What is Rooting?
Rooting is a process that allows users of cellphones, and other devices, running the Android operating system to attain privileged control (known as “root access/administrative access”) within Android’s Linux subsystem thus overcoming limitations that the carriers and manufacturers put on such phones.
How to root?
Android rooting methods varies from device to device.You will need any one of the following apps
- SuperOneClick
- Z4Root
- Universal AndRoot
Best selected rooting guides
Benefits of Rooting
You will gain full control over your phone and can tweak it to extreme as you wish.
- Improved Performance: By relocating your phones cache and overclocking your device.
- Alter System Files: Replacing “Android Core” files, modding apps etc.
- More Application Choices: Install apps that are only compatible with rooted phones.
- Install applications to your SD CARD: With rooted devices, you can use Apps2SD, which will copy ALL your applications to a ext2/3/4 formatted SD card.
- Latest Android OS (Operating System): The option to install any current and future OS’s by installing custom-tailored ROMs.
- WI-FI and Bluetooth Tethering: Enable sharing the Internet connection with your laptop or PC.
Risks of Rooting
The most notable risk is that you will void any warranty that you have on your device. But unrooting is easier nowadays. The riskier part is installing custom ROMs in your phone – Bricking your device is a possibility. However it is advisable to get a copy or backup your stock ROM before proceeding with custom ROMs, so that you can revert back to Original SPL and the Original Stock Rom.
Note: Rooting your device can be a fun process if you do it with much care, a simple mistake will end up in bricking your phone.
Source: Android forums, Wikipedia