The modern smartphone has long since ceased to be just a communication tool, becoming a fully-fledged mobile router capable of providing internet access to a laptop, tablet, or other gadget anywhere in the world. Xiaomi device owners often wonder how to properly configure this feature to maximize speed and ensure the battery doesn't drain in a couple of hours. Redmi 9 has excellent characteristics for acting as an access point, supporting modern wireless communication standards.
The process for activating tethering mode in MIUI may differ from standard Android, which can sometimes cause confusion for users. In this article, we'll cover all the details, from basic activation to hidden frequency band settings. You'll learn how to secure your network and optimize power consumption.
You don't need any special applications or superuser rights to get started. All the necessary tools are already built into the system and accessible through the settings menu. The main thing is to configure the settings correctly before the first launch.
Basic access point setup via menu
The easiest and most obvious way to activate tethering is to use the quick menu in the notification shade. Simply swipe down from the top of the screen to open the control panel. Look for the icon labeled Access point and tap it. If the icon is highlighted blue, it means internet tethering is already active.
However, this method doesn't allow you to change the network name or set a security password. For full configuration, you need to go to the deep system menu. Open Settings, select a section Access point and modemThis is where all the important parameters affecting connection stability are hidden.
In the window that opens, click on the item Setting up an access pointHere you can change the network name (SSID) to anything you like to easily find it among the list of available connections. Also, be sure to set a strong password using WPA2 PSK encryption to prevent unauthorized access to your traffic.
β οΈ Caution: Don't leave your hotspot open without a password in public places. Attackers can intercept your data or use your connection for illegal activities.
After entering all the information, tap the checkmark in the upper right corner of the screen to save the changes. The feature is now ready to use, and you can connect other devices.
Using a widget on your desktop
If you plan to use internet tethering regularly, constantly going to settings can be inconvenient. MIUI allows you to place the toggle switch directly on the home screen for quick access with a single tap. This saves a lot of time when you urgently need to share your internet connection.
To add a widget, long-press your finger on an empty space on your desktop. In the menu that appears at the bottom, select WidgetsIn the list of available elements, find the category Access point or Single toggleSelect the design you like and drag it onto the screen.
Activating the mode is now instant. Simply tap the created icon, and your phone will begin broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal. Some widgets also display the number of connected devices, allowing you to monitor bandwidth usage.
Please note that the widget does not replace your security settings. The password and network name remain the same as those you set in the main menu. You cannot change them through the widget; you can only enable or disable the feature.
Frequency range setting and compatibility
One of the key features of setting up an access point on Redmi 9 is the ability to select a frequency range. In the configuration menu, you can find the item Select the AP frequency rangeBy default, the system may offer automatic selection, but for best compatibility, it's worth understanding the differences.
The 2.4 GHz band is the most versatile. It provides good coverage and penetrates walls, but data transfer rates are lower, and the airwaves are often clogged with neighboring routers. This option is ideal for older laptops or devices that don't support newer communication standards.
The 5 GHz band offers significantly higher speeds and lower latency, which is critical for online gaming or watching high-definition video. However, its range is shorter and it penetrates obstacles less effectively. Furthermore, some older devices may simply not detect your network.
The impact of range on battery
Using the 5 GHz band requires more transmitter power, which results in faster battery drain compared to the 2.4 GHz mode.
It's recommended to experiment with both options. If the receiving device is close to your phone, choose 5 GHz for maximum performance. If you need stability over a longer distance, switch to 2.4 GHz.
βοΈ Check settings before launch
Managing connected devices and limits
Controlling who connects to your network is an important part of security and data savings. The access point menu has a section Connected devices, which displays a list of all devices currently using your internet connection. You can see the device name and its MAC address.
The system allows you to limit the number of simultaneous connections. By default, this setting is often set to 10 devices, but to maintain speed, it's best to reduce it to 3-5. This will prevent someone from accidentally connecting and downloading large files, slowing down the main user.
You can also set a data limit. You can set a maximum value, such as 1 GB or 5 GB. When your data usage reaches this limit, the hotspot will automatically turn off. This prevents unexpected charges if you don't have an unlimited data plan.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Impact on work |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum devices | 3-5 pcs. | Maintains high speed for every client |
| Frequency range | 5 GHz (for new devices) | Increases channel throughput |
| Time-out | 10 minutes | Automatically turns off Wi-Fi when there are no clients |
| Encryption | WPA2 PSK | Guarantees protection of transmitted data |
Regularly check the list of connected devices. If you notice an unfamiliar device, immediately change the password in the access point settings. This will reconnect all clients, and only those with the new code will have access.
Network visibility issues and solutions
Sometimes users encounter a situation where their phone is broadcasting a signal, but other devices don't see it in the list of available networks. Most often, the issue lies in security or frequency settings. Make sure the hotspot option is unchecked in the access point settings. Hide device.
Another common cause is incompatibility of encryption standards. Some very old laptops or gaming consoles may not support the modern security protocols used. Redmi 9 By default. In rare cases, changing the encryption type may help, if this option is available in the advanced settings.
It's also worth checking whether airplane mode or power saving mode is enabled, as these can block the Wi-Fi module from working in tethering mode. Restarting the phone often resolves software issues that prevent the network module from working properly.
β οΈ Note: The settings interface may vary slightly depending on your MIUI version. If you don't see the option, try updating your system or searching for a similar name in the menu.
If the issue persists, try resetting your network settings. This will return all network settings to factory defaults but will not delete your personal files. After resetting, you will be required to re-enter the password for your primary Wi-Fi network, if you used one.
Optimizing power consumption when the modem is running
Hotspot mode is one of the most power-hungry processes on a smartphone. The Wi-Fi module receives and transmits data simultaneously, resulting in intense heat and rapid battery drain. Redmi 9To extend battery life, you should follow a few rules.
First, reduce screen brightness or turn off the display completely after activating data sharing. The screen consumes a significant amount of power, and keeping it on while the modem is running doesn't make sense. Also, close any background apps that may be requesting updates.
Use the timeout feature. In the hotspot settings, you can set a timeout after which the system will turn off Wi-Fi if no one is connected. This will prevent you from forgetting to turn off Wi-Fi and running out of battery in your bag.
If you're planning a long session, it's best to connect your phone to an external battery or charger. However, keep an eye on the temperature: simultaneous charging and active data transfer can cause overheating, which will negatively impact battery life.
The 5G Myth
Many people believe that 5G is always faster. In fact, in areas with poor coverage, 4G can be more stable and battery-efficient than constantly searching for a 5G signal.
Following these simple guidelines will help you stay online longer and keep your device's battery healthy for years to come.
Why does my phone get so hot when using Wi-Fi?
Heating is a normal physical reaction when the radio module operates at high frequencies. The processor and antenna actively consume power, generating heat. If the temperature reaches a critical level, the system will automatically reduce the speed or disable the function to protect the components.
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi if it is connected to another router?
This feature is available on most modern Android smartphones, including the Redmi 9. The phone acts as a repeater, receiving the signal and broadcasting it further. However, the speed will be limited by the receiving speed, not the transmitting speed.
How can I find out the password for the created access point?
The password is displayed in the menu Setting up an access pointIf you forgot it, just go to this settings section and look at the field PasswordThere you can change it to something more easy to remember.
How many devices can be connected to Redmi 9 at the same time?
Technically, MIUI allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. However, to ensure comfortable internet speeds, it's recommended to limit the number of clients to 3-5, especially if using 4G/LTE mobile data.