Modern smartphones, despite their high performance, may become unstable over time. Cache buildup, errors in software updates, or conflicts between installed applications often cause the device to slow down or freeze. Owners of the popular model Xiaomi Redmi 9 are not immune to such problems, and the most effective solution in such situations is a complete return to the original state.
The reset procedure (or Hard Reset) deletes all user data, returning the MIUI operating system to the state in which it was immediately after purchase. This is a radical, but often the only way to fix critical software failures without visiting a service center. It is important to understand that before starting the procedure, you need to carefully prepare so as not to lose important information forever.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the available methods of resetting settings on Redmi 9, from the standard menu to recovery mode. You will learn how to properly prepare your device, what nuances exist when working with a Google account, and what to do if your phone does not turn on. Follow the instructions carefully to restore your gadget to its former speed and stability.
Preparing the device for a full data reset
Before initiating the cleaning process, it is critically important to save all valuable data. Reset to factory settings irrevocably deletes photos, contacts, messages and installed applications. It is recommended to use built-in backup tools or synchronization with cloud services.
Make sure the battery level is at least 50-60%. Interrupting the process due to a low battery can damage system files and turn your smartphone into a brick. If the battery is weak, connect the device to the charger before starting the operation.
⚠️ Attention: After the reset, the system will require you to enter the password for the Google account that was previously linked to the phone (FRP protection). If you do not remember your login details, be sure to unlink your account in the settings before resetting, otherwise it will be extremely difficult to unlock your phone.
You should also remove the MicroSD memory card if it is installed in the slot. Although modern versions of MIUI usually ask if you need to format the external card, physically removing the media ensures the safety of your files on it. Check for important files in the downloads and documents folders.
Before resetting, copy the DCIM and WhatsApp folder to your computer or to the cloud - these folders take up the most space and contain the most valuable memories.
Method 1: Reset through the standard settings menu
The safest and easiest method is available directly from the operating system interface. This option is suitable for devices that turn on and allow you to navigate through menus. The algorithm of actions may differ slightly depending on the MIUI firmware version, but the general logic remains the same.
Open the “Settings” application and scroll down the list to the “About phone” item. In some versions of the shell, the required section may be called “Advanced Settings” or located in the “Advanced” category. Find the option "Reset settings" or "Factory reset".
The system will offer several cleaning options. Select item "Erase all data". A warning will appear on the screen indicating that all information will be deleted. You will need to enter a pattern, PIN code or screen unlock password to confirm the owner's identity.
- 📱 Open
Settings → About phone → Reset settings. - 🔒 Enter the screen lock code when when a request appears.
- 🗑️ Click the “Erase all data” button and confirm the action.
- ⏳ Wait for the automatic reboot and initial setup.
After confirmation, the phone will reboot and begin the process of deleting data. The screen may go dark or display the logo Xiaomi for a few minutes. Do not try to interrupt this process by pressing buttons.
☑️ Ready to reset via menu
Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery mode
If the smartphone is stuck on the logo, does not respond to the sensor, or you have forgotten the pattern key, you will need to use the mode Recovery. This is a special diagnostic mode built into the device’s memory, which allows you to control the system bypassing the main Android interface.
To enter this mode, you must completely turn off the smartphone. Then hold down the volume up button (Volume Up) and the power button (Power) at the same time. Hold them until the logo appears Mithen release the power button, but continue to hold the volume until the main Recovery menu appears.
In Recovery mode, the touch screen does not work. Navigation is carried out using the volume buttons (up/down), and the selection of an item is confirmed with the power button. You need to find the section «Wipe Data» or «Clear Data».
⚠️ Attention: In the Recovery menu, be extremely careful with the selection of items. Do not select options related to formatting system partitions (Format System) unless the instructions explicitly require this, as this may disrupt the operation of the phone.
After selecting data clearing, the system will ask for confirmation. Select «Wipe All Data» and confirm the action. The process will take some time, after which a success message will appear. Select the option «Reboot» to reboot in normal mode.
What to do if the Recovery menu is in Chinese?
If you are in the Chinese Recovery menu, be guided by the icons or the order of the buttons. Typically the reset button is second from the top in the list. If you make a mistake, simply reboot the phone with the power button and try to log in again, choosing the item more carefully.
Method 3: Remote reset via Google Find My Device
In situations where the phone is lost, stolen or completely blocked by malware, but is connected to the Internet, you can use the service from Google. This method allows you to initiate full reset remotely from any other device (computer or smartphone).
Go to the official website of the Google Find My Device service and log in to the same Google account that was used on the problematic one. Redmi 9. The system will determine the location of the device (if it is online) and offer three actions: play sound, block or erase data.
Select an option “Erase data”. The service will warn you that all files will be deleted and the phone will be reset to factory settings. After confirmation, the command will be sent to the device. As soon as the phone comes online, it will automatically reset.
| Reset method | Requirements | Difficulty | Risk of data loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Settings | Access to menu, knowledge of password | Low | Full |
| Via Recovery | Turned off phone, buttons | Average | Full |
| Via Google | Internet, account access | Low | Full |
| Via Mi Account | Internet, access to Mi-account | Medium | Full |
This method is especially effective if you sold your phone and forgot to log out of your account, or if the device got into someone else's hands. However, remember that after such a reset, the phone will be locked until you enter the password for your Google account.
Possible problems after the reset and their solution
After completing the procedure Hard Reset the user may encounter a number of standard situations that are not a breakdown. The first boot after a reset always takes longer than usual - from 5 to 15 minutes. This is due to optimizing applications and configuring system files.
One of the common problems is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) blocking. If the phone asks for a password for your old Google account, and you don’t remember it, you will need to restore access through the Google website or provide a purchase receipt at a service center to confirm ownership.
It is also possible that the battery life will be temporarily reduced in the first days after the reset. The system re-indexes files and adjusts power saving modes to suit your usage habits. Usually the problem resolves itself within 2-3 charge-discharge cycles.
⚠️ Attention: If after resetting the phone constantly reboots (bootloop) or hangs on the logo for more than 20 minutes, the system partition may be damaged. In this case, you will need to flash the device via a computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility.
Do not panic if some applications do not work correctly immediately after setup. Remove them and reinstall them from the official store Google Playto eliminate the influence of outdated cached data.
A long first boot and rapid battery consumption in the first day are normal system behavior after a hard reset that does not require intervention.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will information be deleted from the memory card when resetting the settings?
By default, resetting through the settings menu affects only the internal memory of the phone. However, if you select the option to format the internal storage (if the card has been configured as internal storage), the data will be deleted. When using the card as a portable storage device, the data on it will be saved, but we recommend removing it before the procedure.
What to do if the phone asks for a password for the Mi account after resetting?
This is an anti-theft function. You need to enter the password for the Xiaomi account that was synced with the device before the reset. If your password is lost, try to recover it on the official website i.mi.com. Without this, you will not be able to unlock the phone legally.
Is it possible to interrupt the reset if it is frozen?
Interrupting the process is strongly not recommended, as this may damage the file system. If your phone remains unresponsive for more than 30 minutes, try performing a force restart by holding the Power button for 10-15 seconds. If this does not help, you will have to go into Recovery mode again and repeat the procedure.
Does the reset remove Android system updates?
No, factory reset returns the settings to factory settings, but leaves the firmware and Android version as installed at the time of the reset. There is no rollback to an older version of the system. To change the Android version, a complete flashing is required.