The situation when modern Smart TV Refusing to see the network created by the smartphone is quite common and causes confusion among users. Device owners Xiaomi And Redmi This is especially common among users, as their MIUI operating system has specific algorithms for working with access points. Typically, the problem stems not from hardware failure, but from incompatibility between encryption protocols or frequency bands.
Many people try to immediately reset the router or TV itself, which isn't always effective. Before resorting to drastic measures, it's worth checking the basic internet settings on your mobile device. Often, changing a single setting in the menu is enough. WLAN access point, to TV finally saw the network and connected to it.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the technical reasons behind conflicts between TV set-top boxes and Xiaomi smartphones. We'll explore the impact of frequency bands, network security types, and hidden Android system settings that can block connections. Understanding these nuances will help you quickly establish a stable data connection without unnecessary stress.
⚠️ Attention: The MIUI interface may vary depending on the firmware version and regional model of your smartphone. The layout of menu items may change after system updates.
Frequency ranges and device compatibility
One of the most common reasons why TV If the network isn't visible, there's a mismatch in frequency ranges. Smartphones Xiaomi By default, access points are often created in the 5 GHz band, as it provides higher data transfer rates. However, many TVs, especially older models or budget options, only support the 2.4 GHz standard.
If your TV doesn't physically have a module to receive a 5 GHz signal, it will simply ignore the network running on this frequency. It may not appear in the list of available networks at all, or it may show up with an error when attempting to connect. This is a classic example of hardware incompatibility, which can be resolved by switching the hotspot's operating mode in software.
To fix this, you need to manually change the access point settings on your phone. Go to the connection settings and find the frequency range option. Switch it from "Prefer 5 GHz" or "5 GHz" to "2.4 GHz." Then radio module The TV will be able to detect your network.
- 📡 The 2.4 GHz band has a lower speed, but a greater range of penetration through walls.
- 🚀 The 5 GHz band provides high speed, but is less able to penetrate obstacles.
- 📺 Older Smart TVs often do not have antennas for receiving 5 GHz.
- ⚙️ Switching frequencies requires restarting the access point on your phone.
Issues with security type and encryption
Another critical factor is the security protocol your Xiaomi To secure the access point. Modern versions of Android and the MIUI shell may activate the WPA3 encryption standard or a mixed WPA2/WPA3 mode by default. Older TVs or models with outdated software may simply not understand this protocol.
When encryption protocol If the client device (TV) doesn't support the network, the handshake process is interrupted at the initial stage. The TV may display "Connection Error" or "Incorrect Password" even if you enter the correct information. In some cases, the network doesn't appear in the list of available networks at all.
To resolve this issue, you need to lower the security level to a more universal standard. In the access point settings, find the "Security" or "Password Type" section. Select the option WPA2 PSKThis is the most compatible standard, supported by virtually all wireless devices released over the past 15 years.
Why is WPA3 causing problems?
The WPA3 protocol uses more complex encryption algorithms (SAE), which require support at the Wi-Fi module driver level. Older TVs simply lack these drivers and are unable to initiate a connection.
It's also worth paying attention to the password complexity. Some systems don't accept special characters or spaces in the access point password. Use only letters and numbers to avoid parsing errors on the TV's end. Make sure the password isn't too short, as some devices require a minimum of 8 characters.
Hidden SSID and network visibility
MIUI has a feature to hide the network name (SSID) for increased privacy. If this option is enabled, your smartphone Stops broadcasting the network name. Televisions, unlike computers or phones, often lack a convenient interface for manually entering the name of a hidden network.
As a result, you can spend a long time searching for the cause of your missing network, unaware that it's simply hidden from prying eyes. The TV scans the airwaves but doesn't receive any broadcast packets with your access point's name. It's as if the network doesn't exist.
Check the access point settings in the section Settings → WLAN Hotspot → Configure hotspotMake sure the "Hide Device" or "Hide SSID" switch is off. The network name should be visible to all surrounding devices. Only then Smart TV will be able to detect it when scanning.
⚠️ Attention: Hiding the SSID isn't a reliable security method. Experienced users will still be able to detect the network with specialized scanners, and the ease of connecting new devices will be significantly reduced.
Connection limits
Mobile operating systems have artificial limits on the number of simultaneously connected clients to a hotspot. This is done to conserve battery power and prevent overloading the phone's processor. Xiaomi allows you to connect from 4 to 8 devices, but sometimes the limit can be reduced or set to a minimum.
If your access point is already connected to the maximum number of devices (tablets, laptops, other phones), the TV will simply not be allowed onto the network. It will try to obtain an IP address, but the DHCP server on the phone will refuse to issue an address due to the client table being full.
Check the list of connected devices in the hotspot menu. If you see any unfamiliar devices or the limit has been reached, disconnect them. Some MIUI versions also have a "Maximum connections" setting, which you can increase if available on your model.
☑️ Connection diagnostics
It's also worth keeping in mind that some antivirus apps or built-in security features may block new connections if the system deems them suspicious. Try temporarily disabling your phone's firewall or antivirus to test.
Network settings and DHCP server failure
Sometimes the problem lies in a software glitch in the Internet distribution process itself. Service DHCPThe program responsible for automatically assigning IP addresses to connected devices may freeze. In this case, the TV detects the network, enters the password, but doesn't proceed beyond the "Obtaining IP Address" process.
This often happens if the hotspot has been running for a long time without interruption or if the phone is running low on RAM. Android system processes may have been terminated by the system to conserve resources, causing the network module to malfunction.
The easiest way to fix this problem is to perform a full network reset on your phone. You don't have to reset the entire phone to factory settings; simply find the "Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth" option. This will return your network settings to their original state.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The network is not visible in the list | 5GHz band or hidden SSID | Switch to 2.4 GHz, enable visibility |
| Connection error | Incorrect password or encryption type | Check the password and change it to WPA2. |
| Obtaining IP address... | DHCP failure or client limit | Reboot the access point, disable unnecessary |
| There is internet, but no access | No mobile traffic | Check your balance and carrier coverage |
The impact of mobile traffic and operator
It's also important to remember that simply being connected to WiFi doesn't guarantee internet access. Telecom operators may block tethering on certain plans. In this case, the TV will connect to the network. Xiaomi, will receive an IP address, but the TV apps will report no connection.
Furthermore, if the mobile network signal is weak (1-2 bars), the bandwidth may not even be enough to load the TV menu. Video streaming protocols require a stable connection, which mobile internet may not always provide.
Check that your data tethering service is enabled in your operator account. Some plans require separate activation or an additional fee. Also, make sure mobile data is enabled on your phone and the 4G/LTE/5G icon is lit.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff plans and terms for telecom services are constantly changing. For up-to-date information on tethering (modem mode) options, please check your operator's official app or personal account.
MIUI specific settings and power saving
MIUI is known for its aggressive power-saving policies. The system can automatically disable the hotspot if the phone's screen goes dark or limit background network activity. This leads to constant disconnects from the TV.
To prevent this, you need to add the "Access Point" app or the system Wi-Fi sharing process to the power saving exceptions list. Go to battery settings, find the relevant process, and select "No restrictions." This will ensure stable network operation even when the phone's screen is off.
MIUI also has a "Wi-Fi Assistant" feature that can switch your phone to a different network if the current one seems unstable. Disable Smart Network Switching to prevent your phone from trying to "improve" the connection by disconnecting from the TV.
Alternative connection methods
If standard WiFi distribution does not work or is unstable, you can use alternative methods. For example, technology Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to stream content directly without creating a traditional access point. Many TVs support Screen Mirroring or Cast.
You can also use a USB modem if your TV has a USB port and supports Ethernet adapters (via an adapter). Connect your phone to the TV with a cable and enable "USB modem" in your phone's settings. This will ensure a more stable connection and simultaneously charge your smartphone.
Another option is to use third-party hotspot apps, which can bypass some MIUI limitations. However, these solutions require additional software and may be less stable than system tools.
Is it possible to use Bluetooth for internet on TV?
Theoretically, it's possible, but Bluetooth speed is extremely low (around 2-3 Mbps). This is only sufficient for text information; watching videos will be impossible.
Detailed steps to follow when connecting
To resolve the issue systematically, we recommend following a clear algorithm. First, check network visibility and bandwidth, then ensure the password and encryption type are correct. If this doesn't help, proceed to resetting network settings and checking connection limits.
The order of actions is important: don't change all the settings at once. Change one parameter at a time and check the result. This will help pinpoint the cause of the conflict between TV And XiaomiMost often, the problem is solved in the first two steps.
If none of these methods help, there may be a hardware problem with the TV's WiFi module or a deep software glitch that requires a firmware update. In such cases, it's best to contact a service center or the support forum for your TV model.
Why does the TV say "Incorrect password" even though I enter it correctly?
This often happens when the keyboard layout on the remote and TV don't match (for example, the letter "l" is entered instead of the number "1") or when invalid characters are used. The encryption type can also be a cause: if the phone uses WPA3 and the TV expects WPA2, it may interpret this as a password error.
Is it possible to share WiFi if WiFi is also enabled on the phone?
On most modern smartphones Xiaomi Android 10 and above have a Wi-Fi Repeater feature that allows your phone to use both WiFi and a hotspot simultaneously. Your phone receives internet via WiFi and then shares it with others. Without this feature, turning on a hotspot will disable your phone's WiFi, and your TV will lose internet access unless mobile data is enabled.
The TV connects but immediately turns off. What's wrong?
Most likely, an inactivity timeout is triggered, or the phone's power-saving system is closing the hotspot. An IP address conflict could also be the cause, if there's already a device with the same address on the network. Try restarting both devices.
How to increase internet speed on TV via phone?
Use the 5 GHz band if your TV supports it. Make sure you're in an area with a strong 4G/5G signal. Close background apps on your phone to ensure the TV gets the full bandwidth. Avoid using a VPN on your phone while tethering, as it reduces speed.