If you are an Android device user, you might have heard of the term ‘Rooting’. So what is it? Some hacking process maybe? Well, let us explain what the whole deal about rooting is.
So basically if you manage to root your Android device you can gain privileged control which also called root access within Android’s subsystem. Android is based on the Linux kernel so rooting an Android device is similar to accessing administrative permissions on Linux OS.
Rooting your device enables you to obtain super-user rights and permissions to your Android’s software. Once you get these rights and permissions, you can install custom softwares include custom Android ROMs, install custom themes, increase performance, increase battery life, and the ability to install software that would otherwise need to buy. So in a way rooting is a bit like hacking your Android device, just like jailbreaking an iPhone.
But as with every hacking process, there are advantages and limitations to the rooting process.
Disadvantages
- Firstly, it is not a simple process. It takes a little long process but once you get the hang of it and follow the instructions, you can easily root your Android device.
- There are chances of losing your data, and that is a major concern for many. So it is advised to make a proper backup of your device before you go on to root your Android device.
- The security risks increase when you gain root access to your device, as it also enables malicious software to gain access to the super-user directory. This can lead to misuse of data so you have to be extra careful while installing apps and other softwares.
- The biggest issue while rooting is that it can brick your device. If you somehow don’t follow the proper steps of rooting, it can lead to a bricked device which means that the phone software did not install properly which in turn leads to the device being useless like a brick.
- If your device is under warranty, there are chances that you might lose your warranty privileges if you root your device. However, some device manufacturers do not void warranty, so you need to ask your dealer.
Advantages
- Once you gain root access to your device, you can easily backup all of your data and setting on your device very easily and safely.
- Rooting enables you to install custom ROMs, custom themes and a lot more to make your device more appealing.
- With customs ROMs and custom softwares, you can easily tweak your device to have a better performance and better battery life.
- You also gain access to certain features which might be locked by certain carriers including Wi-Fi and USB tethering, etc.
So have you ever tried rooting your device? Do tell us your experience.