How to flash Xiaomi Redmi 4 through a computer: a step-by-step algorithm of actions

The modern mobile technology market dictates its own rules, and even time-tested devices require software updates. Xiaomi Redmi 4, despite its age, remains popular due to its robust metal body and autonomy, but its software shell may need reinstallation to fix critical bugs. The firmware procedure through a personal computer is the most reliable method of restoring the system's operability when standard operating systems are used. OTA-updates do not help or the device hangs on the logo.

Using a PC gives the user complete control over the process, allowing you not only to update the Android version, but also to change the region, switch from the global version to the Chinese version or vice versa. It is important to understand that any manipulation of system files carries certain risks that require careful attention to detail. In this guide, we will discuss all the stages of preparation, selection of utilities and direct installation of the operating system so that you can safely reanimate your gadget.

Preparation of the workplace and the necessary software

Before starting any technical work, you need to make sure that there is proper hardware and software. You will need a personal computer or laptop running the Windows operating system, since the main tools of the Mi Flash Tool are sharpened for this platform. It is also critical to use quality USB-cable, preferably original, to avoid connection breaks at the most critical time of data transmission.

The system needs to be equipped with up-to-date drivers to correctly recognize the mobile device, and in particular, you’ll need ADB Drivers and Fastboot Drivers, which are often installed automatically along with the firmware utility, but in some cases, they have to be installed manually through the Device Manager. Without these components, the computer simply won’t see the phone in the right mode.

Make sure to back up all important data, as the Fastboot process involves completely removing user information from your computer. Internal memory will be formatted, and it will be impossible to restore contacts or photos without a backup. Save important files to the cloud service or copy them to a memory card if it is not affected by the cleanup process.

Selecting the type of firmware and downloading the archive

One of the most important steps is choosing the right firmware file. For Xiaomi Redmi 4 (codenamed prada for the regular version or markw for Prime), there are different types of software. You need Fastboot ROM, which has the.tgz extension, not Recovery ROM with the.zip extension. An error at this stage will cause the firmware to simply refuse to open the file.

You should only download system images from trusted sources, such as the official miui.com website or authorized mirrors. Using modified builds from unknown developers can lead to unstable operation of communication modules or cameras. Official firmware is divided into Global (Global), China (Chinese) and Russia (Russian), and the choice depends on your preferences regarding the interface language and set of preinstalled services.

After downloading the archive, it must be unpacked. Please note that the path to the folder with unpacked files should not contain Cyrillic characters or spaces, otherwise the firmware utility may give an error when searching for a script. It is recommended to place the firmware folder at the root of the disk, for example, along the way. C:\mi_rom\.

Instructions for installing drivers and operating modes

To communicate successfully between your PC and your smartphone, you need to put your device in a special mode. Turn off your phone completely, then press the volume down and power button at the same time. Hold them until you see a picture of a rabbit repairing an android on the screen that says Fastboot. This is a signal that the phone is ready to receive low-level commands.

Connect the device to the computer through USB-Port. Windows Device Manager in the "Controllers" section USB" or "Ports (COM and LPT)" A new device, often referred to as the Android Bootloader Interface, should appear. If you see a "Unknown Device" or exclamation point device instead, you must manually update the driver by pointing the path to the Qualcomm or Xiaomi driver folder.

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Use it. USB-ports located on the back of the system unit, as they are connected directly to the motherboard and provide a more stable voltage than the ports on the front panel or through the USB-hub.

Driver conflicts often arise if other Android devices have previously connected to the computer, and in such cases, removing old drivers completely through uninstaller or device manager before installing new versions helps, and connection stability is a key factor in the success of the entire operation.

The process of firmware through the Mi Flash Tool utility

Launch MiFlash on behalf of the administrator. In the program interface, click the "Select" button and specify the path to the folder where you previously unpacked the archive with the firmware. The program will automatically check the integrity of the files and, if all is correct, the list will appear model of your device.

At the bottom of the program window, there are three options. The most important choice is Clean all mode. It completely clears the phone's memory and installs a clean system. Other modes, such as "Save user data," may not work when you change the region or version of Android, so it's better to use a full cleanup to guarantee the result.

Once you select the mode, press the "Flash" button, and it will take 200 to 600 seconds to start a process, during which time it is strictly forbidden to turn off the cable or interrupt the power of the computer, the status bar will show progress in percentages, and after completion, the "Result" column will appear green success.

Typical errors and methods of their elimination

In the process, users often encounter error codes that can scare the inexperienced person, the most common error is Miss matching image and device. It means that you are trying to flash the firmware intended for another model, or you have chosen the wrong type of archive.

Another common problem is the Can Not Find error. flash_all.bat. This indicates that the folder path contains Russian letters or special characters. Rename the folder using only the Latin alphabet and try again. Also make sure that the antivirus software does not block the execution of the automatic firmware script.

⚠️ Note: If the firmware process is suspended at the stage 10-20% or 90% Sometimes the utility just doesn't update the status bar, but it's going to work. 10 Minutes may have been interrupted by a hardware connection.

If you have a Flash Error error with red text, try changing it. USB-port or cable, sometimes it helps to restart the service ADB The adb kill-server and adb start-server command can restart background processes that interfere with the connection.

First start and initial setup

Once the procedure is completed, the phone will automatically restart, the first run after the firmware can last longer than usual, up to 5-10 minutes, which is normal, as the system optimizes applications and creates new configuration files, the MI logo can appear on the screen, and then the setup will begin.

You will be greeted by a customizable wizard where you can select a language, connect to Wi-Fi and log in to your Mi Account. If you have changed your firmware region, be sure to check your date and time settings and geolocation, and in some cases you will need to manually allow Google services to work if they are not activated automatically.

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Successful firmware is not only the appearance of the desktop, but also the stable operation of all modules: calls, the Internet and the sensor for several hours of active use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)