How to root Xiaomi Redmi phone: Step-by-step guide

Obtaining superuser rights on Xiaomi and Redmi devices opens up hidden operating system functions that are not available to the average user, which allows you to remove system debris, change the processor frequency to improve performance, and install specialized modules. However, the process requires care, since interference with system partitions always carries certain risks.

Modern versions of the MIUI and HyperOS have a complex security structure that must be bypassed. Before you start any manipulation, it is important to understand that you take full responsibility for the performance of your gadget.

In this article, we will take a look at all the steps from unlocking the bootloader to installing Magisk. You will learn what tools are needed, how to properly prepare your computer and what to do in case of errors. A deep understanding of the process minimizes risks and allows you to safely expand the functionality of your smartphone.

Preparation for obtaining superuser rights

The first and most important step is to create a complete backup of all data. The process of unlocking the bootloader, which is mandatory for rooting, completely cleans the internal memory of the device. Save important photos, contacts and documents to an external drive or to the cloud storage.

You will need quality. USB-You also need to make sure that the battery is charged at least by a minimum of one charge. 60-70%. Interrupting the power supply process during firmware can lead to irreversible damage to the software part.

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Use the original. USB-cable and connect it directly to the computer motherboard port, avoiding USB-hubs to avoid connection errors.

You'll need ADB and Fastboot drivers to work, and without them, your computer won't be able to interact properly with your phone in bootloader mode, and installing these components is the foundation for all subsequent system modifications.

Unlocking the Bootloader bootloader

Xiaomi has implemented strict restrictions on software modifications, so standard methods to access the system partition will not work, you need to formally request permission from the manufacturer through your Mi Account account, this process can take from a few days to a week of waiting.

Once you get permission, you need to activate the developer mode. To do this, go to the settings, find the "About Phone" item and quickly click on the MIUI version seven times. Then, in advanced settings, enable debugging over USB and allow installation from unknown sources.

  • πŸ“± Download the official Mi Unlock Tool utility to your computer.
  • πŸ”Œ Connect the phone when it is off by holding the volume buttons (up and down) simultaneously).
  • πŸ” Enter your Mi Account details in the Unblocking Program.
  • ⏳ Wait for the end of the waiting timer if it is installed by the security system.

β˜‘οΈ Checking before unlocking

Done: 0 / 4

Importantly, after successfully unlocking the bootloader, some features such as the Widevine L1 (for watching high-quality videos on Netflix) and secure banking apps may stop working as standard.

Installation of custom TWRP Recovery

The standard recovery menu does not allow you to make changes to system files, so you need to install a modified recovery, such as TWRP. This is a specialized environment that works independently of the main operating system and gives full access to memory partitions.

The recovery image file must be strictly consistent with your device model. Using the version for another smartphone can cause a touchscreen to fail or a complete system failure. Find the current build on proven resources such as the 4PDA forum or XDA Developers.

fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.x.x-x-model.img

Once you have firmware through console commands, you need to immediately go into recovery mode so that the standard bootloader does not replace the modified file back with the original one. Usually, this requires you to press the volume button immediately after the command is completed.

⚠️ Attention: First launch TWRP The system may require a password to unlock the screen, enter your pin or pattern lock, and if you forget the code, you'll have to do a full Wipe reset, which will delete all the information.

Magisk installation to get a Root

The most modern and secure way to obtain superuser rights is to use the Magisk utility. Unlike the old methods, it works on the principle of system-less, without directly changing the system partition, which allows you to bypass many security checks.

Download the current one. APK-Magisk file and rename its extension from.apk to.zip. Upload the resulting archive to the internal memory of the smartphone or to the computer. SD-Then download to the previously installed menu. TWRP.

  • πŸ“‚ Select the item "Install" in the main menu of the Recaveri.
  • πŸ“ Find a downloaded zip archive with Magisk files.
  • πŸ‘† Swipe the slider to confirm the installation.
  • πŸ”„ After completion, click on β€œReboot System” to restart.
What to do if the installation is interrupted?
If the installation process is interrupted or there is an error, don't panic.Try to clear Dalwick's cache and system cache in the Wipe menu, then repeat the procedure.Make sure the Magisk version is compatible with your device's Android version.

After the first download, you will see a new app on the menu. If it is not available, install it. APK-Magisk file manually as a normal application, and the program must display the status "Installed", which indicates successful obtaining of rights.

Comparison of rooting methods

There are several approaches to system modification, and the choice depends on your goals and device model. Some methods are more secure, others provide deeper access, but carry great risks. Below is a table that helps you decide on your strategy.

MethodDifficultySecurityCompatibility
MagiskMediumTall.Android 6.0+
SuperSULow.Low.Outdated (up to Android 9)
KernelSUTall.Very high.Linux kernel 5.10+
Built-in RootLow.MediumOnly the old MIUIs.

As the table shows, SuperSU is considered an outdated solution and is not recommended for use on modern versions of Android due to compatibility and security issues.KernelSU is a promising alternative that works at the kernel level, but requires deeper technical knowledge to install.

The choice of method also depends on whether you plan to return to stock firmware in the future. Magisk makes it easy to remove root rights through the built-in Uninstall feature, which returns the system to its original state without having to flash the entire device.

Possible problems and solutions

In software modifications, users often experience a cyclical reboot known as bootloop, a condition where the phone is constantly restarting without reaching the desktop, most often caused by module conflict or system files being damaged.

To get out of this state, you need to go back to TWRP mode and clean the Dalvik / ART Cache partition. If this does not help, you will need to restore a backup of the system or completely flash the device through the Mi Flash Tool program.

πŸ“Š Have you encountered bootloop when modifying the software?
Yes, repeatedly.
It was once.
Never had.
I've only read about it.

Another common problem is that banking applications fail, because of Google Play Protect and bank security, which requires activating Zygisk in Magisk settings and hiding root rights for specific applications.

⚠️ Note: Once the superuser rights are granted, the standard Security application may stop updating or not work properly. This is normal, as the system integrity checks will show violations.

Security and concealment of root rights

Having superuser rights makes a device more vulnerable to malware if the user is not careful. Apps get unrestricted access to the system, so install programs only from trusted sources. Regularly check the list of applications that have root access.

To work with banking applications and anti-cheat games (such as Pokemon GO or bank clients), you need to use the hide function. In the Magisk settings, turn on β€œMagisk Hide” or β€œDenyList” and select applications that should not see the presence of modifications.

It is also recommended to rename the root rights manager package so that some primitive verification scripts can’t detect it by process name.This is done through the Magisk app settings before the first reboot after installation.

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Hiding root rights is a must for using a smartphone with installed banking applications and Google Pay services.

Remember, the security of your data now depends primarily on you: Don't give superuser rights to applications you doubt they're functional, control access requests that pop up on the screen when programs are launched.

Results and recommendations to users

Rooting Xiaomi Redmi is a powerful tool for enthusiasts to get the most out of the hardware, you get full control of the device, the ability to remove pre-installed software and fine-tune the system to your needs, but it requires responsibility.

If you're unsure of your actions or if your smartphone is your only means of communication, you may want to refrain from making a deep modification.Always weigh the benefits you'll get and the risks you'll expose the device to.

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Always backup before any action.
  • πŸ“š Learn forums specifically for your device model.
  • πŸ”„ Keep up with updates to Magisk and Recaveri.
  • 🚫 Do not remove system applications whose purpose you do not know.
Will unlocking the bootloader reset the guarantee?
In most cases, unlocking the bootloader will officially void the software warranty. However, if you return the stock firmware and lock the bootloader back before contacting the service center for a hardware problem (such as a broken speaker), the interference often goes unnoticed unless the hardware seals were damaged.
Can I update the system by air after rooting?
A standard air update (OTA) on a rooted device is likely to cause installation error or loss of root rights. Before upgrading, it is recommended to remove Magisk modules, restore the original boot image and only then update.
Is it dangerous to use banking applications with Root?
Root itself is not a threat to money unless you install malware. Banking applications are blocked on such devices for security reasons. However, using the correct concealment setting (Magisk Hide / DenyList), you can successfully use banking even on a modified system.
How to return to the factory firmware without Root?
To return to the original state, you need to download the official firmware for your model, unblock it and use the Mi Flash Tool in Clear All mode, which will delete all data, root rights and custom recoveries, returning the phone to the β€œshop-like” state.
Do you need a computer to obtain superuser rights?
On modern Xiaomi devices with a locked bootloader, the computer is a must for the first step - unlocking Bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool. There are methods of installing root without a PC on already unlocked devices, but they require an installed custom recovery, which is also often done through a computer.