Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, released a few years ago, is still a popular device, but over time, even the most optimized MIUI system can start to work unstable. Users often face a buildup of system debris, errors in the application or the desire to transfer the gadget to a new owner, which requires the complete removal of personal data. In such situations, the only sure solution is a complete reset that will return the device to the state of “out of the box”.
Hard Reset or program reset through settings is a radical but effective method of dealing with software glitches. It is important to understand that there are several ways to perform this operation, and the choice of the specific method depends on the current state of your Redmi Note 4: whether it turns on, whether the touch screen reacts or whether access to the system is blocked. We will analyze each option in detail so that you can choose the most suitable one.
Before taking action, you need to be aware of the risks. All user data, including contacts, photos and messaging messages, will be permanently deleted without the possibility of recovery by standard means. Therefore, preparation is a critical step, ignoring which can lead to the loss of valuable information. Let's consider what exactly you need to do before starting the procedure.
Preparation of the device for complete reset
The first and most important step is to back up all of your important data. Xiaomi owners can use the built-in Mi Cloud to save contacts, notes and call schedules, but a computer or external drive is better for photos and videos. Connect your smartphone to your PC through USB-cable and copy the contents of folders DCIM, MIUI Download to the hard drive.
A critical aspect of modern Android versions is the binding of accounts. If you have a Google account or Mi Account entered on your device, FRP (Factory Reset Protection) can lock your phone after a reset, requiring you to enter a password from those accounts. Make sure you remember the login details, or better yet, delete the accounts from your phone's settings before you start: go to Settings → Accounts and Sync and undo.
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Before resetting, remove the microSD memory card and SIM-card to accidentally unplug external storage or not damage operator contacts.
It is also worth checking the battery level. Although the reset process does not require much power, suddenly turning off the device at the time of writing system partitions can lead to critical bootloader errors. Charge the Redmi Note 4 to at least 60-70% to have a margin of safety. If the device battery is worn out and keeps the charge poorly, it is best to leave the phone connected to the original charger throughout the operation.
☑️ Checklist before resetting
Reset via the Android settings menu
The easiest and safest way to bring the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 back to factory status is if the device turns on and the touch screen responds to touch.This method does not require a computer or special knowledge. You need to open the main menu and find the Settings icon, which usually looks like a gear.
Inside the settings menu, the action algorithm may vary slightly depending on the version of the MIUI firmware (Chinese or global), but the logic remains the same. You need to find the partition responsible for the system. In most cases, the path looks like: Advanced Settings → Restore and Reset or About Phone → Reset. In the window that opens, the Erase all data button will be placed.
The system will issue a warning that all data will be deleted. Once confirmed, you will need to enter a pattern lock or a digital pin code if it is installed on the lock screen. The phone will then request a final confirmation, often with a countdown of 10 seconds, to exclude accidental pressing. Once the timer expires, the device will restart and begin the cleanup process, which can take from 5 to 15 minutes.
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Resetting via the menu is the most gentle method, since the system itself correctly closes all processes before deleting data, minimizing the risk of file system errors.
Using Recovery Mode for Resetting
If the smartphone does not boot, freezes on the MI logo or the touch screen does not respond, you will need Recovery Mode. This is a special diagnostic mode built into the phone memory that allows you to perform system maintenance regardless of the state of the main OS. To enter this mode on the turned off Redmi Note 4, you need to press the Volume Up button (Vol+) and the power button at the same time.
Hold both buttons until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, but continue holding Vol+ until the Recovery menu appears. The interface here can be touch-sensitive (in newer versions) or button-based. If the sensor doesn't work, the navigation is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button. You need to select a language (if available), and then click on Wipe Data.
⚠️ Note: In the Recovery menu, the "Wipe Data" function deletes everything, including internal memory. Make sure you have a backup, as it will be impossible to recover data after that, even by professionals.
Once you select Wipe All Data, the system will request confirmation. Select Confirm and wait until the process is complete. The progress indicator will show the status of the cleanup. At the end, the message will appear "Data wiped successfully", then you will select Back to Main Menu, and then Reboot → Reboot to System. The first run after such a reset can last longer than usual - up to 10 minutes.
Reset via Fastboot mode and computer
Fastboot mode is designed to work more deeply with the device and is often used in flashing, but it can also be used to clean up. To enter this mode on the phone turned off, you need to press the Volume Down button (Vol-) and the power button. On the screen, an image of a hare repairing an android will appear, labeled FASTBOOT.
To control the phone in this mode will require a computer with the installed driver Xiaomi USB Driver and Mi Flash Tool or ADB-Connect the device with a cable to the PC. If you're using the command line, ADB, The resetting command will look like this:
fastboot erase userdata
fastboot erase cacheExecuting these commands will completely clear the user data and cache sections, which is useful if the Recovery menu is damaged or not running. However, be careful: using the wrong commands in Fastboot mode (for example, fastboot erase boot) can turn the phone into a “brick”, which will have to be restored through test mode (EDL) with disassembly of the case.
What if your computer can’t see your phone in Fastboot?
Solving Google Account Problems (FRP)
One of the common issues after a reset is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) blocking.This is a theft protection mechanism that requires you to enter a password from a Google account that was synced to the phone before the reset. If you forget the password, access to the Redmi Note 4 will be restricted and the system will request authorization at all times.
To avoid this situation, always delete your Google account before reset via the menu: Settings → Accounts & Sync → Google → Delete your account. If the reset is already done and the phone is locked, the official way to reset your account is to reset your account through Google’s website on another device. Resetting FRP by workarounds is difficult, and such methods often require paid software or firmware.
| Resetting method | Conditions required | Risk of data loss | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Settings. | Screen and system | High (all removed) | Low. |
| Recovery Mode | Working volume buttons | High (all removed) | Medium |
| Fastboot + PC | Computer, cable, drivers | Critical (brick risk) | Tall. |
| Mi Flash Tool | Unlocked loader | Complete flashing. | Tall. |
Possible problems after discharge and their solution
After the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 When you reboot, you might encounter a number of typical situations. 20-30 It's normal, it indexes files and optimizes applications in the background, and lets the device lie on the table with the charger connected.
Second, there may be a rapid battery consumption, which is a temporary phenomenon associated with the operation of background services, usually stabilizes after 2-3 cycles of full charge and discharge, and if the phone continues to warm up or quickly dies after a day, perhaps the problem lies in the hardware, for example, in the wear of the battery or the power controller.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone is bootlooped indefinitely after reset or hangs on the logo for more than 20 minutes, system files may be damaged.
Users also sometimes complain about the lack of network or Wi-Fi. Check if the date and time settings are reset - an incorrect date can block connection to secure servers of Google and operators. Set automatic timing or set current values manually.