How to Share Wi-Fi on a Xiaomi Redmi Note 8: 3 Methods + Troubleshooting

Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Even after years, it remains a popular device thanks to its balanced characteristics and flexible settings. One of the most popular features is the ability to share mobile internet Wi-Fi on other gadgets: laptops, tablets, or even smart TVs. But not all users know how to properly activate this mode, optimize speed, and avoid common mistakes.

In this article you will find 3 proven methods Internet distribution with Redmi Note 8, including hidden MIUI settings that improve connection stability. We'll also explore why devices may fail to connect to your hotspot, how to save battery life during extended data sharing, and what to do if your carrier blocks tethering. All instructions are adapted for the latest firmware versions and take into account the specifics of modern mobile carrier plans.

If you've previously encountered issues like sudden Wi-Fi disconnections on connected devices or low speeds, this article has a dedicated section with diagnostics and solutions. And for those looking to share the internet as efficiently as possible, we've prepared a comparison table of methods based on speed, power consumption, and compatibility.

1. Preparing your phone for Wi-Fi sharing

Before you turn on hotspot mode, make sure your Redmi Note 8 I'm ready for this task. Neglecting basic settings often leads to problems, from slow internet to complete disconnection.

First, check mobile network signal strengthIf your phone only has 1-2 antenna bars, the Wi-Fi signal will be unstable. Ideally, the indicator should show at least 3-4 bars. If the signal is weak, try moving closer to a window or using an external antenna (if your plan supports 4G+).

Secondly, update your MIUI firmware to the latest version. Older builds often have bugs with modem mode. To check for updates, go to Settings → About phone → System updateIf a new version is available, install it after connecting to a charger.

Third - tariff plan. Many operators (for example, Megaphone or Beeline) restrict or completely block internet tethering on cheap plans. Check the terms in your personal account or via USSD command. *100#If modem mode is blocked, you'll have to change your plan or use workarounds (see the section on alternative methods).

Make sure your mobile network signal is stable (3+ bars)

Update MIUI to the latest version

Check your tariff for restrictions on modem mode

Charge your phone to at least 30% or connect it to the network

Disable VPN (if used)-->

2. Standard method: access point mode

This is the simplest and most reliable method, which works on all MIUI versions. The activation algorithm is the same for Redmi Note 8 and other Xiaomi models, but there are nuances in the security settings.

Open Settings → Hotspot & tethering → Wi-Fi hotspotHere you will see the main parameters:

1. Network name (SSID) — Come up with a unique name to avoid confusion with other access points.
2. Password — automatically generated by default, but it is better to set your own (minimum 8 characters, with numbers and letters).
3. Frequency range — choose 2.4 GHz for better compatibility with older devices or 5 GHz for higher speed (if your laptop supports this range).

After setting the parameters, activate the slider Wi-Fi hotspotThe network will be available for connection within 10-15 seconds. Please note: if you are enabling this mode for the first time, the system may request confirmation via SMS (depending on your carrier).

An important point: by default Redmi Note 8 turns off the access point after 10 minutes without active connections. To avoid this, go to Advanced Settings → Timeout and select Never.

3. Alternative methods of Internet distribution

If the standard hotspot mode doesn't work (for example, due to operator blocking), there are workarounds. Let's look at two proven methods.

Method 1: USB modem

Suitable for connecting to a laptop or PC via cable. Advantages:

• 🔌 More stable connection than Wi-Fi.
• 🔋 Uses less battery power on your phone.
• 🚀 Often provides higher speeds (especially with a weak 4G signal).

To activate:

1. Connect your phone to your computer via a USB cable (preferably the original one).
2. In your phone settings, select Access Point and Modem → USB Modem.
3. On PC in Network connections A new device will appear - connect to it.

Method 2: Bluetooth modem

Less popular, but useful if Wi-Fi and USB aren't available. Speeds will be lower, but the connection is more resistant to interference.

• 🔗 Suitable for devices without Wi-Fi (for example, some smartwatches or old printers).
• 🛡️ More secure than an open Wi-Fi network.
• ⚡ Battery consumption is average (between Wi-Fi and USB).

Activation:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
2. On the phone: Settings → Hotspot & Tethering → Bluetooth Tethering.
3. On the second device, find the phone in the list of available ones and connect.

Why do operators block internet tethering?

Many mobile operators restrict modem access on low-cost plans to encourage the purchase of more expensive packages. Technically, this blocking is implemented through:

- Tethering restrictions (they define traffic as "modem" based on TTL packets).

- DPI filtering (analyze the type of device connected to the network).

- Speed ​​Limit after exceeding the limit (for example, after 10 GB).

You can bypass the blocking using a VPN on your phone (but this will reduce speed) or by changing your tariff to "unlimited modem."

4. Optimization of speed and stability

Even if the hotspot is enabled, speeds may be low due to incorrect settings. Here are the key parameters to check:

1. Network mode

By default Redmi Note 8 works in mode 4G/3G/2G (auto)For maximum speed, force it to turn on 4G (LTE) only:

1. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Network type.
2. Select 4G (recommended).

If the 4G signal is weak, switch back to automatic mode - the phone will switch to 3G when necessary.

2. Wi-Fi channel

In densely populated areas, neighboring access points create interference. To reduce this impact:

• Set a fixed channel (eg. 1, 6 or 11 for the 2.4 GHz range).
• Use apps like WiFi Analyzer (available in Google Play) to find the least loaded channel.

3. MTU and other hidden settings

MIUI has hidden settings that affect speed. To change them:

1. Enter the code into the telephone dialer ##4636##.
2. Go to About Phone → Wi-Fi Settings.
3. Install MTU in meaning 1400 (the default is often 1500, which can cause packet fragmentation).

5. Common problems and their solutions

Even with proper configuration, users Redmi Note 8 Sometimes we encounter errors. Let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Devices do not connect to the access point

Reasons and solutions:

• 🔐 Incorrect password - reset it in the access point settings and try connecting again.
• 📵 IP address conflict - turn it on in your phone settings DHCP (usually activated by default).
• 🛡️ Blocked by antivirus - temporarily disable protection on the device being connected.
• 📡 Too many connected devices — turn off unnecessary gadgets (maximum 8-10, but optimally 3-4).

Problem 2: The access point turns off by itself

Most often this is related to energy saving settings:

1. Go to Settings → Battery & performance → Battery management.
2. Find the app Settings (or Access point) and set the mode for it No restrictions.
3. Disable the feature Adaptive battery in the section Features of MIUI.

Problem 3: Slow speed or dropped connections

Check the following:

• 📶 4G signal strength - if it's weak, try moving or using a repeater.
• 🔄 Channel congestion — change the Wi-Fi channel manually (as described in section 4).
• 🖥️ Background updates — on the connected device, pause the download of Windows/macOS updates.

⚠️ AttentionOn some MIUI firmware versions, access point settings (including the password) are reset after updating. Always check the settings after installing new software versions.

6. Saving battery life during long-term distribution

Sharing Wi-Fi is one of the most power-hungry features on a smartphone. If you need to keep your hotspot on for long periods of time (for example, during the workday), follow these tips:

1. Use a charger

Connect your phone to the network via the original power adapter. Redmi Note 8 supports fast charging 18W, which will help compensate for battery drain. Avoid cheap cables—they can not only charge slowly but also cause the device to overheat.

2. Optimize MIUI settings

Disable unnecessary features that consume additional energy:

• 🔍 Search for Wi-Fi in the background — Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Scan for networks in the background (disable).
• 📍 Geolocation - if not used, deactivate in Settings → Privacy → Permissions → Location.
• 🔄 Automatically update applications - limit in Google Play → Settings → Auto-update apps.

3. Alternative power sources

If there is no outlet nearby, use:

• 🔋 Power Bank with a capacity of 10,000 mAh (will provide 2-3 full charge cycles).
• ⚡ Car inverter (12V → 220V) for charging in the car.

⚠️ AttentionWhen using Wi-Fi for extended periods (more than 4-5 hours), monitor your phone's temperature. If the phone's casing becomes hot (above 40°C), take a 15-20 minute break to avoid throttling (automatic performance reduction).

7. Security: How to protect your access point

An open or poorly secured Wi-Fi network is an easy target for hackers. They can not only "hook" your internet connection but also intercept your data. Follow these rules to secure your connection:

1. Complex password

Use a combination of:

• 🔢 Numbers (0-9)
• 🔤 Uppercase and lowercase letters (A-z)
• 🔤 Special characters (!@#$%)

Example of a strong password: k7T#p9Lm$2xQ. Don't use birth dates or simple sequences like 12345678.

2. Hiding the network (SSID)

Disable network name broadcasting:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi Hotspot → Set up hotspot.
2. Activate the option Hide network.

Now only those who know the exact name (SSID) and password will be able to connect to your access point.

3. MAC address restriction

This is an advanced setting that allows only authorized devices to connect:

1. Find the MAC addresses of your gadgets (on Windows: ipconfig /all in the command line; on Android: Settings → About phone → General information → Wi-Fi MAC address).
2. Activate it in the access point settings MAC address filter and add the allowed ones.

4. Disabling WPS

Protocol WPS It's convenient for quick connections, but vulnerable to hacking. Disable it:

1. In the access point settings, find the option WPS and deactivate it.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi hotspot sharing with the Redmi Note 8

Is it possible to share Wi-Fi if your phone doesn't have a SIM card?

No, to share mobile internet, you must have an active SIM card with a data plan. However, you can share saved connection (for example, if the phone is connected to another Wi-Fi network via Settings → Wi-Fi, and then turn on the mode Access point (for distributing the same Wi-Fi). But in this case, the speed will be limited by the bandwidth of the source network.

Why does the battery drain quickly when distributing Wi-Fi?

Internet sharing uses several phone modules at once:

• 📶 4G modem (high power consumption during data transmission).
• 📡 Wi-Fi transmitter (especially in 5 GHz mode).
• 🔋 CPU (traffic processing).

To reduce consumption, use USB modem instead of Wi-Fi or connect your phone to a charger. Disabling background app activity (section Battery → Optimization).

How to increase the range of an access point?

Standard coverage radius Redmi Note 8 — about 10 meters indoors. To increase it:

• 📶 Switch to range 2.4 GHz (larger radius, but lower speed).
• 🔄 Place the phone in the central part of the room, away from walls and metal objects.
• 🛡️ Use Wi-Fi repeater (connect it to your phone's hotspot).
• 📴 Try apps like WiFi Repeater (available in Google Play), but their effectiveness is limited.

Important: When using external signal amplifiers (e.g. antennas), make sure that their power does not exceed the permitted standards in your country (in the Russian Federation - up to 100 mW for 2.4 GHz).

Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from a phone to a TV?

Yes, but there are some nuances:

• 📺 Smart TV with Wi-Fi: connect to the phone's hotspot as a regular network (in the TV settings, select your SSID and enter the password).
• 🔌 TVs without Wi-Fi: use USB modem (if the TV supports USB connection) or Bluetooth adapter (for models with Bluetooth).
• 🎮 For streaming (YouTube, Netflix): A speed of at least 10 Mbps is recommended. At lower speeds, the video will stutter.

If the TV does not see the phone network, check if it supports the range 5 GHz (many budget models only work on 2.4 GHz).

How to share internet from a phone to a PC without USB or Wi-Fi?

If both standard methods are not available, use Bluetooth modem or reverse tethering:

1. Bluetooth:
   • Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and PC.
   • On the phone: Settings → Hotspot & Tethering → Bluetooth Tethering.
   • On PC: in Bluetooth settings Find your phone and connect to the network.

Reverse Tethering:

• Requires root access or special apps like ClockworkMod Tether.
• Connect your phone to your PC via USB and activate the mode in the app.
• A virtual network adapter will appear on your PC.

The speed in both cases will be lower than via Wi-Fi or USB, but it will be sufficient for basic tasks (checking email, instant messaging).