How to set a password for the application in Xiaomi Redmi 9: a step-by-step guide with a photo

Why put a password on apps in Redmi 9?

Xiaomi Redmi 9 stores a lot of sensitive information: correspondence in messengers, data from banking applications, personal photos and videos. Even if you trust others, accidental access to the phone can lead to data leakage or unwanted actions, for example, a child can delete important files, and a colleague can see private messages.

Passwording apps solves this problem. MIUI (the Xiaomi shell) has built-in tools to block programs, but not all users know how to use them. In this article, we will discuss 3 working ways: through standard settings, the MIUI Lock function and third-party applications, and compare their pros and cons so you can choose the best option.

Important: the methods work on Redmi 9 with MIUI 12-14. The interface may be slightly different on newer firmware, but the logic remains the same. If you have a different model (for example, Redmi Note 9 or POCO M3), the instructions will also work — the difference is only in the names of the menu items.

Method 1: Blocking through “Security Settings”

The easiest method is to use the built-in application lock feature in MIUI, which does not require the installation of additional programs and securely protects selected applications with a password, fingerprint or pattern lock.

To activate the lock:

1. Open the settings on your Redmi 9.
2. Go to Passwords and Security (or Security depending on the MIUI version).
3. Select the option Blocking applications.
4. If the function is used for the first time, the system will prompt you to create a master password (PIN, pattern lock or fingerprint).
5. After setting up, select the apps you want to block by switching the sliders next to their names.

Now, when you try to open a blocked application, you will see a password request, which is suitable for most users, since it does not require root rights and does not load the system.

⚠️ Note: If you forget your primary password MIUI, You can only reset it through hard reset, which will delete all the data from your phone, write down your password in a secure place.

Method 2: Use MIUI Lock (for advanced users)

MIUI Lock is an advanced locking tool that allows you not only to password apps, but also to hide them from the menu, as well as block access to individual settings sections. However, it requires permission to change system parameters (not to be confused with root rights!).

Instructions for setting:

1. Start settings → Special features → MIUI Lock.
2. Activate the function by following the system prompts (you will need to enter a password from your Mi Account).
3. In the Application Lock section, select programs for protection.
4. Set up additional parameters: 🔒 Hiding apps – removes icons from menus (available only through search). 🕒 Lock timer – automatically blocks applications after closing. 👤 Exceptions – Allows access for certain contacts (e.g. family members).

MIUI Lock is more flexible than standard locking, but requires caution, for example, if you hide an app and forget its name, it will be difficult to find it.

Method 3: Third-party applications (AppLock)

If the built-in MIUI features don't suit you, you can use third-party blocking software.

• 🔐 AppLock (from DoMobile Lab) – supports password, fingerprint, lock time.
• 🛡️ Norton App Lock is a reliable option with protection against hacking.
• 📱 Smart AppLock – a lightweight application with a minimalist interface.

Advantages of third-party solutions:

• 🌐 Works on all versions of Android (including older versions).
• 🎨 More lock options (e.g., geolocation or Wi-Fi network).
• 🔄 The ability to block incoming calls or SMS.

Disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Requires a constant background process (may affect autonomy).
• 💰 Free versions often have advertisements.
• 🛠️ They may conflict with system functions. MIUI.

To install AppLock:

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Run it and create a master password.
3. Select the applications to lock in the main menu.
4. Set up additional settings (such as Hidden Mode or Fake Failure to mask the lock).

💡

If you use a third-party AppLock, add it to the Exclusions list in your battery settings (Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization) to prevent the program from automatically shutting down.

⚠️ Note: Some antiviruses (e.g. Avast or Kaspersky) may conflict with third-party blockers. If applications start to slow down after installing AppLock, temporarily turn off antivirus protection.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of blocking method depends on your needs:

• 🔹 For most users, a standard lock will be suitable. MIUI — It is simple, reliable and does not require additional programs.
• 🔹 If you need advanced features (hiding applications, blocking by time), use MIUI Lock.
• 🔹 Third-party AppLock is relevant to legacy versions MIUI or if you need unique features (e.g. geolocation locking).

Important: On Redmi 9 with MIUI 13+, MIUI Lock can be hidden in regional firmware for Europe, in which case use standard lock or third-party applications.

💡

If you need maximum protection without unnecessary settings, use the standard MIUI lock. For advanced functions (hiding, timer), MIUI Lock or paid versions of AppLock will suit.

Frequent problems and their solutions

When blocking applications on Redmi 9, there may be errors.

1.The lock does not work after the MIUI update

Sometimes, after a firmware update, lock settings are reset to restore access:

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Blocking applications.
2. Remove and reset the password.
3. Check if the function is disabled in Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization.

2.Forgot the lock password

If you have forgotten the password from MIUI Lock or the standard lock, there are two options:

• 🔑 Restore through your Mi Account (if it was linked to you).
• 🔄 Reset your phone to factory settings (deletes all data!).

For discharge:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
3. From the Recovery menu, select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.

⚠️ Note: If the phone has been enabled with Factory Reset Protection, you will need to enter the Mi Account information you previously linked to after the reset!

3.Blocking does not work on some applications

Some system applications (such as Settings or Phone) may ignore locking.

• Try using MIUI Lock instead of the standard lock.
• Update the firmware to the latest version.
• For third-party AppLock, add the problematic app to the Blacklist.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions