How to reset Xiaomi Redmi 7A to factory settings: 3 working ways

The Xiaomi Redmi 7A is one of the brand’s most popular budget smartphones, but even it can slow down, make mistakes or require firmware over time. Hard reset is a radical but effective way to get the device back to its former performance. However, the wrong actions can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even β€œbricking” the phone.

In this article, you will find three proven reset methods (via settings, buttons and Fastboot), detailed risk warnings, and answers to frequent questions. We have taken into account all the nuances of the Redmi 7A, from the MIUI 10/11/12 firmware version to the features of working with a locked bootloader. If your smartphone freezes, does not turn on or requires cleaning before selling, here you will find a solution.

When do I need to reset to factory settings?

Resetting is not always first aid, but in some cases it is inevitable:

  • πŸ“± Smartphone slows down, applications constantly fly out, and cleaning the cache does not help.
  • πŸ”’ You have forgotten the pattern lock or PIN-code and unlocking through Mi Account is not available.
  • πŸ“¦ Before selling or transferring a phone to another user (mandatory for the protection of personal data!).
  • πŸ”„ After a failed firmware update when the system is unstable.
  • πŸ› οΈ To eliminate software errors, such as persistent reboots or black screen".

However, do not rush to reset the settings if the problem is solved by softer methods:

  • ⚑ Cleaning the cache through Settings β†’ Warehouse β†’ Clear the cache.
  • πŸ”„ Restart in Safe Mode (hold the power button) β†’ "Restarting in Safe Mode").
  • πŸ“₯ Updating the firmware to the latest version MIUI.

⚠️ Attention: If your Redmi is 7A It's tied to your Mi Account, and when you reset it, you'll need to login and password. Without that, you'll have a brick! Make sure you remember the data or untie the account in advance.

πŸ“Š Why do you want to reset your Redmi settings? 7A?
Remove the lags and brakes
Prepare for sale
Reset the forgotten password
Correct errors after updating
Other

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before you start resetting, follow the mandatory steps to avoid data loss and account issues:

  1. Backup. Use Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup and Reset β†’ Local backup or copy important files to your PC via MTP (plug your phone into your computer like a flash drive).
  2. Make sure the battery is charged. The charge level must be at least 50%, otherwise the smartphone may turn off during the process.
  3. Untie your accounts. Go to Settings β†’ Accounts β†’ Mi Account and delete the link. Also disable Google Account and sync.
  4. Remember IMEI. Dial *#06# and write down both numbers, which may be needed to restore the network after a reset.

If you drop your phone before selling, additionally:

  • πŸ“Œ Get out of all messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber).
  • πŸ“Œ Delete. SIM-card and memory card (if used as internal memory, only retrieve after resetting!).
  • πŸ“Œ Turn off Find Device in Mi Account settings.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before Redmi reset 7A

Done: 0 / 5

⚠️ Attention: If your Redmi is 7A If you bought it from hand and tied it to someone else's Mi Account, a hard reset will lock your phone.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest)

This method is suitable if:

  • βœ… The phone is turned on and reacts to touch.
  • βœ… You remember the screen unlock password.
  • βœ… You want to save your data in your Mi Cloud account (they will recover after you log in).

Instructions:

  1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
  2. Go to About Phone (in some versions of MIUI – System β†’ More).
  3. Choose Resetting (or Resetting and Resetting).
  4. Tap Reset settings (may be called Erase All Data).
  5. Enter the screen unlock password (if requested).
  6. Confirm the action by clicking Delete Everything or Reset the phone.

It takes 3-5 minutes. After you restart, you'll see the screen of the initial setup, like after you bought it, and if the phone requests Mi Account data, you can type it in, which is fine.

πŸ’‘

If Redmi 7A is not connected to the mobile network after reset, check if IMEI is active. To do this, dial *#06# and compare the numbers with the ones recorded earlier. If IMEIs are reset (zeroes are displayed), you will need to restore them through the Engineering Mode or service center.

Method 2: Hard Reset via buttons (if the phone is not turned on)

This method is used when:

  • ❌ The phone doesn’t respond to touches or hangs on the Redmi logo.
  • ❌ You forgot the unlock password.
  • ❌ You need to reset your settings without accessing the system.

Instructions for Xiaomi Redmi 7A:

  1. Turn off the phone (if it freezes, hold the power button for 10-15 seconds).
  2. Press the Power button and the Volume Up button (+) at the same time.
  3. Hold them for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo and Recovery Mode menu appear.
  4. In the Recovery menu, use the volume buttons for navigation and the power button for selection.
  5. Select Wipe Data (or Clear Data β†’ Wipe All Data)
  6. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm or Yes.
  7. Once completed, select Reboot to reboot.

If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:

Menu item (English)Translation into RussianAction.
Wipe DataClear the dataReset to factory settings
Wipe CacheClear the cacheDeletes temporary files (does not reset settings)
RebootReboot.Exit from Recovery and start the system
Connect with MiAssistantConnect to MiAssistantFirmware mode via PC (not needed for reset)

⚠️ Note: If after reset via Recovery, the phone requires the entry of Mi Account data, and you do not remember them, do not try to find a password - after 5 unsuccessful attempts, the device will be locked for 72 hours.

What happens if the Recovery Mode does not open?
If the phone vibrates after holding Power + Volume up, but the menu does not appear, try: 1. Connect the charger and try again. 2. Hold the buttons longer (up to 20 seconds). 3. Use the Power + Volume down combination (on some firmware). If nothing helps, perhaps the firmware is damaged, you will need to flash through the Fastboot.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method is needed if:

  • πŸ”§ Recovery Mode is unavailable or damaged.
  • πŸ”§ The phone is locked in Mi Account and you want to reflash it.
  • πŸ”§ Complete cleaning is required before installing custom firmware.

To reset via Fastboot you will need:

  • πŸ–₯️ Computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and Mi Flash Tool.
  • πŸ”Œ Cable USB Type-C (original, undamaged).
  • πŸ“„ Firmware for Redmi 7A (Download from the official Xiaomi website or forum 4PDA).

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn off the phone.
  2. Press the Volume button down (-) and connect the USB cable to the PC. Hold the button until the screen says Fastboot (robot with open stomach).
  3. Open the Mi Flash Tool and connect your phone.
  4. In the program, select the downloaded firmware (file with the extension.tgz or.zip).
  5. Press Refresh – your Redmi 7A should appear in the list of devices.
  6. Select Clean All mode and press Flash.
  7. Wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.

Once flashed through Fastboot, all data will be erased, including Mi Account, but if the bootloader is blocked, this method will not work without official unlocking through the Xiaomi website.

πŸ’‘

Fastboot reset is the most radical method, it deletes everything, including system files, and requires firmware, and only use it if the first two methods fail or the phone is completely inoperable.

What to do after resetting: initial setup

After a successful reset, the Redmi 7A will launch in initial setup mode. Follow the instructions on the screen, but pay attention to the key points:

  1. Language selection: Install Russian (if it is not listed, select English and add Russian later in the settings).
  2. Wi-Fi Connection: It is recommended to use a home network as mobile internet may not work without APN settings.
  3. Sign in to Mi Account: If your phone is yours, log in to your account. If you were reset before selling, skip this step (click Skip or Skip).

Data recovery:

Mi Cloud

Set-up of the lock screen:

After the setting is completed:

  • πŸ“² Update the firmware to the latest version (Settings) β†’ The phone. β†’ Updating the system).
  • πŸ“² Install the necessary apps (it is recommended to download only from Google Play or Mi App Store).
  • πŸ“² Check the camera, speakers and sensors (such as proximity sensors).

πŸ’‘

If the sound is lost or the vibration is not working after the reset, check if they are turned off in the settings. Go to Settings β†’ Sound and vibration and make sure that the volume sliders are not at zero.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with the right reset, there can be problems. Let's look at typical situations and how to fix them:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Phone asks for Mi Account after resetThe account was tied up before the reset.Enter your account details. If you forgot, reset your password at account.xiaomi.com
After reset, there is no mobile networkResetting the APN or IMEI settingsCheck the IMEI (*#06#) If zeros, restore them via Engineering Mode or service.
The phone hangs on the Redmi logoDamaged firmware or incorrect resetRepeat reset via Recovery or reflash through Fastboot
The sensor does not work after resettingCalibration failure or firmware damageCalibrate the sensor using Engineering Mode (#6484##)
Google Play Services is constantly in errorOutdated version of services or conflict with MIUIUpdate Google Play Services manually via APK or reset again

If none of these methods worked, there may be a hardware problem (e.g., damaged eMMC memory) in which case, contact the service center.

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Redmi 7A

Can I reset Redmi 7A without losing data?
No, factory reset always deletes user data (photos, videos, messages, apps).However, you can pre-reverse via Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup or manually copy files to your PC.
The phone asks for the old password after the reset.
This means that the lock screen password was previously set and you need to enter it to confirm the reset. If you forget it, try: Enter the last password you use (sometimes works), Restore access via Mi Account (if the phone is connected to the Internet), Reset via Fastboot (you will need to unlock the bootloader). If nothing helps, contact Xiaomi service center with proof of purchase.
How to Reset Redmi 7A if it is not powered on and charged?
If the phone is not responding to charging and not turning on, first check: Correct cable and power supply (try charging from another device); Clean USB-C connector (sometimes dirt interferes with charging); Hold the power button for 20 to 30 seconds - sometimes it helps to "wake" the phone. If charging does not go even after that, the problem may be in the power controller or battery. In this case, the reset is possible only after repair.
Can I reset Redmi 7A on a computer without a Fastboot?
Yes, but it requires the phone to turn on and unlock. Connect Redmi 7A to your PC via USB, enable Debugging via USB (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ MIUI version – tap 7 times, then return to Additional β†’ For Developers β†’ USB debugging) and use the Mi PC Suite program to reset. If debugging is not enabled, PC reset is only possible in Fastboot mode.
After the dump, the photos are missing. Can they be recovered?
If the photos were not synced to Mi Cloud or Google Photos, the chances of recovery depend on whether the new data was recorded to the phone's memory after the reset. Try: Use DiskDigger, Recuva -- connect the phone to your PC in MTP mode. Contact the service center -- sometimes the data can be retrieved through a memory chip. Importantly, the less you use the phone after the reset, the better the chances of recovery!