Administrator rights (or root access) on Android open up to user has unlimited possibilities: from removing system applications to deep performance optimization. However, this process requires caution - incorrect actions can turn your smartphone into a “brick”. In this article we will analyze all current methods obtaining administrative rights, including official and unofficial methods, and also tell you how to minimize risks.

It is important to understand that modern versions of Android (starting from Android 10) actively resist rooting: manufacturers block bootloaders, encrypt the partition /system, and Google introduces additional security checks through Google Play Protect. However, for most devices based on Qualcomm, Mediatek or Exynos solutions still exist. Next is a detailed analysis of each stage.

What do administrator rights on Android give?

Root access allows you to manage system files, the OS kernel and hardware components at a level inaccessible to the average user. Here are the key features:

  • 🔧 Removing built-in applications (bloatware) from the manufacturer or telecom operator, which occupy memory and consume resources.
  • ⚡ Overclocking processor/GPU (overclocking) or, conversely, reducing frequencies to save battery power.
  • 📱 Installing custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience) with advanced functions.
  • 🔒 Ad blocking on system level via file modification hosts.
  • 🔄 Backup all data, including applications with their settings (for example, through Titanium Backup).

However, there is a downside: loss of warranty, risk of disrupting the system, vulnerability to malware (since many applications with root access can bypass Android protection). On devices with hardware integrity check (for example, Samsung Knox or Google Titan M), rooting may permanently block some functions, such as Samsung Pay or Secure Folder.

⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Xiaomi with a locked bootloader), an attempt to get root without unlocking via Mi Unlock Tool will lead to a hard brick (impossibility of turning on). Always check the compatibility of your model with the selected method on the forums XDA Developers or 4PDA.
📊 Why do you need it? root access?
Removing a blaster
Installing custom firmware
Overclocking the processor
Ad blocking
Other

Preparing the device: steps before getting root

Before you start rooting, you need to perform several critical steps. Skipping any of them can lead to data loss or inoperability of the smartphone.

  1. Create a full backup. Use built-in tools (for example, Settings → Google → Backup) or third-party utilities like Swift Backup (works without root, but saves only custom ones). data).
  2. Check the model and version firmware. Go to Settings → About phone and write down:
    • Device model (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G)
    • Android version (for example, Android 14)
    • Build number (for example, TP1A.220624.014)
  • Unlock the bootloader. On most devices, this is a required step. For Xiaomi you will need to link your account Mi and wait 7-14 days, for Samsung you need to enable OEM Unlock in the developer settings.

    • Also make sure that the device has enough battery charge (at least 60%) and connect it to the PC via the original cable. Using uncertified cables may interrupt the firmware process.

    ☑️ Preparing for rooting

    Done: 0 / 5

    Magisk is a universal solution for obtaining root access without making changes to the system partition (systemless rootIt is compatible with most modern devices and allows you to hide root from applications (for example, banking or games).

    Instructions:

    1. Install Magisk Manager. Download the latest APK from the official repository GitHub (avoid third-party sources!) Install the file, allowing installation from unknown sources.
    2. Patch the boot image:
      • Download the original one for your firmware (can be extracted from the official firmware or through the command data-i="112">via boot.img for your firmware (can be extracted from the official firmware or through the command adb pull /dev/block/bootdevice/by-name/boot).
      • IN Magisk Manager select Install → Select and Patch a File and indicate the downloaded one boot.img.
  • Flash the patched boot.img through fastboot: 
    fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img

    fastboot reboot

    • After reboot, check for root via the app Root CheckerIf Magisk is not detected, try reinstalling the modules or using an alternative method (for example, TWRP).

    ⚠️ Attention: On devices with dynamic partitions (for example, Android 12+ on Samsung or Google Pixel), you may need to patch not boot.img, but init_boot.img. Check this on the relevant forums for your model.
    What to do if Magisk does not work?

    If, after flashing the patched boot.img, the device boots into bootloop (cyclic reboot), try:

    1. Flash the original boot.img back via fastboot.

    2. Remove all Magisk modules manually via TWRP (if installed).

    3. Use an older version of Magisk (for example, 25.2 instead of 26.1).

    Method 2: Using custom recovery (TWRP)

    Team Win Recovery Project (TWRP) is an alternative recovery that allows you to flash ZIP files with root access, custom kernels or firmware. The method is suitable for devices where Magisk does not work out of the box.

    Step-by-step guide:

    1. Install TWRP:
      • Download the official version of TWRP for your model from the website twrp.me.
      • Flash via fastboot: 
        fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_12-0-redfin.img
      • Immediately after flashing, go to recovery, holding Power + Volume Up (otherwise the system may overwrite TWRP with standard recovery).
  • Flash Magisk or SuperSU:
    • Download a ZIP file from Magisk (for example, Magisk-v26.1.zip) to your memory card.
    • In TWRP select Install → select ZIP → Swipe to Confirm Flash.

    After successful flashing, reboot the device. If TWRP asks for a decryption password /dataenter your PIN code or pattern.

    Device TWRP support Features
    Samsung Galaxy S23 ❌ No The bootloader is locked, a patch is required Odinh
    Google Pixel 7 ✅ Yes Requires disabling AVB 2.0 v fastboot
    Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 ✅ Yes You need to unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool
    OnePlus 10 Pro ✅ Yes Supports fastboot boot for temporary TWRP
    💡

    If TWRP does not see the internal memory, connect an OTG drive with a Magisk ZIP file. This will help bypass encryption problems on new versions of Android.

    Method 3: Root without a PC (applications like KingRoot)

    There are applications that promise root "in one click" (for example KingRoot, iRoot or OneClickRootHowever, this method has critical disadvantages:

    • 🚫 Low reliability: works only on old devices (Android 5–7) or little-known brands.
    • 🛡️ Security risk: many such applications contain malicious code or install backdoors.
    • 🔄 Instability: after updating the firmware, root often disappears.

    If you still decide to try, follow these steps:

    1. Download APK from the official website (not from Google Play!).
    2. Enable Unknown sources in the security settings.
    3. Launch the application and follow the instructions (usually just click "Root").

    On devices with Android 10+, such methods practically do not work due to enhanced kernel protection (SELinux in mode enforcing). If the application requests payment for the "premium version" - this is 100% scam.

    💡

    One-click root applications are only suitable for experiments on old or backup devices. For your main smartphone, use Magisk or TWRP.

    Risks and how to find them minimize

    Getting root access is always fraught with dangers. Here are the main ones and ways to avoid them:

    • 💥 Brick device: incorrect firmware can make the phone inoperable. Solution: use only verified files for your model and firmware version.
    • 🛡️ Loss guarantees: most manufacturers will void the warranty if a root is detected. Solution: before contacting the service center, do unroot via Magisk.
    • 🔓 Vulnerabilities security: root opens access to system files for malware. Solution: install only trusted applications and use MagiskHide to disguise root.
    • 🔄 Problems with OTA updates: after rooting "over the air", updates may not be installed. Solution: flash updates manually via TWRP.

    To reduce risks, follow these rules:

    1. Use only official sources for downloading firmware and utilities (for example, XDA Developers, GitHub Magisk).
    2. Before flashing the firmware, check file hashes (MD5/SHA1) to exclude fakes.
    3. Do not delete system applications if you are not sure of their purpose (this may disrupt the operation of Android).
    ⚠️ Attention: On devices with Samsung Knox (for example, Galaxy S/Note series) Knox trigger (Knox 0x1) is triggered by any modification of the system, including unlocking the bootloader. This permanently disables the functions Secure Folder, Samsung Pay and Knox Workspace.

    Alternatives to root: what can be done without administrative rights

    If you need specific root features but don't want to risk device stability, consider these alternatives:

    Challenge Solution without root Limitations
    Removing the blaster Disable via Settings → Applications or ADB: Applications remain in memory, but do not work
    Ad blocking DNS filters (for example, NextDNS or AdGuard) Does not block ads in some applications
    Backup Swift Backup (without root, only saves user data) Does not save system application settings
    Changing system fonts/icons Launchers (Nova Launcher) or themes (Substratum) Limited customization

    To disable system applications via ADB use the command:

    adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.bloatware

    Replace com.android.bloatware with the package name of the unnecessary application (you can find it out through App Inspector).

    adb shell cmd package install-existing com.android.bloatware-->

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about root on Android

    Is it possible to get root on Samsung without a trigger Knox?

    No. On all devices Samsung s Knox (starting from Galaxy S4), any modification of the bootloader or system partition triggers the flag Knox 0x1. This is irreversible and irreversible. voids the warranty. The only exception is using Magisk in systemless rootmode, but even in this case Knox will be triggered.

    How to hide root from banking applications?

    Use in Magisk module MagiskHide (or DenyList in new versions) and add banking applications to the hide list. Also install the module Universal SafetyNet Fix to pass verification SafetyNet. Some applications (for example, Sberbank Online) may require additional manipulations, such as changing the device fingerprint (device fingerprint).

    Is it possible to update Android after getting root?

    Yes, but not via OTA. You need to:

    1. Download the full firmware image for your model.
    2. Flash it via TWRP or fastboot, having previously removed Magisk (to avoid bootloop).
    3. After updating, re-flash Magisk.

    Automatic updates "over the air" after rooting usually lead to loss root or the device freezes.

    How to completely remove root and return the device to its original state?

    For complete unroot:

    1. B Magisk Manager select Uninstall → Complete Uninstall.
    2. Flash the original boot.img via fastboot.
    3. Reset to factory settings (Wipe Data in recovery).

    For devices Samsung you may need to flash the full firmware via Odin s checkmark Re-Partition.

    Does root work on Android 14?

    Yes, but with reservations. It is supported, however: Android 14 Magisk However, it is supported:

    • On devices with dynamic partitions (Google Pixel 6+, Samsung Galaxy S22+) is required patch init_boot.img instead boot.img.
    • Some manufacturers (for example, Huawei) completely block the bootloader on new models.
    • SafetyNet has become stricter - additional modules are needed to pass it (Universal SafetyNet Fix + MagiskHide Props Config).