Xiaomi Redmi Note 5A, released in 2017, is still popular due to its availability and maintainability. However, time is inexorable: older versions of the operating system no longer support current applications, and accumulated software debris slows down the gadget, in which case the only right solution is a complete reinstallation of the software, which allows you to return the device to its previous speed or even expand its functionality.
The flashing process may seem complicated for the untrained user, but following the instructions strictly is minimal. There are several ways to upgrade, from standard recovery through the settings menu to deep flashing through Fastboot mode using a computer. The specific method chosen depends on the current state of your smartphone and the goals you are pursuing.
In this article, we will discuss all the preparation steps, necessary tools and step-by-step algorithms for you to learn how to safely unlock the bootloader, install the custom TWRP recaps and install a clean system. It is important to understand that any manipulation of the system partition requires care, so we strongly advise you to read the article to the end before you start practical actions.
Preparation of the device and collection of necessary tools
Before you start any manipulation of the software part of the Xiaomi Note 5a, you need to conduct thorough preparation. Ignoring this stage often leads to communication errors with the computer or data loss. First of all, make sure that the battery charge is at least 60%, as a sudden power outage while writing memory sectors can turn the phone into a “brick”.
You will need quality. USB-cable, preferably original or certified, as cheap analogues often do not provide stable data transfer, limited to charging. ADB Fastboot and a specialized utility Mi Flash Tool for working with official images.
⚠️ Warning: All data on the internal drive will be destroyed during a clean installation. Backup contacts, photos and documents in the cloud or on an external medium in advance.
To work with firmware files, you will need an archiver that supports the.zip or.tgz format to unpack the content if necessary. download the software only from trusted sources, such as the official Xiaomi Community forum or the authoritative XDA Developers resource, to avoid the introduction of malicious code.
☑️ Checklist before firmware
Unlocking the Bootloader bootloader
The key step to install custom recavators and unofficial builds is unlocking the bootloader. Xiaomi devices default to protection that prevents modification of the system partition. First, you need to link your Mi Account account to the device in the settings menu and apply for unlocking through a special utility Mi Unlock on your PC.
After filing an application, you often have to wait from 7 to 30 days, since the company has implemented a time limit to improve user security, and after the wait period, you need to re-enter Fastboot mode, clamping the power and volume buttons at the same time, and connect the smartphone to your computer.
- 🔓 Launch the Mi Unlock utility and log in to the same account as on your phone.
- ⏳ Wait for the waiting timer to end if it is active.
- 🔄 Translate your phone to Fastboot mode and press the Unlock button in the program.
- ✅ Confirm the action on the smartphone screen if the appropriate warning appears.
The unlocking process will completely clear the device’s internal memory, so re-creating the backup after filing, but before the unlocking process itself, is a smart move. Once successfully completed, you’ll see the corresponding message and the open padlock icon will appear on the boot screen.
What if Mi Unlock says "Couldn't verify device"?
Installation of custom TWRP Recovery
The regular recovery menu is limited in functionality and does not allow you to install third-party builds or make full system backups. TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is the most popular custom recovery that provides advanced access to the file system. For Xiaomi Note 5a (codename uglite or ugg), you need to download a specific image, as versions for other models will not fit.
Installation is done via the command line in Fastboot mode. Connect the device to the PC, open the console in the tool folder and enter a command to firmware the image:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.x.x-x-ugg.imgAn important nuance: after firmware, you can not immediately boot into the system in the usual way, otherwise the rod recaveri will overwrite TWRP. You must immediately pinch the combination of buttons to enter recovery mode. This is usually Volume up + Power.
⚠️ Note: At the first loading in TWRP If you haven't changed the standard encryption settings, try entering the screen unlock pin or pattern lock.
In the TWRP menu, it is recommended that you format the Data partition with the Format Data command and type in the word yes to remove encryption and avoid file writing problems. This action will irreversibly delete all data, but ensure that the new system works correctly.
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Once you have installed the TWRP, make a full backup of the current system to the memory card, which will allow you to roll back in case the new firmware is unstable.
Selecting and downloading the right firmware
The choice of operating system is a critical moment that determines the stability of the Xiaomi Note 5a. Official firmware is divided into global (Global), Chinese (China) and European (EEA). For most users, the best choice will be the global version, since it contains the necessary language packages and Google services.
In addition to the official builds, there are custom firmware based on LineageOS, Pixel Experience or ArrowOS. They often allow you to install a more recent version of Android, which the manufacturer no longer provides officially.
| Type of firmware | Stability | Android version | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official MIUI Stable | Tall. | Official (up to 7.1/8.1) | Ordinary users |
| MIUI Weekly | Medium | New Stable | Testers |
| LineageOS | Depends on the build. | Up to Android 10/11 | enthusiastic |
| Pixel Experience | Tall. | Pure Android | Amateurs.-stock |
When downloading a firmware file, pay attention to the extension. TWRP usually requires a.zip archive, whereas Fastboot firmware on your computer requires a.tgz archive containing scripts and partition images. Never use firmware designed for other models, even if they are called similar.
The process of installing firmware through TWRP
Once the system image is uploaded to the device or memory card, you can start installing it directly. Load to the TWRP menu and go to the Wipe section. To install it clean, you need to format the Dalvik/ART Cache, System, Cache and Data partitions. You don't need to touch the Internal Storage section if the firmware file is on it.
Next, select Install, find the downloaded firmware archive, and confirm the swipe installation. The process can take anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes depending on the speed of the memory card and the amount of data. During installation, the transaction log will be displayed on the screen, which is useful to read if errors occur.
- 🗑️ Do partition cleaning (Wipe) to remove the old system.
- 📥 Select the firmware file in the Install menu.
- ⚙️ Wait for the process to end and the message "Successful".
- 🧹 Clean it up. Dalvik/ART Cache after installation.
- 🔄 Press the Reboot System button.
The first run after firmware usually lasts longer than usual, sometimes up to 10-15 minutes. This is normal, as the system optimizes applications and creates a cache. If the download is stuck on the logo for more than 20 minutes, it may be that the firmware file is corrupted or incompatible with your version of the bootloader.
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Clean Install with Data partition formatting is mandatory when switching between different versions of Android or when changing the firmware type (for example, from China to Global).
Fastboot Firmware with Mi Flash Tool
If the phone is not booting or you want to return the device to its original state, use the PC firmware method. This method requires uncivilizing the downloaded firmware (the folder must contain images and scripts) and running the Mi Flash Tool utility.
Connect your phone in Fastboot mode, press the Refresh button in the program, the device must be determined. Choose the path to the firmware folder and mode of operation. For complete cleaning, choose the Clean all option, which will delete all data and divide the memory again.
flash_all.batIn some cases, especially when switching from Chinese to global, it may take a command to unlock critical partitions, but the standard Clean all mode in the Mi Flash Tool usually handles automatically.
⚠️ Note: Do not interrupt the process of firmware through USB And don't turn off the cable until the progress bar is 100 percent and the message of success is there, and it can damage the boot sectors.
Once completed, the phone will automatically restart. If this does not happen, press the power button for 10-15 seconds. Make sure the device has the current version of the base radio module installed to avoid network signal problems.
Possible mistakes and ways to solve them
Even with strict adherence to the instructions, there can be unexpected situations, and one of the common problems is Bootloop, which is a cyclical reboot of the device, which often happens if the Data partition has not been cleaned or broken firmware is installed, solved by re-entering TWRP and full formatting.
Another common error is a lack of network connectivity or a broken IMEI, which indicates damage to the EFS or Persist partition, and if you didn't have a backup of those parts before flashing, it's very difficult to restore them software, sometimes with soldering and a programmer.
- 🔌 The problem with drivers: reinstall ADB/Fastboot drivers through the Device Manager.
- 🔋 Mi Flash: 10% or 25% Error: Try Another USB-port.
- 🚫 Blocked bootloader: Check status in Fastboot, you may need to wait for the timer to be taken.
If the phone has stopped responding to buttons and does not turn on (Hard Brick), EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode can help. Entry into it on the Xiaomi Note 5a is often only possible by disassembling the case and closing contacts on the board or through special authorized Mi Account accounts, which requires contacting the service center.