A situation where it is necessary to restore access to a wireless network occurs for router users Xiaomi Quite often. A forgotten password can be a serious obstacle, especially if you need to connect a new device to the network and the old ones no longer display the access key. Router owners often confuse the two: sometimes they need to reset a forgotten password, while in other cases they need to completely reset the device to factory settings.
In this article, we'll examine all possible solutions in detail. We'll cover software methods via a web interface and using a mobile app. Mi WiFi, as well as physical reset via button ResetUnderstanding the difference between these methods will help you avoid losing important provider settings.
Before taking any action, it's important to determine your hardware model. Older version interfaces Mi Router and modern models of the series AX or Redmi The interface may look different, but the logic remains the same. Please be careful when entering data to avoid blocking access to the admin panel.
The difference between a password change and a hard reset
Many users mistakenly believe that a hard reset is required to restore access. This isn't always the case. Change password This procedure is available to those who remember the password for the router's administrative panel or have access to it through a linked app. In this case, provider settings (PPPoE, L2TP, static IP) are preserved.
Full reset (Hard Reset) This is necessary in cases where all access has been lost or the device is unstable. This operation returns the router to its out-of-the-box state. Afterwards, you'll have to re-enter your internet service provider credentials, which can be a problem if you've lost your contract.
⚠️ Important: Before performing a hard reset, make sure you have a contract with your provider or saved login information. Without it, the internet will not work, even if WiFi is available.
The method you choose depends on your current situation. If you simply changed your password to a strong one and forgot it, but your phone or laptop is still connected to the network, use the first method. If all devices are unavailable, a hard reset will be the only solution.
- 🔑 Changing the password is possible through the settings if the administrator password is known.
- 🔄 A hard reset deletes all user data and network settings.
- 📱 The mobile app often allows you to restore access without a full reset.
- 🛠 The hardware button is the last argument in the fight for access.
Changing the password via the router's web interface
If you have a device that is already connected to the router's WiFi network Xiaomi (for example, a laptop via cable or a phone), you can change your password remotely. To do this, open any browser and enter the standard address in the address bar: 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com.
The system will ask for an administrator password. Users often set it to the same as their WiFi password, but this isn't a requirement. If you remember this code, enter it and proceed to the settings section. In Chinese firmware versions, the interface may be in Chinese, but icons are provided to help navigate the system.
Find the section responsible for wireless network settings. Depending on your firmware version, it may be called Settings -> WiFi Settings or have an antenna icon. This is where the field is located. WiFi PasswordEnter the new access key and save the changes.
What should I do if the interface is in Chinese?
Use the image translator on your smartphone. The field you need is usually in the tab with the WiFi icon (blue or green antenna). Look for the field with dots or asterisks, which represents the password.
After saving the settings, all devices will be disconnected from the network. You will need to reconnect to WiFi using the new password. This is a standard security procedure to prevent unauthorized access.
Using the Mi WiFi mobile app
The most convenient way to manage routers Xiaomi — official application Mi WiFi (also known as Mi Home). If your router was previously linked to an account Mi Account, you can restore access even without knowing the administrator password.
Download the app from Google Play or App Store and log in. If the router appears in the list of devices but the status is "Offline" or requires a password, try using the recovery function. In some cases, the app will offer to reset the administrator password using the linked account.
☑️ Check before using the app
In the router's control menu, go to WiFi settings. Here you'll see the current network name and the option to change the password. The app will automatically apply the new settings and reconnect your phone to the network with the new key.
This method is especially useful for series models Redmi AC2100 And Mi Router 4A, where mobile control is most fully implemented. However, if the router has never been linked to the cloud Xiaomi, this method will not work.
- 📲 Convenient control from anywhere with internet access.
- ☁️ Account linking allows you to bypass local passwords.
- 👁 Visualization of connected devices and traffic.
- ⚙️ Automatic router firmware update.
Hard reset using the Reset button
If software methods are unavailable, the only reliable option is a physical reset. On the router case Xiaomi There is usually a small hole with an inscription ResetIt may be located next to the power port or on the back panel.
To reset the router, plug it in and wait until it boots up (the indicator light should be solid). Use a paperclip or thin object to press the button in the hole and hold it for about 5-10 seconds.
The indicator will begin flashing orange or yellow, indicating the reset process has begun. Release the button and wait for the router to reboot. The router will return to factory settings, and an open network will appear with the name printed on the sticker underneath.
It's important not to interrupt the device's power while the indicator is flashing. The process may take up to 2-3 minutes. Once complete, you'll be able to connect to the network without a password and set up your internet again.
| Router model | Reset location | Retention time | Indication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Router 4A | At the back, near the LAN ports | 5-7 seconds | Flashing yellow |
| Redmi AC2100 | At the back, next to the power supply | 5-10 seconds | Flashing orange |
| Mi Router 3G | At the back, recessed | 10 seconds | Flashing blue |
| Mi WiFi 6 | Bottom of the body | 5 seconds | Flashing system |
Setting up the Internet after resetting your password
After successfully resetting the password or the router itself, your device becomes a blank slate. You'll need to reconfigure your connection to your provider. Connect to an open WiFi network (the default name and password are on the sticker).
The browser will automatically redirect you to the quick setup page. If this doesn't happen, go to 192.168.31.1The system will prompt you to select a region (it's important to select the correct country for the servers to operate) and create a new administrator password.
In the next step, the router will attempt to automatically detect the connection type. For most modern providers, the following mode is suitable: DHCP (Dynamic IP)If you are required to enter your login and password, select PPPoE and enter the data from the contract.
After configuring the WAN port (Internet), the system will prompt you to set up a WiFi network. Create a secure name (SSID) and a complex password. Encryption is recommended. WPA2/WPA3 Mixed for maximum safety.
⚠️ Note: Provider interfaces and authorization methods may vary. If automatic setup doesn't work, please contact your service provider's technical support to confirm your connection details.
Common problems and their solutions
When restoring access, users often encounter various difficulties. One common issue is the router not accepting the new password or returning an error when saving. This may be due to browser cache issues or incompatibility with old settings.
If the internet still doesn't work after the reset, check the cable. It should be firmly inserted into the port. WAN (usually blue) and into the ISP port. The global network indicator should light up.
Sometimes clearing the DNS cache on your computer can help. Open the command prompt and enter the command ipconfig /flushdnsThis will remove old network address entries.
ipconfig /releaseipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
If the problem persists, try updating your router's firmware. Go to the section Status -> Upgrade and check for a new software version. Updates often fix security and connection bugs.
- 🔌 Check the integrity of the Ethernet cable.
- 🔄 Restart your router and provider modem.
- 💻 Clear the DNS cache on the client device.
- 📡 Make sure you have selected the correct region in the settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can I find my admin password if I haven't changed it?
By default, the administrator password is often the same as your WiFi network password if you're setting up the router for the first time. If you've changed it and forgotten it, a hard reset using the button will help. Reset.
Is it possible to recover the password without resetting the settings?
Yes, if you have a device that's already connected to the network. On Android, you can view saved passwords in the WiFi settings (requires Android 10+ or root access for older versions). On Windows, you can view the password in the wireless connection properties.
What to do if the Reset button does not work?
Make sure you hold the button long enough (up to 10 seconds) and that the router is powered on. If there's no response, the button may be physically faulty or require reflashing via UART, which requires soldering skills.
Is it safe to use the password "12345678"?
Absolutely not. Such passwords can be cracked by brute-force programs in seconds. Use a combination of mixed-case letters, numbers, and special characters, at least 10 characters long.
Will my internet connection disappear after changing my WiFi password?
No, your internet connection (global network access) won't be affected unless you've changed your WAN settings. Only the connection between your devices and the router will be lost. You'll need to re-enter the new password on each device.