Many of us have heard expressions like these: “root”, “root”, “get root”. Basically, these words are used by experienced users of Android smartphones on specialized forums, and the phrase “this application only works under root” sometimes confuses a simple user into stupor and bewilderment. Attempts to google and find out what root is will lead you to specialized forums, where they will not give you a sane answer, but will only send you to read a thread of 600 posts. Well, I'll try to help in this matter.
Root is actually super-user rights
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This material does not pretend to be published in a large Soviet encyclopedia and does not aim to be included in programming textbooks. On the contrary, in this article I will try to convey to the average user in the simplest and most understandable form what root is and why it is needed and whether this ordinary user needs it at all.
Why do you need Root: what is it used for?
Root access opens up wide opportunities for fine-tuning the system. First of all, it allows you to do things like remove pre-installed applications, create full backups, control the processor frequency, install third-party modules to change the appearance or introduce new functionality.
Changing the system design
One of the most interesting things that opens up with root is the ability to completely change the design of the system. Moreover, we are not talking about launchers, which are available even on ordinary devices. At your disposal are navigation bars (gesture strip or Back, Home buttons), notification panels, system icons, color schemes, fonts and other interface elements.
Setting up device components
For those who like to completely customize gadgets for themselves, it is possible to independently change the frequencies of the processor or video accelerator in a smartphone, thereby extending battery life or increasing performance. In addition, there is software that allows you to save valuable battery percentages by hibernating various background processes and services that start automatically.
Full control over game and program permissions
Source: OnePlus Forums
Thanks to Root, you can manage the permissions of specific applications with maximum flexibility, which will ensure the security of your device. This can be useful to prevent a certain program from using the Internet to download advertisements, or to prevent applications from having access to messages and the camera.
Removing "uninstallable" applications
Another useful opportunity that opens up with obtaining Root rights is the removal of pre-installed software. Many manufacturers install various applications on their smartphones that are not always needed by the user, but at the same time they clog up memory and cannot be deleted. With Root access, this problem disappears, since superuser rights allow you to remove absolutely any pre-installed game or program.
Creating full backups
If you are constantly experimenting with firmware or just for your own peace of mind, programs for creating full-fledged backups (backup copies) will be useful. They can quickly create a backup copy of user applications, information from them, as well as personal data such as contacts, phone book, files or accounts. These programs easily cope with transferring the current state of the device when moving from one firmware to another.
How to unlock the Android bootloader?
TWRP is the most progressive replacement for conventional bootloaders for most of the creators. It has a more convenient touch design, and it provides extra potential, like a backup copy of the OS.
- First you need to enable the setting via USB;
- Then you need to install firmware that has not been tested by developers (mostly TWRP), which must be installed for Root access (mostly SuperSU.zip), or you need to purchase Root access using the methods indicated above. You can find a “Custom” recovery if you go to the forum for this smartphone. For example, 4pda. The same forum will give you instructions on how to unlock and install the required firmware.
Disadvantages of Root: what risks does it carry?
Without any doubt, Root rights are a very powerful and useful tool, but at the same time, certain troubles may arise during everyday use of the device.
Loss of warranty
Source: Engadget
Often, getting Root on a smartphone can cause a denial of warranty service for the device, even if the breakdown is not directly related to modifications. Although not every service will check for root, you need to be prepared for the fact that the gadget cannot be repaired for free or replaced with a new one in case of a manufacturing defect.
For example, Samsung uses a special electronic counter in its smartphones that is activated when there are any changes in the system. Once it is triggered, the owner will no longer be able to use the Samsung Pay contactless payment service and the Knox security system, and the company can thus learn about user intervention and use this as a reason to refuse service. However, each manufacturer has its own conditions, so it is better to familiarize yourself with them in advance.
Risk of device failure
Source: droidviews.com
Root gives enormous freedom, and in the hands of a less experienced user, this freedom can turn against him. In the process of experimentation, something can always go wrong, and the output will be a “bricked” device. As a rule, signs of a “brick” are either a constant reboot without logging in, called a bootlap, or the absence of any signs of “life” at all. At this stage, at a minimum, you can say goodbye to all the data on your smartphone.
Problems with updates
Source: Android Police
Android 5.0 has received many changes, both pleasant and not so pleasant. The latter can safely include blocking the possibility of OTA updates (downloading OS updates via the Internet via “Settings”) as soon as modifications are detected in the system. However, now the problem has disappeared - the Magisk utility solves it using its own mechanisms. Thanks to it, you can safely install system updates without losing Root. There are a huge number of instructions on the Internet on the topic of OTA updates with root access, so this problem is not so critical, although it is still worth noting.
Virus susceptibility
By obtaining root rights, applications can manage any data and parameters in the system. But a program with such access is not always useful: malware can also take advantage of vulnerabilities. The consequences can be dire: from the loss or damage of some files to the theft of valuable personal data. In some cases, everything can end in destructive actions with the system and subsequent problems in operation.
Having Rooted your device, you must always keep in mind that the system becomes very vulnerable, and therefore you must carefully check each application that you are going to install. Also, you should not give Root access to software that you do not trust.
Broken apps
One of the most unpleasant problems that a user of a Rooted device may encounter. Many programs simply refuse to work after they detect root rights or third-party firmware. The most obvious example is banking applications. As stated earlier, unauthorized access to important data is likely, and programs warn the user about the possible interception of valuable banking data. The same applies to programs with licensed content - the application of the popular streaming service Netflix cannot be installed on devices with modifications.
However, sometimes Root rights can be hidden, for example, using the Magisk utility, after which “stubborn” applications are launched as if nothing had happened. But even hiding the root with Magisk Hide does not guarantee the constant and stable operation of all programs - there is always a chance that after the next Google Pay update you will not be able to pay with your smartphone in a store.
So is it worth rooting Android?
Using a system with superuser rights is like driving a multi-ton truck. If you really know how to do it, then why not. But if you don’t know how, then you should first acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. In general, if the question is “How to patch KDE2 under FreeBSD?” If you associate it exclusively with anime, then we do not advise you to “root” Android.
A few more tips:
- Try to install programs from official stores. However, we should not forget that Trojans regularly creep into Google Play.
- Therefore, on both “rooted” and “non-rooted” Android, you should install only well-known applications from well-known developers, and only those that you really need.
- You can check the installed application with an antivirus, for example our free Kaspersky Internet Security for Android.
Is it worth doing Root? There are pros and cons
Depends on the requirements for the smartphone. Most likely, the standard functionality of the system is enough. If you are one of the small percentage of users who want to get the most out of their device, then obtaining root rights will help you achieve your goals. The examples given are just a small part of what you can do if you have Root rights on your device. But we must understand that this gives complete freedom of action, and any rash movement on the part of the user can lead to unpleasant consequences.
Part 3: Preparing to Root Your Phone
Considering that rooting your phone is a dangerous process, we suggest you prepare for it.
1. First of all, charge your phone to at least 80% battery capacity. This is necessary to prevent the process from being interrupted when the power is turned off.
2. Install and update your phone drivers. You can download drivers from the manufacturer's website. If you have installed drivers, update it.
3. Turn off your antivirus software and firewall.
4. Make sure you understand what Android rooting is and choose the right way to do it.
5. Backup your phone with Apeaksoft Android Data Extraction before rooting your phone.
What can Android data extraction do?
1. Extracting data from your phone to your computer is easy.
2. Protect all data and content in its original condition and quality.
3. Do not destroy current data on your phone during backup.
4. Process contacts, call history, SMS, MMS, photos, music, videos, documents, application data and much more.
5. Works on all smartphones from Samsung, HTC, LG, Google, MOTO, Sony, Huawei, etc.
6. Support Android O/N/M and earlier versions.
7. Available for Windows 10/8/8.1/7/XP and Mac OS.
Obtaining administrator rights from a PC
Advanced users consider rooting via a personal computer more reliable, and the likelihood of successfully obtaining administrator rights in this case is higher. Judging by the reviews, the Kingo Android Root program can be called the most popular, and at the same time, effective tool.
The developers of this software are looking for vulnerabilities in the Android platform, so they know their stuff, and no serious mistakes have been noticed. You can find the program on their official website.
Rooting procedure:
- Connect your mobile device via USB interface (USB debugging must be enabled on your phone).
- Wait until the program detects your device and installs the appropriate drivers (check your Internet connection).
- On your mobile gadget, in the pop-up window, allow the connection by clicking on the OK button.
- The main window with a large ROOT button at the bottom should appear on the computer.
- Click on it, wait for the rooting process to complete (the time depends on the performance of your mobile device).
- If the procedure is completed successfully, the message Root Succeeded will appear!
- Disconnect the USB cable and restart your mobile gadget.
The program works with a large list of smartphones, tablets, TV set-top boxes and other devices running the Android platform. If the utility was unable to determine the model of your device or the necessary drivers were not found, then in this case it is worth looking for a proprietary application from the manufacturer for synchronization. You can find it on the official website of the brand. If you have an ultra-low-cost noname device from China, then it is better to obtain administrator rights in the first way, that is, directly from the phone.
Part 5: How to Root Android Phone/Tablet on Computer
We use CF Auto Root as an example to show you the workflow as it supports a wider range of devices.
Step 1: Firstly, unlock your Android device, go to Settings > About Phone/About Tablet and note the value under Build Number. And also enable USB debugging in Settings > Developer Options.
Step 2: Turn on your computer, visit the CF Auto Root website, find the package corresponding to your build number and click "Download" to get it. Then connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
CF Auto Root supports most devices from Samsung, Moto, HTC, LG, Google, etc. If you can't find the corresponding package, you'd better switch to another tool.
Step 3: Launch Odin3, check the “Auto Reboot” and “F Reset Time” checkboxes. Once your device is detected, you can see information displayed in the Message area. Click the "PDA" button on the right and open the CF Auto Root file you just downloaded. Leave everything as default and click the Start button to start rooting your device immediately.
Part 6: How to Root Kindle HD Pro
Kindle HD Pro runs a special operating system, Fire OS, which is based on Android systems. Follow the instructions below to use Kindle Fire Utility for a rooted Fire OS device.
Step 1: Make sure to install the Kindle Fire HD drivers on your computer, fully charge your Kindle device, go to Settings > More > Device and turn on “Allow apps to install.” Then connect it to your computer using the USB cable that came with the device.
Step 2: Create a new folder on your computer's desktop and enter a name such as root. Visit the XDA Developers website in your browser and extract the contents to the root folder.
Step 3: Run the "run.bat" file in the root folder. If "ADB Status" shows "Online", it means your Kindle has been detected. Then follow the “Set permanent root with superuser” option in the “Bootloader Menu”. It takes time to install and root the device.
Step 4: When the message “Root Installed” appears on the screen, it means your device has been successfully rooted. Keep Kindle Fire HD Pro connected to your computer.
Step 5: Run the "run.bat" file again, this time select "Advanced (Required | Root) from the bootloader menu" and then "Install Google Apps/Go Launcher EX". Wait for the Play Store to install on your device.
Congratulations! You can now use your Kindle Fire HD Pro as another Android tablet device and install apps from the Google Play Store.
