Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi: How to Enable and Set Up in 5 Minutes

Technology Wi-Fi Direct allows smartphones Xiaomi (including rulers Redmi And POCO) establish a direct connection with other devices without the need for a router. This is convenient for transferring files, streaming media to TVs or printers, and playing games over a local network. However, many users encounter difficulties when first enabling this feature—its location in the menu has varied depending on the version. MIUI, and on some models the option is hidden behind additional settings.

In this article you will find Current methods for activating Wi-Fi Direct for all versions of MIUI (from 12 to 14+), including devices with a shell HyperOSWe'll cover step-by-step instructions for various scenarios, from basic setup to resolving common errors like "Device not found" or "Connection not possible." We'll pay special attention to the nuances of TV compatibility. Xiaomi Mi TV and printers - the most common "partners" of smartphones via Wi-Fi Direct.

What is Wi-Fi Direct and why is it needed on Xiaomi?

Wi-Fi Direct is a wireless communication standard that allows two devices to exchange data directly, bypassing a router. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi, where both devices connect to the same network, here the smartphone Xiaomi becomes an access point for another device. Data transfer speed can reach 250 Mbps (in theory), which is 5-10 times faster than Bluetooth.

Where this can be useful:

• 📱 File transfer between smartphones (photos, videos, documents) without the Internet.
• 📺 Screencasting on TVs Xiaomi Mi TV, Samsung or LG without HDMI cable.
• 🖨️ Printing documents on printers that support Wi-Fi Direct (e.g., Canon PIXMA or HP Envy).
• 🎮 Multiplayer games via a local network (for example, Minecraft or Asphalt 9).

It is important to understand that Wi-Fi Direct does not replace Mobile hotspot (internet sharing). These are two different modes: in the first case, a closed network is created solely for data exchange between devices; in the second, the smartphone shares internet access with other devices.

⚠️ Attention: On some models Xiaomi (For example, Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO X3 Pro) Wi-Fi Direct may conflict with an enabled mobile hotspot. Before activating, disable Wi-Fi tethering in the settings.

Where is Wi-Fi Direct located in Xiaomi settings?

The location of the option depends on the firmware version. MIUI and smartphone models. In the latest versions (MIUI 14 and newer, as well as HyperOS) the path has been simplified, but on older devices (for example, Redmi 4X or Mi A2) an additional step may be required. Below are the current options for different shells.

For MIUI 12/13/14 and HyperOS:

1. Open Settings (gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the section Connections and Sharing (or Wi-Fi on some models).
3. Tap on Wi-Fi, then click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner.
4. Select an item Wi-Fi Direct or Direct Wi-Fi connection.

For older versions of MIUI (before 12):

• Go to Settings → Advanced (or Additional functions).
• Select Wi-Fi Direct or Wireless networks.
• On some devices the option is hidden in Settings → Connections → More.

If you did not find the item Wi-Fi Direct In the sections indicated, check:

• 🔍 Update the firmware to the latest version (path: Settings → About phone → System update).
• 📱 Make sure your model supports the feature (see the table below for a list of incompatible devices).
• 🔄 Restart your smartphone - sometimes the option appears after a reboot.

Step-by-step instructions for activating Wi-Fi Direct

When you found the item Wi-Fi Direct In the settings, all that's left to do is enable the feature and connect to another device. Let's look at the process using connecting a smartphone as an example. Xiaomi with TV Mi TV (the algorithm for other devices is similar).

Step 1: Enable Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi

1. Open Settings → Connections and Sharing → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct.
2. Activate the slider at the top of the screen (it should turn blue).
3. Wait for your smartphone to scan for available devices (this may take up to 30 seconds).

Step 2: Connect to a TV or other gadget

1. On the second device (for example, a TV), enable Wi-Fi Direct in the network settings.
2. In the list of available devices on Xiaomi the name of the TV will appear (for example, MiTV-4A-1234). Tap on it.
3. Confirm the connection on both devices (you may be asked to enter the PIN code that will appear on the TV screen).

Step 3: Checking the connection

• The Wi-Fi Direct icon (two arrows pointing towards each other) will appear in the status bar on your smartphone.
• Open the gallery and try sending photos to the TV using the option Send → Wi-Fi Direct.
• To stream your screen, use the function Broadcast (or Miracast) in the notification curtain.

⚠️ Attention: If the connection drops after 1-2 minutes, check the power saving settings on XiaomiDisable app optimization Wi-Fi And Settings in the section Battery → Battery optimization.

Troubleshooting common Wi-Fi Direct issues on Xiaomi

Even after proper setup, users still encounter errors. Below are the most common issues and how to resolve them.

1. The devices don't find each other

• 🔄 Restart both gadgets. Sometimes a simple reboot helps.
• 📶 Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on both devices (even if you are not connected to the network).
• 🔗 Check compatibility. Some printers (for example, older models Epson) work only with Wi-Fi Direct at a frequency 2.4 GHz.
• 🛠️ Reset network settings. On Xiaomi: Settings → Connections → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth settings.

2. The connection drops or becomes unstable

• 📶 Change the Wi-Fi band. In the router settings (if there is one nearby), disable 5 GHz - some devices conflict with this frequency.
• 🔋 Turn off power saving. IN Settings → Battery → Power saving mode select Performance.
• 📱 Update the firmware. On older versions of MIUI (below 12), there may be bugs with Wi-Fi Direct.

3. File transfer doesn't work

• 📁 Use standard applications. To transfer files between smartphones Xiaomi It's better to use the built-in application Files (and not third-party managers).
• 🔒 Check permissions. On the recipient device in the settings Wi-Fi Direct the item must be included Allow file reception.

How to disable Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi

If you no longer need the feature, you should deactivate it to save battery power. Wi-Fi Direct continues to scan for surrounding devices in the background, which consumes up to 5–10% battery per hour (according to test data) XDA Developers).

Method 1. Via settings

1. Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct.
2. Turn off the slider at the top of the screen.
3. If the connection is active, first press Disable next to the device name.

Method 2: Through the notification shade

• Swipe down from the top to open the notification panel.
• Find the icon Wi-Fi Direct (two arrows) and tap on it.
• In the window that opens, click Disable.

Method 3: Completely reset network settings

If Wi-Fi Direct continues to work after being disabled (for example, the icon does not disappear), perform a reset:

Settings → Connections → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth settings

⚠️ Attention: After the reset, you'll need to re-enter passwords for all saved Wi-Fi networks. Your mobile network access point (APN) will also be reset to factory defaults.

Comparing Wi-Fi Direct with other data transfer methods

Wi-Fi Direct isn't the only way to share files between devices. Below is a comparison with alternative technologies to help you choose the best option.

As can be seen from the table, Wi-Fi Direct is optimal for transferring large files. (for example, 4K video) or streaming content to a TV. For small files (photos, documents), it's easier to use Bluetooth or messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp).

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

Direct connections between devices create a local network, which can be vulnerable to attack if security precautions aren't taken. Key risks:

• 🕵️ Data interception. If an attacker is within range, they may try to connect to your Wi-Fi Direct network.
• 📂 Unauthorized access to files. Some devices allow access to the shared folder by default.
• 🔋 Battery consumption. Constantly scanning surrounding devices reduces battery life.

How to protect yourself:

• 🔐 Use PIN code. Always confirm the connection on both devices.
• 🚫 Turn off after use. Don't leave Wi-Fi Direct on unless necessary.
• 📱 Update your firmware. New versions of MIUI fix security vulnerabilities.
• 🔍 Check connected devices. The Wi-Fi Direct settings display a list of active connections.

On devices with HyperOS an additional option has appeared Hide device, which makes your smartphone invisible to scanners. To activate it:

Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi Direct → Three dots (⋮) → Hide device

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi Direct on Xiaomi

Settings → Connections → Hotspot & Tethering → Mobile Hotspot