How to reset to factory settings on Xiaomi Redmi 5: a detailed guide

Xiaomi Redmi 5 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, released in 2017. Despite its age, the device is still actively used thanks to a reliable hardware platform and support for custom firmware. However, over time, any gadget begins to “brake”, give errors or require complete cleaning before selling, in such cases, helps reset to factory settings, a procedure that returns the smartphone to its original state.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to reset for Redmi. 5 (including Redmi models 5A redmi 5 Plus, their features and potential risks, you'll learn how to save important data before cleaning, what to do if the phone doesn't turn on, and how to avoid common errors. MIUI. The instructions are suitable for all firmware versions, including MIUI 9/10/11/12.

Preparing for resetting: what to do before cleaning

Factory reset is an irreversible process that deletes all user data: contacts, messages, photos, installed apps, and even account settings. Before you start, follow a few critical steps.

First, back up. MIUI has a built-in tool for this: Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset → Local Backup. Alternatively, you can use Google Account (contact sync, calendar) or third-party services like Mi Cloud. Note: MIUI backup does not store some application data (such as WhatsApp or Telegram messages), so you will have to export them manually.

Second, make sure your phone has enough battery power (at least 50%) and that the device is “bricked” by a discharge, if the Redmi 5 is dead, plug it into charging for 15-20 minutes before starting.

• 🔋 Charge your phone or connect to a power source while you reset.

⚠️ Note: If Redmi 5 has a locked bootloader installed, a Fastboot reset may require unlocking.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the easiest one)

This is a standard method that is suitable if the phone turns on and responds to touch, it requires no additional tools and takes only 5-10 minutes.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the section Additional → Backup and Reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Click Delete all data and confirm the action by entering a pattern lock or PIN-code.
5. Wait until the process is complete (the phone will reboot automatically).

After the reboot, you will see the screen of the initial settings, as after the purchase, if the phone asks you to enter your Mi Account details, this means that the device protection function (Mi Account Lock) was previously activated, in which case you will need to enter the username and password from the associated account.

Backup created|Phone's 50-charged%+|All accounts are disabled (if the phone is sold)|Remembered. PIN-code-key-->

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI When reset, you may have a "This device is locked" error, which means that the factory mode has been activated before. FRP (Factory Reset Protection: Unblocking requires entering the last synchronized Google account.

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If Redmi 5 is stuck on the logo, does not respond to buttons or is locked, resetting through Recovery Mode will help.This method works even with damaged firmware, but requires care.

To enter Recovery:

1. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then let them go.

Next:

1. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (use volume buttons for navigation, power button for confirmation).
2. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.
3. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

💡

If the volume button doesn't work, try Power + Volume. On some versions of Redmi 5, it's an alternative way to log in to Recovery.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

Fastboot is the most radical and efficient method, but it requires a computer with drivers installed and basic command line knowledge.

• You need to completely re-flash the device;

First, install the necessary tools:

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone and turn it into Fastboot mode: press the Power button + Volume Down button for 10 seconds.
2. Connect Redmi 5 to your computer.
3. Open the command prompt (cmd) in the folder with Platform Tools.
4. Enter the command to check the connection: fastboot devices If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), continue.
5. Run full reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

Frequent mistakes after resetting and how to fix them

Even after a successful reset, the Xiaomi Redmi 5 may not behave properly.

1.The phone asks for a Mi Account after a reset

This means that a Xiaomi account was previously linked and now you need proof of ownership. If you don't remember the data, try:

• Restore password through the official website;
• Contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase (check, box);
• Use FRP bypass (only for power users, requires unlocking the bootloader).

2. Constant reboots (bootloop)

If the phone gets stuck on the logo, it's probably damaged firmware.

• Install stock firmware via Fastboot (download the official ROM from the Xiaomi website);
• Squeeze custom Recovery (TWRP) and reset through it.
• Check the hardware (possibly a memory or motherboard issue).

3.No net after discharge

Sometimes the IMEI or mobile network settings are lost to restore:

1. Go to Settings → SIM-cards and mobile networks;
2. Select Access Points (APNs) and reset to factory locations.
3. If the IMEI resets (checked by the *#06# command), restore it via Engineer Mode (requires root rights).

💡

If the phone is slower than before after reset, the cause may be memory fragmentation. perform storage optimization in settings or install clean firmware through Fastboot.

How to Reset Redmi 5 Without Losing Data (Partial Cleanup)

If you only need to clear certain data (e.g., delete viruses or reset network settings), you don't have to erase everything. MIUI has options for selective resetting:

• 📶 Resetting network settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset the network settings. Remove stored Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and APN, But leave files and applications.
• 🔄 Resetting application settings: Settings → Annexes → Reset application settings. Returns standard permissions and settings for all programs.
• 🛡️ Cache cleanup: Settings → Warehouse → Clear the cache, free up a place without deleting personal data.

For deep cleaning without a complete reset, you can use Safe Mode (Safe Mode):

1. Press the power button before the off menu appears.
2. Keep your finger on Turn off until you request to switch to Safe Mode.
3. In this mode, remove suspicious apps or perform a diagnosis.

⚠️ Note: Partial reset does not remove malware if it is embedded in system files, in which case only a complete firmware reflash through Fastboot will help.

Redmi 5 reset before sale: full checklist

If you are planning to sell or transfer your Xiaomi Redmi 5, it is not enough to simply reset your settings.

1. Delete all accounts: Google (Settings → Accounts → Google → Delete Account); Mi (Settings → Mi Account → Sign Out); Social Networks and Messengers (Get out manually).
2. Untie your device from services: In Mi Cloud, remove your phone from the list of devices; in Google Find My Device, disable remote control.

Perform the reset.

Check the efficiency

• Make sure the phone turns on and asks for an initial setup.
• Check the camera, speakers, microphone and sensors;
• Put it in. SIM-map and test calls/internet.