The operating system Android was initially designed with an emphasis on security, which implies a strict delineation of access rights for the user and system processes. In standard operating mode, the smartphone owner sees only the tip of the iceberg - folders with media files, documents and application data that do not require privileges. However, for deep customization, removal of system garbage, or manual installation of fonts, you need to gain access to the root partition of the file system.
Before you begin manipulating critical directories, you should be aware of the risks. Any rash action, such as deleting a necessary .so file or changing access rights (chmod) to the system library, can lead to the device going into an endless reboot. Changing access rights to the /system folder without a backup copy of the bootloader can lead to irreversible blocking devices.
There are several ways to bypass standard restrictions Google, each of which has its own characteristics and level of complexity. We will look at methods from simply using special applications to working with console commands through a computer. The choice of a specific path depends on your technical training and the goals you are pursuing.
The concept of root access and their necessity
The key point for opening access to system folders is the presence of root access (superuser). In terms of Linux, on which Android runs, this is analogous to administrator rights. Without them, the file manager simply will not let you into the directory /system, /vendor or /data, even if you use advanced tools.
Obtaining superuser rights is a process that varies depending on the manufacturer and model of the device. For some smartphones, it is enough to activate the hidden developer menu, while others require unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader) and flashing a special image via Fastboot. It is important to understand that unlocking the bootloader often leads to loss of warranty.
⚠️ Attention: After obtaining root access, security-related applications, such as banking clients and contactless payment services, stop working unless additional hiding modules are used. Google Pay, if you do not use additional hiding modules.
Modern methods of obtaining root access is often based on on using the utility Magisk. It allows you to modify the system without changing the system partition, being introduced into the boot process. This gives flexibility in managing rights for specific applications through a convenient interface.
Using file managers with Root support
The easiest way for a beginner to access protected partitions is to use specialized file managers. Standard explorers, preinstalled in shells MIUI or OneUIusually hide system files or do not allow you to change them. You will need to install a third-party application, for example MT Manager, Solid Explorer or Root Explorer.
After installing such an application and granting it superuser rights (the request will appear automatically upon first launch), the interface will change. You will see the option to go to the root of the file system. Navigation becomes similar to working with regular folders, but the functionality of changing access rights and file ownership appears.
- 📂 MT Manager —a powerful tool not only for viewing, but also for editing APK files and system libraries on the fly.
- 🔒 Solid Explorer —has a modern interface and supports plugins for working with Root access, convenient for beginners.
- 🛠️ Root Explorer — a classic of the genre, a minimalistic and reliable tool for experienced users who know the structure of Android.
When working with such managers, it is important to monitor the access status. Typically, a RW (Read-Write) icon is displayed at the top of the screen, indicating that the partition is mounted for writing. If there is no icon or it shows RO (Read-Only), any attempts to save changes will be unsuccessful. The operating mode switch is often located in the corner of the interface.
☑️ Check before editing system files
Working with the ADB console and command line
For those who prefer control over each process or do not want to install dubious applications with root access on the device itself, this method is ideal ADB (Android Debug Bridge). This tool is part of the platform tools Android SDK from Google and allows you to control the device from your computer.
To get started, you need to activate USB debugging mode in the “For Developers” menu on your smartphone. After connecting to your PC and installing the drivers, you will be able to issue commands from the terminal. Even without full root access, ADB allows you to perform a number of operations that are not available through the graphical interface, for example, uninstalling system applications for the current user.
If the device has Root access, then through ADB you can launch a full-fledged superuser console. To do this, use the command:
adb shell
su
After switching to su mode, you get unlimited access to the entire file system. This allows you to perform batch operations, automation scripts, and fine-tuning kernel parameters. However, an error in the command syntax here can cost the system functionality.
⚠️ Attention: Commands in ADB are executed instantly and without additional confirmation. Be extremely careful when using delete (rm) or overwrite (dd) commands on system partitions.
Using ADB is especially important when working with devices where the graphical interface is damaged or does not load. This is a “lifeline” for advanced users, allowing you to resuscitate the system or delete a conflict file that is interfering with loading.
List of useful ADB commands for working with files
adb pull /path/on/phone/file C:/path/on/pc - copy a file from the phone to the computer.|adb push C:/file /path/on/phone/ - copy a file from the computer to the phone.|adb shell ls -l /system - list files in the system folder with access rights.|adb shell rm /path/to/file - delete the file (requires root for system files).
Mounting partitions and changing access rights
The Android file system often mounts system partition /system in Read-Only mode immediately after booting. This is a protection mechanism that prevents accidental damage to the OS. To make changes, you need to remount the partition in Read-Write mode.
In modern file managers, this is done with one click of a button. However, when working through the console or scripts, you must use the command mount. The syntax may differ depending on the version of Android and the type of file system (ext4, f2fs), but the general principle remains the same.
An example command for remounting via the terminal:
mount -o rw,remount /systemAfter making all the necessary changes, it is strongly recommended to return the partition to its original state. This reduces the risk of data corruption during a sudden power loss and returns the system to its standard level of protection. Ignoring this step may lead to unstable operation of the device.
Use the “Restore Point” function in file managers before editing system files. This will create a copy of the original file, which can be quickly restored in case of an error.
Comparison of file system access methods
The choice of access method depends on your tasks. If you just need to transfer a couple of files or look at the logs, one method will do. For deep modification of the firmware, you will need another one. Below is a comparative table of the main approaches.
| Method | Necessity of Root | Risk level | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard file manager | No | Low | High |
| Root manager (MT, Solid) | Yes | Medium | High |
| ADB Shell (without root) | No (partial access) | Medium | Low |
| ADB + Root (Console) | Yes | High | Low |
| Recovery mode (TWRP) | Yes (indirect) | High | Medium |
As can be seen from the table, the balance between convenience and security shifts towards risks when using console commands. Graphical interfaces take care of some of the checking, but can hide important process details. The console gives complete freedom, but requires deep knowledge of the structure Linux.
For most users, the best option is a combination of an unlocked bootloader, an installed Magisk and a high-quality file manager. This allows you to solve 95% of problems without having to connect your smartphone to the computer every time and enter commands manually.
Typical mistakes and precautions
Beginner modders often make mistakes associated with inattention to file extensions and access rights. Deleting a file with the extension .odex or .vdex may disrupt the operation of a specific application or the entire system. It is also critically important not to change the owner of folders, as this may lead to Android services denying access to their data.
Another common problem is working with the file system during updates. If you have modified the system partition, the automatic over-the-air update (OTA) will most likely fail or, worse, install on top of the modifications, causing a version conflict and bootloop.
⚠️ Attention: Before any intervention in the system folders, make sure that you have a working way to enter Recovery mode and the ability to reset the device to factory settings settings (Wipe Data).
Do not blindly follow instructions from the Internet if you do not understand the essence of the command. Phrases like “remove everything that contains the word bloatware” can be dangerous, since system processes often have non-obvious names. Always check the purpose of the file in search engines before deleting or renaming it.
The main rule of system modification: never permanently delete a file. First, rename it (add .bak) and reboot. If everything works, you can delete it.
System recovery after errors
If after your actions the smartphone stops loading, do not panic. In most cases, the system goes into a cyclic reboot. The first step should be to get into Recovery mode (usually a combination of the volume and power buttons).
If you have a custom recovery installed, for example TWRP, you can go to the file manager directly from it, connect to your PC and delete or restore the problematic file. If the recovery is stock, only a complete data reset (Wipe Data/Factory Reset) can help, which will delete all user data, but return the system to its factory state.
In the worst case, when the bootloader or critical partitions are damaged, you will need to flash the device via a computer using official utilities from the manufacturer (Odin for Samsung, SP Flash Tool for MediaTek, Fastboot for Pixel and others). This returns the smartphone to its original software.
Do I need to Root to access the Android/data folder?
Starting with Android 11, access to the folder Android/data is limited even for file managers. However, to access it not necessary have root access. It is enough to use the built-in file manager (via the “Open with” menu in the file manager) or special utilities like Material Filesthat use system APIs to bypass restrictions. Root is only needed to change files inside this folder if they are protected by the owner's rights.
Will the warranty be reset after obtaining root access?
In most cases, yes. Gaining root access and unlocking the bootloader is a violation of the manufacturers' user agreement. In addition, modern devices have a counter Knox (Samsung) or analogues that physically record the fact of intervention. Even returning to the factory firmware does not always hide this fact from the service center.
Is it possible to remove system applications without Root?
It is impossible to completely remove a system application without root access, since the partition /system is protected. However, you can “freeze” or delete the application for the current user via ADB with the command pm uninstall -k --user 0 package name. The application will disappear from the interface and stop consuming resources, but will physically remain in memory and will return after resetting the settings.
Is it safe to use applications to clean the system with Root?
Using applications like Clean Master with root access can be risky. They can aggressively remove caches and files needed to keep the system running quickly. It is much safer to use specialized tools like SD Maid, which have a transparent operating logic and allow the user to control each deleted file.