Smartphones of the line Xiaomi Redmi may slow down over time due to cache accumulation, errors in the system or malware. When standard cleaning does not help, the only correct solution is to completely return the device to its original state. This procedure deletes all personal information, returning the gadget to the state it was in when purchased.
Run reset settings on Redmi 9 can be done in two main ways: through the system’s graphical interface or using the Recovery engineering menu. The method you choose depends on whether your phone turns on and whether you can access your desktop. In any case, before starting the procedure, it is critically important to save important data.
In this article we will analyze both methods in detail, and also consider the nuances of working with a Google account and MIUI. Correct completion of each step guarantees the successful restoration of your device without the risk of turning it into a “brick.”
Preparing the device for a full reset
Before taking radical measures, you need to perform a number of preparatory steps. Ignoring this step may result in permanent loss of photos, contacts and important documents. Make sure that the battery level is at least 40-50%, as the formatting process requires stable power.
Create a backup copy of your data. This can be done through a cloud service Google Drive or use the built-in tool Settings → About phone → Backup and restore. It is also recommended to transfer files to a computer or microSD memory card, if one is installed.
An important point is to unlink accounts. If you don't sign out of your Google account before resetting, your phone will require you to enter your previous account password (FRP protection) after turning it on. Make sure you remember this data.
- 📸 Back up all photos and videos to the cloud or PC.
- 📞 Export contacts to a vCard file or sync them with Google.
- 🔋 Connect your smartphone to a charger during the procedure.
☑️ Checklist before resetting
Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu
This is the simplest and safest method available if you can unlock the screen and enter the menu. The shell interface MIUI may differ slightly depending on the version of Android, but the logic of actions remains the same.
Go to the section Settings and scroll down the list to item About phone. In the menu that opens, find the Reset settingsbutton located at the very bottom of the screen. The system will offer two options: deleting all data or resetting only Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings.
Select option Delete all data. A warning will appear on the screen stating that all files, installed applications and settings will be deleted. To confirm the action, you will need to enter a pattern, PIN code or screen unlock password.
⚠️ Attention: After pressing the confirmation button, the process will become irreversible. The phone will begin rebooting and formatting the memory partitions, which may take from 5 to 15 minutes.
During the process, the device may reboot several times. Do not press any buttons or try to turn off your smartphone. Upon completion, you will see the initial setup screen, as when you turn on a new gadget for the first time.
If you have data encryption enabled, the reset process may take longer due to the need to remove cryptographic keys.
Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery mode
If the phone is frozen, does not turn on, or you have forgotten the password lock, you will not be able to use the settings menu. In this case, the mode Recoverycomes to the rescue. This is a special diagnostic mode built into the device’s firmware.
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 Redmi, then release the power button, but continue to hold the volume.
When the Recovery menu appears (usually in English), control is carried out with the volume buttons (up and down), and the choice is confirmed with the power button. You need to find the item Wipe Data and select it.
| Action | Control buttons | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Menu navigation | Volume Up / Down | Move cursor |
| Confirm selection | Power button | Enter submenu / OK |
| Exit mode | Reboot → System | Reboot to system |
In the next screen, select Wipe All Data. The system will ask for confirmation, usually this is item Confirm. After cleaning is complete, select Back to Main Menu, and then Reboot → Reboot to System.
What to do if the Recovery menu does not appear?
If, when you press the buttons, the phone just turns on in normal mode, try connecting it with a cable to a switched off computer, hold down the buttons and only then turn on the power to the PC. Sometimes this helps to activate the recovery mode.
Problems with Google Account (FRP Lock)
Modern Android devices are equipped with an anti-theft system known as FRP (Factory Reset Protection). If you performed a reset via Recovery without first deleting your Google account in the settings, the phone will be locked during the first setup.
The lock screen will require you to enter the email and password for the account that was synchronized with the device before the reset. This is done so that the attacker cannot use the stolen phone after formatting.
Entering any other data will be rejected by the system. If you do not remember the password, use the procedure for restoring access to your Google account through a computer or another smartphone before attempting to set up Redmi 9.
⚠️ Attention: It is impossible to bypass FRP protection by legal means without the owner's data. Attempts to use third-party software may lead to permanent software failure.
Clearing only the cache (Wipe Cache Partition)
Sometimes a complete data reset is not required, and the problem can be solved by clearing the system cache. This operation deletes temporary system files, but does not affect your personal photos, contacts or applications.
This procedure is also performed through the menu Recovery. After entering the mode (as described above), select Wipe Data, but instead of completely deleting, select Wipe Cache. Confirm the action and wait for completion.
This method is useful if the phone starts to become unstable after updating the firmware or installing a large number of applications. It helps to free up space in the system partition and eliminate file conflicts.
- 🗑️ Only temporary files of the system and updates are deleted.
- 📂 The user's personal data (photos, videos, documents) remain untouched.
- 🚀 Can speed up the operation of the device if it is severely clogged systems.
Possible errors and ways to solve them
Unforeseen situations may arise during the reset process. The most common problem is freezing on the logo Redmi or Android after a reboot. If this happens, wait about 10-15 minutes as the system optimizes applications.
If the phone does not respond for more than 20 minutes, try performing a force restart by holding the Power button for 10-15 seconds. In rare cases, you may need to re-enter Recovery and run the command Reboot.
Another problem is a formatting error (Command failed). This may indicate a damaged memory partition or bad sectors. In such a situation, it is recommended to contact a service center to diagnose the hardware.
If the reset does not help eliminate the glitches, the problem may lie in a hardware malfunction of the memory or processor, and not in the software.
⚠️ Attention: The Recovery menu interface may differ depending on the version of MIUI. In new versions, items may be hidden in a submenu or named differently.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will my SD card be deleted when resetting the settings?
By default, when resetting through the settings menu, the internal memory is formatted, but the SD card remains untouched. However, if you select the "Format SD card" option (which is sometimes offered separately), the data on it will be deleted. When resetting via Recovery, only the internal partition is usually formatted. /data.
Is it possible to interrupt the reset process if it takes too long?
It is strictly not recommended to interrupt the process by forcing a shutdown while the progress bar or Android logo with gears is displayed on the screen. This may damage the bootloader and the phone will not turn on. Wait for it to finish, even if it takes longer than expected.
Will the reset remove the Android version and return the old firmware?
No, a factory reset (Factory Reset) only returns the settings and deletes user data. The version of the Android operating system and MIUI shell remains the one that was installed at the time of the reset. Rolling back to an older version is not possible using this method.
What should I do if the phone asks for a password after resetting, but I don’t remember it?
This is Google FRP protection. You need to restore access to your Google account through google.com from any other device. Without entering the correct login and password that were previously synchronized, you will not be able to legally unlock the phone.