Modern smartphones Xiaomi Redmi are complex devices where the stability of a wireless connection plays a key role in everyday use. The process of activating the communication module is usually intuitive, but different versions of the shell MIUI or HyperOS Users can make their own adjustments to the arrangement of controls. Users often encounter situations where the standard algorithm of actions does not produce the desired result, requiring a deeper dive into the system settings.
In this article, we'll cover all setup steps in detail, from basic setup to manual configuration for corporate or hidden networks. Particular attention will be paid to troubleshooting, as software failures are the most common cause of internet outages. Proper Configuration IP addresses And DNS servers can solve most problems with low speed or constant connection breaks.
Before attempting any complex steps, make sure your hardware is working properly and you have a valid plan with your provider. Often, the problem lies not with your phone, but with the router or temporary issues with your service provider. We'll cover methods that will help you quickly restore internet access and optimize your connection.
Basic activation of the wireless module
The fastest way to scan for available hotspots is to use the quick access panel, also known as the "showcase." To do this, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notifications and system switches menu. In the list of icons that appears, find the symbol resembling a fan or antenna and tap it.
If the icon turns blue or green, this means the module is activated and has begun scanning the airwaves. Available networks with varying signal strengths will appear in the list. Select the desired name from the list and enter the password if the network is protected by a security protocol. WPA2 or WPA3.
An alternative route is through the main system settings menu. Find the section usually labeled "Wi-Fi" or "Wireless Networks." This menu offers a more extensive list of options, including managing saved profiles and network layout.
⚠️ Note: If the status bar icon doesn't appear within 10-15 seconds after powering on, there may be a system process error that controls the radio module. In this case, simply power cycling the phone often resolves the issue.
It is important to note that the interface may differ slightly in new firmware versions. For example, in HyperOS The design of the switches has become more minimalistic, but the operating logic remains the same. For older models of the series Redmi Note The activation process may take a little longer due to a less powerful processor.
Setting up via the system menu
For full control over your connection, we recommend using the advanced settings menu. Go to Settings → Wi-FiHere you'll see a list of all previously used networks and the current connection status. Clicking the arrow next to the active network name will open additional options.
In this section you can change MAC address Devices can be set to random for increased privacy in public places. A "Wi-Fi Assistant" feature is also available, which automatically switches traffic to the mobile network if the wireless router's signal becomes too weak.
- 📡 Advanced settings: Allows you to manually set an IP address if automatic DHCP distribution does not work correctly.
- 🔒 Safety: This displays the encryption type and the ability to view the password for saved networks (identity verification required).
- 🔄 Auto-connection: An option that allows you to prevent your phone from connecting to known but unsecure access points on its own.
The "Private DNS" section deserves special attention. Changing this setting can speed up page loading and bypass some ISP restrictions. However, incorrect settings can completely block internet access, so only change them if you have verified addresses.
Connecting to a hidden network
Some network administrators hide the ID SSID For security reasons, the device doesn't see this access point in the general list. To connect, you need to manually add a new profile. In the Wi-Fi menu, scroll down to "Add network" or "Connect to another network."
In the window that opens, you'll need to enter the exact network name, taking care to ensure proper case-sensitive access, as the system is spell-sensitive. Next, select the encryption type, which must match your router settings (usually WPA/WPA2-Personal). After entering the password, click the connect button.
If the connection fails, check if MAC address filtering is enabled on your router. In this case, access will be denied even with the correct password. You need to add the MAC address of your router. Xiaomi Redmi to the white list of allowed devices in the router settings.
Path to check MAC address:
Settings → About phone → General information → Status (or Wi-Fi MAC address)
It's important to note that hidden networks don't always provide an additional level of security, as the name is broadcast in service data packets when a client connects. Therefore, reliance on hiding the SSID isn't a complete security measure.
Troubleshooting connection issues
Situations where a phone sees a network but won't connect, or constantly displays "Authentication Error," are quite common. The first step is to forget the network: tap the network name and select "Delete" or "Forget," then try entering the password again.
A common cause of problems is an IP address conflict or a full DHCP table on the router. In the Wi-Fi settings on your phone, go to the specific network settings and change the IP settings from "DHCP" to "Static." Try changing the last digit of the address, for example, from 1.100 to 1.150.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| "Authentication Error" | Incorrect password or encryption type | Remove network, check keyboard layout |
| "Getting IP address..." (long) | DHCP failure or weak signal | Set a static IP and reboot the router. |
| "Saved" but no internet | Problems with the provider or router | Check other devices, reset network settings |
| Constant disconnections | Channel congestion or interference | Switch to 5 GHz, change the router channel |
If software methods don't help, it's worth checking the date and time on your device. An incorrectly set time can lead to security certificate errors, causing secure networks to reject connections.
☑️ Connection diagnostics
Reset network settings
When simple methods fail, a complete network settings reset is an effective solution. This operation doesn't affect personal files, photos, or apps, but it does remove all saved Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth device passwords, and mobile data settings.
To perform the procedure, go to Settings → Connection and sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and BluetoothConfirm the action by entering your passcode or fingerprint. After rebooting, your phone will be as good as new in terms of network connections.
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces may vary depending on the Android version and operating system. If you can't find the reset option in the specified path, search for "Reset" in Settings.
After resetting, you'll need to re-enter your home and work network passwords. This often resolves issues with stuck configurations that may have been corrupted during a system update or caused certain apps to malfunction.
Using 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
Modern routers operate in two bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band offers greater range, but lower speeds and higher noise levels due to neighboring routers and household appliances. The 5 GHz band offers higher speeds but is less able to penetrate walls.
In the advanced Wi-Fi settings on Xiaomi Sometimes you'll see an option to "Prefer 5 GHz networks." Enabling this setting will force the phone to ignore slower networks when a faster band is available. This is useful in densely populated apartment buildings.
- 🏠 For home: If the router is in the same room as the phone, choose 5 GHz for maximum speed.
- 🌳 For the street/dacha: It is better to use 2.4 GHz, as the signal covers a better area.
- 🎮 For games: Prioritize 5 GHz to minimize ping (latency).
If your router broadcasts the same network name for both bands (Smart Connect), the phone automatically decides which one to connect to. Sometimes this algorithm doesn't work correctly, and the phone gets stuck on the distant 2.4 GHz band, even though 5 GHz is nearby. In this case, it's best to separate the network names in the router settings.
Why doesn't my phone see the 5 GHz network?
The 5 GHz band is not supported by all smartphone models, especially budget models from previous years. Furthermore, in some regions (for example, Japan), 5 GHz channels may differ from those in Europe, which also impacts network visibility.
Optimization and energy saving
System MIUI is known for its aggressive power saving features, which can limit background processes, including Wi-Fi. If apps aren't receiving data in the background or the connection drops when the screen is off, you should check your battery settings.
Go to Settings → Battery → Settings (or the gear icon). Find the power saving mode and make sure it's not set to "Maximum Saving." For important apps, you can set it to "No Restrictions" in the app management menu.
It's also worth disabling network scanning in sleep mode if you notice your phone's battery draining quickly in your pocket. This setting is located in the advanced Wi-Fi settings and is called "Always scan for networks" or something similar.
Regularly updating your phone and router firmware helps eliminate known compatibility issues. Manufacturers often release patches that improve connection stability with specific hardware models.
Why does Wi-Fi connect but there is no internet?
Most often, this is a problem with the router (no connection to the ISP) or incorrect DNS settings. Try entering Google's DNS servers in your phone's Wi-Fi settings: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
How do I find out the password for a saved network?
On modern versions of Android and MIUI, tap the saved network name in the Wi-Fi menu. A QR code will appear, with the password displayed in text format underneath it (or next to the "Share" button).
Does the case affect the Wi-Fi signal?
Yes, cases with metal inserts or a thick layer of metal can shield the antenna, significantly reducing signal strength and connection speed.
What to do if the phone does not see any networks?
This may indicate a hardware failure in the antenna module. Try resetting the network settings. If the network list is empty after resetting and rebooting, diagnostics at a service center are required.