Modern multimedia set-top boxes such as Xiaomi Mi Box S, have long ceased to be simply devices for watching streaming services. They have become full-fledged entertainment centers that require integration with other gadgets in the home. Wireless connection The connection between your personal computer and the console provides access to your media library, allows you to broadcast images from your monitor to the big screen, and control content from your keyboard.
Many users encounter difficulties when trying to establish a connection between Windows and Android TV, often assuming that HDMI cables or complex adapters are required. However, if both devices are on the same network, the syncing process becomes remarkably simple. WiFi technology Provides sufficient bandwidth for high-definition video transmission and file management.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all available connection methods, from standard Windows functions to specialized software. You'll learn how to set up local network Correctly to avoid delays and connection drops. Equipment readiness and proper router configuration are key factors for success.
Preparing equipment and setting up the network
Before you begin software setup, you need to ensure that the devices can physically "see" each other. The most important requirement is your computer and console. Mi Box S must be connected to the same router. If your PC is connected via Ethernet and the set-top box is connected via WiFi, this is acceptable, but only if both devices are on the same subnet.
Pay attention to the wireless signal frequency. For comfortable 4K video streaming, it's best to use the 5 GHz, as it's less congested and offers higher speeds. However, the 2.4 GHz band can introduce noticeable lag when streaming your desktop.
⚠️ Important: If your router broadcasts two different networks (guest and main), make sure the same SSID is selected on both devices. Some router models isolate the guest network from the main network, making connection impossible.Check that discovery is enabled on your set-top box. This is usually enabled by default in the standard Android TV interface, but you may need to re-authorize after a factory reset. Also, make sure that "Public Network" mode isn't enabled on your computer, as this prevents your device from being visible to others.
Mirror your Windows screen to your TV (Miracast)
The fastest way to display an image from your computer on your TV screen is through Mi Box S - using the built-in Windows "Connect to a wireless display" function. This technology is based on the standard Miracast, which is natively supported by the Android TV operating system.
To get started, press the app menu button on the set-top box's remote control and find the "Cast" or "Wireless Display" shortcut. Once launched, a waiting-for-connection screen will appear. On a Windows 10 or 11 computer, press the key combination
Win + KThe system will start searching for available devices.
- 🖥️ Find your set-top box in the list (usually it’s called Android TV or Mi Box S).
- 🔗 Click on the device name to initiate the connection.
- ✅ A request to allow the connection may appear on the TV screen. Confirm this with the remote control.
Once paired successfully, your computer screen will be mirrored to your TV. You can change the projection mode by clicking
Win + Pand select "Second Screen Only" to turn off the PC monitor and use the TV as the primary display. This is convenient for watching movies or presentations.📊 Which connection method do you use most often?Miracast (standard)Google Home (Chromecast)Third-party applications (AirDroid)DLNA serverUsing Google Home for Chromecast
An alternative and often more sustainable way is to use an ecosystem Google CastBecause Mi Box S Since Chromecast runs on Android TV, the Chromecast feature is more integrated into the system than standard Miracast. To use it, you'll need the Google Chrome browser on your computer or the dedicated Google Home app.
If you're using Chrome, open the menu (the three dots in the upper right corner) and select "Cast." The browser will scan the network and suggest available devices. You can cast a single tab or your entire desktop.
The advantage of this method is better video stream optimization and lower latency when watching online videos. However, for gaming or browsing, it may be less responsive than a direct WiFi connection via Miracast. It's important to keep your browser up-to-date.
⚠️ Note: Browser and app interfaces are updated regularly. The button layout may differ slightly from what's described. If you don't see a feature, check the "Save and Share" section or use keyboard shortcuts.Why does the sound disappear during broadcasting?
Sometimes, when connecting through Chrome, the audio remains on the computer. To switch it to the TV, right-click on the tab you're casting and select "Cast audio" or change the audio output device in Windows settings.
Transferring files over a local network (SMB and FTP)
For owners of large media libraries, the issue of transferring large movie or archive files from a computer to a set-top box without using USB flash drives is relevant. Protocols SMB And FTP Allows direct data exchange via WiFi. This is especially convenient if the video is stored on a PC's hard drive.
The easiest way is to set up a shared folder in Windows. Find the movie folder, right-click it, and select Properties → Sharing → Advanced. Check the "Share" box and set read permissions for your account.
On the console side, you will need a file manager with network support, for example, X-plore File Manager or VLC PlayerIn the network menu, select "Local Area Network" or "SMB." The computer should be detected automatically. If prompted for login information, use the login and password for your Windows account.
Parameter Value for setting Where to find Protocol SMB v1/v2/v3 Windows Settings / Network Username Your Windows login Start → Profile Password Windows login password Account settings IP address Local IP (e.g. 192.168.1.5) cmd → ipconfig If automatic search doesn't work, try entering your computer's IP address manually in the console's file manager. Also, make sure the "Private Network" profile is selected in Windows network settings, not "Public," otherwise the system may block incoming connections.
☑️ Check file access
Completed: 0 / 4Controlling the set-top box from a PC (ADB and applications)
For advanced users who want full control Mi Box S Using a computer keyboard and mouse, network debugging is a suitable method. This allows you to not only enter text but also install apps (APKs), take screenshots, and manage the system.
First, you need to enable developer mode. Go to
Settings → About TVand quickly tap the "Build number" field seven times. A new "Developer options" option will appear in the menu. Within it, enable "USB debugging" and "Network debugging."You can use the program to control it from your computer. ADB (Android Debug Bridge)This is a console utility, but there are convenient graphical shells, for example, Scrcpy or TeamViewer for Android TVThey allow you to see the console screen in a Windows window and control the mouse cursor.
adb connect 192.168.1.XX:5555This command, entered in the PC command line, will establish a connection to the set-top box at the specified IP address. Once connected, you'll be able to send commands instantly, which is much more convenient than typing with the remote when searching for movies.
Solving common connection problems
Despite the simplicity of WiFi technology, glitches sometimes occur. The computer may not recognize the set-top box, or the connection may constantly drop. Most often, the problem lies with the network adapter's power-saving settings or antivirus software blocking it.
Try rebooting your router. This is a simple but often effective tip, as the DHCP server may have issued conflicting IP addresses or the ARP table may be stuck. Also, check if AP Isolation is enabled on your router, which prevents devices on the network from communicating with each other.
- 🔄 Restart the router and both connected devices.
- 🛡️ Temporarily disable the firewall on your PC to test.
- 📶 Make sure that the devices are not separated into different VLANs.
If you're using complex corporate networks or mesh systems with fast roaming, issues with discovery protocols may arise. In such cases, manually entering the IP address in client applications often resolves the visibility issue.
⚠️ Note: Communication protocols and operating system interfaces may change with updates. If standard methods no longer work, check the current security settings in the documentation for your version of Windows or Android TV.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a computer to Mi Box S if there is no router?
Yes, this is possible if you create a hotspot on one of the devices. For example, you can share WiFi from your laptop and connect the set-top box to this network. However, the speed may be limited by the laptop's adapter.
Why does the image flicker when I broadcast my screen?
Most likely, your WiFi channel isn't providing enough bandwidth or the signal is unstable. Try switching to a 5 GHz frequency, moving the devices closer to the router, or lowering the image resolution in the projection settings.
Do you need internet to connect your PC to the set-top box?
No, internet access is not required. Both devices need to be connected to the same local router (even without internet access). All file transfers and screen sharing take place within your home network.
How to transfer files from iPhone to Mi Box S?
For iOS, it's best to use combination apps that support the SMB protocol (for example, Documents by Readdle) or specialized apps for transferring files over WiFi, installed on both the iPhone and the Android device.