Did you forget the password from Xiaomi Redmi 5A or did the phone lock after unsuccessful input attempts? Don't panic - even on this budget smartphone from 2017, there are several ways to return access. The main thing is to correctly assess the situation: locking the screen, binding to a Mi Account account or hardware failure require different approaches.
In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of unlocking, from simple (via Xiaomi account) to radical (reset via Fastboot). Particular attention will be paid to the nuances of the Redmi 5A: its Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 processor and the MIUI version impose restrictions on some standard methods. For example, FRP (Factory Reset Protection) on this device is possible, but requires additional steps.
We warn you right away that if the Find Device feature is enabled on your phone, some methods may not work without confirmation through your linked account, and now we move on to the practice of choosing the appropriate method depending on your situation.
1 Unblocking through Xiaomi account (Mi Account)
The safest way is if you remember the username and password from Mi Account, to which Redmi 5A is tied. Suitable for removing the screen lock (PIN, pattern lock, password) without losing data.
On the locked screen, the "Forgot Password" button will appear. Click on it and follow the instructions:
- Enter the email or phone number associated with your Mi Account.
- Confirm your identity through SMS-code.
- Reset the screen password directly in the web interface.
β οΈ Warning: If two-factor authentication is enabled on your phone, you will need to access a backup email or Google Authenticator app. Without this, it will be impossible to restore access to your account.
π‘
If the βForgot Passwordβ button doesnβt appear, try connecting Redmi 5A to Wi-Fi or mobile network β sometimes the option is hidden without an internet connection.
Limitations of the method:
- π It only works with a stable internet connection.
- π± Requires pre-binding of the Mi Account to the device.
- π It wonβt help if the phone is locked after resetting settings (FRP).
2. Resetting the pattern lock through a call (emergency method)
This is a good way to use MIUI 9-11 (relevant to Redmi 5A with original firmware) and exploits an emergency call interface vulnerability.
Step-by-step:
- On the locked screen, click "Emergency Call"**.
- Enter the combination ##4636## (the test menu will open).
β οΈ Attention: MIUI 12+ This method doesn't work -- Xiaomi has closed the vulnerability, and it may not work if it's on the phone. PIN-code instead of pattern lock.
Why did the method stop working on new MIUI versions?
If the method didnβt work, move on to the next one β reset via Recovery.
3. Hard Reset via Recovery Mode (with data loss)
A radical method that erases all the data on your phone but is guaranteed to remove any lock on the screen, which is suitable if you can't remember the password from Mi Account or other methods did not help.
How to get to Recovery on Redmi 5A:
In the Recovery menu, use the volume buttons for navigation and the power button for selection. Select: Wipe Data β Wipe All Data β Confirm.
β οΈ Warning: Once reset, the phone will require data input from Mi Account if previously tied! FRP-Factory Reset Protection: If you don't remember your account details, go to the bypass section. FRP.
Get out. SIM-memory-card|Charge your phone at least 50 times%|Download firmware for Redmi 5A (bug-in)|Prepare data from Mi Account (if tied)
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Factory Reset Protection (FRP) bypasses Redmi 5A
If after reset via Recovery, the phone requires data input from Mi Account, and you do not remember them, you will need to bypass FRP. For Redmi 5A, there is a working method through Fastboot and special utilities.
What you need:
- π₯οΈ Windows computer 7/10/11.
- π USB-cable (original or quality).
- π¦ Archive with utilities: Mi FRP Tools (download from verified sources!).
- π§ Qualcomm drivers for Redmi 5A.
Step-by-step:
- Install Qualcomm drivers and unpack the archive with utilities.
- Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to log in to Fastboot.
- Get Redmi on board. 5A PC and run the file MiFRP_Unlock.exe.
- In the utility, select the Redmi 5A (riva) model and click "Bypass FRP"**.
- Follow the instructions of the program (you may need to restart the phone).
Important: On some versions of MIUI, you will have to manually reset your settings through Recovery once again after bypassing FRP.
Yes, on Xiaomi| Yes, on another brand |No, but I heard about this problem |I don't know what it is
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5. Unlock via ADB (if debugging is enabled)
If it's Redmi. 5A The previous debugging was included USB (USB Debugging, you can reset your password through ADB It's a very sophisticated technique, but it's very effective.
Requirements:
Password reset commands:
adb shell
su
rm /data/system/gesture.key
rm /data/system/password.key
rm /data/system/locksettings.db
rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal
rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm
rebootAfter the reboot, the phone unlocks, but you may need to reconfigure the pattern lock or PIN.
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USB debugging should be enabled before the phone locks, and if you don't activate it beforehand, this method won't work.
6. Alternative methods and warnings
If none of these methods worked, radical measures remain:
- π§ Fastboot flashing β requires an unlocked bootloader and risks βbrickingβ the phone.
β οΈ Attention: On Redmi 5A s MIUI Global Stable Some Methods (for example, through EDL Mode may not work due to manufacturer restrictions, and be careful about the "miracle utilities" from the Internet - many contain viruses or spyware.
What NOT to do:
- π Unloading the phone to zero can damage the power controller.
- π¨ Disassemble the body - on Redmi 5A battery glued, the risk of damage to plumes is high.
- π± Install custom firmware without unlocking the bootloader - the phone will turn into a "brickΒ».
Comparison of Unlocking Methods
| Method | Loss of data | Difficulty | PC required | It works at MIUI 12+. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Through the Mi Account. | β No. | βEasy | β No. | β Yes. |
| Emergency call. | β No. | ββMedium | β No. | β No. |
| Hard Reset (Recovery) | β Yes. | βEasy | β No. | β Yes. |
| FRP bypass (Fastboot) | β Yes. | βββHard | β Yes. | β Yes. |
| ADB (debugging) | β No. | βββHard | β Yes. | β Yes. |