Smartphones Xiaomi Redmi 7 based on MIUI It allows you to install apps not only from the official Google Play store, but also from third-party sources, so-called "unknown." APK-files or applications that are not available in your area, but it also opens the door to viruses, spyware, and other security threats. If you want to protect your device or just return the settings to factory settings, turning this option off becomes a must.
In this article, we will discuss how to properly disable installations from unknown sources on Redmi 7, what nuances to consider when working with different versions of MIUI, and what to do if standard methods do not work, and how this setting affects the operation of popular applications and why it is better to keep it off in everyday use.
Why you should disable the installation from unknown sources
The external APK installation function was originally intended for developers and power users, but in the hands of fraudsters, it becomes a malware distribution tool.
- 🦠 Viruses and Trojans: Downloaded from unreliable sites APK-files may contain hidden scripts to steal data, display ads, or even lock your device.
- 🕵️ Spyware: Some apps collect information about your contacts, location, and even banking data without your knowledge.
- 📱 System instability: Applications from unverified sources often conflict with MIUI, causing freezes or sudden reboots.
- 🚫 Mi Account blocking: Xiaomi may block your account if it detects suspicious activity related to installing uncertified apps.
Even if you are confident of the source of the APK, there is always the risk of a file being swapped on the server or modified during download. For example, popular modified versions of applications (so-called "mods") often contain built-in advertising SDKs that are difficult to remove.
⚠️ Note: Disabling the installation from unknown sources will not remove already installed applications from third-party sources. → Annexes → Application management.
Where is the setting on Xiaomi Redmi 7
Depending on the MIUI version, the path to setup may vary slightly, but the general logic remains the same. On Redmi 7 with MIUI 10-14 firmware, the option is hidden in the security menu.
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
- Scroll down and select Additional (in some versions System and Device).
- Go to For Developers (if there is no item, activate Developer Mode).
- Find the Installation section via USB or Unknown sources.
- Turn off the slider next to the Allow installation from unknown sources.
On the newer versions of MIUI 12+, the path is simplified:
Settings → Applications → Application Management → Settings (⚙️) → Install applications from unknown sourcesHere you will see a list of applications (e.g. Browser, File Manager) that are allowed to install APK. To block the function completely, disable the resolution for all items in the list.
Step-by-step instruction for disconnection
Follow this algorithm to ensure you disable installations from unknown sources on Redmi 7. The instructions are universal for most versions of MIUI, but with the specific features of the particular firmware in mind.
Check the version of MIUI in Settings → About the phone
Close all background applications, especially file managers
Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network (in case of security updates)
Make a backup copy of important data-->
Method 1: Through the main settings
- Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Click on the gear icon (Settings) in the upper right corner.
- Select Install Applications from Unknown Sources.
- In the list of applications (e.g. Chrome, Mi Browser, Files) disable sliders for all items.
- Confirm the action by pressing OK in the dialog box.
Method 2: Developer Mode (for older versions of MIUI)
If your firmware doesn’t have a direct path to setup, use this method:
- Activate the developer mode if it is not already enabled.
- Go to Settings → Additional → For developers.
- Find the option of Installation via USB or Debugging via USB and turn it off.
- Go back and check for Unknown Sources – turn it off.
⚠️ Note: Some custom firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience) may have different paths to customization. → Security.
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If the option is activated again after turning it off, check your device for malware using Google Play Protect or an antivirus (such as Dr.Web or Kaspersky).
What to do if the setting is not saved
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the installation slider from unknown sources returns to the on position after restarting or after a while.
- 🤖 Malware that forcibly includes the option to install additional modules.
- 🔄 System failure, especially after a failed update MIUI.
- 📱 Conflict of rights between system applications (e.g. Mi Browser and Security).
Here's how to solve the problem:
1. Virus testing
Use the built-in Xiaomi Security scanner or third-party antivirus:
- Open Security. → Scanning.
- Run a deep system check.
- Remove any threats you find and restart the device.
2. Resetting security settings
If no viruses are found, reset the security settings to factory:
- Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Find the Security app and open its settings.
- Select Warehouse. → Clear the data.
- Confirm the action and restart the phone.
3. MIUI Update
Failures in system functions are often fixed in new firmware versions:
- Check the available updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
- If an update is available, install it and check to save settings after the reboot.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The setting is reset after rebooting | Conflict of system applications | Clear Security Data and Mi Browser |
| Slider inactive (gray) | Corporate policy restrictions (if the phone is operated by MDM) | Delete the device profile in Settings → Accounts |
| The option is not on the menu | Outdated or modified firmware | Update MIUI or flash the official version |
| After the shutdown, an error notification appears | Damage to system files | Perform reset to factory settings |
How to disable installation for specific applications
In MIUI 12+, Xiaomi has implemented a flexible permission system that allows you to manage the installation of APKs for each application separately, which is useful if you want to leave the installation only for trusted programs (for example, APKMirror or F-Droid).
Here's how it works:
- Go to Settings. → Annexes → Application management → Settings (⚙️) → Install applications from unknown sources.
- You will see a list of applications that are allowed to install APK. For example: Browser (Mi Browser) File Manager Chrome Telegram
Turn off sliders for apps you don’t trust to install APKs.
F-Droid
Important: Even if you leave permission for one application, the system will still alert you to potential risks every time you try to install an APK.
Why are some apps not on the list?
Impact on the work of popular applications
Disabling the installation from unknown sources may affect the functionality of some programs, especially those distributed outside of Google Play.
| Annex | Problem with shutdown | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Fortnite (and other games from Epic Games) | Cannot be installed or updated through an official installer | Temporarily enable permission for the browser, install the game, then disable |
| APKMirror Installer | Cannot install downloaded APKs | Add to exceptions (see section above) |
| Telegram (bots for unpacking APK) | APK files are not opened from chat rooms | Use Google Drive to transfer files |
| Mod versions of apps (Spotify++, YouTube Vanced) | It is not possible to update modified versions | Search for alternatives on Google Play or use Magisk for system installation |
If you are actively using applications that require APK installation, consider temporarily enabling permission only for the installation period.
⚠️ Note: Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online or Tinkoff) may block access to an account if they detect applications installed from unknown sources with access rights to access the account. SMS It's part of their security policy.
Alternative means of protection
Disabling the installation from unknown sources is only one of the steps to ensure the safety of Redmi 7.
- 🔒 Enable Google Play Protect: Open the Google Play Store. Click on the profile icon → Play Protect. Activate the options to Scan the device for threats and improve malware detection.
Install a reliable antivirus
We recommend Bitdefender or Kaspersky Mobile – they have minimal impact on performance and reliably block phishing sites.
Update MIUI regularly
Updates often contain patches for vulnerabilities. Check them in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
Use a secure browser
Replace the standard Mi Browser with Firefox Focus or Brave with tracker lock enabled.
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Even with the installation disabled from unknown sources, there is a risk of infection through vulnerabilities in the browser or messengers, so a comprehensive approach to security is imperative.