Modern Xiaomi smartphone and tablet users often face the need to quickly and securely connect to a wireless network without having to manually enter a complex password. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) was developed specifically to simplify this procedure, allowing devices to be authorized with the press of a button or by scanning a QR code. Gadget owners Redmi And Poco This feature is especially appreciated for its ability to instantly share Internet access with guests or connect new devices in the office.
However, despite the apparent simplicity, the setup process may have its own nuances depending on the version of the operating system. MIUI or HyperOSMany users are unaware that in recent Android updates, Google has implemented security restrictions that hide the classic WPS button from the interface. This does not mean that the function has disappeared completely., but access to it now requires understanding the hidden mechanisms of the system or using alternative authorization methods.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all available methods for activating a WPS connection on Xiaomi devices. We'll cover both standard methods via the router settings and specific techniques for phones where the WPS button has been removed from the menu. You'll learn how to use QR codes for instant connection and what to do if your router doesn't support the push button.
What is WPS technology and how does it work on Android?
The abbreviation WPS stands for Wi-Fi Protected Setup, a security standard designed to simplify setting up a home wireless network. The basic idea behind the technology is to eliminate the need for users to remember and enter long password combinations. Instead, they use either a physical button on the router, a digital PIN code, or, most relevant for modern smartphones, a virtual data exchange protocol.
On Xiaomi devices, this technology is integrated deep into the system shell level. MIUIWhen you select the WPS connection method, your phone sends a special request to the air or router containing a unique identifier. If the router is in WPS mode, it recognizes this signal and automatically transmits the necessary cryptographic keys to encrypt the connection.
⚠️ Warning: The WPS protocol has known security vulnerabilities, particularly the PIN code brute-force method. It is recommended to use only the physical button or QR code method, avoiding entering digital codes in public places.
It is important to understand that the function's operation depends not only on the phone, but also on the router. The router must support the WPS standard. and be configured accordingly. In most modern models, TP-Link, Asus or Keenetic This feature is enabled by default, but on some enterprise or older models it may be disabled by your network administrator.
Finding the WPS Function in Xiaomi Settings: Hidden Menus
For a long time, Xiaomi smartphones offered direct access to the WPS function via the Wi-Fi settings menu. However, starting with certain versions of Android (approximately Android 10 and above), Google required manufacturers to remove the "Connect via WPS" button from the default interface. This was done for security reasons, to prevent accidental activation of vulnerable protocols. Now, finding this option has become more difficult, but not impossible.
First, it's worth checking the classic path, which still works on some models with a shell MIUI 12 and below. You need to go to Settings → Wi-FiNext, tap the three dots in the upper right corner of the screen or the "Advanced Settings" button. If your phone supports WPS software launch, you'll see an option called "Connect via WPS." Tapping it will start searching for routers in pairing mode.
If there is no such button in the menu, it does not mean that your Xiaomi It doesn't support WPS. The system still supports receiving WPS signals, but can only initiate a search upon request from the router or through special commands. In newer versions HyperOS The interface has become even more minimalistic, hiding technical details from the average user. The absence of a visible button is normal system behavior. for modern versions of Android.
Why did Google remove the WPS button?
Why did Google remove the WPS button?
Google decided to remove the WPS software button from Android, as the PBC (Push Button Configuration) method and especially the PIN code method are susceptible to brute-force attacks. This has improved the overall security of user data on public networks.
There is also the possibility of activating the function through the engineering menu or special applications, but this requires root rightsThis is not recommended for regular users due to the risk of voiding the warranty and system stability. Therefore, we will focus on standard methods that ensure the safe operation of the device.
QR Code Method: A Modern Replacement for WPS on Xiaomi
With the classic WPS button disappearing from interfaces, Xiaomi, like other manufacturers, has switched to using QR codes as the primary method of quick authentication. This method technically performs the same function as WPS, but uses the smartphone's camera to read encrypted network data. It's much more convenient and secure, as it doesn't require physical contact with the router.
To connect to Wi-Fi via a QR code on a Xiaomi device, you'll need another phone that's already authorized to the network, or a sticker on the router itself. On the primary device (the one sharing the internet), go to Wi-Fi settings, tap the network name, and select "Share" or "QR code." An image will appear on the screen for you to scan.
On the receiving Xiaomi device, the process looks like this:
- 📱 Open the Camera app or the Scanner widget on your desktop.
- 📷 Point the lens at the QR code of the Wi-Fi network.
- 🔗 In the pop-up window that appears, click "Connect to the network".
- ✅ The system will automatically enter the password and establish a connection.
This method is ideal for guests or for connecting devices where text input is difficult (such as tablets or TV boxes controlled by a phone). The QR code contains all the necessary data: the network name (SSID), encryption type, and the password itself. If your router doesn't have a code sticker, you can generate one using the router manufacturer's app (e.g. Keenetic or Mi Wi-Fi) and save the image to your gallery for quick access.
Using a physical button on a Xiaomi router
The most reliable and "classic" method of using WPS, which is still fully supported by Xiaomi smartphones, is activation via the physical button on the router. This method requires no additional actions on the phone screen other than enabling Wi-Fi. It operates at the protocol level, bypassing the limitations of the Android interface.
First, make sure your router has a button that says WPS or an icon of two arrows forming a circle. It may be located on the back panel or on the edge of the device. On some models, such as Mi Router, this button can be combined with the reset button, so the press should be short (1-2 seconds) to avoid resetting the settings to factory settings.
Steps to connect:
- Turn on Wi-Fi on your Xiaomi smartphone and wait for the list of available networks to appear.
- Press and hold the WPS button on the router for 2-5 seconds until the WPS indicator starts blinking.
- Within 2 minutes, the phone will automatically detect the signal and connect without asking for a password.
- If the connection does not occur, repeat the procedure, making sure that the phone is in an area with a strong signal reception.
It's important to note that WPS mode on the router is only active for a limited time (usually 2 minutes) after pressing the button. If you don't have time to activate the search feature on your phone (if required) or your phone doesn't respond, you'll have to repeat the process. WPS indicator On the router, it usually blinks during searching and remains on solid when the connection is successful.
☑️ Button connection algorithm
Alternative methods for quick authorization in MIUI
The Xiaomi ecosystem offers several other unique connection methods that can replace WPS in certain scenarios. One such method is the "Mi Share" feature, or password sharing between Xiaomi devices. If you have two Xiaomi phones, one of which is already connected to the network, you can share connection details via Bluetooth or NFC with a simple tap or by selecting the device from your contact list.
It is also worth mentioning the possibility of using a voice assistant. Google Assistant or Xiao AIWhile not a direct equivalent to WPS, you can say, "Ok Google, connect to Wi-Fi," and if the network is saved to your Google account, your phone will attempt to connect. However, this method is unstable and depends on many factors, including region and interface language.
For Xiaomi smart home owners, the connection method via the app is relevant Mi HomeWhen you add a new device (such as a light bulb or camera) to the app, it automatically uses the phone's current Wi-Fi connection to transfer network settings to the new gadget. It's a kind of "reverse WPS," where the phone acts as a configurator for other devices.
| Connection method | Necessary conditions | Security level | Speed of work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical WPS button | Access to the router | High (short press) | Instantly |
| QR code | Camera, screen with code | Very tall | 5-10 seconds |
| Transfer (Mi Share) | Two Xiaomi devices | High | 10-15 seconds |
| Manual input | Knowing the password | Depends on the complexity of the password | Depends on the password length |
Troubleshooting: Problems and their solutions
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users often encounter errors when attempting to connect via WPS. One of the most common issues is the "Unable to connect" message or the inability to obtain an IP address. This can be caused by bandwidth congestion or the router already processing a request from another device. Rebooting the router often solves this problem.
Another common issue: the WPS button on the router isn't responding. Check if this feature is disabled in the router's web interface. To do this, access the router settings via a browser (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1), and find the section Wireless → WPS and make sure the feature status is "Enabled." Some providers can disable this feature remotely.
⚠️ Important: If your router broadcasts on the 5 GHz band, make sure WPS is enabled for that band. Some older models only support WPS on the 2.4 GHz band.
It's also worth keeping in mind that on some corporate networks or in dorms, WPS may be blocked by the administrator. In this case, no amount of button manipulation will help—you'll need to manually enter your username and password or contact your provider's technical support. If all else fails, try update the router firmware, since older versions of the software may have errors in the operation of the WPS protocol.
What should I do if the WPS indicator is on but there is no connection?
What should I do if the WPS indicator is on but there is no connection?
Try disabling MAC address filtering on your router. Also, check that the maximum number of connected clients hasn't been reached. Sometimes temporarily disabling WPA3 security and switching to WPA2/WPA Mixed helps.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it safe to use WPS on Xiaomi in 2026-2026?
The physical button (PBC) method is considered secure enough for home use, as the connection window is very short. However, the PIN code method is considered outdated and vulnerable. It is recommended to use QR codes for guests.
Why is the WPS button missing from the menu on my Xiaomi Redmi?
This is an Android operating system limitation implemented by Google. Starting with Android 10, the WPS software button has been removed from the default settings interface for all manufacturers, including Xiaomi, to improve security.
Is it possible to connect Xiaomi to Wi-Fi without a password if there is no WPS button?
Yes, using a QR code. You can generate a QR code on any other device that knows the password, or using an online generator, and then scan it with your Xiaomi's camera.
Does WPS work if the SSID (network name) is hidden?
In most cases, yes, the WPS protocol can work even with a hidden SSID, since the exchange of service packets occurs at a lower level. However, for the initial setup, it's best to temporarily make the network visible.