Xiaomi routers are a budget solution for the most sophisticated Internet and local network users. The Xiaomi Router 3G model will most likely suit you in all respects as an ultra-fast wireless network router.

Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3G review

It looks like a regular enlarged (due to non-removable antennas) packaging.

Xiaomi 3G router: it comes with a power adapter and instructions

The LAN and WAN interfaces are separated from each other by one of the antennas - as is the USB port from all Ethernet ports.

Ethernet/USB sockets are located between the router antennas

Like Xiaomi Router 3/Mini, Xiaomi Router 3G has only one blue LED.

One LED is a proprietary feature of the Xiaomi router display

Nothing superfluous: there are no buttons or switches on the side of the Xiaomi 3G router.

There are no physical controls on Router 3G

Taking a closer look: indication of Ethernet traffic exchange on site (a pair of LEDs). There is a reset button (small hole on the left).

The Ethernet indication is more varied than that of the Xiaomi Router 3

Ventilation in Xiaomi Router 3G, like its counterparts, is almost ideal: the lower surface of the case is a sieve with long holes.

The Xiaomi 3G router is well ventilated during operation

The adapter is standard - for American sockets. An adapter for European sockets is purchased separately.

Adapter for router plug is not included

Externally, the Xiaomi 3(G) routers are indistinguishable: they only show the number of Ethernet ports (Router 3 has two) and the color of the USB port.

The differences are only visible when viewed from behind.

General indication of the operation of Ethernet ports on the Xiaomi 3 and the presence of an indication of traffic exchange via Ethernet on the Xiaomi 3G.

The differences are also visible on the LAN/WAN display of both routers

Xiaomi Router 3G is slightly more compact than Router 3. It is also easy to hang on the wall by drilling a couple of elongated holes in order to install the case on pre-fixed screws (there is more than enough space inside). The printed circuit board with a radiator is located as compactly as possible, leaving room for cooling the device during operation.

The radiator is massive and dissipates heat well

Under the radiator there is a processor, RAM, a Wi-Fi radio subsystem (excluding output stages for amplifying the signal to the antenna) and flash memory. Ethernet chips do not require additional cooling. It is possible to install a pair of miniature fans from a non-working PC or laptop inside.

Leading Xiaomi 3G chips are hidden under the heatsink

The MediaTek-7621AT processor will “pull” up to 4 LAN ports - but this is already the prerogative of Xiaomi Router Pro (in the future - and higher models, when they are released).

Before the MT-7621AT processor reaches its end of life - before the MediaTek-7621x CPU series (MT-76xx processor family) is updated - new versions of the Xiaomi Router will still prove themselves.

Table: characteristics of the Xiaomi Router 3G router

Parameter or characteristic	Value (tolerance)
CPU	SoC MediaTek MT7621AT (MIPS32 1004K, 2*880 MHz)
RAM	256 MB (DDR-2)
Flash drive	128 MB (SLC)
Standard, Wi-Fi range	2.4 and 5 GHz, IEEE 802.11ac
Antenna parameters	4, omnidirectional, non-removable
Number of LAN/WAN ports	2 LAN ports, WAN port
File sharing speed on LAN between PC and gadgets	up to 1 Gbit/s
Local Wi-Fi speed	up to 1167 Mbit/s
Protocols for encrypted access to the Network via WAN/LAN	PPTP, PPPoE, L2TP, IPSec
USB ports	one, 3.0
Local servers	DHCP
Encryption, Wi-Fi network protection	from Open to WPA-2
Additional functionality	DMZ, NAT, firewall, SPI, Firewall
Device operating modes	access point, repeater mode

Using third-party firmware (modified firmware from Asus, TP-Link, ZyXEL, free software OpenWRT/DD-WRT/Padavan), previously unavailable functions are implemented, such as: repeater and (hybrid) bridge modes, WiFi2LAN client mode, additional guest networks and etc.

Video: Xiaomi 3G router review

Setting up a Xiaomi 3G router using the MiWiFi program

Beginners generally start setting up Xiaomi Router 3G not with third-party firmware Padavan or DD-WRT (full version of OpenWRT), but with the MiWiFi application.

Setting up the Xiaomi Router line of routers is simplified: Router 3G is not much different from its predecessors - the Mini and 3 models. For the convenience of users, all commands in the instructions are translated from Chinese to English/Russian.

Connecting to a Xiaomi 3G router from a PC or laptop

After turning on for the first time (or resetting the settings), the Xiaomi 3G router will turn on the open wireless network “Xiaomi_(device_labeling)”. Connect to it from a PC, laptop or tablet, type mifiwi.com in the address bar of your browser.

Select Xiaomi 3G network

Now do the following.

1. Accept the agreement with Xiaomi and click “Next”.

   Confirm that you agree with Xiaomi's PM

2. Secure your Wi-Fi network by entering a new name (you don't have to change it) and a WPA-2 password.

   Set a strong, hack-proof wireless password

3. For maximum protection, enter a different password for the router’s web interface.
4. Wait for the Wi-Fi networks on your Xiaomi 3G router to restart.

   Wait, the router will now restart

The router is ready for further configuration.

Connect to the router with a new Wi-Fi password

Reconnect to the Xiaomi Router 3G network with a new password.

Changing the firmware language of the Xiaomi 3G router

In some cases, when you connect the provider's cable, Internet access may already be enabled, so you can use Google Translator to simplify the settings.

1. Go back to miwifi.com and enter the router settings.

   Enter your Admin password

2. Go to the "Routing Status" tab.

   Xiaomi Router 3G operating status

3. Give the command “General settings - System status”. Download the English version of Xiaomi Router 3G software.

   You can easily change the Chinese version of Xiaomi 3G to English

4. Click the gray button - “Update manually”. Select a folder on your PC to save the Xiaomi 3G firmware file, wait until this update is downloaded.
5. Select English in the Xiaomi Router 3G software settings.

   To begin, select English

6. Log in again to the router settings (using your login and password) and give the command “Status - Connected devices”.

   The router also reports about available 5GHz Wi-Fi devices

7. Give the command “Internet” - “Test (more)”. Internet speed will be checked.

   The router will report Internet speed and IP connection settings

8. Write down (or take a screenshot of) all IP addresses. They will come in handy when reconfiguring the router.

Advanced Wi-Fi settings for Xiaomi Router 3G

Do the following.

Setting up a local network Xiaomi Router 3G

General configuration of the local router is performed only when the Internet is turned off. If the router automatically connects to the Internet, temporarily disconnect the provider's cable.

For example, the main IP is 192.168.0.1 and the DHCP range is 192.168.0.(100–200).

Setting up network sharing for Xiaomi Router 3G

Do the following.

Fine-tuning the security of Xiaomi Router 3G

If malware has entered your router or your passwords have become known to everyone around you, change them.

Reset, restore settings and update Xiaomi Router 3G

Resetting the settings may reset the web interface to its Chinese language. Use Xiaomi 3G reset in case of emergency.

Working with disks and modems on a Xiaomi 3G router

The Xiaomi Router 3 USB port supports USB drives and 3G/4G modems. By replacing the firmware with freely distributed software, universal for routers of many brands and models (OpenWRT Pro and its analogues), you may get the functionality of printers, scanners, copiers and other office equipment controlled via USB.

Of particular interest is the operation of the router as a separate gadget/router with USB-RS485, C2000-USB interface converters and other microcontrollers - over a local network, for example, controlling a fire alarm or main entrance turnstiles in a protected area. The last of the above may require programming skills - at least minimal - to change part of the software code of Xiaomi routers (before updating). You may also need to reprogram (or at least update the firmware) of the USB converter itself.

Do the following.

1. Connect an external drive, for example an SSD drive, give the “Storage” command.

   You can download the apps directly from here

2. Download the MiWiFi application from Google Play.

   Open MiWiFi app after downloading

3. Register on miwifi.com and launch the MiWiFi application. Click the “Set up a new router” button.

   Opening the vault will take you to the contents of the flash drive or SSD drive

The “Arrange”, “Unload”, “Download”, “Mark” and “Back” buttons are the main actions with files when managing them from the Xiaomi Router 3G device. When you select a file (a group of files, a folder or a group of folders), the functions “Copy”, “Delete”, “Rename”, “Move” and “Remove selection” are activated.

Alternative firmware options

Third-party firmware is free software “OpenWRT”, “Padavan”, as well as firmware from Asus, ZyXEL, D-Link, TP-Link, Tenda and other routers, edited through special compiler applications. Free software is comprehensively tested for compatibility with routers from both well-known and recently entered the network equipment market manufacturers.

Setting up Xiaomi 3G to work with a USB modem in Padavan software

Before working with Padavan firmware, you need to install it instead of the proprietary “stripped-down” DD-WRT (or “native” from Xiaomi).

Xiaomi 3G firmware using Prometheus utility

Prometheus is available at prometheus.freize.net.

1. Launch the Prometheus application and select the Mi-R3G router (follow the Prometheus command console instructions).

   Pre-processing source files for the new Padavan firmware

2. Practice the action under the letter S (open script settings). Specify the IP, login and password for the SSH host of the router.
3. Work through step 4 (preparing the firmware), then step 3 (assembling the firmware).

   Before starting the firmware, the software must be processed by the Xiaomi 3G code

Initiate step 4 (router firmware). Xiaomi Router 3G will be updated and restarted.

Padavan settings are all in Russian and even more diverse than in MiRouter

New IP - 192.168.1.1 (Asus-RT program settings).

3G/4G settings in Padavan Asus-RT on Xiaomi 3G routers

Setting up a 4G modem in the Xiaomi-Asus-RT (Padavan) firmware is not much different from similar actions in the “clean” Asus firmware. In fact, Padavan is a transplant of the Asus web interface onto the source code of Xiaomi routers.

The Xiaomi 3G router will restart. You can configure Wi-Fi and LAN routing - it is similarly configured in Asus-RT routers (refer to the manual for any of the models in this line) - and use the Internet from your cellular provider.

Xiaomi routers are easy to set up. This ease of operation has not bypassed the ultra-modern Xiaomi 3G model. With Xiaomi 3G routers, you will have access to almost any of the currently known tariffs from any of the providers. Have excellent Internet speed and comfortable work!

The Xiaomi company produces high-quality and reliable routers that are suitable for organizing both home and corporate networks. What distinguishes the devices from other manufacturers is a wide range of settings, the ability to organize control via a smartphone, and the operation of the device from a power bank, which allows you to create a grid in almost any conditions.

To ensure efficient operation of Xiaomi routers, you need to configure them correctly. In our material we will tell you in detail how to produce it.

Settings Features

Regardless of the Xiaomi router models used, they are configured through a standard interface, which can be:

• Client programs for Mac and Android;
• The browser in which you need to go to the administrative panel;
• Utility for Windows OS;
• Application for iOS.

However, each model has its own characteristics that must be taken into account during the setup process. For example, the Xiaomi router for the Mi WiFi Mini home network is capable of operating in two frequency bands (2.4 and 5 GHz). It is equipped with a USB connector, making it possible to connect external gadgets.

The Xiaomi Mi Nano router is equipped with a Micro-USB input, as a result of which it can operate from a simple charger for a mobile device. However, the lack of a USB port somewhat limits the capabilities of the device.

How to connect

If you plan to connect the Xiaomi Wi-Fi router with other devices via an Ethernet cable, then before turning on the device you need to connect all the equipment to each other. There is no power button on most copies, so the product starts immediately after it is connected to the Internet.

The browser starts, and the numbers 192.168.31.1 are entered in the address bar. Next, perform the following steps:

After this, the display should display data on the key parameters of the Xiaomi router. Graphs will appear below showing the degree of congestion of both wired and wireless networks. When the device operates in several Wi-Fi bands, data for all connections will be displayed.

Wi-Fi and Internet connection

To create a wireless connection you need:

• Open the Common settings subsection and enter the provider data;
• In the Internet Settings column, select the required connection protocols.

To create a Wi-Fi network, you need to go to the Wi-Fi Settings tab. If you are using a dual-band device, you can specify the security information and SSID for each frequency.

The Encryption subsection specifies the encryption protocol and also sets the access key.

Guest access is created by changing the Shut down value to Open. Then the SSID of the guest Wi-Fi is entered and the type of protection is selected. When activating encrypted access, you will need to set a password.

All settings made take effect after the device is rebooted.

The Xiaomi Mi 3 router is an excellent replacement for much more expensive competitors from TP-Link and ZyXEL. These are good opportunities for conservative users and for those who like to “finish” the software of gadgets to a more advanced level.

Completeness and design of the Xiaomi Mi Router 3 router

Unlike its brother, Xiaomi Mini, Router-3 is equipped with four antennas that create a stable Wi-Fi zone of up to 50 m.

The design of the Xiaomi 3 router is different from the Xiaomi Mini

The adapter is designed for American sockets; the kit includes an adapter for “Euro” ones.

Like the Xiaomi Mini, there is no LAN cable - purchase it separately. You cannot hang the router on the wall - buy some narrow tray, slightly larger than the width and thickness of the router case: there are no fasteners that fit onto the screw heads on the bottom.

The lower part is almost like a mesh for ventilation

The router's antennas rotate 90 degrees - it can be operated both in a horizontal position and on the above-mentioned hanging tray on the wall.

Reduced board allows for better heat dissipation

However, after disassembling the device, you will see that you can cut holes for the screw heads yourself. There is too much free space - due to the reduced printed circuit board, the manufacturer clearly did not want to seriously redesign the case.

The minimalistic design of the router, like Apple hardware, if not for the “Mi” logo, would make the user think about the American origin of the device.

Characteristics of Xiaomi Router 3

The characteristics of the Xiaomi Mi Router 3 router are not inferior to standard models with average parameters that solve many of the needs of modern users - but there are still differences from the Xiaomi Mini product, for example, an increased amount of flash memory.

Table: parameters of the Xiaomi Router 3 router

The CPU and RAM, which are decent for routers in terms of speed and performance, allow the router to operate without missing IP packets. Thanks to this, simultaneous clear work with several PCs and gadgets is possible in intensive use of Internet traffic.

Setting up Xiaomi Router 3

Setting up the Xiaomi Mi line of routers is simplified: Router 3 is almost no different from the Mini model. Changes in the instructions mainly affected the change from Chinese to English in the web interface.

Connecting to Xiaomi router 3 from a PC or laptop

First, the router creates an open Xiaomi network. Connect to it from a PC, laptop or tablet, type mifiwi.com in the address bar of your browser.

Xiaomi router is ready for setup via Wi-Fi

Now do the following.

1. Accept the terms of the contract with Xiaomi and click “Next”.

   Check the terms and conditions and click continue.

2. Assign a Wi-Fi network name and password for the router (and for its wireless network).

   Xiaomi Router 3 will immediately configure the wireless network settings

3. Here again it is proposed to combine the router password with the Wi-Fi password. Click Continue after entering your parameters.

   Click the continue button after entering your login information

4. Wait a minute or more - the router will start the Wi-Fi module and will be ready to set up the Internet.

   The restart will occur in about a minute

The router is ready for further work.

Login to the same network with new settings

Reconnect to the Xiaomi Router 3 network with new parameters.

Changing the firmware language of the Xiaomi router 3

In some cases, when you connect the provider's cable, Internet access may already be enabled, so you can use Google Translator to simplify the settings.

1. Go to 192.168.31.1 or miwifi.com and log in.

   Click the arrow button (continue)

2. Go to the "Routing Status" tab (main monitoring elements).

   Xiaomi Router 3 session with current connection speeds

3. Give the command “General settings - System status”. First download the English version of the firmware for Xiaomi Router 3.

   Press the top button - manual firmware update

4. Click the gray button - “Update manually”. Select a location to save the firmware file. Wait while the router updates its firmware.

   The update may take a few seconds

5. Select English in the Xiaomi Router 3 software settings.

   Changing the language of Xiaomi Router 3 to English

6. Log in again after restarting (if required) and give the command “Status - Connected devices”. Further commands have been translated into Russian.

   The router displayed valid PC and gadget connections

7. Go to the “Internet” item and test (if necessary) the speed by clicking the “Test (more)” button. Information about the working Internet connection will be displayed.

   If necessary, test the speed and record the IP

8. Write down the address of the gateway and DNS server - they will help when changing settings, for example, if you change the tariff or renew the contract in case of moving.

Checking all Wi-Fi settings

To get started, do the following.

Now you can check the provider settings.

Setting up a local network Xiaomi Router 3

General configuration of the local router is performed only when the Internet is turned off. If the router automatically connects to the Internet, temporarily disconnect the provider's cable.

For example, the gateway address may be the well-known 192.168.0.1, and the DHCP numbering range may be 192.168.0.(100–200).

Setting up network sharing for Xiaomi Router 3

Do the following.

Additional security options of Xiaomi Router 3

These settings will help if it turns out that a Trojan has gotten into your router, or someone has found out your passwords. To check them - and change them if necessary - do the following.

Reset Xiaomi router 3

Resetting the settings will not only “roll back” incorrect or unwanted settings, but also has the disadvantage that the default Chinese language of the web interface may be set again.

Working with external drives on the Xiaomi router 3

The Xiaomi Router 3 USB port supports connecting external drives. Other USB connection functions on Xiaomi routers are implemented only after installing third-party firmware.

1. Connect an external drive, for example an SSD drive, give the “Storage” command.

   Use the mobile version for Xiaomi Router 3

2. Select the mobile application by clicking on the “Download Client” link. Download the required version of the client from miwifi.com. Access to USB drives directly through the web interface of the Xiaomi 3 router is not provided. You can try to log in via mapping a network drive in Windows - but the possibilities for such access are sharply limited, use the application for mobile platforms.

   For full operation you need an account on miwifi.com

3. Go to the "Storage" tab. If the disk is connected, its icon will be displayed, open the contents of this disk. Open it - all your folders and files on the disk/flash drive in the state in which they were displayed the last time you viewed them from your gadget/PC.

   With MiWiFi you can fully manage your storage via Xiaomi Router 3

You can start working with your data. Buttons “Arrange”, “Unload”, “Download”, “Mark” and “Back” - the basic set of functions of Xiaomi Router 3; when you select a file, the functions “Copy”, “Delete”, “Rename”, “Move” and “ Remove selection."

Alternative firmware options

Third-party firmware is the free OpenWRT software, as well as modified (compiled) BIN files (the BIN format file is the firmware of any routers) from Asus, ZyXEL, D-Link, TP-Link, Tenda and other routers. Free DD-WRT software is tested by developers and testers for maximum compatibility with as many brands and models of routers as possible.

But if you can be relatively confident with OpenWRT, then, without the simplest “coding” skills, you should not immediately “upload” the firmware from some Asus RT-N66U-N900 into your Xiaomi Router 3/Mini. You risk getting a “brick”, and only in China or the nearest computer service center will they be able to restore it again. Or you will spend many hours - if not days - rummaging around on 4pda.ru and similar resources in search of working instructions for “bricking” the product.

Video: setup and review of the Xiaomi Router 3 router

A feature of Xiaomi Wi-Fi routers that makes it difficult to set up the Internet and Wi-Fi network is problems with interface translation. Even in the English version of the firmware, some inscriptions remain in Chinese. To configure these items via a browser, it is recommended to use an online translator, such as Google Translate.

Differences in setting up Xiaomi routers

All Xiaomi models are configured through the same interface. It can be used:

• Administrative panel in the browser;
• Client for Android;
• iOS application;
• Utility for Windows;
• Program for Mac.

All stages of specifying parameters are the same, but depending on the availability of additional functions, different settings are available for different devices. The Mi WiFi 3 and Mi WiFi Mini routers support two wireless network bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. They also have a USB port that allows you to connect external devices (hard drives, flash drives).

The Nano model is similar in design to the Mini router. The differences between the routers are visible on the back panel. Instead of a connector for the Xiaomi power supply, a Micro-USB input is used. This allows you to connect the "Mi WiFi Nano" even through a mobile phone charger. In addition, there is no USB port for connecting external drives.

Note! The Xiaomi lineup also includes professional routers with built-in memory up to 6 TB. They are distinguished by higher technical characteristics and the presence of active cooling.

Connecting and logging into the web interface

Plug the ISP cable into the blue input on the back of the router. If you have home computers or laptops with an Ethernet connector, connect them with a cable to the gray ports. Unlike most routers from other brands, budget Xiaomi devices do not come with a network cable. You need to purchase it separately or use a Wi-Fi connection.

When purchasing with delivery from China (for example, from an Aliexpress store), you should also take into account that the power supply plug is type “A”. To plug into a Russian outlet you will need an additional adapter. Connect the adapter to the router and turn it on to the network. There is no power button on Xiaomi routers; devices start working immediately after connection.

Despite the availability of client applications for smartphones and computers with different OSes, the admin panel remains the universal method of configuration. It can be accessed using any software and hardware platform. Just launch the browser and enter the standard IP of the Xiaomi router into the address bar: 192.168.31.1.

When connecting for the first time, check the box confirming that you agree to the terms of the license agreement and click the button above it. The system will prompt you to enter a new Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and its password. Provide this information and proceed to the next step. Then enter a new password to enter the router settings. When the device reboots, connect to the created network and enter the administrator password.

The start screen contains basic information about the router and statistics on its operation. At the bottom of the page, graphs of network usage (wired and wireless) and the load on hardware components are displayed. If the router operates in two Wi-Fi bands, data is displayed for each connection created.

Important tip! If you encounter difficulties connecting, use the built-in connection diagnostic utility. Rebooting the router may also help.

Internet and Wi-Fi setup

To specify the provider data, click the third item in the top menu: “Common settings”. Open the "Internet settings" tab and select which settings you want to change. Various connection protocols will be available in the drop-down list. If the type of connection you are using and your account details are unknown to you, check them with your Internet provider support.

Wireless network settings on Xiaomi routers are indicated on the adjacent tab in the same menu: “Wi-Fi settings”. Dual-band routers allow you to set separate SSIDs and security settings for 2.4 and 5 GHz networks. In the “Encryption” column, select the encryption protocol, and in the text field below it, enter the Wi-Fi access key.

You can set the guest network at the bottom of the page. To launch it, change the value of the first item from “Shut down” to “Open”. Enter the guest Wi-Fi SSID and select the protection type from the drop-down list. If you specify encrypted access, you will also need to enter the password for the guest network. The settings will take effect after the router is rebooted.

As you know, Xiaomi knows how to surprise with its innovative solutions. The most successful example is smartphones, which captivate with their amazing technical characteristics and relative cheapness. At the same time, Xiaomi does not stop there, so it is actively expanding the list of devices produced under this brand. Among such devices, one cannot fail to highlight routers that may be of interest to our compatriots.

First of all, the routers are very cheap, but their characteristics, in accordance with the best traditions of the company, are very tempting. One of these Xiaomi Mi WiFi 3 or 3c routers, ac1200 class, can be purchased for just a few thousand rubles, taking advantage of a promotional offer from the well-known Internet resource AliExpress. Before agreeing to purchase, please note that instructions and usage guides are offered exclusively in the native language, that is, Chinese. If this doesn’t bother you at all, then you should definitely take a closer look at this high-tech product.

Features of the router from Xiaomi

Let's move on to the key characteristics of this router.

1. Processor MT7620A with a frequency of 580 MHz.
2. 128 MB RAM.
3. 128 MB flash memory.
4. Wireless radio units - one with a frequency of 2.4 GHz and providing connection speeds of up to 300 MB per second, and the other - 5 GHz and speed capacities of up to 867 MB per second.
5. Two LAN ports and one WAN, each providing a speed of 100 Mb/s.
6. USB 2.0 port.

It is worth noting that the listed characteristics are almost identical to those offered by the Mi WiFi Mini router. However, judging by external data, there will be differences. The body of Mi WiFi 3 has become noticeably larger, and the number of external antennas has increased to four.

A pleasant surprise for interested citizens will be the price category in which the Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Router 3 finds itself. Only $30, which is not so much for such a balanced device. Among its obvious advantages is the operation of one of the radio units, which is capable of operating at a frequency of 5 GHz. On the one hand, speeds of up to 867 Mb/s will only occasionally be fully realized. This is all due to the limits for the LAN and WAN ports, which can only provide 100 MB per second. On the other hand, it is better to purchase a router with such an opportunity, even situational, than to be content with its complete absence.

What Xiaomi Mi Router 3 is capable of

Of course, with port capacities in the region of 1 Gb/s, the value of this router has increased noticeably, but at the same time it is possible that the cost would also be revised. Based on the current parameters, the functionality of the processor used ensures stable operation with virtually no incidents. By adding the optimal firmware version here, overall performance will only benefit.

During a series of tests, it was found that in IPoE and PPPoE modes the router is capable of providing a router speed of 90 MB per second. This is true for one-way speed transfer. Speaking of full-duplex modes, you can get even more impressive results. The hardware accelerator installed in the chip played an important role in this.

But if you switch to using L2TP and PPTP, you will have to be content with modest speed capabilities. The good news is that it was not possible to achieve such wide distribution for these modes, so they were deprived of even basic optimization. Thus, for full operation it is enough to use IPoE and PPPoE.

When connected via VPN, you can equally use downloading data from the Internet and the local network provided by the provider. At the same time, the speed not only does not decrease, but also in some moments demonstrates its growth. Given the presence of USB ports, you can connect a printer without any problems.

While testing the capabilities of the radio units, we were able to discover several interesting details. Firstly, at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, the speed varies at around 60-65 MB per second, which is valid under single-thread conditions. By increasing the number of threads to 8, the speed limits will expand to 70 MB per second, and sometimes this mark can reach 90. Secondly, at a frequency of 5 GHz it will be possible to get no more than 90 MB/s when one stream is loaded. For simultaneous operation of eight threads, the total speed will reach 160 Mb/s. All this suggests that a radio unit with an increased frequency reduces speed due to the presence of restrictions.

Setting up the Xiaomi Mi WiFi 3 router

Let's return to one remarkable detail related to language. Taking into account the ability to connect the Xiaomi Mi router online and configure it, you can quite easily and quickly translate Chinese inscriptions using various services, such as Google Translate. If you don't know how to connect your router to the Internet, you'll have to work hard to familiarize yourself with the router's interface and follow the next steps in the correct order. Another advantage of using an Internet connection is that you can update the firmware to the latest version.

So, setting up Xiaomi Mi WiFi is as follows. First of all, we need the site miwifi.com, which will act as the online interface of the router. After entering all the necessary data, including passwords for Wi-Fi and the admin panel, the router will begin automatic configuration. Once this installation is complete, a message will appear on the screen indicating that the router will reboot.

The next step is to connect again using the previously set passwords. Once you enter the control panel, you will see several tabs: routing status, memory status, general settings and additional settings. First of all, you need to go to the third tab, filling out all existing fields. These steps will help you automatically connect your Xiaomi WiFi router to the network in the future.

As you explore the other tabs, you'll be able to add and edit whitelists and blacklists, set ranges for valid IP addresses, update firmware and backups, and activate or deactivate VPN services. Separately, you should look at the “Advanced Settings” tab, where you can find QoS - smart speed.

It is highly not recommended to make any changes here if this is your first time seeing the router settings. Otherwise, the connected options will lead to a sharp decrease in speed limits.

Features of alternative firmware

Despite the fact that it is advisable to use the standard version of the firmware, which is in the stable branch, it is possible to switch to another one. This is a special version for developers, thanks to which they will be able to use the console for the embedded OS. The main advantages are stability, high performance, maximum speed characteristics and wide functionality for subsequent changes.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to find a ready-made version of such firmware. Therefore, you will have to use open source sources to recreate the firmware prototype and use the customized device for your needs. Who said that setting up a router would be easy? It turns out that this will take a considerable amount of time and effort. But the end result of such work will certainly bear fruit!

In the future, you will be able to be content with the following: get a choice of one of the proposed interfaces - Russian and English, support for PPTP/L2TP, greater opportunities for setting up and working with many USB devices, as well as editing user scripts to create key events.

A specialist who configured the router using non-standard firmware notes that independently changing certain settings may not only not lead to the desired results, but also to situations in which the operation of the router will be completely stopped. And in such cases, it is no longer possible to do without the efforts of qualified specialists who will have to recover data from flash memory. In addition, rash actions when setting up the device yourself can deprive you of managing services remotely and working with special options for mobile gadgets. The latter factors play rather a formal role, but they will still negatively affect the comfortable work with the router.

Collaboration with Mi WiFi+

Surely, many are familiar with the Mi WiFi+ device, which repeats the actions of the main router. If some call it a repeater, others call it a Wi-Fi signal amplifier, which will not be entirely appropriate, based on its features. To expand the coverage area, the Mi WiFi 3 router should be used together with Mi WiFi+. The latest gadget is interesting because it costs only 7-8 dollars, and its compact size will not cause any difficulties with subsequent operation.

Once the two devices start working simultaneously, the signal that was previously intermittent or non-existent will now be stable. In what cases is this important? In city apartments, when you have to deal with a huge number of other networks. By expanding your wireless network range, you get a nice bonus when using mobile devices. It is not recommended to use such a duet on an ongoing basis, because it can negatively affect overall speed performance.

Thus, Mi WiFi 3 is a worthy representative of mid-class routers. Excellent technical data, a reasonable price, reliability and practicality in use, as well as decent speed parameters with additional capabilities from Mi WiFi+ - all this suggests that the Xiaomi company knows how to make not only smartphones and tablets.