Connecting to Wi-Fi in the Metro on Xiaomi Smartphones: A Complete Guide with Solutions to Common Errors

Connecting to Wi-Fi in the metro on smartphones Xiaomi It seems like a simple task, but in practice, users encounter a host of nuances: from the network not appearing in the list to constant connection drops. In this article, we'll cover not only the basic setup steps but also hidden settings. MIUI, which will help stabilize the connection in the subway. We will pay special attention to models with Qualcomm Snapdragon And MediaTek — their behavior when connected to public networks can differ dramatically.

It's important to understand that Wi-Fi in the metro is not a regular home network. It uses roaming access points (in carriages) or stationary routers (at stations), which frequently change IP addresses and security settings. Xiaomi with shell MIUI 14/15 has built-in mechanisms for working with such networks, but they're not always enabled by default. We'll show you how to enable them and what to do if you still can't get a network connection.

The article is relevant for all modern models Xiaomi, Redmi And POCO (including Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro+, POCO F6). If you have an older model (produced before 2020), some menu items may differ—we'll warn you about this separately.

Why isn't Wi-Fi in the metro showing up in the list of available networks?

The most common problem is that the network simply isn't visible in the settings. There could be several reasons, and most of them have nothing to do with your phone, but with the subway infrastructure. Here are the key points:

• 📡 The network is disconnected at the station/in the carriageIn some cities, Wi-Fi is only available at stations (for example, in Moscow) or only on trains (like the St. Petersburg metro). Check your metro's official website for details.
• 🔄 Frequent change of access pointsOn a moving train, your phone may not be able to reconnect quickly between cars. This is especially true for budget models. Redmi with Wi-Fi modules 2.4 GHz.
• 🔒 Hidden network (SSID not broadcast)Some metro operators hide the network name for security reasons. In this case, you'll have to enter the network name manually.
• 📱 MIUI limitations. In the settings Xiaomi By default, a "smart connection" filter may be enabled, which ignores networks with low signal strength.

To check whether the phone is to blame or the problem is on the metro side, try to find the network on another device (for example, on iPhone or laptop). If it is missing there too, it is not the matter XiaomiIf the network is available, but only your smartphone doesn't support it, proceed to the next sections.

Basic Wi-Fi setup in the metro on Xiaomi

If the network is visible but won't connect, start by checking the basic settings. Here are step-by-step instructions for MIUI 14/15:

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Make sure the Wi-Fi slider is turned on (should be blue).
3. In the list of networks, find the name of Wi-Fi Metro (usually contains the words METRO, FreeWiFi or the name of the city).
4. Tap the network and wait for it to connect. If authorization is required, a browser will open.

Some stations require authorization via SMS or social media to access Wi-Fi. If the authorization page doesn't open automatically:

• 🌐 Open any browser and enter the address 1.1.1.1 or neverssl.com.
• 📱 If nothing happens, check if the connection is blocked VPN or firewall (for example, built in MIUI "Defender").

Is Wi-Fi enabled on your phone?

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Ad blockers are disabled in the browser|

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Attention! On some models Xiaomi (especially with MediaTek Helio) After connecting to a public network, mobile data may disappear. This is due to the Wi-Fi priority in the settings. To fix:

1. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks.
2. Select your SIM card.
3. Activate the option Use mobile internet when Wi-Fi is poor.

Hidden MIUI settings for stable Wi-Fi in the metro

shell MIUI has hidden settings that can significantly improve Wi-Fi performance in metro conditions. These settings are not documented, but have been tested in practice:

First, let's activate it developer mode (if not already enabled):

1. Go to Settings → About phone.
2. Tap the item 7 times MIUI version.
3. Enter your pattern or password.

Now open it Settings → Additional settings → Developer options and find the following options:

A critical detail for Xiaomi owners with MediaTek processors: the "High Performance Wi-Fi Mode" option may be missing from the developer options. In this case, try enabling "Wi-Fi Debugging"—this indirectly improves connection stability.

Resolving issues with authorization and the captive portal

Many users encounter a situation where Wi-Fi connects in the metro, but the internet doesn't work—instead, they're presented with a login page that doesn't load. This is due to captive portal (forced authorization system). Here's how to bypass common errors:

• 🔄 The authorization page does not openTry opening it manually. http://captive.apple.com or http://connectivitycheck.gstatic.com in the browser.
• 🚫 Browser blocking. Disable ad blockers (for example, in Chrome with the uBlock extension) or use a standard browser MIUI.
• 📱 "No Internet Connection" ErrorGo to . Settings → Applications → Manage applications → Browser and clear the cache.
• ⏳ Infinite page loadingTurn on airplane mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off and try connecting again.

If authorization goes through, but after a few minutes the Internet disappears, the problem may be in session timeoutIn many cities' metro systems, Wi-Fi connections are limited in time (for example, 30 minutes), after which you need to reconnect. To automate this process:

1. Install the application Tasker or MacroDroid from Google Play.
2. Create a task on Disabling/enabling Wi-Fi at intervals of 25 minutes.
3. Add a condition to run the task only when connected to the metro network (by SSID name).

What should I do if SMS confirmation is required?

If you need to enter a phone number for authorization, but the SMS does not arrive:

1. Check your SIM card balance (sometimes operators block SMS when the balance is zero).

2. Try requesting the code again in 1-2 minutes.

3. If you use two-factor authentication (for example, via Telegram), temporarily disable it—some captive portal systems conflict with such services.

4. As a last resort, use a virtual number (services like SMS-Activate), but be aware of the security risks.

Optimizing battery consumption when using Wi-Fi on the metro

Constantly searching for and connecting to Wi-Fi on the subway can significantly reduce your phone's battery life. This is especially noticeable on models with small batteries (e.g., Xiaomi 13 Lite or POCO X5). Here's how to reduce battery drain without losing your connection:

• 🔋 Disable background network scanning for unnecessary applications: Settings → Battery → App Selection → Restrict Background Activity.
• 📶 Set a limit on mobile data consumption in the background: Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Data usage → Background data.
• ⚡ Use a dark theme (in the metro it’s also easier on the eyes): Settings → Display → Dark Theme.
• 🔄 Adjust adaptive brightness: Settings → Display → Adaptive Brightness → Enable.

For advanced users: in MIUI 15 a function has appeared Smart battery management, which automatically optimizes energy consumption when connected to public grids. To activate it:

1. Go to Settings → Battery.
2. Tap the ⚙️ icon in the upper right corner.
3. Enable the option Smart battery management and add to the exceptions applications that should work without restrictions (for example, instant messengers).

Alternative ways to connect to the internet in the metro

If Wi-Fi in the metro is constantly disconnecting or unavailable, consider alternative options:

• 📶 Mobile Internet. In some cities (for example, in the Moscow metro) operators (MTS, Beeline, Megaphone, Tele2) provide 4G/5G coverage at stations and in tunnels. Check your operator's coverage map.
• 🔗 Modem modeIf you have a second phone with working internet, you can share Wi-Fi via Settings → Hotspot & Tethering → Tethering & Hotspot.
• 📡 External antennasFor frequent trips, you can use signal repeaters (for example, Xiaomi WiFi Repeater 2), but this is only relevant for stationary use (for example, in an office near a metro station).
• 📥 Offline content. Download music, maps, and videos in advance in apps (YouTube Premium, Yandex Music, Google Maps).

If you decide to use mobile internet, keep in mind that not all 4G/5G bands may work in the metro. For example, the St. Petersburg metro has better coverage. Band 20 (800 MHz), and in Moscow - Band 3 (1800 MHz)To force selection of a range on Xiaomi:

1. Activate developer mode (as described above).
2. Go to Developer options → Network settings.
3. Select Network setup and specify your preferred network type (eg. LTE only).

⚠️ Attention! Forced band selection may impair reception outside the metro. After your trip, reset the settings to their original state (Auto).

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even after proper setup, errors may still occur. We've compiled a list of common issues and solutions:

If none of the methods helped, try reset network settings:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Tap on ⋮ → Advanced → Reset network settings.
3. Confirm the action and restart your phone.

⚠️ Attention! Resetting your network will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth settings. Be sure to back up any important data beforehand.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to connect to Wi-Fi in the metro without authorization?

No, almost all metro networks require authorization via SMS, social media, or the portal. This is due to the requirements of the Federal Law "On Communications" (Federal Law No. 149) and the fight against terrorism. Some test zones are an exception, but these are usually open for limited hours.

Why does Wi-Fi in the metro only work on Android, but not on iPhone?

This is due to different approaches to processing captive portals. iOS checks security certificates more strictly, while Android (And MIUI in particular) is more loyal. Try it on iPhone disable the option Private Wi-Fi access in the network settings.

How to speed up Wi-Fi on the subway on a Xiaomi?

If the speed is slow, try:

1. Reconnect to the network (forget the network and connect again).
2. Disable Saving traffic in the Wi-Fi settings.
3. Use a browser with data compression (for example, Opera Mini).
4. Enable it in the developer options Disable background traffic limitation.

Is it safe to use Wi-Fi on the metro?

Public networks always carry risks, but in the metro they are minimal thanks to the network's isolation from the outside internet (a local portal is usually used). However:

• Do not enter passwords for important services (banks, email).
• Use VPN to encrypt traffic (for example, ProtonVPN).
• Disable automatic connection to this network after use.

Is it possible to connect to Wi-Fi on the metro on a Xiaomi phone without a SIM card?

Yes, but with some reservations:

• If authorization requires SMS, then you won’t be able to connect without a SIM card.
• If you log in via social networks (VKontakte, Telegram), you don't need a SIM card.
• Some stations allow guest access without authorization (rare).

If your question isn't covered in this article, check the current Wi-Fi settings for your city's metro on the official website of your transport company. Connection conditions are subject to change.