Using a smartphone as a modem is one of the most popular features for users who are often away from fixed access points. Owners of the popular budget device Xiaomi Redmi 5 Often, we need to provide internet access to our colleagues' laptops or tablets. Setting up a wireless network on Android 7.1 Nougat, which is installed by default on this model, has its own unique features that differentiate it from newer versions of the MIUI interface.
Unlike modern flagships, where the Internet sharing menu is brought to the forefront, in Redmi 5 Some options may be hidden or mislabeled, which can be confusing for inexperienced users. Furthermore, the hardware limitations of the Snapdragon 425 processor require careful consideration of frequency and range settings to avoid overloading the radio module and ensure stable data transfer rates.
In this article, we'll walk you through every setup step, from activating the basic feature to fine-tuning security settings. You'll learn how to properly configure a network name and password to protect your data from unauthorized access, as well as how to optimize your device's power consumption when operating in router mode.
Preparing your smartphone to work in hotspot mode
Before activating modem mode, you need to make sure that the device is ready to distribute traffic. Redmi 5 You must have an active mobile network connection, as 4G or 3G is used to transmit data to client devices. Check your SIM card balance and signal strength in your current location, as poor reception directly impacts internet speed on connected devices.
Battery life is an important consideration. Access point mode Wi-Fi This is a power-hungry process that quickly drains the 3000 mAh battery in this model. It's recommended to connect the phone to a power source or ensure it's charged at least 50-60% to prevent the device from shutting down at the most inopportune moment.
⚠️ Caution: When using tethering, the smartphone's body may become noticeably warm. This is a normal physical reaction of the radio module to increased load, but if the temperature becomes critical, it's best to interrupt the session.
It's also worth checking your mobile network settings. Make sure your data connection is enabled in your cellular settings and that the correct network type is selected, preferably 4G/LTETo ensure maximum speed, use data roaming. If you're roaming, you'll need to separately enable the data roaming option in the corresponding settings menu.
Activating a Wi-Fi hotspot via settings
The main way to manage the Internet sharing function in the MIUI shell version 9, which is relevant for Redmi 5, is located in the system settings section. To get started, open the main application menu and find the icon Settings, represented by a gear. In the list of settings that opens, find the item responsible for wireless networks and internet connections.
Depending on the firmware version, this section may be called Additional functions or immediately Wi-Fi hotspotIf you're using the standard global version of MIUI, the item you need is often hidden inside the menu. Additional functionsClick on it to see a list of available options, which will include Wi-Fi hotspot.
☑️ Check before switching on
Once you go to the hotspot menu, you'll see the main switch. Move the slider to the position IncludedThe system will automatically activate the module and begin broadcasting the network. However, immediately after activation, the network will be available under the factory name, which is unsafe. Click the name of your access point or the button Access point settingsto go to detailed configuration.
Configuring security settings and network name
The security of the network you're creating is a priority, as your data can be intercepted in the open air. In the access point settings menu, find the field SSID (Network Name) By default, it contains the phone model, for example, Redmi 5It is recommended to change this name to something unique to easily identify your network in the list of available connections, especially in crowded areas.
Next, you need to set a strong password. Click on the field Password and enter a character combination of at least 8 characters. Use a combination of upper- and lower-case letters and numbers to increase security. Make sure the field Security protocol selected WPA2 PSK, which is the most secure standard for mobile devices at the moment.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| SSID | Unique name | The name by which the network is visible to other devices |
| Password | Minimum 8 characters | Access key for connecting clients |
| Protocol | WPA2-Personal | Traffic encryption standard |
| Range | 2.4 GHz | Frequency range (hardware feature of Redmi 5) |
After entering all the data, be sure to click the button Save or the checkmark in the upper-right corner of the screen. Failure to do so may result in changes not being applied, and the network will remain open or with the factory password. Once saved, the settings will take effect immediately.
Using the Quick Menu to Manage Your Network
To quickly turn on and off Internet distribution, it is not necessary to dive into the depths of the system menu every time. Xiaomi Redmi 5 There's a handy widget in the notification shade. Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the control panel. If you don't see the icon Access point Among the shortcuts, click on the edit button (usually a pencil or three dots).
In the list of available widgets, find the element Access point or Hotspot and drag it to the active zone. Now, a single tap is all it takes to activate the mode. When activated via the curtain, the system can display a notification about the number of connected devices and the amount of data transferred.
Long-pressing the hotspot icon in the notification shade often takes you directly to the advanced settings menu, bypassing the main settings screen. This saves time when you need to quickly change your password or see who's connected to your network.
Limiting the number of connected devices
Processor and radio module power Redmi 5 It's enough to serve several clients, but excessive load can lead to a drop in speed for all users. In the access point settings, find the item Connected devices or Device managementThis displays a list of all gadgets that are currently using your internet.
The system allows you to set a limit on the number of simultaneous connections. For stable operation, it is recommended to set a limit of 3-4 devices. If a fifth device attempts to connect to your network, it will be denied access. This helps maintain high surfing speeds for primary users and prevents smartphone overheating.
⚠️ Please note: The list of connected devices does not update instantly. If you just disconnected a device, it may remain active in the list for a few seconds.
This menu also often includes a "Blacklist" feature or the ability to block specific MAC addresses. If you notice an unfamiliar device in the list of connected devices, change the password immediately and use the blocking feature to deny access to the suspicious user.
Energy saving and traffic optimization
Sharing Wi-Fi significantly increases battery drain. Redmi 5 There are built-in control mechanisms that help extend battery life. In the access point menu, find the option Shutdown timerYou can set up automatic network shutdown if no one connects to the network for 5 or 10 minutes. This will prevent your phone from idling.
It's also worth paying attention to your mobile network settings. In the section Use of data You can set a traffic limit for hotspot mode. This is especially important if you don't have an unlimited data plan. When the set limit is reached, the system will automatically disable data transfer and notify you with a notification.
Effect of screen on heating
When actively distributing Wi-Fi, it's recommended to turn off your smartphone's screen. A lit display combined with an active radio module creates a double thermal load, which can lead to throttling (reduced performance) and accelerated battery wear.
To maximize energy savings, you can manually reduce screen brightness before starting to share and disable background apps that actively use the network, such as photo syncing or downloading game updates. This will free up bandwidth for your clients and reduce CPU load.
Solving common connection problems
Sometimes users encounter a situation where the hotspot is enabled, but other devices don't see the network or can't connect. First, check if power saving mode is enabled, which could be blocking background services. Try switching frequency bands if this option is available in your firmware version (although Redmi 5 hardware limited to 2.4 GHz range).
If the device sees the network but displays "Unable to obtain IP address" or "Authentication error," try forgetting the network on the client device and re-entering the password. A common cause of problems is incorrect time and date settings on the sending device, which can cause security certificate conflicts.
In extreme cases, resetting network settings helps. Go to Settings → More → Backup & reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth settingsPlease note that this action will delete all saved passwords for Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings, but it often resolves software conflicts with the communication module.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi on Redmi 5 without a SIM card inserted?
No, tethering requires an active SIM card with data enabled. However, you can tether your phone's Wi-Fi if it's connected to another Wi-Fi network (using the Wi-Fi repeater feature), but this feature may be unavailable or unstable on older versions of MIUI for the Redmi 5.
Why is the internet speed on my connected laptop so slow?
The speed depends on the 4G signal strength in your location, the operator's network load, and the number of connected devices. Also Redmi 5 Only supports the 2.4 GHz band, which is more susceptible to interference from neighboring networks and household appliances, which can reduce actual speed.
How many devices can be connected to Redmi 5 at the same time?
Technically, the MIUI shell allows you to connect up to 10 devices, but for stable operation and normal speed, it is recommended to limit the number of clients to 3-4 due to processor and antenna module limitations.
Does the operator charge extra for modem mode?
This depends on your plan. Some operators charge a separate fee for tethering or limit the speed when using a SIM card in modems and phones for tethering. Check your plan's terms in your operator account.