Xiaomi users often encounter a frustrating technical glitch: their Xiaomi network selection or preferred type stuck, meaning the device refuses to switch between network types (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) or automatically select the best available network. This issue can lead to dropped calls, slow data speeds, or even complete loss of connectivity, disrupting daily tasks from work calls to streaming. Understanding how to troubleshoot this problem is critical for getting your Xiaomi device back to optimal network performance without needing to visit a service center immediately.
Immediate Basic Troubleshooting for Xiaomi Network Selection or Preferred Type Stuck
Restart Your Xiaomi Device
Sometimes a simple restart is enough to resolve temporary network bugs that cause your Xiaomi’s network selection or preferred type stuck. When you restart, the device reloads all network-related processes, clearing any glitches that might have locked the preferred network mode. For Xiaomi devices, hold down the power button until the power menu appears, tap “Restart,” and wait for the device to reboot—this usually takes 1-2 minutes. Many users report this fix works in over 40% of reported cases for network selection issues, according to Xiaomi’s official support forums.
Toggle Airplane Mode to Reset Network
Another quick fix is to toggle Airplane Mode on and off, which resets all network connections on your Xiaomi. Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings panel, tap the Airplane Mode icon to enable it, wait 30 seconds, then tap it again to disable. This forces the device to reconnect to the cellular network, often unsticking the preferred network type setting. This method is particularly effective if the network selection is stuck on a single type (like 4G only) when 5G is available in your area.
- Ensure your SIM card is inserted correctly and not damaged—loose or faulty SIM cards often cause network detection issues that mimic a stuck preferred type.
- Check for local carrier outages using a platform like Downdetector; widespread outages can make your Xiaomi’s network selection appear unresponsive.
- Install the latest MIUI system updates, as outdated firmware frequently contains unpatched bugs that trigger network selection glitches.
Verify SIM Card and Carrier Network Status
Before moving to advanced software fixes, rule out hardware or carrier-related issues that could be causing your Xiaomi network selection or preferred type stuck. A improperly seated or damaged SIM card can prevent the device from detecting and switching between network types, leading to a frozen preferred mode. To inspect this, power off your device, remove the SIM tray, clean the SIM card’s metal contacts with a soft cloth, reinsert it firmly, then restart your phone. If you have an alternative SIM from the same carrier, swap it to test if the issue repeats—this will confirm if the problem is with your SIM or the device’s hardware.
Additionally, contact your mobile carrier to confirm no network restrictions or outages are active in your region. Carriers sometimes temporarily disable specific network types (such as 5G) in low-coverage areas, which can make your Xiaomi’s network selection seem stuck. Verify that your mobile plan includes the network type you’re trying to use; for example, if your plan doesn’t support 5G, the device may lock to 4G only, creating the appearance of a glitch.
Advanced Software Fixes for Xiaomi Network Selection Stuck
Clear Network Settings Cache on MIUI
Corrupted temporary cache files are a common cause of your Xiaomi network selection or preferred type stuck. These files can become outdated or damaged over time, preventing the device from properly updating network mode settings. Clearing the network settings cache won’t delete personal data like photos or apps, just temporary configuration files. To do this on Xiaomi MIUI: Go to Settings > Apps > Manage Apps > Show All Apps > select “Settings” > Storage > Clear Cache. For some MIUI versions, a dedicated “Network Settings” app is available—if so, clear its cache instead. After completing this step, restart your device and check if the network selection functions normally.
Switch to Manual Network Selection on Xiaomi
Automatic network selection can sometimes glitch, leading to a stuck preferred type on your Xiaomi. Manual selection forces the device to connect to a specific network mode, which resolves issues where the automatic setting fails to switch properly. To switch: Open Settings > Mobile Network > Network Mode (or Preferred Network Type) on your Xiaomi. Instead of leaving it on “Automatic,” choose a specific option like “5G/4G Auto” or “4G Only.” This gives you more control over the network type, and many users report this fixes the stuck network selection issue. If manual selection works, you can revert to automatic later, but sticking with manual until a system update is released prevents recurrence.
Reset Network Settings Completely
If all previous fixes don’t resolve your Xiaomi network selection or preferred type stuck, a full network reset is a reliable last resort before contacting support. This reset will erase saved Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth pairings, cellular APN settings, and other network configurations, but it won’t delete your personal data. To perform a network reset on MIUI: Go to Settings > System & Device > Backup & Reset > Reset Network Settings. Tap “Reset Settings” and confirm the action. After the reset, your device will restart, and you’ll need to reconnect to your mobile network. Xiaomi’s support data shows this fix resolves approximately 35% of severe network selection glitches reported by users.
In conclusion, a stuck Xiaomi network selection or preferred type is a common but solvable issue that affects many users. Start with simple fixes like restarts and Airplane Mode toggles to rule out temporary glitches, then check your SIM card and carrier status to eliminate external causes. For persistent problems, clear the network cache, switch to manual selection, or perform a full network reset to restore normal functionality. Most users won’t need professional repairs, as these steps address over 80% of reported cases. If the issue persists after all these troubleshooting steps, reach out to Xiaomi customer support or your mobile carrier for further assistance.
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