Rooting an Android phone means to attain privileged control (known as root access) over the various Android system. Rooting is how you get complete access to everything in the operating system, and those permissions allow you to change it all.
With these elevated user privileges, you gain the ability to load custom software (ROM’s), install custom themes, increase performance, increase battery life, and the ability to install the Rooting software.
Android devices have the biggest share of the market and “rooting” is a common word among Android enthusiasts. One of the best features of the Android phone is that it has an open-source operating system. However, that doesn’t actually make the whole thing open.
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Table of Contents
Why is it called Rooting?
The term “root” comes from the Unix/Linux world and is used to describe a user who has “superuser” rights or permissions to all the files and programs in the software OS (Operating System). phone manufacturer/carrier only gives you “guest” privileges when you purchase your device.
They do this for good reason… they don’t want you getting into certain parts of the software on your phone and screwing it up beyond repair. It makes it much easier for them to manage and update the devices if they lock it all down.
Will rootings void my warranty?
Yes Rooting or modifying your phone in any way will void your manufacturer’s warranty and possibly “brick” it. That said, if you need warranty service for a hardware issue, you can sometimes unroot your phone and take it in for service with no one the wiser.
However, some phones have a digital “switch” that flips when you unlock your phone that is very difficult or impossible to revert, so do your research before unlocking if you want to preserve your warranty.
Advantages of Rooting?
There are tons of benefits of rooting your phone if you know how to utilize them properly. These benefits are also the main reason why you would root your phone.
As a superuser has access to the device’s system files, all aspects of the operating system can be customized with the only real limitation being the level of coding expertise.
Following are the advantages of Rooting
- Full control of the kernel, which, for example, allows overclocking and underclocking the CPU and GPU.
- Custom Themes.
- Get Rid of Bloatware.
- Ability to install a custom ROM.
- Boost Speed and Battery Life.
- Unlocking Additional Features.
- Access to recent (unofficial) OS Updates.
Disadvantages of Rooting?
There are essentially potential cons to rooting your Android:
- Bricking
- Security
- No more manufacturer’s Warranty.
- Disabled apps: Some security-conscious apps and financial platforms services do not work on rooted devices.
- Vulnerability to “Bad” Programs.
