Connecting Wi-Fi on a New Xiaomi Phone: Instructions with Pictures and Troubleshooting Tips

New smartphone Xiaomi — It’s always a joy to have new technology, but the first minutes of setup can raise questions, especially when it comes to connecting to Wi-FiEven experienced users sometimes encounter difficulties: the network can't be found, the password isn't accepted, or the speed leaves much to be desired. In this article, we'll look into all possible connection methods to Wi-Fi on new models Xiaomi (including Redmi, POCO and flagship series), and we'll also tell you how to diagnose and fix common errors.

It is important to understand that the process of connecting to a wireless network is Xiaomi It's not much different from other Android devices, but there are some nuances associated with the proprietary shell MIUIFor example, in the latest versions of the system additional functions have appeared such as Wi-Fi Assistant (automatic connection to trusted networks) and Wi-Fi 6/6E for new models. We will take all these features into account to ensure the instructions are up-to-date for your devices. 2026–2026 production years.

If you just unpacked the box and want to quickly get online, go straight to quick setup. If yours Xiaomi stubbornly refuses to see the network or gives an authentication error, read the section about troubleshootingAnd for those who want to get the most out of their connection, we have prepared tips on Wi-Fi optimization.

Quick Wi-Fi Connection: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Let's start with the simplest one - a standard connection to a home or office network. This method works on all Xiaomi models, regardless of version MIUI (12 to 16). If your phone is already activated and you see the home screen, follow these steps:

1. Open SettingsThe gear icon is usually found on the home screen or in the app drawer. On newer models (e.g., Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro+) You can also swipe down from the top edge of the screen and tap the settings icon in the upper right corner.
2. Go to the "Wi-Fi" section. IN MIUI It is located in the Connections and Sharing section (or just Network and Internet in older versions).
3. Activate Wi-Fiby moving the slider to the right. After a few seconds, the phone will begin scanning for available networks.
4. Select your network from the list. If it's not there, click "Refresh" (the round arrow in the upper right corner).
5. Enter your password and click "Connect". Please note: Xiaomi When entering a password, dots are displayed instead of asterisks - this is normal.
6. Confirm connectionIf the network is secure WPA3, a notification about increased security may appear - agree.

Done! A checkmark will appear next to the network name, and a Wi-Fi icon will appear in the top notification bar. If you're still unable to connect, check:

• 🔄 Reboot your router — sometimes the problem is not in the phone, but in the router.
• 📶 Make sure the network is visible — the SSID hiding function must be disabled in the router settings.
• 🔒 Correctness of the password - on Xiaomi If the password is incorrect, the error "Authentication failed" appears instead of "Incorrect password".

Wi-Fi on the router is turned on (the indicator is on)

The phone is within the network coverage area (no further than 10 meters from the router)

The password is entered in the correct layout (English letters)

There is no MAC address limitation on the router-->

If you are connecting to public network (at a cafe or airport), additional authentication via a browser may be required. In this case, after connecting, a login page will open automatically—enter your username/password or confirm the terms of use.

Advanced Wi-Fi settings on Xiaomi: what can you customize?

A standard connection is often not enough for comfortable work. MIUI There are several useful hidden features that can help improve connection stability or automate processes. Let's look at the most important ones:

1. Network priority (auto-connection)

If you have multiple access points at home or work (for example, MyWiFi_2.4G And MyWiFi_5G), you can set the priority so that your phone automatically connects to a faster network. To do this:

1. Tap and hold the network name in the Wi-Fi list.
2. Select Edit Network → Advanced.
3. Activate the "Auto-connect" option and set the priority (for example, 5G higher than 2.4G).

2. Wi-Fi Assistant (smart connection)

Function Wi-Fi Assistant Automatically connects your phone to known open networks (such as those in stores or public transport) and switches between them, saving mobile network traffic. To enable:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Wi-Fi Assistant.
2. Turn on the slider and confirm the terms (you may be required to accept a privacy agreement).

3. Power saving mode for Wi-Fi

By default Xiaomi Disables Wi-Fi in sleep mode to save battery life. If you need the connection to remain active (for example, for downloading files or making voice calls), change the settings:

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Power Saving Policy.
2. Select "Always" instead of "Never disable" or "Disable when locked."

Please note: Constant Wi-Fi use increases battery consumption by 5–15% depending on the model.

4. Configure DNS to speed up the Internet

If websites are loading slowly, try changing DNS servers. For example, Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) are often faster than your ISP's servers. To change your DNS:

1. Tap and hold the name of your network in the Wi-Fi list.
2. Select Edit Network → Advanced → IP Settings.
3. Set to "Static" and enter the DNS addresses in the appropriate fields.

Which DNS is best to choose?

- Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) is reliable and fast, but collects data about requests.

- Cloudflare (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1) — promises not to log requests, good for privacy.

- Yandex DNS (77.88.8.8, 77.88.8.1) — optimized for Russian-language websites.

- AdGuard DNS (94.140.14.14, 94.140.15.15) - blocks ads at the DNS level.

Connecting to a hidden Wi-Fi network

Some networks (such as corporate or manually configured ones) hide their name (SSID) for additional security. Connect to such a network on Xiaomi It's possible, but you'll have to enter the data manually. Here's how:

1. Open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Scroll down the list and click Add Network.
3. Enter exact network name (SSID) — case is important! For example, MyHiddenWiFi And myhiddenwifi will be perceived as two different networks.
4. Select security type:
   • No - if the network is open (not recommended).
   • WPA/WPA2-PSK — the most common option.
   • WPA3-PSK — for modern routers.

Enter your password and click "Connect".

If the connection fails, please check:

• 🔍 Correct SSID — ask the network admin to confirm the name.
• 🔐 Encryption type - if the wrong one is selected (for example, WPA2 instead of WPA3), the connection will not work.
• 📡 Network range - hidden networks often only work in 2.4 GHz or 5 GHzTry specifying the range manually in the advanced settings.

Wi-Fi 6/6E connectivity features on new Xiaomi phones

If your Xiaomi supports Wi-Fi 6 (standard 802.11ax) or Wi-Fi 6E (with range support) 6 GHz), you can significantly increase the speed and stability of your connection. These technologies are available in flagship models, starting from Xiaomi 12 And Redmi K50, as well as in all devices from 2026–2026 on the processor Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/3.

To take advantage of the benefits Wi-Fi 6, need to:

1. Update your router's firmware - Not all routers support 802.11ax Out of the box. Check your router model on the manufacturer's website.
2. Enable Wi-Fi 6 in your phone's settings.:
   1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Wi-Fi Mode.
   2. Select 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (or simply Wi-Fi 6 in new versions MIUI).
3. Connect to a network in the 5 GHz or 6 GHz band — Wi-Fi 6 only works in these ranges. Network 2.4 GHz does not support 802.11ax.

Benefits of Wi-Fi 6 on Xiaomi:

If your router supports Wi-Fi 6E (range 6 GHz), in the settings Xiaomi A separate point for connecting to such networks will appear. They usually have less interference and even higher speeds, but the range is shorter than 5 GHz.

Yes, I already use it

Yes, but I didn't configure it.

No, I plan to update

No, and I don't plan to-->

Can't connect to Wi-Fi? We'll solve common issues.

Even on new phones Xiaomi Sometimes problems arise when connecting to Wi-Fi. Let's look at the most common errors and how to fix them.

1. Error "Authentication failed" or "Saved, WPA/WPA2 security"

This error occurs when your phone can't connect to the network due to an incorrect password or incompatible security settings. What to do:

• 🔑 Check your password - Enter it again, paying attention to the case and symbols.
• 🔄 Reboot your router — sometimes a simple reboot helps.
• 📱 Delete the network from your phone's memory:
  1. Tap and hold the network name in the Wi-Fi list.
  2. Select "Delete" or "Forget".
  3. Try connecting again.

🛠️ Change the security type on your router - if it's worth it WPA3, try it WPA2-PSK (or vice versa).

2. Wi-Fi connects, but the internet doesn't work.

If there is an exclamation mark next to the network name and websites do not open:

• 🌐 Check your internet connection on other devices — if the problem occurs on them too, the provider is to blame.
• 🔧 Reset TCP/IP settings:
  1. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Access point name (APN).
  2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Reset settings".

📡 Change DNS — sometimes ISP DNS is glitchy. Try Google DNS (8.8.8.8).

3. The phone does not find the network or sees it poorly

If your network is not listed or the signal is very weak:

• 📶 Check the range - some routers hide 5 GHz For compatibility, enable "Auto" or "Dual Band" in your router settings.
• 📍 Reduce the distance to the router - walls and furniture weaken the signal. For 5 GHz maximum distance is 10–15 meters.
• 🔍 Turn on Airplane Mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off - this will reset the network settings.
• 🛠️ Update your phone's firmware — in new versions MIUI Errors with the Wi-Fi module are being fixed.
What to do if nothing helps?

If you've tried all the methods and Wi-Fi still isn't working:

1. Reset network settings on the phone: Settings → About phone → Factory data reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth settings.

2. Check the router on another device - if the problem persists, the router is to blame.

3. Contact Xiaomi support — the Wi-Fi module may be faulty (relevant for new phones under warranty).

How to Speed ​​Up Wi-Fi on Xiaomi: 7 Effective Methods

Even if yours Xiaomi If you're connected to the network, your speed may be far from maximum. Here are some proven ways to optimize your connection:

1. Choose the right band (2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz vs 6 GHz)

Each range has its pros and cons:

• 📡 2.4 GHz - long range, but low speed and a lot of interference from other devices.
• 🚀 5 GHz - high speed, little interference, but weaker penetration through walls.
• ⚡ 6 GHz (Wi-Fi 6E) - maximum speed and minimal interference, but small radius (only for new routers).

If your router supports both ranges, connect to 5 GHz for speed or to 2.4 GHz, if you are far from the router.

2. Enable Performance Mode for Wi-Fi

IN MIUI There's a hidden setting that prioritizes connection speed over power saving. To enable it:

1. Enter the code in the phone app:

   ##4636##

2. Select Wi-Fi Information.
3. Click the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Wi-Fi verbose logging" (if the option is available).
4. Go back and turn on "Aggressive Wi-Fi to Cellular Handover" (if available).

⚠️ Attention: These settings may increase battery consumption.

3. Disable automatic switching to mobile network

By default Xiaomi It can switch to mobile data if the Wi-Fi signal is weak. This is beneficial for stability, but it reduces speed. To disable:

1. Go to Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Switch networks.
2. Disable the "Automatic switching" option.

4. Configure QoS on your router

If you have a lot of devices at home (smartphones, TVs, laptops), turn on QoS (Quality of Service) in the router settings. This feature prioritizes bandwidth. For example, you can give maximum traffic to your phone. Xiaomi, if you watch videos in 4K.

5. Update your router firmware

Manufacturers regularly release updates for routers that improve Wi-Fi stability and speed. Check the current firmware version in the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).

6. Use Mesh systems for a large home

If you have a large apartment or house, a single router may not cover the entire area. In this case, Mesh system (For example, Xiaomi Mi Mesh or TP-Link Deco). It creates a single network of several access points, and the phone will automatically switch between them.

7. Disable background apps

Some programs (such as downloaders and cloud services) can eat up your bandwidth. To check:

1. Open Settings → Apps → Permissions → Data usage.
2. See which apps are actively using Wi-Fi.
3. Limit background activity for unnecessary programs.

Wi-Fi Security on Xiaomi: How to Secure Your Connection

Connecting to Wi-Fi isn't just about speed; it's also about security, especially if you're using public networks. Here are some tips on how to protect your data Xiaomi:

1. Disable auto-connection to open networks

Function Wi-Fi Assistant It's convenient, but it can connect your phone to unsecured networks. To disable it:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Wi-Fi Assistant.
2. Disable the slider or delete saved open networks.

2. Use a VPN on public networks

Your traffic may be intercepted in cafes, airports, or hotels. To avoid this, turn on VPNOn . Xiaomi it's done like this:

1. Open Settings → Advanced → VPN.
2. Choose a reliable provider (for example, ProtonVPN, NordVPN) and follow the instructions.

3. Check the devices connected to your router

If your home Wi-Fi suddenly becomes slow, it's possible someone else is connecting to it. To check:

1. Open your router's web interface (usually 192.168.0.1).
2. Find the "Connected devices" or "DHCP clients" section.
3. If you see unfamiliar MAC addresses, change your Wi-Fi password.

4. Configure MAC address filtering

You can allow connections only to certain devices (for example, only yours) Xiaomi). To do this:

1. Find out your phone's MAC address: Settings → About phone → General information → Wi-Fi MAC address.
2. Add it to the list of allowed devices in the router settings (Security or MAC Filter section).

⚠️ Attention: MAC filtering isn't foolproof—a skilled hacker can spoof the address. Use it as an additional security measure, along with a strong password.

5. Disable WPS

Function WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is convenient for a quick connection, but it's vulnerable to hacking. Disable it in your router settings if you're not using it.

Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi connections on Xiaomi

My Xiaomi isn't detecting the 5 GHz network. What should I do?

Possible reasons:

• Your phone does not support 5 GHz (valid for older models up to 2018).
• The range is disabled in the router settings. 5 GHz.
• Net 5 GHz hidden or has a different name (eg MyWiFi_5G).

Solution: Check your router settings and make sure the range is correct. 5 GHz enabled. If the phone is an older model (for example, Redmi 4X), it only supports 2.4 GHz.

How to connect to Wi-Fi without a password (via WPS)?

If your router supports WPS, you can connect without entering a password:

1. Press the button on the router WPS (usually at the back).
2. Open it on your phone Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS.
3. Click "Connect via WPS" within 2 minutes of pressing the button on the router.

⚠️ Attention: WPS is vulnerable to hacking. Use this method only for temporary connections.

Why does Xiaomi keep disconnecting from Wi-Fi?
Common causes:
• Power saving mode for Wi-Fi is enabled (disable in Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Power Saving Policy).
• Weak signal - try moving closer to the router.
• IP address conflict - reset network settings or set a static IP.
• Firmware issues - please update MIUI to the latest version.
Is it possible to connect Xiaomi to Wi-Fi without a SIM card?

Yes, No SIM card required to connect to Wi-Fi. The phone will work on the network the same way as with a SIM card, except for calls and SMS (but messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram will be available).