Modern operating systems, including Android, are built on the principle of data isolation. This means that by default, the user sees only a small part of the information stored on the device. Standard file managers hide system partitions, protecting them from accidental deletion or modification, which could lead to the smartphone not working. However, for advanced users, developers or modding enthusiasts, there is often an urgent need to see the “internals” of the system.
Gaining access to all files on Android is a process that requires an understanding of the file system architecture and security measures. In this article we will analyze in detail methods from simple use of third-party explorers to complex manipulations with superuser rights. You will learn how to bypass standard restrictions without losing warranty and how to safely work with critical data.
Standard Android file system restrictions
Starting with version Android 11, Google has significantly tightened its file access policy. This phenomenon is known as Scoped Storage (partitioned storage). Previously, applications could request permission to read the entire drive, but now each application is isolated in its own sandbox. This is done for the sake of security: malware will not be able to steal your personal photos or documents simply by receiving one permission.
However, such isolation also creates problems for legitimate tasks. The user can no longer just go to the folder Android/data or Android/obb through a standard explorer in order, for example, to transfer the cache of a heavy game to a memory card. The system blocks direct access to these directories, considering them private for specific applications. Bypassing these restrictions requires the use of special tools.
It is worth noting that complete freedom of action is often associated with risks. Changing system file permissions may break Security-Enhanced Linux, the Linux kernel security mechanism used by Android. If you accidentally delete an important configuration file, your device may stop booting. SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux) is a security mechanism in the Linux kernel that is used in Android. If you accidentally delete an important configuration file, your device may stop booting.
⚠️ Warning: Making changes to system partitions may void your device's warranty and result in data loss. Always create a backup copy before starting work.
Using advanced file managers
The easiest way to expand your capabilities is to install specialized software. Standard applications from smartphone manufacturers (for example, MIUI File Manager or Samsung My Files) often have reduced functionality. Third-party solutions offer deeper access to the directory structure.
One of the leaders in this niche is the application Solid Explorer or CX File Explorer. These apps can request special permissions through the system API SAF (Storage Access Framework). When you first start it, they may offer to give access to the root directory or specific protected folders. After confirming through the system dialog box, you are given the opportunity to copy, move and edit files in previously closed sections.
It is important to understand the difference between normal access and privileged access. Even the best file manager without superuser rights will not be able to change system files in the partition /system. It can only work within user space /sdcard, but with extended rights to read hidden application folders.
- 📂 Solid Explorer - a powerful tool with support for cloud storage and folder encryption.
- 📂 FX File Explorer - an excellent choice for working with network resources and deep analysis of the file system.
- 📂 Material Files — lightweight open explorer with a clean interface and basic access to system folders.
When choosing a file manager, pay attention to the presence of the "Storage Analysis" function. It will help you visualize which files take up the most space in hidden directories.
Connecting to a computer and debugging mode
For those who are uncomfortable managing files from the small screen of a smartphone, connecting to a PC is the ideal solution. Standard file transfer mode (MTP) has the same limitations as the phone's built-in file explorer. To access all files on Android via a computer, you need to activate developer mode.
First you need to enable USB debugging. To do this, go to Settings → About phone and click 7 times on the build number. Then, in the new “For Developers” menu, activate the switch USB debugging. This will allow the computer to send commands to the device, bypassing some interface restrictions.
There is a app Android Debug Bridge (ADB)that is part of the package Platform Tools. With its help, you can execute commands directly from the command line of your computer. For example, the command adb pull /sdcard/Android/data will copy a protected folder to your computer, where you can freely edit its contents, and then return it back with the command adb push.
adb devices
adb shell ls -la /sdcard/Android/obb
Using ADB requires minimal command line knowledge, but allows access to logs, system settings and files that are hidden from the GUI. This is a professional tool used by engineers and developers.
⚠️ Attention: The interfaces of the “For Developers” menu may differ on smartphones of different brands (Xiaomi, Samsung, Poco). If you do not find the item you need, check the official documentation of the manufacturer of your model.
☑️ Preparing to work with ADB
Obtaining root access for complete control
The only way to get absolute, unlimited access to all files on Android is to obtain rights superuser, or Root. This procedure removes all software restrictions set by the manufacturer. You become the owner of the device in the full sense of the word, gaining access to the /system, /data and /vendor.
partitions. The rooting process varies depending on the device model. For most modern smartphones, the utility Magiskis used. It allows you to gain root access by modifying the boot image (boot.img), without directly affecting the system partition. This allows you to pass security checks (SafetyNet/Play Integrity) in some banking applications.
After installing Magisk, you will be able to use root-enabled file managers such as Root Explorer or advanced versions Solid Explorer. In superuser mode, you can remove pre-installed system software (bloatware), change system fonts, edit a file hosts to block ads at the system level and much more.
| Access method | Privilege level | Risk breakdowns | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Explorer | Low (sandbox) | Minimum | Easy |
| Third Party Manager (SAF) | Medium (user data) | Low | Medium |
| ADB via PC | High (system logs, access to folders) | Average | Complicated |
| root access (Magisk) | Full (system owner) | High | Very difficult |
What is a Bootloader?
A bootloader is a app that runs when you turn on the phone before loading the operating system. To obtain root access, in most cases, you need to unlock the bootloader, which will lead to the complete removal of all data from the device (reset to factory settings).
Working with system directories and rights
When you gain advanced access, it is critical to understand the directory structure. The Android file system is based on Linux, so the same permissions principles apply (chmod, chown). Changing the owner of a file by mistake can make it unreadable by the system.
The most sensitive areas are at the root of the file system. The directory /system contains operating system files. The directory /data stores user data and application settings. The folder /cache is used for temporary files. Interfering with the work /system without creating a backup can lead to a “bootlap” (infinite reboot).
When working with access rights, always check the current values before editing. If you see a file with permissions -rw-r--r-- (644), this is the standard for readable files. Changing them to executables unnecessarily can break SELinux. Use terminal emulators on the device itself, such as Termux, to fine-tune permissions if you have Root.
⚠️ Attention: Never delete files from the folder
/system/priv-appif you are not 100% sure of their purpose. Removing a system component can block access to settings or the phone as a whole.
Root access gives full power over the device, but with it comes full responsibility for the stability of the system. One wrong move in system folders can turn a smartphone into a “brick.”
Restoring access and solving problems
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where access to files is suddenly lost. This may be the result of an unsuccessful system update, a malfunction in Explorer, or an antivirus. In such cases, the first step should be to clear the cache of the problematic application.
Go to Settings → Applications → All applications, find your file manager and select “Storage”. Click Clear cache. Do not confuse this with “Clear data”, since the latter will reset the settings of the explorer itself (bookmarks, history), although it can help in more complex cases.
If the problem is related to the memory card (SD card), check its status. The file system of the card could become damaged or go into read-only mode due to wear and tear on the memory cells. Try connecting the card to your computer via a card reader and checking it for errors using standard Windows or macOS tools.
In cases where the device was rooted and then updated over the air (OTA), root access is often lost and access to system files is blocked. You will need to repeat the procedure for patching the boot image via Magisk, having first downloaded the official firmware image for your specific version of Android.
Is it safe to use third-party explorers with access to all files?
Using trusted applications from the store Google Play (for example, Solid Explorer, CX File Explorer) is safe. They operate within the permissions you give them. The danger comes from applications downloaded from unknown sources, which can request unnecessary rights and transfer your data to third parties.
Is it possible to access files without Root on Android 13-14?
Yes, this is possible for user data. Using SAF (Storage Access Framework) methods in advanced explorers, you can access folders Android/data and Android/obb. However, access to the system partition /system without root access on modern versions of Android is impossible.
What to do if, after receiving Root, the phone does not turn on?
You will need to enter Recovery mode (usually by pressing the volume up button and the power button). In the Recovery menu, select “Wipe Cache/Dalvik” or, as a last resort, do a Factory Reset. If this does not help, you will need to flash the device via a computer (Fastboot mode or Download Mode).
Why does an ordinary user need access to files?
An ordinary user may need this to transfer the game cache to a memory card, remove non-removable garbage from applications, manually backup messenger correspondence, or install modified system fonts and themes design.
Does access to all files affect the speed of a smartphone?
The very fact of having access does not affect the speed. However, active scanning of thousands of files by third-party applications can load the processor and RAM, causing temporary slowdowns. Do not keep heavy file managers in the background all the time.