How to Change the Screen Lock Password on Xiaomi: The Complete Guide

With smartphones storing a huge amount of sensitive information, from banking apps to personal correspondence, reliable device protection becomes the number one priority for each owner. Xiaomi brand devices running MIUI or HyperOS shells offer flexible tools to configure security, allowing users to choose the most convenient authorization method. However, the standard settings set at the first launch often seem not reliable enough or, conversely, too complex for daily use.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of changing the password of the screen lock, consider the differences between the pattern lock, PIN-You'll learn how to properly configure biometric unlocking in conjunction with the main access code, and what to do if you forget the current login data. Understanding these processes will not only help you secure your data, but also help you avoid a situation where your phone becomes unavailable due to elementary forgetfulness.

Types of Blocks and Their Features in MIUI

Before you start changing your security settings, you need to clearly understand what types of locks are available in the Android operating system based on MIUI. The choice of the specific method depends on what level of protection you need and how often you are willing to enter data to unlock the device during the day.

The most common option is a pattern lock, which is a connection of points on the grid. 3x3 This is a technique that's convenient for muscle memory, but it's less reliable because the fingerprints on the screen can give you a trajectory. PIN-code, usually consisting of 4 or 6 digits, which is more difficult to see from the side, especially if you use the option of hiding characters when entering.

• 🔒 pattern lock: easy to enter quickly, but leaves visible traces on the screen and has a limited number of combinations.
• 🔢 PIN-Code: optimal balance between input speed and reliability, it is recommended to use code longer than 4 characters.
• 🔣 Complex Password: A combination of letters, numbers and special characters provides maximum protection, but takes longer to enter.
• 👆 Biometrics: Fingerprint or facial recognition only works in conjunction with one of the above methods as a backup option.

Importantly, when choosing a complex password, the system may require a Mi Account to be linked to allow access to be restored in the event of data loss, an important security mechanism that prevents unauthorized device reset by attackers, but requires the user to be careful when remembering credentials.

Step-by-step instructions for changing the password

The process of changing the unlock method or password itself in the MIUI shell is unified and executed through the main system settings menu. First, you need to unlock the smartphone in the current way and go to the Settings section, which is usually indicated by the gear ikon on the desktop or in the notification curtain.

Next, the action algorithm requires care, because the names of the items may vary slightly depending on the firmware version. You need to find the partition responsible for the security of the device and select the option to change the type of lock screen.

Once the current owner is verified successfully, you will be given a menu to select a new security method, and if you decide to switch from a pattern lock to a digital code or vice versa, the system will warn you that the old data will be deleted, and in some firmware versions, the path to these settings is as follows:

Settings → Passwords and Security → Privacy → Screen lock

The new password will come into force immediately after confirmation, and it will be necessary to use it for the next login or authorization in secure applications.

Set up biometric unlocking

Using biometrics greatly speeds up access to the device, but it cannot exist independently of the main password. In Xiaomi smartphones, fingerprint and facial recognition are only an alternative way of login, so having a reliable digital or graphic code remains a mandatory security requirement.

To set up the fingerprint scanner, go to the Passwords and Security menu and select the appropriate item. The system will suggest adding a new fingerprint, which requires you to apply your finger several times to the sensor, changing the angle of inclination, which will create a more accurate digital cast and increase the likelihood of successful unlocking the first time.

⚠️ Attention: It is not recommended to use facial recognition as the only method of protection, as it can be fooled with a photo. PIN-code.

HyperOS shell and the latest versions of MIUI allow you to adjust additional biometrics, such as unlocking when the screen is off or vibration when a successful scan is done, which make using your smartphone more comfortable, but can consume additional battery power, which is worth considering when setting up.

💡

Add fingerprints of both thumbs – this will allow you to conveniently unlock the phone, holding it in either hand, which is especially true for models with a side scanner.

Managing application passwords and second space

Xiaomi’s ecosystem offers unique privacy features such as hiding apps and creating a second space.To access these features, a separate password or special pattern lock is often used, which may differ from the main unlocking call of the screen.

The App Lock password can be changed in the same security settings menu, which is especially useful if you want to restrict access to the gallery, messages or banking applications to other people temporarily using your phone.

The second space creates a completely isolated environment on your device with its apps, photos and contacts. Switching between the main and second space is often done using a unique fingerprint or special password. Forgetting the password from the second space means losing access to all the data stored inside it, since it is impossible to reset it without losing data.

What to do if the lock password is forgotten

A situation where the user forgets the password, PIN-The code, or the pattern lock, is one of the most stressful. MIUI The ability to bypass the lock without losing data is extremely limited for security reasons. If you entered the wrong password several times, the system will suggest waiting a certain time or using an alternative login method.

If the device has the Internet enabled and the Mi Account enabled with Find the Device, there is a theoretical possibility of unlocking through the service's web interface. However, in practice, this method is unstable and depends on the firmware version and settings of a particular phone.

To perform the reset, you need to turn off your smartphone and press the combination of power buttons and increase the volume to enter Recovery mode. In this menu, the volume button selects the Wipe Data item, then confirms the action of the power button. Once the process is completed, the phone will return to the state "out of the box", but all your files, contacts and applications will be deleted.

⚠️ Warning: After resetting, the system will require you to enter a password from a Google account or Mi Account that was synced to the device before locking (FRP), And to get around it without the original credentials is extremely difficult.

Password problems and their solution

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the phone claims that the password is entered incorrectly, even though you enter the correct combination. This can be caused by a software failure, a sticking sensor or a problem with the keyboard layout. In such cases, you should not panic and try to enter the code indefinitely, since after 10-15 attempts, the device can lock for an hour or more.

First, try rebooting your smartphone. If the screen is touch-sensitive and doesn't respond to pressures in certain areas, try using the volume button (if the interface allows) or plug in an external one. USB-keyboard OTG-This will help you understand whether the problem is software or a touchscreen malfunction.

If the problem is persistent, check whether the Pocket Mode feature is on or the protective film does not overlap the input area, and make sure that the date and time settings are set to the correct time zone, as time dissynchronization can affect the operation of some security protocols and certificates.

💡

If the touch screen is partially not working, connect a normal computer mouse or keyboard through OTG-cable is the fastest way to enter a password and save data before screen repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)