What is Android Rooting? Methods, Tools & Best Practices

Rooting has become a topic of interest for tech enthusiasts and those seeking greater control and customization over their smartphones or tablets. Rooting an Android device allows users to unlock its full potential, granting access to advanced features, customization options, and system-level modifications. While rooting can provide customization options and advanced features, it's crucial to know the potential drawbacks and their impact on your device's stability and security. Whether you are an individual with tech skills and eager to explore the possibilities of rooting or a cautious beginner looking to understand the fundamentals, this guide aims to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the world of rooting. If you are planning to root your device, it would be advisable to learn more about security by taking courses such as Cyber Security certifications. For now, let's embark on this beginner's guide to rooting and unlocking the true potential of your Android device!

What is Rooting?

If you are from a computer background, then you would have heard about “root” users, but you will be wondering, “what is rooting” and “what is rooted device”. Rooting refers to gaining privileged access to the device, also known as root or superuser access. It allows users to access and modify system files and settings that the device manufacturer typically restricts. Users can get around operating system restrictions and control their Android devices by obtaining root access. To know more about rooting and able to root your device, an Ethical Hacking course will be beneficial for both beginner and advanced users.

Why Root Android Devices?

Rooting is often compared to jailbreaking on iOS devices, as both processes aim to bypass the limitations imposed by the device's operating system. It's crucial to note that while "jailbreaking" is connected to iOS devices, "rooting" only applies to Android smartphones. However, in general, users don’t differentiate between “what is rooting a phone” vs. “what is a rooted android device”; this is because of a high number of Android users and comparatively lower skills requirement for rooting an Android phone.

Rooting provides users with a higher level of administrative control, enabling them to perform actions and modifications that are otherwise inaccessible. The user may remove any pre-installed bloatware, alter system settings, install custom ROMs, improve performance, and access and modify system files after gaining root access to the device.

Rooting is mainly done by advanced users, developers, and tech enthusiasts who want greater control or want to customize options and the ability to unleash the full potential of their Android devices. It is crucial to remember that rooting is not advised for regular users or those who are not very knowledgeable about the technical components of the Android operating system.

Before proceeding with rooting, it's crucial to research and understands the specific requirements and risks associated with your device model and Android version. Following reliable guides and using trusted rooting methods is recommended to minimize the chances of encountering issues during the process.

In simple term, rooting convert a user to a “root” user, so the natural question becomes, “what does root do”. The answer is a root user has total control over the device, so rooting Android devices offers several benefits and advantages for users seeking greater control and customization over their devices. Here are some reasons why individuals choose to root their Android devices:

1. Access to Administrative Privileges: By rooting an Android device, users gain administrative or superuser privileges, often called "root access."
2. Customization and Personalization: Rooting enables users to personalize their Android devices with extensive customization options.
3. Removing Bloatware and Unwanted System Apps: Rooting allows users to remove unnecessary apps (Bloatware), freeing up storage space and improving device performance.
4. Installing Incompatible Apps: Some apps require root access to function fully or utilize advanced features. Users can install and use these apps that are otherwise incompatible with non-rooted devices by rooting them.
5. System-level Modifications and Enhancements: Rooting allows for system-level modifications and enhancements.
6. Backup and Restore Capabilities: Rooting provides users with more comprehensive backup and restore options. Users can perform full system backups with root access, including app data, settings, and system files.

Rooting Methods and Tools

When it comes to rooting Android devices, several methods and tools are available. Each method has its own requirements, compatibility, and level of complexity. Here are some popular rooting methods and tools commonly used:

1. One-Click Rooting Apps: Due to ease of use and simplicity, One-Click Apps like KingoRoot, OneClickRoot, Farmaroot, and Magisk Manager are popular for rooting. The user only needs to take these three easy actions to use these apps:

 i) download the program to their device,

 ii) enable USB debugging; and

iii) start the rooting process by following the on-screen prompts.

For example, If you are using Farmaroot, then the step would be as follows:

a) Begin by downloading the Farmaroot APK.

b) Install the APK on your Android device. Note that you may be required to enable the "Unknown sources" option in your Android Security settings to complete the installation.

c) Open the Farmaroot app and locate the "Root" button.

d) Upon initiating the rooting process, the app will assess if your device is compatible for rooting. If it is, the app will proceed with the rooting process. However, if your device is incompatible, you will need to explore alternative rooting methods.

e) Once the app successfully roots your device, you are now able to proceed with the rooting process.

f) Following this, download and run SuperSU, which will allow you to manage and regulate your device's root access.

2. Custom Recovery and Flashing: Custom recovery tools like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) or ClockworkMod Recovery can be installed on Android devices to enable advanced system-level modifications. These recoveries allow users to flash custom ROMs, kernels, and other modifications through a custom recovery interface.

3. Custom ROMs: The Android operating system has been upgraded to include custom ROMs, which provide more features, better performance, and customization choices. A common feature of well-known custom ROMs like LineageOS, Paranoid Android, and Resurrection Remix is root access.

4. Exploits and Vulnerabilities: Some Android devices might have particular flaws or exploits that can be used to get root access.

5. Manufacturer Unlocking: Some manufacturers provide official methods to unlock the bootloader of their devices, which is a prerequisite for rooting.

How do Hackers and Professional Developers Root Devices?

Hackers and professional developers utilize various techniques and tools to root Android devices, each with their own objectives and methods. These individuals use some common approaches, such as:

1. Exploiting Vulnerabilities: Hackers often search for vulnerabilities in the Android operating system or specific device models. These vulnerabilities can be software bugs or security loopholes that allow them to gain root access. Once identified, hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities using specialized tools or by developing their own exploit code.

2. Custom Firmware and Custom Recovery: Professional developers create custom firmware and custom recovery options that can be installed on Android devices. These custom solutions provide users with root access and additional functionalities beyond what the stock firmware offers. Examples include popular custom firmware like LineageOS and custom recoveries like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project).

3. One-Click Rooting Tools: Some developers create user-friendly one-click rooting tools that simplify the rooting process for non-technical users. These tools automate the rooting procedure, often by exploiting known vulnerabilities or using established techniques. Users can connect their devices to a computer, run the tool, and let it handle the rooting process.

4. Unlocking Bootloader: Android devices typically have a locked bootloader, restricting users from modifying the system files. Hackers and professional developers may use techniques to unlock the bootloader, allowing them to install custom firmware, custom recoveries, and gain root access. Unlocking the bootloader usually involves specific commands or software tools provided by the device manufacturer.

Effects on System OS After Rooting

Rooting, an Android device can affect the system operating system (OS) positively and negatively. Here are some key effects to consider to know what does rooting a phone do.

• Increased Privileges: Users can perform system-level operations or administrative access.
• Customization and Personalization: Users can install custom ROMs (modified versions of Android), apply themes, use different launchers, and change system-level settings to tailor the device's appearance, behavior, and functionality according to their preferences.
• Advanced App Management: Users can uninstall pre-installed system apps (bloatware), control app permissions more granularly, backup and restore apps and their data, and even use apps that require root access for their full functionality.
• Enhanced Performance and Battery Life: Users can streamline their resources, reduce system overhead, and experience faster performance and improved battery efficiency.
• Risk of Bricking and Instability: Rooting can make the device dead, and their operations can be unpredictable.
• Security Risks: A rooted device can also create security risks, mainly if rooting is done with untrusted software.
• Warranty and Software Updates: Many manufacturers void the warranty if the user roots the device. In addition, service providers may not allow software updates on rooted devices.

Benefits and Limitations of Rooting

Rooting an Android device offers both benefits and limitations. The following table list the benefits, i.e., what can you do with a rooted phone and the limitations of rooting.

Benefits	Limitations
Customization	Voided Warranty
Advanced App Management	Security Risks
Performance Optimization	System Instability
Access to Exclusive Apps	Incompatibility with Software Updates
Increased Battery Life	Inability to Use certain Apps

Best Practices for Secure Rooting

When it comes to rooting an Android device, it's essential to follow best practices to ensure a secure and successful process. Here are some recommended practices for secure rooting:

• Research and Understand: Before attempting to root your device, thoroughly research the rooting process, available methods, and tools. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and instructions for your device model and Android version.
• Backup Your Data: Before rooting, create a complete backup of your device's data, including contacts, photos, videos, documents, and any other important files.
• Use Reliable Sources: Only download rooting tools, custom ROMs, and other related software from trusted and reputable sources. Avoid downloading files from unknown or unverified websites, as they may contain malware or harmful software.
• Verify Compatibility: Ensure that your chosen rooting method is compatible with your device model and Android version.
• Use Official Firmware: Before starting the rooting process, ensure your device runs the manufacturer's latest official firmware.
• Update Security Software: Ensure that your device's security software, such as antivirus and anti-malware applications, is current. Regularly update these applications to protect your device from potential threats, as rooting may expose your device to security risks if not done properly.

By following these best practices, you can enhance the security and success of the rooting process. It's important to approach rooting with caution, prioritize data backup, and make informed decisions to maintain the integrity of your device and ensure a positive rooting experience. KnowledgeHut’s IT Security training courses are very helpful in understanding the basics of cyber security and will be helpful to learn about rooting so learners can attempt to root their devices.

Conclusion

Through this blog, you have learned about rooting and explored the potential to unlock the capabilities of Android devices. Now, you can answer questions like, “what does rooting a phone mean”. Rooting allows users to gain administrative privileges, enabling them to customize their devices, access advanced features, and install custom ROMs.

Understanding the reasons behind rooting, you explored its benefits, including enhanced customization options, improved performance, and the ability to uninstall pre-installed bloatware. It is crucial to research and choose the most appropriate method for your specific device and Android version, considering factors like compatibility, user feedback, and reliability of the sources. To ensure a secure rooting experience, you must follow best practices, including the importance of using reliable sources, verifying compatibility, following instructions carefully, and practicing caution when granting root access to apps.