How to enable Wi-Fi Direct on the Redmi 9A: detailed instructions with pictures and tips

Function Wi-Fi Direct on a smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 9A It allows you to share files, photos, and even screen mirroring to other devices without a router. This is convenient when there's no internet connection or you need to quickly transfer a large file. However, many users face a problem: where to find this option in the menu and how to use it correctly?

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions With pictures, you'll understand the settings. Wi-Fi Direct on Redmi 9A only works when Wi-Fi is active, even if you are not connected to a network., and you'll also learn how to troubleshoot common connection errors. We've tested all methods on firmware versions. MIUI 12, 13, and 14 — we guarantee that at least one method will work on your device.

If you've previously tried enabling Wi-Fi Direct through the standard menu and couldn't find it, don't be surprised. In some versions of MIUI, the feature is hidden or moved to an unobvious location. However, it can still be enabled, and we'll show you how.

What is Wi-Fi Direct and why is it needed on the Redmi 9A?

Wi-Fi Direct — is a technology that allows devices to connect directly via Wi-Fi, bypassing a router. Essentially, your Redmi 9A turns into an access point to which other gadgets can connect: smartphones, printers, TVs, or even game consoles.

Key benefits:

• 📤 Fast file transfer — the speed is higher than that of Bluetooth (up to 250 Mbps versus 24 Mbps for Bluetooth 4.0).
• 🎮 Game mode — you can connect gamepads or broadcast your screen to TV without lag.
• 🖨️ Printing without a router - direct connection with many printers (for example, Canon PIXMA or HP DeskJet).
• 🔄 Sharing data between Android devices - even if they have different OS versions.

On Redmi 9A This feature is especially useful due to the limited internal memory. Instead of copying files to a flash drive, you can quickly transfer them to another phone or laptop. Moreover, unlike Bluetooth, there are no data transfer size limits—you can send videos in HD. 1080p or archives of several gigabytes in size.

But there are also nuances:

⚠️ Attention: Wi-Fi Direct consumes more power than Bluetooth. If the battery Redmi 9A When the battery is discharged below 20%, the function may automatically turn off to save battery power.

Where is Wi-Fi Direct located in the Redmi 9A settings?

Depending on the version MIUI The option location may vary. We've compiled all possible paths—check each one if you don't find it the first time.

Method 1: Via the Quick Settings panel

• 📱 Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification panel.
• 🔍 Click on the icon «Wi-Fi» and hold it for 2-3 seconds - additional settings will open.
• 🔄 In some firmware versions this option «Wi-Fi Direct» appears immediately below the list of networks.

Method 2. Through the main settings

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner.
3. Select "Additionally" or «Wi-Fi Direct» (in MIUI 14 the option may be called Direct connection).

Method 3. Search by settings

If you couldn't find it manually:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap the magnifying glass icon (🔍) at the top.
3. Enter your query «Wi-Fi Direct» or direct connection.

⚠️ Attention: On some modifications Redmi 9A (For example, with firmware for the European market), the function may be disabled by the manufacturer. In this case, the only solution is to reflash the firmware or use third-party apps.

Step-by-step instructions: how to enable Wi-Fi Direct on the Redmi 9A

Once you've found the option, all that's left to do is activate it and connect to another device. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Activate Wi-Fi Direct

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct (or a similar path from the previous section).
2. Activate the slider «Wi-Fi Direct» (it should turn blue).
3. Wait 10-15 seconds for your smartphone to detect available devices.

Step 2. Connecting to another gadget

• 📱 On the second device, also enable Wi-Fi Direct (in Wi-Fi settings or through the notification panel).
• 🔄 On Redmi 9A the name of the second device will appear in the list (for example, Samsung Galaxy A52). Tap on it.
• 🔐 Confirm the connection on both devices (you may need to enter a PIN or press Connect).

Step 3. Transfer files

After successful connection:

• 📁 Open Files or Gallery on Redmi 9A.
• 📌 Select the files you need and tap "Send" or Share.
• 🔗 From the list of options, select «Wi-Fi Direct» and specify the target device.

⚠️ Attention: If file transfer is interrupted, check if your antivirus or power saving mode is blocking it. Redmi 9A turn it off Battery optimization for the application Files in the settings.

Table: Comparison of Wi-Fi Direct with other data transfer methods

To help you understand when it's best to use Wi-Fi Direct and when to use alternative methods, we've compiled a comparison table:

From the table it is clear that Wi-Fi Direct It's ideal for transferring large files over medium distances, but it's inferior to Bluetooth in terms of energy efficiency. If you need to transfer a couple of photos, it's easier to use Bluetooth or NFCFor archives or videos, Wi-Fi Direct is best.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even after successful activation of Wi-Fi Direct, users Redmi 9A often encounter problems. We've compiled the most common errors and how to fix them.

Problem 1: Devices don't see each other

• 🔄 Solution: Please restart both devices and try again.
• 📶 Solution: Make sure that Wi-Fi is enabled on both gadgets (not necessarily a network connection).
• 🛠️ Solution: In the developer settings (Settings → About phone → MIUI version - Tap 7 times to turn it off. Wi-Fi Debugging.

Problem 2: Connection drops during transfer

• 🔋 Solution: Connect Redmi 9A to charge - when the battery level is low, the function may be disabled.
• 📡 Solution: Reduce the distance between devices (optimally up to 5 meters).
• 🚫 Solution: Disable VPN or proxy in network settings.

Issue 3: Certain file types cannot be transferred

• 📁 Solution: Rename the file by removing special characters (*, ?, :, | and others).
• 🔒 Solution: Check the permissions on the folder (for example, in Files tap on the file → "Properties").
• 🔄 Solution: Archive the file in .zip or .rar before sending.

Issue 4: Wi-Fi Direct disappears from settings after an update

This is a known MIUI bug. To restore the feature:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Manage applications.
2. Find "Settings" and clear the cache.
3. Restart your phone.

What to do if nothing helps?

If Wi-Fi Direct still doesn't work, try using alternative apps, such as Feem or Send AnywhereThey work on the same principle, but do not depend on system settings.

Alternative methods for transferring files without Wi-Fi Direct

If on yours Redmi 9A function Wi-Fi Direct is unavailable or unstable, there are several alternative methods:

1. File transfer apps

• 📲 Send Anywhere — transfer via Wi-Fi or mobile network without size restrictions.
• 🌐 Feem — creates a local network between devices.
• 🔗 Xender - supports cross-platform transfer (Android, iOS, PC).

2. Local network via a router

If both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network:

1. On Redmi 9A open Files and select the required data.
2. Tap Share → Send via Wi-Fi.
3. On the second device, open a browser and enter the address that appears on the screen. Redmi 9A.

3. Bluetooth (for small files)

Despite the low speed, Bluetooth is reliable for transferring contacts, photos, or documents:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
2. Make one of them "Visible" (in Bluetooth settings).
3. On Redmi 9A select file → Share → «Bluetooth».

4. USB cable (for large amounts of data)

The most reliable, but not the most convenient method:

• 🔌 Connect Redmi 9A to a PC or another smartphone via a USB cable.
• 📂 Select a mode File Transfer (MTP) in the connection notification.
• 📋 Copy files via File Explorer.

How to save battery life when using Wi-Fi Direct

Function Wi-Fi Direct actively consumes energy, therefore Redmi 9A with its modest battery 5000 mAh There are several rules to follow:

Tip 1: Disable the function after use

Wi-Fi Direct continues to run in the background even after file transfers are complete. To save battery:

1. After transferring the data, return to Settings → Wi-Fi → Wi-Fi Direct.
2. Disable the slider.

Tip 2: Use power saving mode

Activate it before turning on Wi-Fi Direct:

1. Go to Settings → Battery & performance.
2. Select Power Saving Mode.
3. Add an application Files or "Gallery" in exceptions.

Tip 3: Control your screen brightness

During file transfer, the screen Redmi 9A remains active, which further drains the battery. Reduce the brightness to 30-40% or activate Adaptive Brightness in the display settings.

Tip 4: Close background apps

Before using Wi-Fi Direct:

1. Open Recent Apps (swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen).
2. Close all programs except those needed for the transfer.

⚠️ Attention: If the battery level drops to 5% during data transfer, Redmi 9A may automatically disable Wi-Fi Direct to conserve battery power for emergency calls. Always monitor your battery level!

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Can I use Wi-Fi Direct to connect to a printer?

Yes, but the printer must support this feature. For example, models Canon PIXMA MG3640 or HP Envy 5055 compatible with Wi-Fi Direct. Activate the mode in the printer settings. «Direct», then connect to it with Redmi 9A as to a regular device.

Why is Wi-Fi Direct on Redmi 9A slower than promised?

The actual speed depends on several factors:

• 📶 Distance between devices (the further, the slower).
• 🛠️ Wi-Fi channel congestion (interference from other networks).
• 📱 Chipset performance (Redmi 9A equipped MediaTek Helio G25, which does not support Wi-Fi 5 GHz).

For maximum speed, keep devices within 2 meters and turn off other Wi-Fi devices nearby.

Is it possible to share internet from Redmi 9A via Wi-Fi Direct?

No, these are different functions. Wi-Fi Direct is only for direct data exchange between devices. To share the internet, use Modem mode (Settings → Hotspot & Tethering).

How do I reset Wi-Fi Direct settings if the connection isn't working?

Follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings → System → Reset settings.
2. Select Reset network settings.
3. Confirm the action (this will delete all saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords).

After rebooting, try turning on Wi-Fi Direct again.

Is it safe to transfer personal data via Wi-Fi Direct?

Yes, if you take precautions:

• 🔒 Connect only to trusted devices.
• 🚫 Do not transfer files in public places (risk of data interception).
• 📱 After transferring, turn off Wi-Fi Direct.

Wi-Fi Direct uses encryption WPA2, but it is not as reliable as in modern routers.