Root on Xiaomi Redmi: the complete guide from unlocking the bootloader to SuperSU

Getting root rights on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones opens up access to hidden Android features, allows you to remove system applications, optimize performance and install custom firmware. However, the process requires care: one error can turn a device into a brick. In this article, we will discuss current methods for obtaining root rights on Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 10/11 and other models from 2020-2026, taking into account the latest MIUI updates and Xiaomi’s policy on blocking the bootloader.

It's important to understand that the procedure differs from model to model. For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro (with a Snapdragon 732G processor) and Redmi 9A (on the Helio G25) use different versions of TWRP and Magisk. We'll look at the universal algorithm, as well as the nuances for specific devices. If you're a beginner, don't skip sections about backup and possible risks!

1.Preparation of the device: what to do before unlocking

Before you start unlocking the bootloader, make sure your Redmi meets the minimum requirements:

• 📱 Battery charge of at least 70% (to avoid shutdown during the process).
• 🔄 Backup of all important data (unlocking will reset the device to factory settings!).
• 🔗 Original. USB-cable (cheap cables can interrupt the connection to fastboot).
• 💻 Windows computer 10/11 Linux (macOS is not recommended due to driver issues) ADB).

Also check the MIUI version in settings (Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version). Redmi models on Android 13/14 (MIUI 14/15) may need to roll back on older firmware - some versions block unlocking the bootloader. Use the official Mi Flash Tool for downgrade if necessary.

⚠️ Note: On devices with HyperOS (new shell from Xiaomi), the unlocking process may be different. Before you start, check the compatibility of your model in the forum XDA Developers or in telegram chats dedicated to Redmi.

Don’t forget to disable Find My Device (Settings → Google → Security → Find Device) and Mi Account (Settings → Xiaomi Account → Sign Out).A Xiaomi account linked to you can lock your device after a reset if you don’t untie it in advance.

2 Unlock the bootloader: the official way through Mi Unlock

Since 2021, Xiaomi has tightened its policy of unlocking the bootloader, now requiring:

1. Link your Mi Account to your device (at least 7 days of active use).
2. Get permission to unlock through the official Mi Unlock Tool app.
3. Wait 168 hours (7 days) after the account is linked.

Download the Mi Unlock Tool from Xiaomi's official website (the version should match your MIUI!). Install ADB and Fastboot drivers via the Mi Flash Tool or manually.

1. Activate Developer Mode (Settings → About Phone → MIUI version – tap 7 times).
2. Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking in Settings → More → For Developers.
3. Connect your phone to your PC in fastboot mode (turn off the device, then press Volume Down + Power).
4. Start the Mi Unlock Tool, log in and follow the instructions.

If the tool is running a "Couldn't unlock" or "Device not supported" error, try:

• 🔄 Restart your PC and phone.
• 🔌 Use the other USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0).
• 📥 Download an older version of the Mi Unlock Tool (e.g. 5.5.224.30 for the MIUI 12).

⚠️ Warning: Once the bootloader is unlocked, the smartphone will be reset to factory settings. All data, including photos and apps, will be deleted. If you used data encryption, it will be impossible to restore it.

Linking your Mi Account to your device (minimum) 7 days)|Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website|Install drivers ADB/Fastboot|Enable the Developer Mode and Debugging by USB|Disable Find My Device and Mi Account-->

3. Install custom recovery (TWRP) after unlocking

After successfully unlocking the bootloader, the next step is to install TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project. This custom recovery will allow you to sew ZIP-files (such as Magisk for root rights) and backup.

Download the current version of TWRP for your Redmi model from twrp.me. Pay attention to the modification of the device:

• 📱 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ — twrp-3.7.0_12-v7.0_A13-redwood.img
• 📱 Redmi 10 2022 — twrp-3.6.2_11-v6.7_selene.img
• 📱 Redmi K50i — twrp-3.7.0_12-13-speed.img

Squeeze TWRP via fastboot:

fastboot flash recovery twrp.img


fastboot boot twrp.img

Then the device will automatically reboot to TWRP. Don't reboot the phone to the system immediately after installing TWRP, which will result in a stock replacement for custom recovery!

1. Go to Wipe → Format Data (this will remove encryption and prevent logo getting stuck).
2. Copy Magisk (or another ZIP for root) to your phone via MTP to TWRP.
3. Install ZIP through Install → Select Storage → Select a file.

If the screen turns black after installing the TWRP, or the device hangs on the Redmi logo, then the firmware is incompatible with your version of MIUI.

• 🔄 Install another version TWRP (For example, Android 12 instead of Android 13).
• 📥 Switch to Fastboot Flash Recovery stock_recovery.img, repeat.

4. Getting root rights through Magisk: step-by-step instructions

Magisk is the most popular root-rights tool without the SafetyNet trigger (which is important for banking apps and games) download the latest version of Magisk from GitHub (Magisk-v26.4.zip or later).

Installation via TWRP:

1. Copy Magisk-vXX.X.zip to the phone’s internal memory.
2. V TWRP Choose Install → Choose. ZIP-file → Swipe to Confirm Flash.
3. After installation, restart to the system (Reboot → System).

Check for root rights using the Magisk Manager app (should appear in the menu) or the command in the terminal:

su

If the command returns # instead of $, the root is successfully received.

For Redmi models on Android 13/14, you may need to adjust:

• 🔧 Turn it off. AVB 2.0 (Android Verified Boot via command: fastboot --disable-verity --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img
• 📱 Install MagiskDelta module to bypass SafetyNet checks.

⚠️ Note: HyperOS Magisk may not work properly on some firmware due to a modified structure /system. In this case, try alternative methods, such as KernelSU firmware or patch. boot.img PC.

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If the phone doesn't boot after installing Magisk, try flashing stock boot.img, then patching it again through Magisk.Instruction: official documentation.

5. Solving common root errors

Even with the correct following of the instructions, errors can occur, and let's consider the most common of them and how to fix them:

If Google Pay, Netflix or banking apps have stopped working after obtaining root rights, install SafetyNet bypass modules:

• 🔒 MagiskHide Props Config (to change the print of the device).
• 🛡️ Universal SafetyNet Fix (bypassing Google's checks).
• 🎮 Play Integrity Fix (for games with protection).

To check the status of SafetyNet, use the YASNAC application or command in the terminal:

su -c "magisk --safetynet-check"

If you are FAIL, try disabling all Magisk modules and restarting.

💡

HyperOS devices may need to roll back to MIUI 14 before getting root. Newer versions of the shell block modifications to system partitions.

6. Alternative methods of root without TWRP

If you cannot install TWRP (for example, because you don’t have a compatible build for your model), you can get root through boot.img:

1. Download stock firmware for your Redmi from the Xiaomi Firmware Updater website.
2. Remove boot.img from the firmware archive.
3. Transfer boot.img to your phone and patch it through Magisk (Install → Select and Patch a File).
4. Sweep the patchy boot.img Fastboot: Fastboot Flash boot magisk_patched.img

This method works on most Redmi models, including those that don’t have custom recovery, but it requires a precise match to boot.img and the device’s current firmware.

For Dynamic Partition devices (e.g. Redmi Note) 11 Pro+ 5G) may require a patch init_boot.img instead boot.img. In this case, use the command:

fastboot flash init_boot magisk_patched_init_boot.img

If you are not sure which image to patch, check the firmware structure through the command:

fastboot getvar all

Look for lines init_boot or boot in output.

7 Risks and Consequences of Getting Root Rights

Root access gives you complete control over the system, but it also entails a number of limitations and potential problems.

• 🚫 Loss of warranty: Xiaomi cancels warranty if unlocked bootloader is detected.
• 🔒 Security issues: Root opens access to system files for malicious applications.
• 📵 Services that are broken: Google Pay, Netflix HD, Pokémon GO Banking applications can block access.
• 🔄 Difficulties with OTA-Updates: After receiving root, automatic updates MIUI will not work.

To minimize the risks:

• 🔄 Update Magisk and modules regularly.
• 🛡️ Use AFWall.+ for controlling network access of applications.
• 📱 Install only verified modules from the Magisk repository.

If you decide to return the device to its original state (for example, for sale or warranty repairs), do:

1. Remove Magisk via Uninstall in the app.
2. Swipe the stock firmware through the Mi Flash Tool (select clean all).
3. Lock the bootloader back (requires an official Xiaomi service center).

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi models (e.g. Redmi) K60) locking the bootloader after unlocking is impossible without replacing the motherboard!

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)