Xiaomi Wi-Fi Hotspot: How to Enable and Set Up in 5 Minutes

Sharing Internet from a smartphone Xiaomi Using a Wi-Fi hotspot is a convenient way to connect a laptop, tablet, or other device to the network when a router is not available. However, beginners often encounter difficulties: where to find the necessary settings, how to change the password, or why devices won't connect. In this article, we'll cover all the nuances—from basic activation to troubleshooting common errors.

The process of setting up an access point on Xiaomi (including models Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11 (and others) takes no more than 5 minutes, but requires attention to detail. For example, an incorrectly selected power-saving mode can interrupt sharing, and a default password can cause a vulnerability. We'll show you how to avoid these problems and optimize your access point for a stable connection.

Important: the instructions are valid for devices based on MIUI 12–14 (including global and Chinese firmware versions). If you have an older OS version, some menu items may differ—we'll warn you about this separately.

Preparing your smartphone before turning on the hotspot

Before you activate the hotspot, make sure that your Xiaomi Ready to share your internet. Here are the key points:

• 📶 Mobile Internet: Make sure that mobile data is enabled on your smartphone (icon 4G/5G or E/H+ in the status bar). Without a network connection, the access point will be created, but will not distribute the Internet.
• 🔋 Battery charge: Wi-Fi distribution actively consumes energy. If the charge is low 20%, connect the device to a charger or activate the power saving mode (more on this below).
• 🔒 Security: By default Xiaomi generates a complex password for the access point, but it can be changed. Think of a strong password in advance (at least 8 characters, with numbers and letters).

If you are planning to distribute the Internet with Xiaomi Check your carrier's data plan regularly. Some mobile plans limit data for hotspots or block this feature completely. For example, MTS And Beeline Separate conditions for modem mode may apply.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware versions MIUI (especially Chinese ones) the hotspot function may be hidden or blocked. In this case, manual activation will be required via Developer settings or reset network settings.

Step-by-step instructions: how to enable a hotspot on a Xiaomi

The activation algorithm is the same for most models. Xiaomi, but may differ slightly depending on the version MIUI. Follow these steps:

1. Open the app Settings (gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).

2. Go to the section Connections and Sharing (or Network and Internet in older versions MIUI).

3. Select an item Wi-Fi hotspot (may be called Modem mode or Mobile hotspot).

4. Activate the slider Wi-Fi hotspotAfter this, a notification about the start of the distribution will appear on the screen.

By default, the smartphone will automatically assign a network name (usually Xiaomi_XXXX, Where XXXX — the last digits IMEI) and generate a password. You can change them by clicking on the corresponding fields in the same menu.

Network name (SSID) appears in Wi-Fi list on other devices|

The password was entered correctly (case sensitive)|

Mobile data is enabled on your smartphone|

The signal level on the connected device is not lower than 2–3 divisions-->

If the access point does not turn on, check:

• 🔄 Restart your smartphone: Sometimes simply turning the device off and on helps.
• 📱 Firmware update: Go to Settings → About phone → System update and install the latest patches.
• 🛠️ Reset network settings: In the section Settings → Connections and Sharing → Network Reset (data about saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices will be deleted!).

Setting up a network name (SSID) and password

The default network name and password assigned by Xiaomi, aren't always convenient. For example, an automatically generated password may contain complex characters that are difficult to enter on some devices. To change these settings:

1. On the menu Wi-Fi hotspot click on the field Network name (or SSID).

2. Enter a new name (eg. Xiaomi_Home_5G). Avoid spaces and special characters, as they may cause connection problems on some devices.

3. Click on the field Password and set a new one. We recommend using a combination of 10-12 characters with capital letters, numbers and symbols (!, #, $).

4. Select Security type: the best option is WPA2-PSK (the most balanced in terms of security and compatibility).

Xiaomi models with Wi-Fi 6 support (such as the Mi 11 Ultra or Redmi K50 Pro) offer WPA3 mode. This mode is more secure, but may not be supported by older devices such as laptops or printers. If after switching on WPA3 devices do not connect, please return to WPA2-PSK.

⚠️ Caution: Don't use personal information (such as your name or phone number) in the network name (SSID). This can make it easier for hackers to hack your network.

Energy Optimization: How to Extend Wi-Fi

Sharing the internet via a hotspot significantly reduces your smartphone's battery life. To extend battery life:

• 🔋 Activate power saving mode: Go to Settings → Battery & performance → Power saving mode. Select Balanced or Battery saving (but not High performance!).
• ⚡ Connect the charger: If you are distributing Wi-Fi for a long time, please use the original power adapter. Xiaomi (with a capacity of not less than 18 W). Cheap chargers may not be able to handle the load.
• 📴 Disable background apps: Close unnecessary programs through Recent applications (swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen). This is especially true for messengers and games.
• 🌡️ Control the temperature: If the smartphone overheats (higher 45°C), the access point may turn off automatically. Remove the case and avoid direct sunlight.

In firmware MIUI 13/14 a function has appeared Adaptive battery, which automatically optimizes power consumption when distributing Wi-Fi. To enable it:

1. Go to Settings → Battery & performance → Battery settings.

2. Activate the slider Adaptive battery.

3. Enable the option Optimization for access points (if available in your model).

Troubleshooting: Why isn't my Xiaomi hotspot working?

Even after proper configuration, the access point may not work. Let's look at common errors and how to fix them:

1. Devices do not connect to the access point

• 🔄 Restart your smartphone and client device (laptop, tablet).
• 🔒 Check your password: Please re-enter it, taking into account the case and special characters.
• 📡 Change Wi-Fi band: In the access point settings, select only 2.4 GHz (if the connected device does not support 5 GHz).
• 🛡️ Disable your VPN or firewall on the connecting device - they can block the connection.

2. The access point turns on, but the Internet is not distributed.

• 📶 Check your mobile data: Make sure your smartphone has internet access (open a browser and load any page).
• 📵 Disable background restriction: Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing → Data Usage → Background Data Limit and deactivate it.
• 🔧 Reset APN settings: Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Access point name (APN) and press Factory reset.

3. The access point turns off spontaneously

• ⚡ Check the battery charge: If it is lower 15%, Xiaomi can automatically turn off distribution.
• 🛠️ Disable battery optimization for hotspots:
  1. Go to Settings → Applications → Manage applications.
  2. Find Settings (gear app).
  3. Select Battery → Battery optimization and disable it for this application.
• 📱 Update the firmware: In older versions MIUI There were bugs with automatic disabling of the access point.
What to do if nothing helps?

If after all manipulations the access point does not work, perform reset network settings:

1. Go to Settings → About phone → Factory data reset.
2. Select Reset network settings (do not confuse with a full reset!).
3. Confirm the action and restart your smartphone.
4. After rebooting, please reconfigure the access point.

This method deletes all saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, but often solves connection problems.

Additional features: USB modem and Bluetooth modem

Besides Wi-Fi, Xiaomi supports Internet distribution via USB And BluetoothThese methods are less popular, but can be useful in specific situations:

1. USB modem

Suitable for connecting laptops or PCs when a Wi-Fi adapter is missing or not working. To activate:

1. Connect your smartphone to your computer via USB cable (preferably original).

2. On the menu Wi-Fi hotspot select a tab USB modem.

3. Activate the slider. A new network connection will appear on your computer.

Advantages:

• ⚡ More stable connection than Wi-Fi.
• 🔋 Uses less battery power from your smartphone (powered by USB).

Flaws:

• 🖥️ Requires physical cable connection.
• 🐢 Speed ​​is limited by USB version (eg. USB 2.0 gives the maximum 480 Mbps).

2. Bluetooth modem

Useful for connecting devices without Wi-Fi (such as old printers or smartwatches). To enable:

1. Activate Bluetooth on both devices.

2. On the menu Wi-Fi hotspot select a tab Bluetooth modem.

3. Connect devices via Bluetooth (password confirmation may be required).

Advantages:

• 🔋 Saves battery life compared to Wi-Fi.
• 🔒 More secure connection (less risk of data interception).

Flaws:

• 🐢 Low speed (maximum 2–3 Mbps).
• 📱 Limited compatibility (not all devices support Bluetooth modem).

⚠️ Please note: When using USB or Bluetooth modem, your smartphone may display a notification about "increased data consumption." This is normal. MIUI warns about possible additional mobile traffic costs.

Security: How to Protect Your Access Point from Hacking

An open or poorly secured access point is an easy target for hackers. They can not only access your internet but also intercept your personal data. Follow these recommendations:

• 🔐 Use a complex password: Avoid simple combinations like 12345678 or qwertyThe best option is 12+ characters with mixed case, numbers and symbols.
• 🔄 Change your password regularly: Especially if you distribute Wi-Fi in public places (cafes, airports).
• 📵 Turn off the hotspot when it is not needed: This will reduce the risk of unauthorized connections and save battery power.
• 🛡️ Use VPN on connected devices: This encrypts traffic and protects against data interception (for example, passwords for social networks).
• 📡 Hide the SSID (network name): In the access point settings, activate the option Hide networkThen only those who know the exact name will be able to connect.

To check who is connected to your access point:

1. Open the menu Wi-Fi hotspot.

2. Click on Connected devices (or Device management).

3. Browse the list. If you see any unfamiliar devices, immediately change your password and restart the access point.

In firmware MIUI 14 a function has appeared Access point protection, which blocks suspicious connections. To enable it:

1. Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing → Wi-Fi Hotspot → Advanced.

2. Activate the slider Access point protection.

3. Set up blocking rules (for example, limiting the number of connected devices).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Xiaomi hotspot

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

No. Mobile internet tethering requires an active SIM card with a data plan. However, you can tether by connecting to another Wi-Fi network (such as your home router) and activating the option. Wi-Fi sharing in the access point settings.

How many devices can be connected to Xiaomi hotspot at the same time?

The maximum quantity depends on the smartphone model:

• Budget models (Redmi 9, POCO M3) - up to 5 devices.
• Middle segment (Redmi Note 11, Xiaomi 12 Lite) - up to 8-10 devices.
• Flagships (Xiaomi 13, Black Shark 5) - up to 15 devices.

When connecting a large number of devices, the internet speed will be divided between them, and the smartphone battery will drain faster.

Why is the internet speed via a hotspot lower than on a smartphone?
This is normal. Speed ​​decreases due to:
• Mobile operator restrictions (some tariffs artificially reduce speed for access points).
• Losses in data transmission over Wi-Fi (especially at frequencies 2.4 GHz).
• Smartphone processor load (simultaneous data processing for multiple devices).
To improve speed:
• Switch the access point to a range 5 GHz (if the connected devices support it).
• Disable background apps on your smartphone.
• Check if the traffic saving mode is active in the SIM card settings.
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from a Xiaomi to an iPhone or Mac?
Yes, but some nuances may arise:
• On iPhone or Mac when connecting to an access point Xiaomi Sometimes a warning about an "unsecured network" appears. This is due to encryption features. MIUITo resolve the issue, change the access point security type to WPA2-PSK/AES.
• If iPhone If it doesn't connect, try manually adding the network in the Wi-Fi settings, specifying the name (SSID) and password.
How do I reset my access point to factory settings?

To return the default network name and password:

1. Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing → Wi-Fi Hotspot.
2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner (or Additionally).
3. Select Reset settings.
4. Confirm the action. After this, the network name and password will be regenerated.

Please note: this does not affect other smartphone settings (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.).