turn off Wi-Fi Direct after the transfer is complete.
4. Do not connect to unknown devices (for example, with names like FREE_WiFi_Direct).

⚠️ Note: On smartphones Xiaomi root-access Wi-Fi Direct can automatically include debugging USB, This creates additional risks. Check the developer's settings after you use the function.

If you often share sensitive data, consider alternatives:

• 🔐 Encrypted archives: before transfer, pack files into ZIP password-wise.
• 📁 Local folders: Use applications like Resilio Sync to sync without the cloud.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions about Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi