How to transfer files from a computer to a Xiaomi phone via Wi-Fi: all the working methods

Transfer files between a computer and a smartphone Xiaomi through Wi-Fi — a convenient alternative to wires and cloud services. It's especially useful when you need to transfer large files (for example, videos) 4K or project archives), and the USB cable is lost or broken. Unlike Bluetooth, transfer over a local network works several times faster and is not limited by the volume of data.

However, not all users know that Xiaomi has built-in tools for such transfers, as well as third-party applications that simplify the process to a couple of clicks. In this article, we'll cover all the relevant methods—from standard functions MIUI to advanced solutions like FTP serversYou'll learn which method is the fastest, which is the most reliable, and how to avoid common mistakes (for example, when your phone isn't visible on the network).

Important: All instructions have been tested on smartphones. Xiaomi 13 Pro, Redmi Note 12 And POCO X5 With MIUI 14/15On older versions, the interface may differ slightly, but the general logic remains the same.

1. Built-in "File Transfer" function in MIUI (Mi Drop)

The easiest way is to use a proprietary solution from Xiaomi under the name Mi Drop (formerly File Transfer). This app is pre-installed on all smartphones with MIUI and does not require installation of additional software on the computer. It works on the principle P2P (point-to-point), meaning files are transferred directly between devices without intermediate servers.

To use Mi Drop:

1. Open the app on your phone Mi Drop (icon with a cloud and an arrow).
2. Click Send files and select the required documents, photos or videos.
3. A QR code will appear at the bottom of the screen.
4. On your computer, open a browser and scan the QR code (or manually enter the address like http://192.168.x.x:xxxx).
5. Confirm the transfer on your phone – the files will start downloading to your browser.

✅ Pros:

• 🔹 No need to install programs on your PC – a browser is enough.
• 🔹 Works without an internet connection (one Wi-Fi network is enough).
• 🔹 Supports batch transfer (you can send a folder at once).

❌ Cons:

• 🚫 Speed ​​is limited (~5-8 MB/s) due to protocol HTTP.
• 🚫 Doesn't always work stably on Windows 7/8 (it's better to use Windows 10/11).
• 🚫 You can't transfer files from your PC to your phone—only the other way around.

2. Transfer via FTP server to Xiaomi (maximum speed)

For those who value speed and are ready to spend 2-3 minutes on setup, FTP server — the best option. This method allows you to transfer files in both directions (from PC to phone and back) at speeds up to 20-30 MB/s (depending on the router). How it works: the phone creates a local FTP server, to which the computer connects via any FTP client (for example, FileZilla or built-in Windows Explorer).

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open it on your phone Settings → Connection and Sharing → FTP File Transfer.
2. Activate the switch FTP server.
3. Remember or copy the server address (for example, ftp://192.168.1.100:2221), login (anonymous) and a password (usually empty or 123456).
4. On your computer, open Conductor (or FileZilla) and enter the FTP address in the address bar.
5. Log in and drag and drop files as you would in a regular folder.

📌 Important nuances:

• 🔌 The FTP server only works while the phone's screen is on (or while the "Keep screen on" setting is active).
• 🔌 For stable operation, it is recommended to use Total Commander or WinSCP instead of the standard conductor.
• 🔌 If the connection is interrupted, check if your antivirus is blocking it (for example, Avast or Kaspersky) port 2221.

⚠️ Attention: FTP transfers data without encryptionIf your Wi-Fi network is not password protected or has other devices connected to it, it is better to use alternative methods (for example, SFTP via the app Solid Explorer).

3. Local network: folder sharing (for Windows)

If you need to regularly exchange files between PCs and Xiaomi, setting network folder Sharing will save you time. This method requires a one-time setup, after which the phone will see the computer as a network drive. It's suitable for transferring large archives or backups.

How to set up:

1. On your computer, open Control Panel → Network Settings → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced Sharing Settings.
2. Turn on File and Printer Sharing and disable password protection (or remember the login/password for your Windows account).
3. Right-click on the folder you want to open and select Properties → Access → Sharing. Grant read/write permission.
4. Install a file manager with support on your phone. SMB (For example, CX File Explorer or Solid Explorer).
5. In the manager, select Network → Local Network → Add Server and enter the IP address of the computer (you can find it out using the command ipconfig V CMD).

🔧 Solutions to typical problems:

How to enable SMB2/3 in Windows 10/11

Open Registry Editor (Win + R → regedit) and go to the path HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters. Create a parameter SMB1 type DWORD with meaning 0, and then add the parameter SMB2 with meaning 1. Restart your PC.

4. File transfer apps (Snapseed, Send Anywhere, Xender)

If the built-in methods seem complicated, you can use third-party apps. They usually offer a simpler interface and additional features (for example, sharing via QR code or link). Let's look at the top 3 solutions for Xiaomi:

📱 1. Send Anywhere

• 🔹 Transfer without registration using a 6-digit code.
• 🔹 Speed ​​up to 10 MB/s.
• 🔹 Works via a browser on a PC (send-anywhere.com).

📱 2. Xender

• 🔹 Creates a Wi-Fi Direct access point (no router required).
• 🔹 Supports app transfer (.apk).
• 🔹 Sometimes blocked by antivirus software as "suspicious software".

📱 3. Snapdrop (web version)

• 🔹 Works through a browser without installation (snapdrop.net).
• 🔹 Automatically finds devices on the same network.
• 🔹 File size limit is 2 GB.

⚠️ Attention: Apps like Xender or Shareit They often collect user data (including file lists). If privacy is important, use them only for non-sensitive information or disable access to the storage after use.

5. Transfer via Xiaomi Cloud (Mi Cloud) - if Wi-Fi is unstable

If your Wi-Fi network is intermittent or you frequently move between different networks, Mi Cloud can be a backup option. This cloud storage from Xiaomi, integrated into MIUI. The first 5 GB are provided free of charge, which is enough for transferring documents or small photo albums.

How to use:

1. Open it on your phone Settings → Xiaomi Account → Mi Cloud and enable syncing for the file types you need (for example, Gallery or Notes).
2. Upload files to the cloud using the menu Share → Save to Mi Cloud.
3. On your computer, go to the website i.mi.com and log in using the same account.
4. Download files via the web interface.

⚠️ Attention: Mi Cloud encrypts data during transmission, but stores it on servers Xiaomi in China. If you work with confidential documents, it's better to use FTP or local network.

💡 Life hack: To save traffic, upload files to Mi Cloud Only via Wi-Fi. To do this, enable the option in the cloud settings. Download via Wi-Fi only.

6. Alternative methods: Telegram, Pushbullet, AirDroid

If standard methods aren't suitable, you can use instant messaging apps or specialized services. They're slower. FTP or a local network, but they help out in non-standard situations (for example, when devices are on different networks).

📌 Comparison of alternative methods:

🔍 How to choose a method?

• 📁 Need to transfer a lot of files quickly? → FTP or local network.
• 📱 No access to a computer, but have a phone? → Mi Drop or Send Anywhere.
• ☁️ Need files on multiple devices? → Mi Cloud or Google Drive.
• 🔗 Devices on different networks? → Telegram or AirDroid.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transferring files to Xiaomi devices via Wi-Fi

🔍 Why can't my phone see my computer on the local network?

The problem could be in several places:

• 🔌 The devices are connected to different Wi-Fi networks (check the network name on both).
• 🔌 The protocol is disabled on the computer SMB (see instructions above).
• 🔌 A firewall or antivirus is blocking access (temporarily disable them for the test).
• 🔌 Your phone uses a VPN—it may conflict with your local network.

If nothing helps, try connecting using the computer's IP address instead of the name (for example, \\192.168.1.100\folder).

⚡ How to speed up file transfers over Wi-Fi?

The speed depends on many factors, but it can be increased:

• 📶 Switch your router to a different range 5 GHz (if supported).
• 📶 Use FTP instead of Mi Drop or HTTP.
• 📶 Disable background apps on your phone that consume data.
• 📶 Connect your computer to the router with a cable (if possible) - this will reduce the load on the Wi-Fi.

💡 Advice: To test the speed, use the utility iPerf3 (Install it on your PC and phone). It will show your network's actual throughput.

🔒 Is it safe to transfer files via FTP?

Standard FTP transmits data without encryption, That's why:

• 🚫 Do not share passwords, banking documents, or personal correspondence.
• 🔐 If you need security, use SFTP (port 22) via the app Solid Explorer or Termux.
• 🌐 For maximum security, connect to FTP only on trusted networks (home Wi-Fi, not a public hotspot).

📱 Is it possible to transfer files from iPhone to Xiaomi via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but standard methods MIUI (For example, Mi Drop) do not support iOS. Use instead:

• 🔹 Send Anywhere (cross-platform).
• 🔹 Snapdrop (works via Safari browser).
• 🔹 AirDroid (there is a version for iPhone).

💡 Important: On iPhone You need to allow access to the local network in the application settings (Settings → Privacy → Local Network).

🛠️ What should I do if the file transfer is interrupted?

Reasons and solutions:

• 📵 Weak Wi-Fi signal: Move closer to the router or switch to 5 GHz.
• 🔋 Battery Saving: Turn off power saving mode on your phone (Settings → Battery → Performance mode).
• 🖥️ PC problems: Restart the FTP server or network discovery in Windows.
• 📡 Interference from other devices: Restart your router or change the Wi-Fi channel in its settings.