Redmi 5 Plus: How to know if the bootloader is unlocked

Owning a Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus offers a lot of customization opportunities, but users often face the challenge of knowing the current state of system limitations. One of the keys is the status of the bootloader, which blocks unauthorized software changes by default. Many device owners try to install customized recavators or obtain superuser rights without knowing exactly whether the system partition is open.

There are several ways to determine whether a bootloader is unlocked on the Redmi 5 Plus, from visual inspection when turned on to the use of specialized utilities on the computer. Understanding the current status is critical, since manipulating an already open bootloader can lead to data loss, and trying to reflash a device with a closed BL will end in error. In this article, we will discuss all the available verification methods in detail.

Before you start taking action, it's worth noting that the verification procedure is safe for user data, as long as you're limited to diagnostics. However, if you're planning further steps to modify the firmware, always back up important information. Let's look at how the system reports its status and what tools will help you get accurate information.

Visual status check when loading the device

The fastest and most reliable way to know the status of the bootloader on the Redmi 5 Plus is to pay attention to the screen when the smartphone is turned on. Xiaomi engineers have a special logo that appears at the very beginning of the boot if the Bootloader protection was removed by the user.

To do this, you need to turn off the device completely, and then press the key combination to go to Fastboot mode. This is usually the simultaneous holding of the volume button and the power button, and an image will appear on the screen with an android fixing the robot and the inscription "FASTBOOT".

⚠️ Warning: If you see an open lock with the words "Unlocked" on the screen in Fastboot mode or immediately after the Mi logo, it means that the bootloader is unlocked.

It's important to distinguish between boot modes. If you just turn on your phone in the usual way, the unlocked bootloader logo can appear for a split second or be replaced by a standard screensaver if custom firmware has been installed, so Fastboot mode is the most informative for initial diagnosis.

The visual method does not require a connection to a PC, making it ideal for quick checks on the go. However, if the smartphone screen is damaged or the touchscreen does not respond, this method may not be available and you will have to resort to software analysis methods via a computer.

Use the official Mi Unlock Status utility

The official tool from the manufacturer to work with the bootloader is the Mi Unlock program, which is designed not only to unlock, but also to check the current state of the device. To work with Redmi 5 Plus, you will need a computer running Windows and Windows. USB-cable.

Once installed and launched, you need to log into your Mi Account, which is linked to your smartphone, a security requirement that prevents unauthorized users from manipulating the device without the owner's permission, and once authorized, the program automatically reads the data about the connected gadget.

In the main utility window, immediately after connecting the cable and switching the phone to Fastboot mode, the status will be displayed. If the bootloader is locked, you will see the corresponding message and the Unlock button. If the device is already unlocked, the program may suggest reflashing the stock version or simply state the fact.

• 🔒 Locked – bootloader closed, device protected from changes to system partitions.
• 🔓 Unlocked – the bootloader is open, it is possible to install custom Recovery and firmware.
• ⚠️ Waiting for authorization – Requires waiting time (usually 168 hours) after the account is linked.
• ❌ Device not found – a problem with drivers or USB-cable.

Using Mi Unlock is the most accurate result, as the request goes directly to the status check servers, which eliminates the possibility of a visual interpretation error or a failure in the display of logos on the smartphone screen.

Diagnostics via ADB console and Fastboot command

For more advanced users who prefer to work with the command line, an excellent option is to use the tools of the Android SDK platform. The method allows you to get detailed technical information about the state of partitions and the loader without a graphical interface.

First you need to turn on the smartphone Redmi 5 Plus debugging USB. To do this, go to the Settings. → About the phone and seven times click on the build number to activate the menu for developers. Then in the section that appears, turn on the item "Debugging by". USB".

adb reboot bootloader

Once this command is executed, the phone will reboot to Fastboot mode. ADB/Fastboot on the computer, enter the following command to obtain device information:

fastboot getvar all

In the line list you need to find the bootloader unlocked or bootloader lockstate. A value of yes or unlocked will mean that the protection is removed. If you see the value of no or locked, then the bootloader is closed.

This method is especially useful if the Mi Unlock graphics shell is not working properly or you are using Linux/macOS, where the program interface may differ.

Comparative table of verification methods

To make it easier for you to choose the right diagnostic method for your Redmi 5 Plus, we have prepared a summary table that will help you assess the pros and cons of each method depending on your situation and availability of equipment.

As you can see from the table, the visual method is the simplest, but it requires that the screen be in good working order. Software methods require that the workplace be prepared, but give a more complete picture. The choice depends on your current conditions.

It is worth noting that apps from the Play Market may request extra permissions or contain advertising, so it is better to use proven methods from Xiaomi or standard Android tools for a one-time check.

Third-party status verification applications

There are many apps in the Google Play store that claim to be able to check the status of the bootloader, such as Root Checker or specialized snails like Device Info HW. They read system flags and output the result in a convenient way.

But you have to be careful. Many of these applications require Root rights to get accurate information, and if the bootloader is locked, you can't get those rights in the standard way, and it's a vicious circle.

⚠️ Warning: Don't trust apps that require access to bank data or personal photos to "check the bootloader." Use only proven high-rated, open-source utilities.

The advantage of third-party apps is that they can run without a computer connection, right from the Android operating system, but if the phone is hanging on the screensaver or not booting, this method obviously won't work.

It’s best to use these apps as an additional confirmation tool, rather than as a primary diagnostic tool, and they’re good for quick checks in the Android interface when you can’t go to Fastboot.

Possible problems and solutions

While checking the status of the bootloader on Redmi 5 Plus, users may encounter a number of difficulties: the computer may not see the device, drivers may conflict, or Mi Unlock may give an authorization error.

A common problem is that there are no ADB and Fastboot drivers on Windows, and without them, the computer will only react to the phone's connection by charging the battery, and you need to download and install the official driver package from the developer's website or through the Device Manager.

There may also be situations where the status in the program and on the screen is different, which is rare, but it may indicate damage to system files or partial unlocking, in which case it is recommended to reset the settings to factory.

If you're using a corporate computer, the system administrator could block USB ports for data transfer. Try using a personal laptop or home PC to do the diagnostics.

Consequences of unlocking the loader

Understanding whether your bootloader is unlocked is important not just for curiosity: The open Bootloader on Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus makes significant changes to the security and functionality of some applications.

First, unlocking allows you to install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) and obtain superuser rights, which gives you full control over the device, the ability to remove system debris and change the appearance of the interface beyond recognition.

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After unlocking the bootloader, it is strongly recommended to change passwords from important accounts, since the level of data protection is reduced.

Second, some banking applications and services (Google Pay, Mir Pay) may refuse to work on devices with an unlocked bootloader, considering the environment to be unsafe, and additional root status manipulations are often required to circumvent this restriction.

In addition, when the bootloader is unlocked, the data on the device becomes less secure in the event of a loss of the phone, and anyone who gains access to the device will be able to reset it and access the data unless additional encryption is installed.

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Unlocking the bootloader is a compromise between the freedom of customization and the security level of the device.

If you plan to sell the phone, it's best to return the bootloader to Locked state.Buyers are often wary of open-BL devices for fear of hidden issues or stolen device status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)