Android Rooting

“What is rooting? Why should I root my Android device?”

These are common questions that I see on the internet often.

Today’s we discuss about both the advantages and disadvantages of rooting your Android devices. But before we get started, a word of caution: rooting or modifying your phone in any way will void your manufacturer’s warranty and possibly “brick” it.

(Bricking: - means destroying up your phone software so badly that your phones can no longer function properly).

I do not in any way recommend anyone to root their Android device. This article is simply to introduce you to the subject of rooting and present you with both the pro’s and con’s so that you can make an educated decision on your own.

What is Rooting?

“Rooting” your device means obtaining “superuser” rights and permissions to your Android’s software. 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 software that would otherwise cost extra money (ex: WiFi tethering). Rooting is essentially “hacking” your Android device. In the iPhone world, this would be the equivalent to “Jailbreaking” your phone.

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). The root user, because they have “superuser” privileges, can essentially change or modify any of the software code on the device. You see, your phone manufacturer/carrier only gives you “guest” privileges when you purchase your device.

Advantages

1. Can install custom base bands versions which often increase the capacity of the signals and quality of phone calls

2. Can install custom roms ie., operating system other than the manufacturer had installed

3. Can install new versions of android operating system. which provides you more features

4. Can Freeze or uninstall system apps form OS supplied by manufacturer

Disadvantages

1. Voids warranty of the phone

2. some times it may lead to brick your phone