Mi Wi-Fi(MiWiFi) is an application for configuring Xiaomi routers. With the help of this mobile client You can not only configure the router, but also view the available technical information about it, as well as perform a number of additional operations, which we will discuss below.
You can download MiWiFi for Android from the official market and on our website - the download link is located under the article. Before synchronizing between the router and the user’s smartphone (or tablet), you should connect the portable device to the Wi-Fi distributed by the router. After this, you need to proceed directly to authorization or registration - which of these points you have to “overcome” depends on whether you have a Mi account.
The process of setting up a router can be called quite intuitive, because it is accompanied by the use step-by-step wizard in Russian, in which it is impossible to get confused. MiWiFi offers users the following functions:
- setting up a Xiaomi router and further monitoring its operation;
- viewing connection speed data;
- exercising control over devices connected to the router - obtaining information about them and the traffic used;
- viewing free space on the disk built into the router;
- managing files stored on disk;
TO additional functions The ones we mentioned earlier include managing an external hard drive. Sharing routers and disk allows you to create cloud storage, into which it will be convenient to export files from your smartphone when it is connected to your home Wi-Fi.
Peculiarities:
- setting up a Xiaomi router and managing its operation;
- viewing connected devices and traffic;
- managing cloud storage created on the router;
- the opportunity to register for those who have not yet done so;
- a step-by-step wizard that helps you set everything up automatically;
- availability of Russian version;
- compatibility with older versions operating system Android.
Download the program for setting up Xiaomi routers - MiWiFi on Android you can follow the link below.
Developer: Xiaomi Inc.
Platform: Android 4.0.3 and higher
Interface language: Russian (RUS)
Status: Free
Root: Not needed
Products Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi continues to rapidly conquer the electronics market not only with smartphones, but also with all sorts of multifunctional gadgets, which include the Xiaomi Mi Router 3. The current owners of this device have already been convinced of its quality and stable operation, but for those who are just thinking about purchasing or have not yet installed it at home, you still have to figure out the firmware.
To date, the original product does not have official firmware in Russian. As a standard, when you turn it on for the first time, you see only Chinese characters, and hardly anyone smiles at the prospect of learning the language or understanding everything intuitively. For this reason, on this moment relevant Xiaomi firmware Mi Wi-Fi English or Russian.
Installing English firmware is much easier and more reliable, so users are recommended to choose this option. If this also causes great discomfort, you can use the Russian version from Asus at your own risk. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is unofficial for Xiaomi, although it works well.
Before you start, you need to download and install the program VMware Workstation Player with virtual machine VIRTUALBOX-PROMETHEUS. After installing the first application, open the archive virtual machine and unpack the image from it. If everything is successful, there will be a VMware shortcut on the desktop, launch the program from it. We look for a window called Open a Virtual machine and indicate the location where the virtual machine is located, open it and launch it by pressing the green button, agreeing to the offer to download additional tools.
Further pre-installation work
Before flashing Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi class AC1200 directly not into English, but into Russian, you need to wait about half an hour for the installation of add-ons to complete virtual image. Further steps for setting up the wireless device are as follows:
- In the main menu of the script for Russian firmware, click the item MI-NANO or MI-3 CONFIG;
- We see the assembly and update menu in the Mi-3 router and press Shift + C at the same time, and then immediately Y;
- Click any button;
- We download the current Padavan flashing file (for developers), without which it is impossible to access the router via SSH, for which we go to the website http://miwifi.com/ (you need router 3);
- We check the availability of Mi Wi-Fi to this same Wi-Fi;
- We enter the router interface by entering the address 192.168.31.1 or inserted in the settings;
- Go to the third menu at the top and click on the icon with the “i” sign;
- Click on the button gray by selecting the previously downloaded firmware file for your Mi;
- We are waiting for the download to complete and the Xiaomi router to automatically reboot;
- Refresh the page, go under personal password into your Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3 and see if the router firmware is installed.
Padavan script management
As mentioned earlier, setting up Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3 and Russian firmware today is only possible with the Padavan script from Asus. 
Final flashing according to the script:
- We look for item 27 called MI-3 CONFIG and click the Enter button;
- We see the menu for working with scripts and press “0” to get access rights (ROOT) to manage the router;
- Manually enter the device address (IP) if it has been changed, or immediately press the Enter button when we see 192.168.31.1 already entered;
- We enter your password (the standard one that had to be entered when the equipment was connected for the first time);
- We wait until the script finishes working and get access to SSH, without which it will not be possible to flash the device correctly;
- Click update scripts, wait for the update to be completed, and click update section source code, and then – “assemble Toolchain”;
- In Mi routers, the flashing process takes from 15 to 30 minutes, we wait and don’t touch anything;
- Upon completion, we see the main menu and click Firmware (here you can configure many functions), select the update and finally flash the firmware by pressing the Enter button;
- At the end of the automatic process, a notification will appear stating that the script has successfully flashed the equipment; we will reboot the equipment.
After all the sequential actions you need to find a new one Wi-Fi network, enter the password and see the desired result instead of Chinese or English. If we carry out the process inattentively, we will reflash the device incorrectly, and this will lead to failures or the router not working at all. Therefore, be sure to sew everything in strict sequence.
Based on the rapidly growing number of rave reviews on the global web, Xiaomi has recently been doing well not only in the production of smartphones, but also in routers.
For example, thanks to its powerful hardware, the Xiaomi Mi WiFi Mini dual-band router, equipped with a USB port, simply leaves no chance for competitors who are not yet able to release the same functional device for less than $30.
Equipment
It’s difficult to even call it minimal (the impression is spoiled by the fact that a cheap patch cord is not included in the components).
The list of elements that the buyer will receive out of the box, except for the router itself, is as follows:
- Power adapter and socket adapter;
- Supporting documentation.
Description
Yes, this is Chinese equipment, but it is not the kind that Russians have gotten used to. This device, in addition to an excellent design solution, is equipped with functionality that only top models can usually boast at a price several times higher than the “baby” we are considering.
The user begins to gain confidence in the device simply by holding it in his hands. The quality of the case is excellent, without the slightest hint of movement of elements or creaks.
Although the ultra-compact dimensions did not allow equipping back panel device with numerous copper ports, but for home use everything you need is present here, including a USB connector with connectivity external hard disk.
The device also has two standard LAN, one WAN connector and a recessed button for resetting settings.
Xiaomi specialists have implemented very convenient solution for folding the external antennas of the router. Thanks to this, they fold parallel to the body with a simple movement, which allows you to safely transport the wireless device and quickly put it into operation.
But often manufacturers make antennas folding across the body or unscrewing, i.e., removable.
The device is securely installed on a smooth surface, as it has rubberized legs. The cooling slots are located at the bottom, which prevents dust and dirt from getting onto the internal hardware components of the device. The top and ends of the device’s body are completely covered with practical matte plastic.
The front panel does not contain anything extra. Here, in addition to the “MI” inscription, there is only one LED installed, which indicates the operating mode of the router by changing the color of its glow.
The negative points include the lack of possibility of mounting on a vertical surface. Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide special devices for this on the case.
Main characteristics
If you look inside, the user will also find a pleasant surprise in the form of very good components, of course, considering the indecently low price.
Inside you can see the MediaTek MT7620A processor operating at 580 MHz. A significant amount of RAM of 128 MB, which ensures the operation of the device even under high loads without frequent freezes and crashes.
You will also be pleasantly surprised by the ample inner memory 16 MB, which, if necessary, allows you to easily flash the router latest versions software.
It is necessary to note, especially relevant in our time of radio interference saturation, dual-band WiFi: 2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz.
Practice proves that even in large multi-storey buildings, where almost every apartment has its own Internet broadcaster via Wi-Fi, this imposes strong interference, which is why the speed of receiving and transmitting data over a wireless network often drops.
The least negative impact is on the 5 Ghz frequency range, and high speed is especially appreciated when watching video in HD quality.
Settings
At first, this procedure for the Xiaomi Mi WiFi Mini router seems like a big problem to all new owners. This is mainly due to the fact that the software in most cases is only in the language of the Great Celestial Empire, as the Chinese like to call their land.
Of course, there are versions with English firmware, but connoisseurs of this popular language should immediately be disappointed that not every menu item is fully translated - and still, even some buttons are indicated only with hieroglyphs.
The only good thing is that there is no need to delve into an incomprehensible menu every day, but just enter the parameters once and continue to use it calmly, completely forgetting about the problem.
The guide below with screenshots will help even novice users complete the task easily. Using step-by-step techniques, you can successfully put into operation not only the model in question, but also the “Mi WiFi Nano” and “WiFi MiRouter 3”.
So far there is only one way to Russify the unfriendly Chinese configurator - this is to install new firmware from third party developer, for example, "PandoraBox, Padavan".
But this re-flashing of the device is not very easy to do, since there are many different nuances. Therefore, it is recommended to use native software. Having completed the setup once according to the instructions, then the owners of Xiaomi routers intuitively understand all the few menu items in the web interface.
Device connection procedure
Obviously, before setting it up, the device must be properly connected to a computer or other device. Experienced users have probably already done this, in which case, you can simply skip this paragraph of the instructions and immediately move on to learning how to directly work with the equipment’s web interface.
It should be noted that the manufacturer also took care of the large army of smartphone owners who do not have a PC or laptop, releasing special software available in application stores for Android and Apple mobile devices.
This program is called "Mi Router" and it is completely translated into English language. The technique for using this utility is described at the end of this manual.
To connect, you must complete the following steps:
Setting options
After connecting, you should log into the control panel. For this purpose, it is convenient to use a PC or laptop that is connected to the device via a patch cord or wirelessly.
If the owner of the router has a special wire cable connection is more preferable because it is more reliable and free from external interference.
The only pity is that the Xiaomi company does not include a patch cord with the device, and users have to purchase it separately.
The turned on device, after a short boot, immediately begins broadcasting the Wi-Fi network. It is not difficult to recognize it, since the name contains the word “Xiaomi”.
Due to the fact that the network is initially completely open, and there is no access code installed on it yet, you can easily connect to it from a computer or laptop (the main thing is that the PCs are equipped with WiFi adapters, since outdated models they may not exist). For "ancient" computers the best option is to connect an external USB Wi-Fi adapter.
If you were able to immediately connect to WiFi, then it is advisable to log into the web interface from a Windows PC using an Internet browser that can translate foreign languages well, for example, through Chrome.
Despite the fact that not all 100% of the characters will be translated, the device settings menu will become more understandable for a Russian-speaking user than if it remains entirely Chinese.
To set up the Internet, you will need to complete the following steps:
a) Internet distribution;
b) repeater mode.
Note: at this stage it is already possible to try to access the World Wide Web. Very often such an attempt is successful. At the same time, when all gadgets connected to Wi-Fi already have Internet access, you can congratulate the owner new network and say that the setup procedure is completely finished. Other users will have to study and follow these instructions further.
How to connect to a provider?
To do this you need to take the following steps:
Entering Wi-Fi network parameters
If you need to change the Wi-Fi code or its name, or if you need to deactivate one of the ranges, you will need to perform the following steps:
How to enter parameters via a mobile device?
Download and install “Mi Router” on your tablet or smartphone. The utility is available for download both through the router’s web configurator and through the application stores of popular mobile platforms ( Google Play and App Store).
Users who do not want to clog up the memory of their gadget additional program, have the ability to configure the device using an Internet browser (instructions for configuring the router via a browser are described earlier in this manual).
People who choose the option of using a special mobile utility will need to take the following steps:
Despite the lack of a Russified interface, the setup process is no more complicated compared to routers from other manufacturers.
Having completed the procedure yourself once, an experienced user usually already intuitively understands the purpose of all sections. In them, if necessary, you can upgrade the router software, enable and disable VPN services, use the capabilities of interactive television iptv, etc.
Working with external USB drives
The first releases of “Xiaomi Mi WiFi mini” could only be read by USB drives with the “FAT32” system. Currently the device is functioning perfectly and “ExFAT”. After connecting to the USB connector, the program will first notify you about the need to prepare for the operation of the device, which is completed in about five minutes.
The next time you connect the same flash drive or external hard drive they will be ready to go straight away. 
Conclusion
With impressive technical characteristics and powerful external antennas, this router has absolutely no competitors in its price niche. And given the reliability and stability of operation, even a possible increase in cost will not be able to change the situation for the better for competitors.
Good day to everyone, dear friends, acquaintances, readers, admirers and other joys.
The problem is solved by automatic translation, say, from Google, i.e. in the web interface, on desired page, click right click mouse and select " Translate to Russian", after which we get the Russian language on this particular page:
And repeat this every time you need to receive a transfer (of course, provided that you have already managed to set up the Internet on the router).. Or use the above-mentioned phone application. Here is an example of the same page with translation (clickable):
As mentioned above, there is even a display of the degree of processor and memory load. At a minimum, it’s pleasant, and if you know how to use it, it’s sometimes useful.
Setup process in standard firmware is not something phenomenal, there are all the necessary items from Wi-Fi to detailed Internet settings, port forwarding, black and white lists, DHCP and other details (clickable):
The truth is for some reason missing, as I understand it, such a wonderful thing as a firewall, prohibiting response to pings from the WAN and other security things. It's depressing. I hope that they will do it in the future, or at least it will be in alternative firmware.
By the way, little has been heard about alternative firmware yet, apparently this is due to the newness of the router. On my favorite w3bsit3-dns.com there is information so far that you can try to install ASUS (Padavan), but I would not (specifically for this model, that is) recommend it, because there are chances that the device will turn into a brick. It’s better to wait a little, or use what you have, fortunately, in general, all the settings to the average user, as a rule, are needed according to the “set it once and forget it” principle.
As mentioned in the specifications (and not only), the device supports 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies for Wi-Fi. The latter is very good, because 2.4 has long been densely packed everywhere, which affects stability, speed and God knows what else.
What’s nice is that you can configure each network separately, that is, give it your own name and password, as well as the type of encryption, etc. Turn on one and turn off another. In short, plus everything, it can work in “dual unity” (c) mode, and speaking reasonably, in fact, in dual-band, that is, switch from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz and vice versa, depending on what exactly and when you need .
As for speeds, power is not cut off. Here is an example for a wired connection:
Here is an example of Wi-Fi speed from a laptop (at this moment there are about 6-7 devices “hanging” on the router in different ranges):
I hope the reader understands that Wi-Fi speed is determined not only by the power-speed of the router, but also by the speed-power of the device, i.e. in this case Wi-Fi transmitter on the router.
Okay, we've sorted out the synthetic tests. Then multi-day strength testing began. And here the ambush began. Even with an average load in terms of the number of connections per one (and the downloads and distributions themselves in the torrent):
The processor and memory make a sharp jump to the maximum and generally never get out of there:
The “regular” (surfing pages) Internet, Wi-Fi and everything in the world begins to choke. The problem is partially solved by enabling QoS, but to enable it you need to get into the router interface, and to get there you need to actually get through there, because instead we see the error:
In general, the power begins to clearly not be enough, he begins to choke and almost cannot breathe. Although we must give him his due - the connection does not break and does not overheat. If you reduce the loading intensity and all that stuff, then you can live and breathe:
But somehow it’s already becoming insulting and sad, because you have to wait longer and make more all sorts of gestures.
Well... It’s probably worth stopping here and moving on to conclusions that will help you make a purchase.
Conclusions and results
Let's summarize.
- Stylish router, looks like a premium device;
- Supports 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands;
- Excellent price, despite the dollar exchange rate;
- Excellent coverage area due to 4 powerful antennas;
- Availability of USB and mobile applications to interact with the router via Wi-Fi;
- Does not reduce connection speed, does not overheat;
- Has acceptable power.
- Does not (at the time of writing this review) have firmware that supports at least the English language;
- Under heavy load (torrents at a speed of 100 MB) it begins to choke;
- Lack of gigabit ports;
- No wall mounting.
My impression was strictly pleasant (I would buy it ;)), and therefore, let’s say this:
- If you need a router that looks good, costs well, has support for the 5 GHz band and has excellent coverage, then this is it. a good choice. Although, it is likely worth waiting for new official (or better yet, alternative firmware).
Well, traditionally, an afterword.
Afterword, discounts, coupons and where to buy
These are the pies.
The device was carefully provided and is quite good Chinese online store GearBest. By the way, they have a Russian version of the site, which can be found, and therefore, if you decide to buy there, then there will be a direct link to the router (by the way, it is now valid, and not only for this router).
As always, if you have any questions, thoughts, additions, etc., then welcome to comment on this post. As they say, hot on your trail and hands free;)