Xiaomi’s firmware modification process has always attracted enthusiasts who want to make the most of their device. Owners of the popular Redmi Note 9 Pro often wonder about expanding system capabilities, which is impossible without access to the root directory. Administrator rights allow you to remove system debris, block ads at the system level and install powerful modules.
However, it is worth noting that obtaining Root-rights is not just an application installation, but a complex technical process involving the bootloader and memory partitions. Any error during the preparation stage can lead to the inoperability of the gadget, which is why you need to strictly follow the algorithm of actions and understand the risks associated with loss of warranty.
In this article, we will discuss all the steps from unlocking Bootloader to implementing Magisk. You will learn what tools you need, how to prepare files and what to do in case of errors. Careful reading of each paragraph of the manual will significantly increase the chances of a successful result.
Preparation of a smartphone and the necessary software
Before you start any manipulation of system files, you need to carefully prepare the workplace. You will need a computer running Windows or Linux, which is working properly. USB-Also make sure the battery is at least 60 percent charged so that a sudden shutdown doesn't interrupt the critical process.
The first step is to activate the developer mode on the device itself. To do this, go to Settings → About Phone and quickly click on the MIUI build number seven times. After the “You became a developer” notification appears, open the expanded settings menu.
In the "Additional" section, look for the "Developers" section, where you can activate USB debugging and allow applications to be installed from unknown sources, and without these settings, your computer will not be able to interact correctly with your smartphone via ADB.
⚠️ Attention: Activation of debugging by USB Makes the device visible to connected computers. Do not connect the phone to public charging stations at airports or cafes to avoid data theft.
Next, you need to create a Mi Account and link it to the device in the Mi Unlock Status menu, which is a mandatory requirement for Xiaomi to control access to the bootloader. SIM-map, as the link is carried out by number.
☑️ Checklist of preparations
Unlocking the Bootloader bootloader
The most important and longest step is unlocking Bootloader. Standard MIUI firmware has a closed bootloader that prohibits modifications to the system partition. It will require the official Mi Unlock Tool utility downloaded from the developer's website to open it.
The process is not instantaneous. Once you apply for unlock in your phone settings, the system may take 7 to 168 hours; the waiting period is necessary to check the security of your account; trying to unlock the device ahead of time will lead to an error and a timer reset.
When the waiting time expires, turn off your smartphone and enter Fastboot mode, holding down the volume buttons and power at the same time. Connect your phone to your PC and start Mi Unlock. The program will check the status of the account and, if successful, unlock the bootloader, completely clearing the user data.
⚠️ Warning: The process of unlocking the bootloader automatically performs a full reset (Wipe Data).All photos, contacts and applications will be deleted without recovery, unless a backup is made.
Once successfully unlocked, an open lock icon will appear in the status bar when you download, which means that the path to install custom recovery and Root rights is open, and you can now move on to install the necessary files on your computer.
Installation of custom TWRP Recovery
For superuser rights to be implemented, standard system recovery is not enough. TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project – Advanced Recovery Environment that allows you to install ZIP-For Redmi Note 9 Pro (codename curtana) you need to download the named version.
Download the twrp.img image and put it in the ADB and Fastboot folder on your computer. Open the command line in this folder and type in the command to check the connection: fastboot devices. If the serial number is displayed, the device is ready to go.
Next, do a temporary load of the Recovery command: fastboot boot twrp.img. It is important not to flash it immediately with the flash command, since the first download MIUI can overwrite the recovery partition with the stock. After downloading to TWRP, tap the "Keep Read Only" button so that the system does not change the partition structure.
What happens if TWRP doesn’t start?
Magisk installation and obtaining Root
The current standard for obtaining administrator rights is Magisk. Unlike the old methods, it works on the principle of Systemless, without physically changing the system partition, which allows you to bypass some security checks and run banking applications.
Download the current one. APK-Magisk file from the official GitHub repository. Rename the file extension from.apk to.zip (or just copy it). APK, In the new version, the installer works with ZIP). Upload this file to the internal memory of the smartphone.
From the TWRP menu, select "Install," find the downloaded file, and confirm the swipe installation. After the procedure is complete, click "Reboot System." The first download may take more than usual - this is normal, the system applies changes.
Once you download Android, look for the Magisk icon in the app menu. If it appears and the number appears in the version bar instead of the "N/A" bar, then the Root rights have been successfully obtained. You can use specialized tester apps to verify it.
⚠️ Note: When installing Magisk through TWRP Do not accept the offer to install "Additional Security Policy" or "Force Encrypted" if you are not sure about your actions).
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Tip: After installing Magisk, go to its settings and turn on "Zygisk" and "DenyList" to help hide the presence of Root rights from banking applications and games with anticheat.
Comparison of methods for obtaining access rights
There are several approaches to modifying the system, and the choice depends on your goals. Some users prefer older methods, such as SuperSU, but they are outdated and not supported on Android 10+. Modern Magisk provides the flexibility of modules, allowing you to change the behavior of the system without flashing.
Below is a table comparing the main characteristics of different system states and modification methods, which will help you understand the difference between standard mode, unlocked bootloader and the presence of Root.
| Parameter | Stock ROM (Unlicensed) | Unlocked BL | Root (Magisk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security of data | Tall. | Medium | Depends on the user. |
| Work of banking applications | Complete. | Complete. | Requires concealment settings |
| Ability to remove system applications | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Support for OTA Updates | Automatic. | Automatic. | Disconnected/Manually |
| Manufacturer's guarantee | It's still there. | Cancellation. | Cancellation. |
As you can see from the table, having an unlocked bootloader already changes the security status of the device, but it is the presence of Root access that gives full control over the file system, and the user must weigh the need for such changes against potential risks.
Using Magisk modules, you can implement features that are not available in standard MIUI, for example, you can change the fonts of the system, improve the performance of speakers or increase the sensitivity of the touch screen, all without having to flash the entire device.
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The main conclusion: Unlocking the bootloader is an irreversible guarantee action, so decide if you need the Root rights enough to risk official device support.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
When you modify the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro, you can have unexpected situations, the most common problem is hanging on the Mi or Android logo, it's called Bootloop. If you do, don't panic: press the power button for 10-15 seconds to force you to restart.
If the phone goes into a cyclical reboot, try going to TWRP and doing "Wipe Dalvik/Cache." Often this helps the system start after a failed installation of the module. If the problem is in Magisk itself, you can delete it through the file manager in the recovery by going down the path /data/adb/modules and deleting the problem module folder.
Another common error is "Device is locked" when trying to firmware through Fastboot. This means that the bootloader is locked again or has not been unlocked. Repeat the unlock procedure through Mi Unlock. Also make sure that the ADB drivers are installed correctly in Windows Device Manager.
Critical: Never try to stitch recovery or boot images designed for other models (like the Redmi Note 9S or Pro Max) onto your Redmi Note 9 Pro.
In case of serious problems, when the phone does not respond to buttons, EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode may be required. Logining in it usually requires disassembling the smartphone and closing contacts on the board or using a special authorized Mi Account, which is a complex procedure.