How to roll back Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings: 3 proven ways + error solving

Resetting Xiaomi Redmi to factory settings is a necessary measure when the smartphone starts to brake, emits errors or needs to be transferred to a new owner. However, an incorrect reset can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even “bricking” the device. In this article, we will analyze all the working methods from a standard reset through settings to recovery through Fastboot, and also explain how to avoid typical errors.

Xiaomi smartphones feature a binding to the Mi Account and protection Factory Reset Protection (FRP). If you forget your account password or buy a phone from hand, the reset can turn into a headache. We will explain in detail how to bypass the lock after a reset on Redmi Note 10/11/12 and older models without resorting to dubious services.

Preparation for resetting: what to do before the start

Before you reset Redmi, follow the mandatory steps – this will save you from losing important data and problems with your account.

1. Save backup. Even if you plan to reset due to viruses, copy photos, contacts and files first.

• 📱 Mi Cloud – automatically syncs contacts, notes and photos (check if there is enough space in the cloud).
• 💾 Local reservations through Settings → The phone. → Backup (creates a.mbk file that can then be restored).
• 🖥️ Computer - connect the phone to USB file transfer (MTP) and copy the folders. DCIM, Downloads, WhatsApp.

2. Make sure you know the username/password from Mi Account. Once reset, the system will require you to enter the account details that were associated with the phone. If you bought Redmi from hand and do not know this information, read the section on FRP bypass.

3. Check the battery. The reset process can take up to 10-15 minutes; if the phone runs out during the operation, there is a high risk of damage to system files; The optimal charge level is at least 50%.

Make a backup of important data |Remember the username / password Mi Account | Charge your phone to 50%+|Remove the SIM and memory card (optional) |Disable Google account (if you plan to sell)

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Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest)

This method is suitable if the phone turns on, you remember the pattern lock/PIN-code and access to the menu. Instructions are valid for all Redmis on the MIUI 12/13/14 HyperOS.

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Resetting → Erase all data.
4. If required, enter the password from the lock screen.
5. Confirm the action by clicking Delete All (some models will need to enter) PIN from SIM-map).

The phone will reboot and start the cleaning process. It can take 5 to 15 minutes -- don't interrupt it! -- when you're done, you'll see the screen of the initial setup, just like after you've bought it.

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If after reset, the phone asks you to enter the old password from Mi Account, but you do not remember it - try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. If this does not help, read the section on FRP bypass below.

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If Redmi is stuck on the logo, does not respond to pressing or is blocked, resetting through Recovery will help, which works even with damaged firmware, but requires care.

How to log in to Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press the power button + volume up and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese).

Further action:

• 🔧 Use volume buttons for navigation and power to select.
• 📛 Choose Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (on some versions of Factory Reset).
• ✅ Confirm the action (Confirmation).
• 🔄 After completion, select Reboot. → Reboot to System.

If the Recovery menu doesn't have Wipe Data, it's custom firmware installed, in which case try the Fastboot method (described below).

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is needed if:

• 🔄 The phone doesn’t even load in Recovery.
• 🔧 Unofficial firmware installed and standard reset does not work.
• 📦 Requires a complete flashing (for example, after a failed update).

The work will require:

• 💻 Computer with installed Xiaomi drivers (official website).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original, undamaged).
• 🛠️ The Mi Flash Tool (you can download it here).
• 📄 Firmware for your model (find by device code, such as ingres for Redmi Note 10 Pro).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone and press the power button + volume down to enter the Fastboot (the image of a hare in a hat-eared will appear).
2. Connect the phone to the PC.
3. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and point the path to the unpacked firmware.
4. At the bottom, select Clean All (complete clean) or Save User Data (save data, but this does not guarantee performance).
5. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (usually 5-10 minutes).

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Reset via Fastboot deletes everything, including the data in the /data partition. If the phone has been encrypted, it is impossible to recover files after such a reset.

If the Mi Flash Tool is an anti-rollback error, you're trying to install an older firmware version than the one on your phone.

1. Download the latest stable firmware for your model.

How to bypass Factory Reset Protection (FRP) after a reset

If Redmi requires you to enter Mi Account details after a reset that you don’t remember, there are several ways to get around: Warning: these methods don’t work on all models and may violate Xiaomi’s terms of use.

Method 1: Restore access to your account

• 🌐 Go to account.xiaomi.com and click Forgot Password?.
• 📧 Enter the email or phone number associated with your account.
• 🔑 Follow the instructions for recovery (access to the mail or SMS).

Method 2: Test mode bypass (for older models)

This method works on Redmi 4/5/Note 4/Note 5 with MIUI 9–11:

1. On the Mi Account password entry screen, click on Additional Settings (or Emergency Call).
2. Enter the code ##4636## and the test menu will open.
3. Return to the lock screen and try to create a new account.

Method 3: Use of an official unlocker

If the phone is bought by hand and the previous owner has not untied the account, contact the Xiaomi service center with a check about the purchase.

Yes, I had to restore my account | Yes, but I bypassed the lock myself | No, I always untie my account before I reset | I don't know what it is.

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Table: Comparison of reset methods for Xiaomi Redmi

Frequent Resetting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1.The telephone is not turned on after reset.

Reasons:

• 🔋 The battery was drained during the process.
• 📱 Firmware is damaged (often occurs when a reset is interrupted via Fastboot).
• 🔧 Incompatible firmware version (anti-rollback error).

Solution: Connect your phone to charge for 30 minutes, then try logging in to Recovery or Fastboot again.

2.The IMEI disappeared after the dump.

This happens if a modem partition is damaged (e.g., if a Fastboot reset is incorrect) and you can restore the IMEI by:

• 📶 Through the Engineering Menu (code #4636## → Phone information).
• 🔧 With the help of a utility SN Write Tool (requires root rights).

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If the sound is lost or the sensor is not working after the reset, it is likely that the firmware was not installed for your model. MIUI.

3. I can't get into Recovery.

If you press Power + Volume up the phone vibrates but does not load the menu, it is possible:

• 🔧 Recovery section is damaged (you need to flash through Fastboot).
• 🔋 Volume button is faulty (try using it) ADB recovery).

⚠️ Warning: If you buy Xiaomi Redmi with your hands, always ask the seller to untie the Mi Account and make a reset with you. Otherwise, you risk getting a brick after the first reset.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions