Many Android users sooner or later face the need to access system files that are hidden from the standard browser. A conventional file manager shows only media files and documents, leaving the operating system's deep settings inaccessible.
Opening the so-called “root” folder is not just moving files, it is an entrance to the “heart” of the device, where kernel settings, application configurations and system libraries are stored.
To open these hidden sections, you will need not just a third-party application, but special superuser rights or a unique access method that we will look at in this article.
What is a root folder and why do you need access to it
In the context of Android, the term root folder usually implies a directory /system or /data, access to which is limited by standard security rights. Without superuser rights (root), you see only the tip of the iceberg of the file system.
Users strive to access these areas to remove pre-installed software (bloatware), change fonts, fine-tune the interface, or restore system files after a failure.
However It is worth understanding that Android is built on the basis of the Linuxkernel, where the file hierarchy is strictly regulated. Unauthorized intervention can lead to unstable operation of
There are two main ways to work with this data: full root access, which opens all doors, and using special features through ADB (Android Debug Bridge) for partial access without complete flashing.
⚠️ Attention: Any change to system files in the folder
/systemmay lead to the smartphone being “bricked”, turning it into a useless piece of plastic.
⚠️ Attention: Device manufacturers may void the warranty if detecting traces of obtaining root access through service centers.
Ways to obtain superuser rights (Root)
To directly edit root folders, most users need to set superuser rights. This gives complete control over the file system, allowing you to read and write data to any partition.
The most popular tool today is Magisk. Unlike older methods, it works on the Systemless principle, without changing the physical partition /system, which allows you to bypass some security checks of banking applications.
The process of obtaining root access usually begins with unlocking the bootloader (bootloader). This is the first and mandatory step, which erases all data from the device, so backup is critically important.
After unlocking, a patched boot image is flashed onto the device. Only after this, applications like Magic Hosts or file managers with root support will be able to see hidden directories.
An alternative to classic rooting can be the use of kernel vulnerabilities, but this method is extremely unstable and depends on the specific version Android and processor model.
⚠️ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader on smartphones with processors Snapdragon is often irreversible for DRM protection functions (video quality in streaming may drop).
Review of the best file managers with Root support
Even after you have received rights, you need the right tool for navigation. The standard explorer does not know how to request superuser rights and will not show hidden files even if they exist.
It has long been considered the leader in this niche Root Explorer, but today the market offers more modern and free open source solutions.
One of the best options is Material Files or Mixplorer. These applications have an intuitive interface and automatically request root access when you try to access system partitions.
When choosing a manager, pay attention to the presence of a function for creating backup copies before editing. This is a critical security mechanism.
It is also useful to have a built-in text editor, since many configuration files are in the format .prop or .xml and require code editing, not just moving.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid using dubious file managers from unverified sources, as they may have access to all your personal data.
Before editing any system file, make a copy of it in the downloads folder, assigning the .bak extension to easily restore the original.
Step-by-step guide for opening system folders
Let's consider the algorithm of actions using the example of a popular file manager Solid Explorer or similar, with root support. Let's assume that superuser rights have already been activated.
Launch the application and go to settings. Find the section responsible for access to the file system and activate the switch Root access.
The system will prompt you to grant privileges - confirm it. Now a new button or section will appear in the main menu, often indicated by a hash icon #.
Clicking on this icon will take you to the root of the file system. Here you will see folders system, vendor, data and other hidden directories.
To make changes, click on the lock icon in the corner of the screen to put the file manager in recording mode. Without this, you will only be able to view files.
☑️ Check before access
Be extremely careful when deleting files. If you accidentally delete a library .so or configuration file, the system may stop booting.
Use the "Mount as R/W" (Read/Write) function if the file manager requires an explicit action to allow writing to the partition. /system.
mount -o remount,rw /systemThis command, entered through the terminal or the manager's built-in console, remounts the partition in read-write mode, allowing you to make changes.
Always check the access rights (chmod) of files after replacing them - they must match the original ones, otherwise the application will not start.
Alternative access via ADB without root access
It is not always advisable to obtain full rights superuser. For many tasks, access via USB debugging using a tool is sufficient. ADB.
This method allows you to remove some system applications and view logs without violating the integrity of the bootloader and without losing the warranty.
First you need to activate Developer mode in the phone settings. Click seven times on the build number in the “About phone” section.
Then enable USB debugging and connect your smartphone to the computer. Install the package on your PC Android SDK Platform-Tools.
By entering the command adb shell, you will gain access to the device command line. Although direct access to /system will be limited, you can use the command pm uninstall to remove applications for the current user.
This method is safer, since in case of an error you will not damage the system partition, but will only hide the application for your account.
Comparison of access methods file system
To choose the right approach, it is important to understand the difference between full rooting and debugging access. Below is a table comparing the main characteristics of the methods.
| Characteristics | Full Root (Magisk) | Access via ADB | Standard access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level access | Full (all files) | Limited (custom) | Media and data only |
| Risk of breakdown | High | Low | None |
| Impact on warranty | Often voids | Usually no | No |
| Setting complexity | High | Medium | Absent |
| Ability to remove bloatware | Full | Partial (hiding) | Impossible |
As can be seen from the table, the method ADB is the golden mean for those who want to clean their phone of unnecessary software, but are afraid of the risks of full rooting.
Full Root is only necessary for deep customization, installation of specific modules or complete control over the device’s hardware.
What what to do if the phone does not turn on after the changes?
If the device is stuck on the logo, try booting into Recovery mode (usually volume up + power) and make a wipe cache partition. In the worst case, you will need to flash it via Fastboot.
Frequent questions and problems when working with root
Users often encounter typical problems when trying to open root folders. Let's look at the most common questions that arise during the process.
One of the main problems is the lack of a “Root access” button in the file manager. This almost always means that the device does not have superuser rights installed or they were not granted through the manager application (for example SuperSU or Magisk Manager).
Another common question concerns the security of banking applications. Many banks refuse to work on rooted devices. The solution may be to use the feature Magisk Hide or rename the manager package rights.
Users are also concerned about the issue of updating the system. If there is a modified partition /system over-the-air (OTA) update often fails. In this case, the update must be installed manually via Recovery.
Is it safe to open the root folder for a regular user?
For an ordinary user who just wants to view files, this is unsafe due to the risk of accidentally deleting critical data. Do this only if you understand the consequences.
Is it possible to get Root without unlocking the bootloader?
On modern devices with Android 10 and higher, this is almost impossible without using paid services or specific vulnerabilities that quickly are closed.
Which file manager is best for beginners?
It is recommended to start with Solid Explorer or MT ManagerThey have a clear interface and clear warnings before performing dangerous operations.
Will it reset. Factory setting of root access?
A normal data reset (Wipe Data) does not remove root access, since they are located in the system partition. To completely remove rights, you need to reflash the original boot image.
Why are the files not saved after opening the folder?
Most likely, the file system is mounted only for reading (Read-Only). You need to find a button for changing access rights (often a lock icon or R/W switch) in your file manager.