Where in the settings Xiaomi to allow the installation of applications from unknown sources: full guide

Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a necessary feature for users who want to install APK-files outside of Google Play or Mi App Store, however, are default MIUI This article will provide current instructions for all modern firmware versions (including: MIUI 14 and MIUI 15), as well as tips on how to avoid risks when installing third-party APK.

It's important to understand that permission to install from unknown sources is not a global setup, but an individual resolution for each application you plan to install APK through. For example, if you downloaded a file through a browser, then the permission should be given to the browser, and if through a file manager, then to the manager. We will analyze all the nuances, including the differences between the Redmi models, POCO and Xiaomi flagships.

This article will be useful for both beginners and experienced users who have experienced changes in the latest versions of MIUI. You will learn not only where exactly the switch is located in the settings, but also how to check the security of the APK before installation, as well as what to do if the system still blocks the installation.

Why is Xiaomi blocking APK installations from unknown sources?

The ban on installing applications from third-party sources is a standard security measure implemented in both Android and MIUI firmware.

• 🛡️ Malware protection: Most viruses and spyware are spread through the Internet. APK-files downloaded from unreliable sources.
• 🔒 Ecosystem Control: Xiaomi, like Google, is interested in users installing apps through official moderation stores.
• 📱 Compatibility and stability: Third-party APK may not be optimized for MIUI, which causes the device to malfunction or overheat.
• 📜 License Restrictions: Some apps (e.g. banking or streaming services) prohibit the distribution of their services. APK off-shoot.

However, the lock is not absolute. Xiaomi allows users to manually allow installation from unknown sources, but does so in an unobvious way. Unlike pure Android, where this option is located in one place, in MIUI, its location depends on the firmware version and even the smartphone model.

⚠️ Warning: By allowing installation from unknown sources, you assume responsibility for the security of the device. APK downloaded from a popular site (for example, APKMirror), it is recommended to pre-check its hash amount or use antivirus.

Where is the setting in MIUI 14 and MIUI 15 (current for 2026)

In the latest versions of MIUI (starting with MIUI 12), the path to customization has changed, and now the permission is not issued globally, but for each application that requests APK installation.

Method 1: Through security settings (for MIUI 14/15)

If you are trying to install an APK and see the message “Installation is blocked”, follow the following steps:

1. Click on the notification "Installation is blocked" (it will appear in the curtain after you try the installation).
2. In the window that opens, select "Settings" (or "Allow from this source").
3. You will be in the Settings menu → Applications → Application Management → Special Permissions → Install Unknown Applications.
4. Find the app you’re trying to install APK through (such as Chrome, Files, or Mi Browser).
5. Activate the "Allow installation from this source" switch.

Then go back to the APK installation, the lock should disappear. Note that the permission is only valid for the selected application. If you download the APK through another application (e.g. Telegram), you will have to repeat the procedure.

Download APK from a trusted source | Check the hash amount of the file (optional) | Remember which application downloaded the file | Open the security settings according to the instructions above | Allow installation for a specific application-->

Method 2: Manual search in settings (if no notification appears)

If for some reason the notification doesn't show up, you can find the manual setting, and the path may vary slightly depending on the model.

• 📱 For Xiaomi. 13/14, Redmi Note 12, POCO F5: Settings → Annexes → Application management → [Select the application] → Permits → Installation of unknown applications
• 📱 For older models (Redmi Note 10, Mi 11): Settings → Confidentiality → Special permits → Installation of unknown applications

If you can't find "Install Unknown Applications", try searching by settings (the magnifier icon in the upper right corner). APK".

Xiaomi 13/14/Ultra|Redmi Note 12/Pro|POCO F5/X5|Redmi 10/9 series|Another model-->

Differences in settings for different Xiaomi models

While MIUI is committed to unifying the interface, some models have unique features in the settings, and here is a table of current paths for popular devices:

If your model is not in the table, try using the universal method: after the first failed attempt to install the APK, the system usually gives a hint with a direct link to the desired settings. Also note that on some devices (for example, Xiaomi Pad 6), the path may differ due to the adaptation of the interface for tablets.

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If you frequently install APKs, add a shortcut for quick access: create a Settings Shortcuts widget on the home screen and select Install Unknown Applications.

How to check APK security before installation

Permission of installation from unknown sources opens up potential security risks. Before installing an APK, perform the following checks:

1. Verification of the loading source

Download APK only from proven resources:

• ✅ Official developer sites (e.g. Telegram distributes) APK via telegram.org).
• ✅ APKMirror is the largest catalog with moderation and signature verification.
• ✅ F-Droid – Open Source Repository.
• ❌ Avoid file sharing (MediaFire, Zippyshare) and torrent trackers.

2. Checking the hash amount (MD5/SHA-1)

If the developer provides a hash amount of the file (usually on the official website), compare it with the hash of the downloaded APK.

1. Use the Hash Droid app (available on Google Play).
2. Select the downloaded APK and compare the resulting hash with the reference.

A hash mismatch means that the file has been changed (possibly a virus has been introduced).

3. Virus scanning

Before installation, scan the APK using:

• 🛡️ VirusTotal (upload the file to virustotal.com).
• 🛡️ MetaDefender (metadefender.opswat.com).
• 🛡️ Built-in antivirus MIUI Security (enable File Scanning in Security Settings).

⚠️ Note: Some legitimate APK (For example, modified versions of applications may be recognized by antiviruses as "RiskWare". This does not always mean danger, but requires additional verification.

What to do if Xiaomi blocks APK installation anyway

Sometimes, even after the installation is authorized from unknown sources, the system continues to block APK.

1. The file is corrupted or not intended for your architecture

If the installation error appears "Parse Error" or "App not installed", the problem may be:

• 🔧 Incompatibility with ARM64/ARMv8 (Learn the architecture of your processor through the app CPU-Z).
• 🔧 A damaged file (try to download it) APK freshly).
• 🔧 App Signatures (if you install an update on top of the old version, first remove the old app).

Solution: Download the version of the APK that fits your architecture (e.g. arm64-v8a for most modern Xiaomi).

2.Installation Prohibition mode is enabled in MIUI

Some versions of MIUI have a hidden option that completely blocks APK installation.

1. Open the Settings. → The phone.
2. Press 7 times on "Version" MIUI", To activate the Developer Mode".
3. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
4. Find the item "Disable installation via USB" or "Debug by USB" and turn it off.

3. Conflict with MIUI Optimization

Some devices (especially the Chinese versions) have MIUI Optimization, which can block the installation to disable it:

1. Activate Developer Mode (as described above).
2. Go to Settings → Additional → For developers.
3. Find MIUI Optimization and turn it off.
4. Reset the device.

⚠️ Attention: Disconnection MIUI Optimization can cause some functions to work in an unstable way (such as gestures or animations.

How to Revoke Permission for Unknown Sources

If you no longer plan to install APKs from third-party sources, it is recommended to disable this security permission in two ways:

Method 1: Through application settings

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select an app that you have previously given permission to use (e.g. Chrome).
3. Click "Permissions" → "Install unknown applications".
4. Turn off the switch.

Method 2: Resetting all permits

If you want to revoke permissions for all applications at the same time:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management → Special Permissions → Install Unknown Applications.
2. Turn off the switches for all apps in the list.

After that, the system will block APK installation attempts again until you give permission again.

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Disabling permissions for unknown sources does not remove applications already installed, but new updates for them are also blocked if they are distributed through APK.

Frequent Questions (FAQ)