Modern users often need to quickly transfer data between their mobile devices and personal computers. USB cables are constantly lost, connectors wear out, and searching for the right cable in a drawer wastes precious time. Fortunately, the ecosystem Xiaomi and operating system Windows offer a variety of convenient ways to set up wireless communications.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to connect your smartphone to your laptop using only a local Wi-Fi network. You'll learn how to transfer large video files, control your phone's screen from your computer, and even open mobile apps directly on a large monitor without lag.
The methods considered are suitable for most models, whether budget Redmi or flagship Xiaomi with shell MIUI or HyperOSThe main thing is to ensure that both devices are on the same network, which is a basic requirement for the stable operation of most data transfer protocols.
Using the built-in file manager to transfer data
The easiest and fastest way to transfer photos or documents is to use the built-in "Remote Control" feature, which is already included in the default File Explorer. You don't need to download anything; simply enable the desired mode in the menu. Open the File Explorer app on your smartphone, go to the "Remote Control" tab, and click "Enable."
After activation, the system will display an address that must be entered into the address bar of any browser on the computer or in the "This PC" window. Transfer speed In this mode, the speed is limited only by the power of your router and is usually between 2 and 10 MB/s, which is quite enough for everyday tasks.
This method is ideal when you need to quickly retrieve a file but don't have a cable handy. However, it's important to remember that this feature only works while the smartphone screen is active or the app is open in the background without power-saving restrictions.
- 📁 Allows you to access your phone's entire file system through a browser.
- 🚀 No additional software installation required on your PC.
- 🔒 Works exclusively within the local network; data does not go to the Internet.
- ⚡ Supports transfer of files of any size without compression.
⚠️ Note: When using this method, the server address may change with each new connection unless you set a static IP for your smartphone in your router settings.
Synchronization via Mi PC Suite and Mi Share
The official tool from the manufacturer, known as Mi PC Suite, was once the main way to control the device, but now its functionality has partially moved to the service Mi Share and built-in Windows tools. For full functionality, ADB drivers are often required, which can be found in the Android SDK Platform Tools.
A modern alternative is to use Mi Share, which lets you send files to nearby devices. If your laptop is running Windows 10 or 11, you can use the built-in Phone Link app, which works seamlessly with the operating system. MIUIThis allows you to see notifications, make calls, and view photos right on your desktop.
Setting up Mi Share It takes a couple of minutes: enable the feature in the notification shade, select "Add device," and scan the QR code on your computer screen. Once paired, files will transfer between devices at speeds close to the maximum throughput of 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
It is important to note that for some sync features to work, both devices must be authorized in the same Mi AccountThis ensures data security and allows devices to be found even if they are on different subnets, although speed will depend on the quality of the internet connection.
Emulate a USB drive via FTP and Wi-Fi
For advanced users who need direct access to the file system like a regular Windows folder, FTP is ideal. Unlike File Explorer's built-in HTTP server, FTP clients allow you to mount your phone's storage as a network drive. This requires installing a server app on your smartphone, such as WiFi FTP Server or use the built-in tools of some launchers.
After launching the server on your phone, in "My Computer" on Windows, click "Add a new network location" and enter the address provided by the app. You will have full access to the folders. /storage/emulated/0/, which is equivalent to internal memory.
This method is good because it allows you to work with files in your favorite programs: edit documents in Word, open videos in VLC, and immediately save changes back to your phone. Connection stability This is critical here, so make sure your laptop and phone are connected to the same access point.
| Parameter | HTTP (Explorer) | FTP (Third-party software) | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | High (up to 10 MB/s) | Very high (up to 20 MB/s) | Low (up to 0.3 MB/s) |
| Installing software | Not required | Required for phone | Not required |
| Access to the system | Only media and documents | Full access to files | Selected files only |
| Energy consumption | Average | High | Low |
How to increase FTP speed?
Use a router that supports Wi-Fi 6 and connect both devices to the 5 GHz band. Avoid using guest networks, which often have client isolation enabled.
Screencasting and control via Scrcpy and Mi Remote
If your goal is not just to transfer a file, but to fully control your smartphone from your laptop's keyboard and mouse, then the best solution would be a combination Scrcpy (requires initial setup via USB) or specialized Wi-Fi mirroring applications. For Xiaomi The "Wireless Debugging" feature, available in the developer menu, is also relevant.
To enable wireless debugging, go to Settings → About phone → MIUI version (press 7 times), then in Additional → For developersFind "Wireless Debugging" and enable it. Now you can connect to the device via IP address using commands. adb connect IP_address:port.
This method provides minimal latency when displaying images on the monitor screen, which allows you to even run mobile games or watch high-quality videos without jerking. Screen resolution and the bitrate can be adjusted through the client program launch parameters.
- 🎮 Ideal for gamers and app testers.
- 🖥️ Allows you to use your PC keyboard to type on your phone.
- 📹 Record your smartphone screen in high quality without straining your processor.
- ⌨️ Support for macros and action automation.
⚠️ Note: The "Wireless Debugging" feature is only available in Developer Mode. Be careful not to connect to unknown Wi-Fi networks with debugging enabled, as this may create a security hole.
☑️ Wireless debugging setup
Xiaomi Cloud services and synchronization
Don't forget about the classic cloud method, which doesn't require devices to be on the same network. Xiaomi Cloud (or Mi Cloud) automatically syncs contacts, notes, photos, and voice recordings. To access this data on your laptop, simply visit the service's official website in your browser.
While this method doesn't provide full file system access, it's indispensable for backing up important data. If you lose your phone or it breaks, all your data will remain safe. In the sync settings, you can choose which apps transfer data to the cloud.
For users storing large amounts of data, pricing is a pressing issue. The free 5GB storage is modest, but it's plenty for documents and contacts. Paid plans expand the capabilities, allowing for full system backups.
It's important to periodically check your account's sync status. Sometimes, due to cloud storage being full, new photos stop uploading, and the user isn't aware of this until they try to find the photo on another device.
Troubleshooting connection issues
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where the laptop doesn't detect the phone or the connection constantly drops. Most often, the problem lies with Windows Firewall or antivirus settings that block incoming connections over the local network. An exception rule should be added for the private network profile.
Another common cause is your router's power-saving mode or your laptop's network card's sleep mode. Make sure "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" is unchecked for your Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager. Also, check if "AP Client Isolation" is enabled on your router, which prevents devices from seeing each other.
If your transfer speed drops to zero, try changing your Wi-Fi channel. In apartment buildings, the airwaves are often crowded, and switching to a less crowded channel (for example, 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz) can work wonders. For the 5 GHz band, it's best to use automatic selection or channels 36-48.
⚠️ Note: MIUI and HyperOS interfaces may differ between firmware versions. If you can't find the menu item, use the settings search (the magnifying glass icon at the top of the settings screen).
What to do if FTP is not working?
Try changing the port in the server settings (the default 21 may be blocked). Also, check if you're using public Wi-Fi with a Captive Portal (login page), which often blocks local connections.
Why can't my laptop see my phone via Wi-Fi?
Most likely, the devices are connected to different networks (for example, one to a guest network and the other to the main network) or client isolation is enabled on the router. Also, check your antivirus software.
Is it safe to transfer passwords via FTP?
The standard FTP protocol transfers data in cleartext. For transferring sensitive information, it's best to use SFTP (if the server supports it) or the built-in File Explorer's HTTPS mode.
How to speed up the transfer of large files?
Use the 5GHz band, make sure your router supports 802.11ac or ax, and close background apps that consume data.
Is it possible to control the phone if the screen is off?
When using Scrcpy with root privileges or through special modifications, yes. The screen must be active using standard Android tools, or you must use debugging mode with wake-on-USB/Wi-Fi.