Modern smartphones brand Xiaomi has long ceased to be just devices for calls, becoming a full-fledged multimedia centers that can replace the home router. the Internet function, or modem, is one of the most popular features in the user’s arsenal, allowing you to instantly provide a network laptop, tablet or gadgets friends. Owners of devices Redmi and Poco often face the nuances of the interface of the shell MIUI or the new HyperOS, where the settings can be hidden or called differently than on “pure” Android.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the activation and fine-tuning of the access point so that you can not only turn on the feature, but also optimize it for stable operation. You will learn how to choose the right frequency for maximum speed, adjust the traffic limit and protect your network from unauthorized access.
Consider an action algorithm that will work for most current models, including the Mi, Redmi Note and Black Shark series. Regardless of the operating system version, the basic principles remain similar, but the layout of the menu may vary slightly. A deep understanding of the settings will allow you to avoid the typical mistakes when connected devices “see” the network but do not have access to the Internet.
Basic activation of the access point through settings
The first and most obvious way to activate the Internet distribution is to use the system settings menu, which provides access to all possible configuration options that are hidden when you quickly turn on through the notification curtain, and first you need to go to the main settings menu of your Xiaomi smartphone and find the section responsible for network connections.
Depending on the firmware version, the path may look different, but the logic remains the same: you need to find Wi-Fi hotspot or Modem Modem Mode. Inside this section, you have key switches that allow you to control device visibility and security settings, and that's where the network name (SSID) is set, which other users will see when they search for available connections.
Note the password field. By default, the system often generates a complex set of characters that is difficult to remember or quickly enter on another device. It is recommended to change it to a more understandable combination of at least 8 characters to provide a basic level of protection. Simple passwords like “12345678” can be picked up by attackers in seconds using specialized software.
☑️ Pre-insertion check
Once you have set all the settings, just put the top switch in the active position. The smartphone will start broadcasting the signal, and in a few seconds you can find your network in the list of available connections on the laptop or tablet. If the connection does not happen, check whether the limit on the number of connected devices, which is sometimes activated by default to save resources, is worth it.
Quick activation through the notification curtain
For quick access to the Internet distribution function in the shell of MIUI and HyperOS, there is a widget in the control center, which is ideal for situations where you need to urgently share traffic, and there is no time to dive into the deep settings menus. Just swipe from the upper right corner of the screen down to open the quick action panel.
Among the many icons you need to find an icon that says Access Point or a radio wave lock. If you don't see it on the first page of the widgets, try swiping left or pressing the edit button (usually in the form of a pencil or three dots) to add this element to your favorites. Clicking on the icon instantly activates the modem modem modem with the last settings used.
It is important to understand that fast turn on does not always reflect the current traffic status or the number of connected customers. To get this information, you still need to go to a full menu. In addition, long-term retention of your finger on the icon of the access point in the curtain often (but not always) leads directly to the settings menu, bypassing unnecessary transitions, which is a convenient hidden feature of the Xiaomi interface.
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Add the Access Point widget to the top row of the notification curtain to turn the internet on in one touch, even if the screen is locked (with customized biometric data).
Using a quick menu is especially important when the battery is running out and every extra click through the menu consumes the energy of the screen. However, remember that in this mode it is more difficult to immediately notice if an outsider tries to connect to your network, since notifications about this may come with a delay or not show at all if the phone is in your pocket.
Range frequency setting and safety standards
One of the most important settings affecting speed and compatibility is the choice of radio frequency. In modern Xiaomi smartphones, the ability to switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies is available. By default, there is often an automatic mode or 2.4 GHz, which provides maximum compatibility with older devices, but does not give maximum speed.
The 5GHz range offers significantly higher bandwidth and less interference from neighboring networks and household appliances, such as microwaves. However, it has a smaller range and the signal penetrates walls worse. If you distribute the Internet to a modern laptop in the same room, choosing 5GHz will be the best solution for streaming videos or games.
Also worth paying attention to the security standard. In the access point settings menu, always choose WPA2-Personal or, if available, WPA3. Outdated encryption protocols can become a loophole for interception. In some Redmi firmware, the option “No encryption” is found – never use it in public places, as all your traffic will be visible to anyone who connects to the network.
What is the difference between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz?
To change these settings, go to the access point menu, click on your network name or the "Setting up the access point" line, and find "Range of frequencies." Once switched, the network will recreate, and devices will need to connect again. Make sure that your gadgets support the chosen standard, otherwise they will not see the network in the list of available ones.
Managing traffic limits and connected devices
Mobile traffic control is a critical feature, especially if you don’t have an unlimited plan. Xiaomi smartphones have a convenient limitation mechanism that automatically disables the access point when you reach a predetermined threshold, which saves from unexpected costs and allows you to use a package of gigabytes efficiently.
To set the limit, go to the access point menu and find Traffic Limit or Data Limit, where you can set a limit, for example, 1 GB or 5 GB. The system will track the amount of data transferred in real time. Once the limit is exhausted, the distribution of the Internet will stop automatically, and you will receive a notification.
And then the same section usually shows you a list of connected devices. MAC-Addresses and names of gadgets that are currently using your Internet, and if you spot a stranger, you can block them directly from this menu, or more effectively, change their password right away, which will force them to break all active connections.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Impact on work |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency range | 5 GHz (for speed) | Higher speed, smaller radius. |
| Standard of safety | WPA2/WPA3 | Protection against network hacking |
| time-out | 10 minutes. | Savings in battery life without customers |
| Maximum customer | 4-5 devices | Connection stability and speed |
Remember the timeout function. If no one is connected to the access point for a given time (e.g. 10 minutes), the phone will automatically turn off the Wi-Fi module for the distribution. This helps to keep the battery power, which is consumed quite intensively when the access point is active.
Connection problems and their solution
Despite the ease of setup, Xiaomi users sometimes face a situation where devices see the network but can't connect, or the connection is there and the Internet is not working. IP-Addresses or failure of network services of the Android operating system.
The first step should always be to reboot the communication modules. 10-15 - You can turn it off. SIM-If that doesn't work, try resetting the network settings in the phone's menu, but remember that this will also remove saved passwords from other Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth settings.
⚠️ Warning: If the Internet on the connected laptop is running slowly or is constantly interrupted after turning on the access point, check whether the phone is in the mode of “Traffic Savings” or “Turbo mode”, which can block the background processes of distribution.
Another common problem is the inability to connect from Apple devices (iPhone, iPad). Sometimes this is solved by changing the type of encryption in the access point settings or switching from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz, as older Apple devices may not work properly with new security protocols or frequencies in client mode. Also make sure that the phone does not include AP Isolation (customer isolation), if this option is available in advanced settings.
In some cases, the problem lies with the carrier itself. Many plans prohibit or restrict the distribution of Internet (Tethering). If you see a connection but the pages do not load, try changing the APN (access points) in the mobile network settings by adding a dun option in the APN type, although modern Xiaomi smartphones usually do this automatically.
The effect of Wi-Fi on battery and heating
Modem mode is one of the most energy-intensive processes for a smartphone. Wi-Fi is in constant data transmission mode at high power, which inevitably leads to rapid battery discharge and heating of the case. Owners of plastic models, such as some versions of Redmi, should be especially attentive to temperature.
When you use the hotspot for hours, the phone can heat up to 40-45 degrees or higher. This is normal for the process, but critical for the longevity of a lithium-polymer battery. High temperatures accelerate the degradation of battery chemistry. So, when you work long hours, it is recommended to remove the case for better heat sink and not put the phone under the pillow or on a soft surface.
If you need to distribute the Internet for a long time (for example, while traveling or working in a cafe), it is better to keep the phone connected to the charger. However, avoid using fast charging at the same time as active Wi-Fi distribution at high power, as the combined load on the power controller and heating can cause trottling (decreased performance) or temporary shutdown of the screen for protection.
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Long-term operation of the access point at temperatures above 45 ° C can irreversibly reduce the battery capacity, so monitor the heating of the case.
To minimize damage, try not to keep the battery in the range of 0-10% or 90-100% during active heating. Optimally maintain the charge level in average values. If the phone becomes too hot and you feel uncomfortable when touching, immediately turn off the access point and let the device cool, otherwise the system may force the communication modules or the device itself to turn off.