The Complete Guide to Using the Virgin Mobile MiFi

If you decide to take advantage of Virgin Mobile's MiFi device, there are a few things you should know in order to make the most of your device. With the proper care and usage, you'll be able to have a more reliable connection and your device will last much longer.

What is the MiFi?

The MiFi allows you to connect five devices to the Internet at one time. The device works similar to a wireless router, but uses Sprint's 3G network to provide access. The MiFi was introduced along with a $40/month unlimited mobile broadband Internet option. The device costs approximately $149 and can be purchased through Virgin Mobile or at retailers such as Radio Shack and Walmart.

Getting Started

Charge your device fully before you use it the first time. This can take several hours. Insert the battery and connect the AC adapter to the MiFi. Once the device is fully charged, press and hold the power button until the light turns green. Open your wireless connection manager. For instance, in Windows, go to "Start," select "Control Panel" and choose "Network and Sharing Center." Press "Connect to Network."

Select the "Virgin Mobile MiFi2200" connection. Press "Connect" and enter the 11 digit password provided with your MiFi. This is located on the bottom of your MiFi.

Open a Internet browser window and type "http://virginmobile.mifi." Follow the prompts to setup your MiFi. The default administrator password is "admin." When prompted, setup your account, including billing information. If you already have an account, skip ahead. You'll receive an Account Number and MSID. Enter this information when prompted. You'll also be required to change your password. You can access information about your connected devices, billing cycle, connection speed and troubleshooting issues from this site.

Staying Secure

When you setup your network, you can choose to use WEP, WPA Personal, WPA2 Personal or WPA/WPA2 Mixed Mode security. On the WiFi profile page in the above website, choose "Secure" as the profile. Only users with the correct password will be able to connect. You can do this for any profiles you create, including home and travel.

Troubleshooting

Occasionally, you may find your connection is slow or faulty. If this occurs, move the MiFi away from other electronics and the devices connected to it. If the MiFi is too close to an in use device, you may not be able to connect. Move the MiFi close to a window for optimal signal strength.

Another method to troubleshoot your device is to restart it. Press and hold the power button until the device powers off. Wait approximately thirty seconds and turn the device back on. Refresh your available networks on your device and reconnect to the network.

If the battery life isn't what it used to be, leave the device plugged in until you order a new battery. If your device is new, please be aware that the more devices that are connected, the faster the power will drain.

LED Guide

There are two LED lights on your MiFi device. The button LED gives you the power status, while the LED on the side gives you information about your connection. Whenever either light is off, the device is off.

Power LED Guide

Solid Green - Fully charged and powered on.

Red - Battery is extremely low.

Yellow and Solid - Charging.

Yellow and Blinking - There is an error with your device.

Service LED Guide

Solid Green - Powered on, connected to a network, but no data is being transmitted.

Slow Blink - Powered on, but no service.

Intermittent Blink - Transmitting data. Blink rate varies based on amount of data being transmitted.

Care

Never subject your MiFi to excessive heat. Never try to use a different type of battery for your MiFi. Only approved batteries will function correctly. Using the wrong one will cause damage to your device.

Keep your device free of dust and only use a dry, anti-static cloth to clean it. When not in use, store the MiFi in the included pouch to keep it clean. If you travel with the MiFi, store it in a hardshell case to prevent damage.

The best advice is to store your MiFi when it's not in use. When in use, find a universal safe spot to leave the MiFi. All devices can connect without having to move the device. Choose a place where the MiFi will not get kicked, dropped or scratched.