How to unlock a number on your Xiaomi phone: the complete guide

Owners of smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco often face a situation when you turn on the device or insert a new one. SIM-The system requires you to enter a special code. This is a standard protection procedure built into Android and the shell. MIUI, However, if a user forgets a password or buys a phone that is tailored to a specific operator, the lock screen can be a serious obstacle.

There are several lockdown scenarios, and each requires a customized approach. PIN-code that must be entered to activate SIM-In more complex cases, the device may request PUK-Ignoring these requests or reckless actions can lead to a complete lockdown of the communication module, which makes it impossible to make calls and access the Internet via the mobile network.

In this guide, we will discuss all possible solutions to the problem in detail, you will learn where to find the necessary codes, how to properly unlock the device tied to the operator, and what to do if you want to use the code. SIM-The card was permanently blocked, and it's important to understand the difference between software locking the interface and hardware binding to the network, because the methods of eliminating them are radically different.

Types of SIM-card locks in Xiaomi

Before you start taking action, you need to clearly identify the type of problem that has arisen. The lock screen on Xiaomi smartphones can display different messages, and the algorithm of your next steps depends on this. SIM-code-card PIN lockdown PUK-code that is more serious.

The first level of protection is PIN-Personal Identification Number: A short numerical password, usually 4 digits, that is set by the user or set by default by the carrier, and is designed to prevent unauthorized use of your personal data. SIM-If you enter the wrong card in another device, PIN-code three times in a row, the system will automatically lock the card and require more complex code to be entered.

⚠️ Note: After three failed attempts to enter PIN-Don't try to guess the password by brute force. PUK-code, and its incorrect input ten times in a row will permanently SIM-map.

The second level is PUK-Personal Unblocking Key is a unique eight-digit key that is stored by the carrier and on the plastic card holder issued when you purchase a SIM, and is designed solely for unlocking. SIM-cards after erroneous entry PIN-There's also a lock on the device itself. IMEI (blacklists, but this is a separate category of problems, solved only through the operator or seller.

πŸ“Š What kind of lock you have encountered?
Forgot. PIN-code
Requested a PUK.
The phone is locked under the operator
SIM-map not defined

Where to find out. PUK-unlocker

If your Xiaomi smartphone requires input PUK-This code is not generated by your phone, it's tied to yours. SIM-There are several legal ways to get this information without going to the service center.

The easiest and fastest way is to use a plastic card that came with a complete set of cards. SIM-On the back of this card (often the size of a credit card and the SIM card is broken out of it) are two codes printed: PIN and PUK. They're usually hidden by a protective layer that you have to erase with a coin, and if you keep that plastic, it's solved in a minute.

If you lose your plastic carrier, the only source of information is the mobile operator, you can get the code through your personal account on the operator's website, on the mobile application or by calling technical support, you can be asked to provide passport information or answer a security question to identify your identity.

  • πŸ“ž Support call: Call the operator from another number on the same network (often free) or from a city phone.
  • πŸ’» Personal account: Go to the operator's website, log in and find the "Settings" or "Security" section, which displays PUK-code.
  • πŸͺ Operator's office: Visit the communication salon with your passport. The employee will print the code or issue a new one. SIM-number-card.

πŸ’‘

If you do not remember the data for entering your personal account, use the function of restoring access via SMS to the backup number or passport data.

Instructions: Entering unlock codes on MIUI

The process of entering codes on Xiaomi smartphones with a shell MIUI or HyperOS is standardized, but it has its own nuances. When the input field appears on the screen, the system expects the format to be exactly adhered to. PUK-code could be fatal.

First, enter the 8-digit PUK-Once you've entered it, the system will ask you to come up with a new one. PIN-It is recommended to choose a combination that is easy to remember, but which will not be obvious (for example, avoid "1111" or "1234"). PIN-re-entry.

Sequence of action:


1. Enter PUK (8 digits) -> OK




2. Enter a new PIN (4-8 digits) -> OK




3. Confirm the new PIN -> OK




4. SIM- Card unlocked

The counter is displayed on the screen. If you run out of limit, SIM-The card will be blocked forever, and access to the number can be restored only by re-releasing the SIM card in the operator's office.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before entering PUK

Done: 0 / 4

Comparison of methods for obtaining codes

There are advantages and disadvantages to obtaining unlock data, depending on how urgently you need to unlock your phone and what resources are at hand, and here is a table to help you decide on the best option.

MethodSpeed.Conditions requiredRisks.
Plastic cardInstantly.Availability of the holder cardAbsent.
Personal office1-5 minutesInternet access, password from LCForgotten password from LC
Calling operator5-15 minutesOther phone number, passport detailsLong wait for the operator
Communications office30-60 minutes.Passport, time to travelLines, schedules.

As you can see from the table, having a plastic card is the most reliable option, but in today's digital world, plastic is often lost, so the personal account is the most convenient tool to solve the problem on-the-job.

⚠️ Warning: Never use third-party programs or sites that promise "generation" PUK-These are fraudulent resources that will either steal your money or your data. PUK-Only the operator knows the code.

Unlocking the phone from the operator (Network Lock)

Special attention should be paid to the situation when a Xiaomi phone requires a network lock code, which occurs if the device was purchased from a specific operator (for example, in China, Europe or the United States) under a subsidized contract and is software-linked to its SIM cards. SIM-The card of another operator phone"SIM network unlock PIN" or "Enter the unlock code".

Unlike PIN/PUK, this code is not tied to the SIM card, but to the device’s IMEI, and is only officially unlocked by the operator that issued it, the contract’s fulfillment (for example, a certain number of months of use), and other times, owners resort to paid IMEI unlock services.

The unlocking process usually looks like this: you provide the service. IMEI-The code (typed by *#06#), you pay for the service, and you get a unique unlock code. Once you insert another carrier's SIM card, the phone will request this code. Type it in, and the device becomes universal (SimFree).

Can I unlock Xiaomi for free?
There are free codes for older models or specific regions that can be found on forums (like 4PDA), but the guarantee of success is low. For modern Redmi Note or Xiaomi 13/14 models, free methods hardly work and require complex software intervention.

What to do if SIM-card is permanently blocked

If you have exceeded the entry limit PUK-10 times, a message will appear on the screen that SIM-The chip inside the card is a disposable safety lock and permanently locked for security reasons.

The only solution in this situation is to replace SIM-You need to contact your carrier with your passport, the number recovery procedure takes 5 to 30 minutes, and you will receive a new plastic card with the same phone number, tariff and balance. All contacts saved on the old SIM card (not in the phone’s memory) will be lost, so it is recommended to always store contacts in your Google account or on your device.

  • πŸ“„ Documents: Take the original passport, without it, the SIM card won't be restored.
  • πŸ’° Cost: Replacing a SIM card is often free or costs a symbolic amount (depending on the tariff and operator).
  • ⏳ Time: New SIM card activates within minutes of issuing.

πŸ’‘

Replacement SIM-The only way to restore access is if PUK-The code was incorrectly entered 10 times. It's not software-based to revive a burnt chip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I unlock it? SIM-Xiaomi card PUK-code?
No, you can't. PUK-The code is the only security key, and without it (or if it's entered incorrectly 10 times), you can't access the data on the SIM card.
Will unlocking SIM reset all the data on the phone?
No. Entering a PIN or PUK code only affects access to the mobile network. Your photos, apps and files on the Xiaomi smartphone itself will remain intact. Hard Reset is only required if the password of the lock screen of the phone itself is forgotten.
What if the phone says β€œAuthorization is required” after entering the code?
Message "Authorization Required" or "Valid" SIM" post-input PUK This may mean damage to contacts. SIM-Try to wipe the SIMKI contacts with a pin or alcohol. If it doesn't work, ask for a replacement SIM card.
Where is the file with PUK-coded?
There is no file in Android that can be read without superuser rights and that contains PUK-This information is stored in a secure memory area. SIM-It's useless to try to find it through file managers.