Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus, released back in 2017, is still a popular device due to its successful balance of characteristics and autonomy. However, the standard shell MIUI imposes many restrictions on the user’s actions, blocking access to system files and denying full control over the hardware. Obtaining superuser rights, or root access, opens up limitless opportunities for customization and optimization for the owner of the gadget.
In 2026, this procedure is still relevant, especially for those who want to extend the life of the device by installing more recent versions of Android or removing system debris. The process of obtaining administrator rights on Redmi 5 Plus requires carefulness and strict adherence to the algorithm, since interference with the structure of the bootloader is always fraught with risks.
This guide covers all stages: from unlocking the official bootloader to installing the rights manager Magisk. We will consider the nuances of working with drivers, the features of the Fastboot mode and methods of bypassing MIUI security checks. Carefully study the material before starting manipulations to avoid turning the smartphone into a “brick”.
Device preparation and data backup
The first and most critical step is to save all important information: the process of unlocking the bootloader and the subsequent flashing leads to the complete removal of all data from the internal drive; contacts, photos, documents and correspondence will be irretrievably lost if you do not backup in advance; use Google cloud services or third-party tools to create a copy.
You also need to make sure that the battery is charged at least 60-70%. Interrupting the process of writing system partitions due to battery discharge can cause damage to the boot sector. USB-cable you plan to use to connect to your computer; damaged wires often cause communication errors in Fastboot mode.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader will officially void the warranty (if it is still valid) and erase all data.The procedure is irreversible without completely reflashing the stock firmware with the bootloader closed.
To work, you will need a computer running Windows, Linux or macOS, as well as installed ADB and Fastboot drivers. Download the current version of the Platform-tools platform from the official Android developer website. Without this set of utilities, low-level interaction with the phone is impossible.
☑️ Checklist before start
Unlock the bootloader with the Mi Unlock Tool
The foundation for obtaining root rights on Xiaomi devices is the unlocked bootloader. The manufacturer has implemented strict restrictions, so you can not simply install a modified recovery. You need a Mi Account account associated with the device and the official utility Mi Unlock.
The process starts with activating the developer mode. Go to the settings, select About, and quickly click on the version number seven times. MIUI. After you have the message "You became a developer" go to the advanced settings and find the item "Status of the bootloader." Here you need to turn on the options "Factory unlock" and "USB debugging".
Then there's the waiting period. Once the device is linked to the account via mobile Internet (not Wi-Fi!), the system may require a wait of 7 to 168 hours, this is protection against device theft. Only after that time will Mi Unlock allow you to unlock the device. In 2026, the waiting time may vary depending on the company's policy.
What if Mi Unlock can’t see the phone?
When the waiting time is up, start Mi Unlock on your PC, log in to your account and put your smartphone into Fastboot mode (press Power + Volume Down). Press Unlock and confirm the action. The phone will overwrite the bootloader partitions, and you will receive a message about the successful unlock.
Installation of custom TWRP Recovery
Xiaomi’s standard recovery doesn’t allow third-party installations ZIP-We need to archive or backup the system to implement root rights. TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project is a modified recovery menu with touch control and enhanced functionality.
Find the current TWRP image for the Redmi 5 Plus (codename vince). Using the image for another model is guaranteed to cause a touchscreen failure or complete device failure. Rename the downloaded file to twrp.img and place it in the folder with ADB tools.
Connect your phone in Fastboot mode to your computer. Open the command line in the ADB folder and type in a command to check the connection:
fastboot devicesIf the serial number is displayed, then the connection is established. Now execute the command to temporarily download TWRP:
fastboot boot twrp.imgThe phone will go to the recovery menu. At this point, it is important to prevent the stock system from automatically booting, which can overwrite recovery. In TWRP, go to the Wipe section and select Format Data by entering the word "yes." This is necessary to decrypt the data.
Magisk firmware to obtain Root rights
The current standard for obtaining superuser rights is Magisk. Unlike the old SuperSU, Magisk is systemless, which allows you to hide the fact that there are root rights from banking applications and games. APK-Magisk file and rename its extension to.zip (or use the built-in installation feature) APK newer TWRP).
When you download to TWRP, go to Install. Find the downloaded Magisk file and confirm the swipe installation. The process will take a few seconds. Once complete, click "Reboot System."
Once you download the operating system, look for the Magisk icon in the application menu. If it appears and the manager version and status are displayed when you open it, then root access is successfully obtained. You can check the rights using the Root Checker app.
| Component | Appointment | Post-installation status |
|---|---|---|
| Bootloader | Loading the OS | Unlocked (Unlocked) |
| Recovery | Recovery | TWRP (Castomic) |
| System Partition | System files | Unmodified (Systemless) |
| MagiskSU | Management of rights | Active. |
Magisk configuration and modules
After a successful installation, take your time to install all modules. First, go to Magisk settings and turn on the Zygisk option (if you use the latest version) and "Enforce DenyList." This is necessary to hide the root from security applications.
In the list of applications, select those programs that should not be seen by root rights (banks, Google Pay, corporate clients), and it is recommended to install the Universal SafetyNet Fix module (or its current counterparts for 2026) to pass system integrity checks.
⚠️ Note: Installing incompatible modules can result in an infinite bootloop. TWRP and delete the folder with the module through the file manager or use the Magisk Safe Download Mode.
Redmi 5 Plus also has modules that improve audio and energy efficiency, but remember that every intervention in the system has the potential to reduce the stability of the work. TWRP before installing new additions.
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Save boot.img image of your current firmware before any experiments, which will allow you to return the phone to its original state with the command fastboot boot.img in case of critical errors.
Possible problems and methods of solving them
Software modifications rarely go perfectly smoothly for all users, and one of the common problems is that the phone doesn't turn on after installing modules. If the screen is black but the phone vibrates or warms, try pinching the Power + Volume Up button combination to log in to Recovery.
If the TWRP doesn't start and the phone loads immediately into MIUI, it's possible that the stock recovery has overwritten the custom one, in which case the fastboot boot twrp.img procedure should be repeated and immediately, without booting the system, you should flash Magisk again.
Another common bug is "Status 7" when running firmware, which means that the archive is incompatible with the Android version or processor type. Always check if the file is specifically designed for the Snapdragon 625 processor that is installed in the Redmi 5 Plus.
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The main key to success is the exact matching of the file versions (TWRP, Magisk, drivers) of the model of your device and the current version of Android.