Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 9C — a budget-friendly yet functional device that can easily be converted into a full-fledged router. It can be used to distribute Wi-Fi in just two minutes, but many users encounter common errors: the access point won't turn on, devices won't connect, or the internet is slow. In this article— Step-by-step instructions for all MIUI versions, including hidden settings that will help boost your signal and extend battery life.
We'll cover not only the standard method via the settings menu, but also alternative methods (for example, using a USB cable or third-party applications). A separate section is dedicated to solving the 5 most common problems — from the lack of an "Access Point" option to the operator blocking the distribution. All instructions have been tested on Redmi 9C with MIUI 12-14, but will also work for other models Xiaomi based on Android 10+.
If you often share the Internet from your phone, pay attention to hidden speed limiting feature for connected devices — this will help avoid traffic gluttony and save money on mobile Internet.
1. Preparing your phone before sharing Wi-Fi
Before turning on your hotspot, check a few key settings. This will eliminate 80% of common problems—for example, when Wi-Fi turns on but the internet doesn't work.
- 📶 Mobile Internet: Make sure your phone has data connection enabled (the icon
4G/3G/E(in the status bar). If you use two SIM cards, select the one with the internet package. - 🔋 Battery charge: Wi-Fi distribution consumes up to
20–30%charge per hour. Charge your phone at least until50%or connect to a charger. - 🔒 Operator restrictionsSome plans block tethering (especially unlimited plans). Check with your carrier or temporarily disable "Data Saver" in your SIM card settings.
It's also worth updating your firmware: older versions of MIUI had bugs with hotspot functionality. You can check if the firmware is up to date in Settings → About phone → System updateIf an update is available, install it. before Wi-Fi setup.
2. Standard method: enabling the access point through settings
This is the most reliable method that works on all versions. Redmi 9C. Follow the instructions:
- Open
Settings(gear icon on the main screen). - Go to the section
Network and Internet → Access Point and Modem. - Tap on
Wi-Fi hotspot. - Activate the slider
Wi-Fi hotspot(it will turn blue). - Click
Setting up an access pointto ask:- 🔐 Network name (SSID): Come up with a unique name (eg.
Redmi9C_Hotspot). - 🔑 Password: Minimum length is 8 characters. Use letters and numbers.
- 📡 Range: Select
2.4 GHzfor better compatibility with older devices.
- 🔐 Network name (SSID): Come up with a unique name (eg.
By default, the hotspot turns off after 10 minutes without any devices connected. To avoid this, enable the option in the same settings menu. Turn off automatically and select Never.
The network name (SSID) is displayed in the Wi-Fi list|The password was entered correctly|Mobile Internet is active on the phone|The access point does not turn off automatically-->
3. Alternative methods of Internet distribution
If the standard method doesn't work, or you need to connect a device without Wi-Fi (for example, a laptop without an adapter), use one of these options.
Method 1: Sharing via USB (USB modem)
Suitable for connection to a PC or laptop. Advantages: lower battery consumption and a more stable connection.
- Connect Redmi 9C to the computer via a USB cable.
- In your phone settings, go to
Network and Internet → Access Point and Modem. - Activate the option
USB modem. - On your PC, check your connection: a new device should appear in the list of network adapters.
Method 2: Sharing via Bluetooth
A less energy-intensive but slow method (speed up to 3 Mbps). Suitable for connecting a tablet or another phone.
- Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
- On Redmi 9C go to
Settings → Devices → Bluetooth. - Tap the name of the device you want to connect to.
- In the connection menu, select
Bluetooth hotspot. - 📶 Range:
2.4 GHz- passes through walls better,5 GHz- faster, but shorter range. - 🔄 Channel: Install manually
6or11- they have the least overlap with other networks.
What is the difference between USB and Wi-Fi sharing?
A USB modem provides a more stable connection and doesn't drain battery power as quickly as Wi-Fi. However, it only works with one device (PC/laptop) and requires a cable. Wi-Fi is more convenient for connecting multiple devices (phone, tablet, smartwatch), but it drains battery faster and can be slow if the mobile network signal is weak.
4. Access point optimization: how to boost signal and save battery
By default Redmi 9C It broadcasts Wi-Fi at minimum power to save energy. This results in a weak signal and frequent connection drops. Hidden settings can help fix this.
Setting up the channel and range
On the menu Setting up an access point (see section 2) select:
Speed limit for connected devices
If multiple devices are connected to your access point, one device may hog all your bandwidth. To avoid this:
- Install the application NetGuard (free on Google Play).
- Open the tab
Access point. - Set a speed limit for each device (eg.
5 Mbps).
5. Typical problems and their solutions
Even after proper configuration, the access point may still work unstable. Below - list of errors and ways to solve them, compiled from user feedback Redmi 9C.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The access point does not turn on | The operator blocks the function | Call your carrier's support team and request an unlock or change your tariff. |
| The devices connect, but the internet doesn't work. | Incorrect APN settings | Check your APN settings in Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Access point names (APNs) |
| Weak Wi-Fi signal | Automatic channel selection | Set the channel manually 6 or 11 in the access point settings |
| The access point turns off by itself | Saving battery life | Disable the option Turn off automatically in the modem settings |
If none of the above helps, try resetting your network settings: Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset network settingsThis will delete all saved Wi-Fi networks and mobile data settings, but it often solves data sharing issues.
6. Security: How to protect your access point
An open access point is an easy target for attackers. They can not only "steal" your traffic but also access your personal data. Follow these rules:
- 🔐 Complex password: Use a combination of
12+ characterswith letters, numbers and symbols (for example,WiFi_Redmi9C!2026). - 🔄 Changing your password regularly: Change it every 1-2 months.
- 📱 Device restrictions: In the access point settings (
Connected devices) block unknown gadgets. - 🛡️ Disabling WPSThis feature is vulnerable to hacking. Disable WPS in your router settings (if you're using it as a repeater).
If you suspect that strangers have connected to your network, check the list of devices in Settings → Hotspot & Tethering → Connected devicesThis displays all the gadgets using your Wi-Fi, along with their MAC address.
⚠️ Attention: Some Wi-Fi hacking apps (eg. WiFi Kill) can block internet access for other devices on your network. If you notice suspicious activity, change the password immediately and disable the hotspot.
7. Comparison with other Xiaomi models
Redmi 9C equipped with a Wi-Fi module 802.11 b/g/n, which limits the maximum distribution speed to 150 Mbps. For comparison, flagship models (for example, Xiaomi 13) support Wi-Fi 6 at a speed of up to 1 Gbps. However, for most tasks (watching videos, instant messaging, working with documents) the capabilities Redmi 9C enough.
| Model | Max. distribution speed | 5 GHz support | Battery life (Wi-Fi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 9C | 150 Mbps |
No | 4–5 hours |
| Redmi Note 10 | 300 Mbps |
Yes | 5-6 hours |
| POCO X3 | 433 Mbps |
Yes | 4–5 hours |
If you need higher upload speeds, consider purchasing an inexpensive 4G router (for example, Xiaomi Mi Router 4G). It supports connection up to 10 devices and runs on battery power for up to 8 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to distribute Wi-Fi with Redmi 9C, if there is no SIM card on the phone?
No. To share your internet, you must have an active SIM card with a mobile data connection. Alternatively, connect your phone to another Wi-Fi network (for example, your home router) and share it via an access point (using the "Repeater Mode" feature).
Why does the battery drain quickly when distributing Wi-Fi?
Redmi 9C has a battery with a capacity of 5000 mAh, but Wi-Fi sharing is one of the most power-consuming functions. To reduce battery consumption:
- Connect your phone to the charger.
- Reduce screen brightness to
30%. - Disable background apps in
Settings → Applications → Autostart.
How to share Wi-Fi with Redmi 9C on Windows 10 if the access point is not detected?
The problem may be with the Wi-Fi adapter drivers on your PC. Update them via device Manager or download it from the laptop manufacturer's website. Also, check if the mode is enabled. "Public Access" in the connection properties (Control Panel → Network Connections).
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from a phone if it is connected to another Wi-Fi network?
Yes, but only if your operator and phone firmware support the function. Repeater modeTo do this:
- Connect Redmi 9C to the main Wi-Fi network.
- Go to
Settings → Hotspot & Tethering → Repeater Mode. - Enable the feature and configure the new network settings.
What should I do if the "Access Point" option is missing after updating MIUI?
This is a known bug in some versions of MIUI 13–14. Solutions:
- Reset network settings (
Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset network settings). - Install a third-party app to share Wi-Fi (for example, Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot).
- Roll back the firmware to the previous version via
Fastboot(requires bootloader unlocking).
⚠️ AttentionInterface settings and available features may vary depending on the MIUI version and regional firmware. If the described options are missing from your menu, check the software is up-to-date or install the global MIUI version via Recovery.