Modern smartphones have long since ceased to be mere calling devices and have become full-fledged mobile hubs capable of providing internet access to a whole range of gadgets. Device owners Xiaomi, Redmi And POCO Often, we need to quickly share mobile data with a friend's laptop, tablet, or phone when a fixed router is unavailable. The "Access Point" feature in the shell MIUI or new HyperOS It is implemented quite flexibly, allowing not only to broadcast a signal, but also to fine-tune security and energy consumption parameters.
However, despite the apparent simplicity, the setup process has its own nuances, especially when it comes to different versions of the operating system. Android and specific features of Chinese brands. For example, some users may not find the familiar switch in the "curtain," while others encounter a problem with the laptop simply not detecting the created network. Understanding the operating principles Wi-Fi module your smartphone will help avoid common errors and ensure a stable connection even with a weak cell tower signal.
In this article, we'll cover every step of tethering, from basic settings to advanced optimization methods. You'll learn how to choose the right signal frequency to avoid interference and which settings will help conserve battery life during extended use. It is critical to consider that internet distribution significantly accelerates battery wear due to constant heating and high current draw. Let's move on to practical steps.
Basic hotspot activation via settings
The most reliable and functional way to enable internet tethering is to use the system settings menu. This method gives you access to all the hidden options that aren't available through the quick menu. First, unlock your smartphone's screen and find the icon. Settings, which usually looks like a gear. Depending on the version of the shell MIUI, the interface may differ slightly, but the logic remains the same for all models, be it budget Redmi Note or flagship Xiaomi 14.
In the menu that opens, scroll down to the section Connection and sharing (In older versions, it might have been called simply "Additional Features" or "System"). This is where all the network interface management tools are located. Find the item Wi-Fi hotspot and click on it. A screen will open displaying the current modem status and the number of connected devices.
To start the process, you need to activate the top switch. After this, the phone will begin broadcasting a wireless signal. Please note that immediately after turning on, the system may prompt you to select a connection type if you haven't done so previously. The default is standard. Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, which provides the best compatibility and speed.
☑️ Pre-launch check
It's worth noting that some regions or carriers may have restrictions on data sharing. If, after enabling the hotspot, the internet doesn't work on connected devices, even though websites open on the phone itself, the carrier may be blocking it. TTL requests or requires the activation of an additional service. In such cases, the default settings may not help without changing system parameters.
⚠️ Attention: When you first activate the access point, the security system Android may request permission to use geolocation. This is a mandatory requirement for network scanning to work and cannot be ignored.
Setting up a network name and security password
By default, your smartphone creates a network with a name that includes the device model, such as "Xiaomi 13 Pro." However, for convenience and security, it's best to change this information. In the hotspot menu, find the item Setting up an access point Or simply tap the network name. Here you can enter any name you like, using Latin characters to avoid display issues on older devices.
Particular attention should be paid to the field PasswordThe system automatically generates a complex character combination, but you can create your own. The minimum password length is typically 8 characters. It is recommended to use a mixture of letters and numbers to prevent unauthorized access by unauthorized persons who may be within range of your signal.
In this section, you can also select a security protocol. Modern smartphones Xiaomi support standards WPA2 PSK And WPA3 PSKThe first option provides maximum compatibility with all devices, including older laptops and tablets. The second option (WPA3) offers enhanced security, but some older gadgets may simply not see your network or refuse to connect.
- 🔒 WPA2-Personal — universal standard, suitable for 99% of devices.
- 🛡️ WPA3-Personal - maximum protection, but compatibility issues may occur.
- 📡 Without password - is highly not recommended, as all traffic becomes visible.
After making changes, don't forget to click the button Save or the checkmark in the upper right corner. Your phone may warn you that the hotspot will restart to apply the new settings. This is normal system behavior and takes a few seconds.
Choosing a Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz vs. 5 GHz
One of the key settings that affects connection speed and stability is frequency selection. In the access point configuration menu, you'll find this option: Access point frequency rangeHere you have a choice between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Understanding the differences will help you optimize your network performance for your specific needs.
Range 2.4 GHz is an older and more common method. Its main advantage is its long range and the signal's ability to bypass obstacles such as walls and furniture. However, in apartment buildings, this range is often overloaded with signals from neighboring routers, microwave ovens, and Bluetooth devices, which can lead to slow speeds and unstable ping.
Range 5 GHz Provides significantly higher data transfer speeds and is less congested. It's ideal for watching high-definition video or playing online games on a connected laptop. However, its range is shorter and it penetrates obstacles less effectively. If you're in the same room as your phone, choosing 5 GHz will provide better results.
| Characteristic | 2.4 GHz | 5 GHz |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer speed | Average (up to 150 Mbps) | High (up to 800+ Mbps) |
| Range of action | High | Medium/Low |
| Wall permeability | Good | Bad |
| Workload | High (a lot of interference) | Low |
If you don't know which range to choose, leave the value as is. 2.4 GHz by default. This will ensure maximum compatibility if you need to connect an older device to your access point, such as an e-reader or smart light bulb, that doesn't physically support the 5 GHz standard.
Managing connected devices and limits
Controlling who uses your internet is an important part of setup. In the access point interface Xiaomi there is a section Connected devicesHere you'll see a real-time list of devices currently consuming your data. You can see the device name and its MAC address, allowing you to identify the offenders.
The system allows you to set limits. You can limit the maximum number of connected users to, for example, 3 or 5 devices. This is a useful feature that will prevent overloading your smartphone's processor and data connection if someone tries to connect to your open network en masse in a public place.
A "Blacklist" feature or blocking of specific devices is also available. If you notice an unknown device in the list of active connections, you can tap it and select the block option. This will prevent the device from connecting, even if it knows the correct password, until you remove the restriction.
- 👁️ Monitoring — viewing the traffic of each device in real time.
- 🚫 Blocking - instant disconnection from a specific client.
- ⏱️ Time-out - Automatically disables the access point if there are no active connections.
⚠️ Note: The menu interface may change with MIUI updates. If you don't see the "Blacklist" option, check the "Security" section or update the "Security" app via GetApps.
Hiding the network name (SSID) for increased security
For privacy-conscious users, a network name hiding feature is available. When enabled, your phone stops broadcasting packets with the network name. Your access point will not appear in the list of available Wi-Fi hotspots on other devices.
To connect to a hidden network, users must manually enter the network name (SSID) and password in their device's Wi-Fi settings by selecting "Add Network" or "Enter Manually." This creates an additional barrier for casual users and simple network scanners, although for a seasoned hacker, hiding the SSID isn't a significant obstacle.
You can enable this feature in the access point settings menu by finding the switch Hide device or Hide SSIDAfter activation, the phone will warn you that connected devices may be disconnected, and that reconnecting will require manual settings. This is a compromise between convenience and security.
How safe is it to hide your SSID?
Hiding your network name is a form of "protection from honest people." Specialized software easily detects hidden networks based on their service data packets. However, this removes your network from the general list, reducing the likelihood of an accidental attack or password bruteforce attempt by neighbors.
Advanced features: USB and Bluetooth modem
If your Wi-Fi radio is busy or you want to save battery power, Xiaomi offers alternative ways to distribute the Internet. Mode USB modem Allows you to stream internet from your phone to your computer via a cable. This ensures a more stable connection without speed loss and simultaneously charges your smartphone.
To activate, connect your phone to your PC with a cable, go to the access point menu and turn on the switch USB modemThe computer recognizes the device as a new network card. This method is often faster than Wi-Fi, as it eliminates wireless interface losses and is not affected by interference.
Another option is - Bluetooth modemThe speed here will be significantly lower, suitable only for loading pages or messaging apps, but power consumption is minimal. To use, you need to pair your phone and the receiving device via Bluetooth, then turn on the corresponding switch in the sharing menu.
Path to alternative modes:
Settings → Connection and Sharing → USB Tethering / Bluetooth Tethering
Using a wired connection is especially important for desktop PCs that are not equipped with Wi-Fi adapters, or in situations where maximum connection stability is required for video conferencing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why doesn't my laptop detect the Xiaomi hotspot?
Most often, the problem lies with the frequency range. If your phone is broadcasting Wi-Fi on 5 GHz, but your laptop is older and only supports 2.4 GHz, it won't detect the network. Try changing the frequency range to 2.4 GHz in the access point settings. Also, check if the network name (SSID) is hidden.
How do I find out who is connected to my Wi-Fi?
Go to the menu Wi-Fi hotspot → Connected devicesA list of all active gadgets will appear. You can see their names and MAC addresses. If you see an unfamiliar device, tap it and select "Disable" or "Block."
Why does the battery drain quickly when distributing Wi-Fi?
Access point mode requires constant active operation of the radio module and processor, which causes high discharge current and heat. For extended operation, it is recommended to keep the phone charged or use a power bank.
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi if the phone has a SIM card password?
Yes, having a SIM card PIN doesn't affect the hotspot's operation, as the password is requested when the phone boots up. However, if the phone reboots, you'll need to unlock the SIM card to enable internet tethering.
Will the hotspot work without an internet plan?
Technically, the phone will create a network, and the devices will be able to connect. However, access to the global network (websites) will be blocked, as the SIM card has no active data plan or balance. The local network between devices may work, but internet access will not.