Rooting of Android Devices: What, Why, and How

If you are an Android user, you might have heard of the term “rooting” and wondered what it means and how it can benefit you. In this blog post, I will explain the basics of rooting, the reasons why some people root their devices, and the methods to root your device safely and easily.

What is rooting?

Rooting is the process by which users of Android devices can attain privileged control (known as root access) over various subsystems of the device, usually smartphones1. Rooting is similar to jailbreaking an iPhone, but it is more powerful and versatile. Rooting allows you to access and modify the system files, settings, and applications that are normally hidden or restricted by the manufacturer or the carrier. Rooting also enables you to install custom ROMs, which are modified versions of Android that offer more features, performance, and customization options.

Why would you root?

There are many reasons why some people root their Android devices, depending on their needs and preferences. Some of the common benefits of rooting are:

• Removing bloatware: Bloatware refers to the pre-installed apps that come with your device, which you may not use or want. Some of these apps can consume your battery, data, and storage space, and they cannot be uninstalled without root access. By rooting your device, you can remove or disable any unwanted app and free up your resources.
• Enhancing performance: Rooting can also improve the speed and responsiveness of your device, by allowing you to overclock or underclock your processor, tweak your memory and cache settings, and optimize your system performance. You can also use root apps to automate tasks, manage permissions, and backup and restore your data.
• Customizing appearance: Rooting can also give you more control over the look and feel of your device, by allowing you to change your icons, fonts, themes, wallpapers, animations, and more. You can also install custom ROMs that offer different user interfaces and functionalities, such as CyanogenMod, LineageOS, Paranoid Android, and more.
• Accessing more features: Rooting can also unlock some features that are otherwise unavailable or limited on your device, such as wireless tethering, screen recording, ad blocking, VPN, and more. You can also use root apps to enhance your camera, audio, battery, security, and more.

How to root your device?

There are different ways to root your Android device, depending on your device model, Android version, and rooting method. However, before you proceed, you should be aware of the risks and challenges of rooting, such as:

• Voiding your warranty: Rooting your device may void your warranty, as some manufacturers and carriers do not support or allow rooting. You may also lose your access to official updates and support services.
• Bricking your device: Rooting your device may also brick your device, which means making it unusable or unresponsive. This can happen if you make a mistake, encounter an error, or use an incompatible or malicious file or app. You may also lose your data and settings in the process.
• Exposing your device: Rooting your device may also expose your device to security threats, such as malware, spyware, viruses, and hackers. This can happen if you grant root access to untrusted or malicious apps, or if you download files or apps from unknown or unsafe sources.

Therefore, you should always backup your data and settings before rooting, follow the instructions carefully, and use reliable and reputable sources and apps. You should also research your device compatibility and rooting method before proceeding, as different devices may require different steps and tools.

One of the easiest ways to root your device is by using an app, and several rooting apps have garnered attention over the years — Framaroot, Firmware.mobi, Kingo Root, BaiduRoot, One Click Root, SuperSU, and Root Master are among the most reliable. These services will usually root your device in the time you take to brush your teeth2. However, not all devices are supported by these apps, and some may require additional steps or files. You can check the compatibility and requirements of these apps on their websites or forums.

Another way to root your device is by using a PC, and some of the popular tools for this method are Odin, Magisk, TWRP, and Fastboot. These tools will allow you to flash or install files or apps that will grant you root access, such as SuperSU, Magisk, or custom ROMs. However, this method is more complex and risky, and it may require you to unlock your bootloader, which is a security feature that prevents unauthorized modifications to your device. You can find the detailed guides and tutorials for this method on websites like XDA Developers, Android Central, or Digital Trends