Getting root rights on Xiaomi devices is a process that opens up limitless possibilities for customization of the system, but at the same time requires a deep understanding of the Android architecture. The smartphone owner ceases to be just a user and becomes an administrator, gaining access to system files that are by default hidden from the eyes of the average person. However, it is worth noting that interference with the operation of MIUI or HyperOS at the kernel level can lead to a loss of warranty, so all actions you perform at your own risk.
The current methods of obtaining superuser rights are radically different from those used five years ago. Whereas the one-button solution used to be popular, today the de facto standard is a bundle of unlocked bootloader, custom TWRP recap and Magisk manager. This tandem allows not only access to the file system, but also to implement modules that change the behavior of the OS without directly replacing system partitions.
Before you start the active phase, you need to understand the importance of preparation. Unlocking a bootloader on Xiaomi is officially possible only after waiting 168 hours (7 days) from the moment you link your Mi Account to the device. Skipping this stage or trying to use third-party exploits on new versions of Android often leads to a “brick” or locking the account by the security service. In this article, we will discuss in detail the safe algorithm of actions.
Device preparation and data retention
The first step in any major interference with the software part of a smartphone is to create a full backup. The process of obtaining superuser rights will inevitably entail a complete reset of data (Wipe Data), so ignoring this stage is equivalent to losing your entire digital life.
It is also critical to make sure that your model and firmware version are compatible. On Snapdragon processors, the procedure is usually smoother, while owners of MediaTek-based models may face additional difficulties when running a recovery firmware. Check the exact device model in Settings → About the phone and find the relevant firmware files in authoritative forums.
Be sure to fully charge the battery. Interrupting the firmware process due to battery discharge below 50% can cause permanent damage to the boot sector. It is recommended to also enable USB debugging mode so that the computer can correctly interact with the device in Fastboot mode.
- 📱 Backup all important data on PC or in the cloud.
- 🔋 Charge your smartphone to a minimum 70-80%.
- 💻 Install the drivers. ADB and Fastboot on the computer.
- 🔐 Link your Mi Account in the developer settings.
⚠️ Warning: After unlocking the bootloader, the Widevine protection mechanism L1 may drop to a level L3, This will result in loss of viewing content in HD/4K quality on streaming platforms like Netflix.
Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader Unlock)
Without an unlocked bootloader, installing a modified recovery or obtaining root rights is impossible. Xiaomi, unlike many other manufacturers, provides the official tool for this - the Mi Unlock Tool. However, the process is not instantaneous and requires compliance with a certain procedure imposed by the manufacturer for the safety of users.
To start, you need to register on the MIUI forum and get status in the community, although in the latest versions of the tool this requirement is often simplified to have an account. Once you include USB debugging and OEM Unlocking in the developer menu, you need to link the device to your account via mobile Internet (Wi-Fi in this case is not suitable for binding).
Once successfully linked, a countdown timer will appear. You will have to wait exactly 7 days (168 hours) without untidying your account or resetting your settings. After that time, by connecting your phone in Fastboot mode to your PC, you can start the unlock procedure through the utility.
What if the Mi Unlock Tool is 99% locked?
Installation of custom Recovery TWRP
Xiaomi’s standard recovery does not allow installing third-party zip archives or patching system images, so installing TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is a must. Finding the right TWRP build for your particular model is a top priority, as an incompatible version may not start or work with the touchscreen incorrectly.
The installation process is done via Fastboot. Once the smartphone is in this mode (power button + volume down), connect it to the PC. Open the command line in the ADB tool folder and type a command to flash the image of the recovery. Importantly, after the firmware, you can not just restart the system, otherwise the stock bootloader will scratch the TWRP.
fastboot flash recovery twrp_image_name.img
fastboot boot twrp_image_name.imgThe second command (fastboot boot) runs the recovery once, without recording in memory, which allows you to safely conduct the initial setup and installation of Magisk. If after the reboot you see the TWRP logo with touch control, congratulations, the most difficult technical stage has passed.
- 📥 Download the current image TWRP It is for your model.
- 🖥️ Connect your phone in Fastboot mode to your computer.
- ⌨️ Follow the firmware commands through ADB.
- 🚀 Download the recovery immediately to consolidate the result.
Magisk firmware and obtaining Root rights
The current standard for obtaining superuser rights is Magisk (or its forks like KernelSU, but Magisk remains universal). Unlike older methods of replacing system files, Magisk works in systemless mode, meaning it does not modify the system partition directly, but loads at system start-up, remaining invisible to many security checks.
To install, you'll need a Magisk apk file. You'll need to rename it to magisk.zip (or just drop it as it is, modern versions of TWRP understand the apk format) and put it in the phone's internal memory. Then, when you're in the TWRP menu, select Install, specify the file, and confirm the installation with a swipe.
After a successful firmware, press the Reboot System button. The first download may take up to 5-10 minutes, as the system goes through the application optimization process. After downloading, look for the Magisk icon in the application menu. If it opens and shows the version, root rights are active.
☑️ Checking the successful installation of Magisk
License check and access setting
Once installed, you need to make sure that the rights are working properly and the applications can use them, and for this, it is best to use specialized test utilities that check for the presence of a binary su file and the ability to execute commands on behalf of the superuser.
When you first start an application that requires root, you will see a request from Magisk for permissions, and you can choose "Give Forever," "Give For 10 Minutes," or "Denial." Proper management of these permissions is key to the security of your device.
Magisk’s own settings also recommend turning on “Zygisk” for some modules and hiding the Magisk manager itself by renaming it and changing the batch ID, which helps bypass some bank checks, although additional modules are often required for complete secrecy.
| Parameter | Before getting a Root | After receiving the Root |
|---|---|---|
| Access to system files | Prohibited. | Full access |
| Removal of system applications | Impossible. | Maybe. |
| Work of banking applications | They work normally. | They may require cover-up. |
| Manufacturer's guarantee | It's working. | Cancellation. |
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Despite the clarity of instructions, there is always room for unforeseen circumstances in the Android world, and one of the most common phenomena after installing modules or setting the wrong setup is a bootloop, a cyclical reboot of a device when the phone can’t load the operating system to the end.
If you're in a bootloop, don't panic. TWRP (usually by pressing the volume up when you turn on. If you have a backup made immediately after you install Magisk (Backup function in the backup) TWRP), If you don't have a backup, you can try removing the problem module through the file manager in recovery or do a full data wiping.
Another problem is a broken sensor in TWRP. This is solved by finding a specific recovery build for your version of Android or flashing the stock image if the situation is critical. Always have stock firmware on hand for your model, in order to return the phone to its original state through the Mi Flash Tool.
⚠️ Note: If your fingerprint or camera stopped working after firmware, you probably used an incompatible version. TWRP Restore the persist partition only from a backup or similar donor device.
How to return to the stock without losing data?
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Will the guarantee fly after obtaining root rights?
Will the banking applications with root work?
Can I get root without unlocking the bootloader?
Will the phone be updated by OTA after root?
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Root rights give you full control over your smartphone, but they require responsibility: always make backups before any system changes.
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Use the MagiskHide Props Config module if you need to change your fingerprint device to run some applications or receive updates from another region.