Obtaining root access Android 7 Nougat opens access to the hidden capabilities of the system, but requires caution. This version of the OS, released in 2016, is still used on millions of devices - from Samsung Galaxy S7 to Xiaomi Redmi Note 4. Unlike new versions of Android, where manufacturers have tightened protection, Android 7 remains relatively vulnerable to modifications, but there are nuances here too.

The main problem is Many popular utilities like KingRoot or Framaroot stopped supporting Android 7 due to the updated security mechanisms SELinux and DM-Verity. However, alternative methods using TWRP and Magisk still work. In this article, we will look at the current methods of obtaining root access, assess the risks and give recommendations for restoring the system in case of failure.

What are root access and why you need them on Android 7

root access (or superuser rights) provide complete control over the operating system. On Android 7 Nougat this allows you to:

  • 🔧 Remove pre-installed system applications (bloatware), which take up space and consume resources.
  • ⚡ Optimize performance through the system kernel (for example, change the processor frequency using Kernel Adiutor).
  • 📱 Install modified firmware (custom ROMs) like LineageOS or Resurrection Remix.
  • 🔒 Block advertising at the system level using AdAway or Blokada.
  • 📁 Get access to hidden memory sections, for example /data or /system.

However, along with opportunities come risks risks:

  • 🚨 Loss of warranty (manufacturers consider root to be a system hack).
  • 🛡️ Vulnerability to malware (viruses with root access can cause more damage).
  • 🔄 Possible “brick” of the device (turning into a “brick”) due to errors during the procedure.
  • 📱 Problems with OTA updates (the system may refuse to install official updates).
⚠️ Attention: On Some devices (for example Huawei or Sony Xperia with a locked bootloader) unlocking the bootloader erases data from the internal memory. Make a backup copy in advance!

Preparing the device before rooting

Before starting the procedure, you need to complete several critical steps. lead to failure or loss of data.

Back up your data (photos, contacts, messages)

Charge the battery to 80% or more

Install ADB and Fastboot drivers for your device

Allow USB debugging in the settings developer

Download the official firmware for your model (in case of recovery)-->

First of all, activate developer mode:

  1. Go to Settings → About phone.
  2. Find the item Build number and tap on it 7 times in a row.
  3. Return to the main settings menu - a new section will appear For developers.
  4. Enable there USB debugging i OEM unlocking (if available).

Next, install the necessary tools on your PC:

  • 🖥️ Android SDK Platform-Tools (contains adb and fastboot).
  • 🔧 Drivers for your device (for example, Samsung USB Drivers for Samsung gadgets).
  • 📄 Firmware TWRP Recovery for your model (download only from official website twrp.me).
⚠️ Attention: Some manufacturers (for example, Xiaomi or Meizu) require additional permission to unlock the bootloader through an official account. Without this step, further actions will not be possible.

This method is considered the most reliable for Android 7 Nougat. It involves installing a custom recovery (TWRP) and then flashing Magisk - a modern tool for managing root access.

Instructions:

  1. Unlock the bootloader: 
    adb reboot bootloader

    fastboot oem unlock

    On some devices (for example, Google Pixel) the command may differ: fastboot flashing unlock.

  2. Flash TWRP Recovery: 
    fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0-0-your_device.img

    fastboot reboot recovery

    Replace twrp-3.7.0-0-your_device.img with the actual file name for your model.

  3. Install Magisk:
    1. Download the latest Magisk.zip from official repository.
    2. In TWRP select Install → specify the path to Magisk.zip → swipe to confirm.
    3. After installation, reboot the device.

If the system does not start after reboot, try:

  • 🔄 Repeat the firmware Magisk with disabled DM-Verity (use Magisk-v26.4(24301).zip for older devices).
  • 📱 Install the patch Disable_Dm-Verity_ForceEncrypt.zip (available on the forums XDA Developers).
💡

If your device is stuck on the logo after flashing the firmware, try going into TWRP and running Wipe → Format Data (this will delete all data, but can restore the system to working).

Method 2: Using KingoRoot (for unsupported devices)

KingoRoot is one of the few “one-click” tools that sometimes works on Android 7. However, its effectiveness depends on the device model and firmware version. The method is suitable if:

  • ✅ You have a device. with Mediatek or Spreadtrum processor.
  • ✅ The bootloader is already unlocked.
  • ✅ You cannot find custom recovery for your model.

Instructions:

  1. Download KingoRoot from official website (avoid third-party sources!).
  2. Connect the device to the PC from USB debugging enabled USB debugging.
  3. Run the app and press ROOT. The process will take 5-10 minutes.
  4. After completion, the device will reboot. Check for root access using Root Checker.
⚠️ Attention: KingoRoot often installs its own root management software, which may conflict with other applications. After obtaining root access, it is recommended to remove it through Titanium Backup or Magisk.
Method Pros Cons Suitable for
TWRP + Magisk Reliability, control over the process, rollback capability More difficult for beginners, requires unlocking the bootloader All devices with an unlocked bootloader
KingoRoot Simplicity, does not require technical knowledge Low compatibility, risk of installing unnecessary software Devices with Mediatek/Spreadtrum
SuperSU (outdated) Works on old ones firmware Not updated, conflicts with Magisk Devices before 2017

How to check whether root access have been obtained

After following the instructions, you need to make sure that root access is actually activated. this:

  1. Install from Google Play application Root Checker (for example, from joeykrim).
  2. Launch it and click Verify Root.
  3. If you see a message Congratulations! Root access is properly installed on this device! - everything went successfully.

You can also check manually:

  1. Open Terminal (install Termux from Google Play).
  2. Enter the command: 
    su

    If an input prompt appears (# instead of $), permissions have been obtained.

What to do if Root Checker shows an error?

If the application gives an error, try:

1. Reinstall Magisk Manager (download the latest version from GitHub).

2. In the Magisk settings, disable the option MagiskHide and reboot the device.

3. Check whether the antivirus is blocking access to the superuser (disable it temporarily).

Possible problems and their solutions

Even if you follow the instructions exactly, errors may occur. Let's look at the most common ones:

  • 🔄 The device is stuck on bootloop:
    • Cause: Incompatible version Magisk or damaged boot.img.
    • Solution: Boot into TWRP, flash UnMagisk.zip (available on XDA) and reboot.
  • 📵 Unable to unlock bootloader:
    • Reason: The manufacturer blocks unlocking (for example, Huawei after 2018).
    • Solution: Use official brand tools (for example, Huawei Bootloader Unlock Code) or go to the forums XDA for alternative methods.
  • 🔌 The computer does not see the device in fastboot mode:
    • Cause: Drivers are missing or the connection mode is incorrectly selected.
    • Solution: Install Universal ADB Drivers and check that Device Manager is displayed in Android Bootloader Interface.

If none of the methods worked, try: Find instructions for your specific model Use alternative recovery, for example

  • 🔍 Find instructions for your specific model on XDA Developers or 4PDA.
  • 📡 Use alternative recovery, for example, OrangeFox or PitchBlack.
  • 🔧 Roll back to an earlier version of the firmware (if a downgrade is available).
📊 Which method of getting root have you tried?
TWRP + Magisk
KingoRoot
SuperSU
Other
Haven't tried it yet

How to remove root access and return the device to its original state

If you need to return the warranty, sell the device or fix errors after a failed root, follow these steps:

Method 1: Through Magisk (if installed):

  1. Open Magisk Manager.
  2. Go to section Uninstall → Complete Uninstall.
  3. Confirm the action and reboot the device.

Method 2: Through the stock firmware boot.img:

  1. Download the original firmware for your model from the official manufacturer's website.
  2. Extract the file from it boot.img (use 7-Zip or WinRAR).
  3. Flash it via fastboot: 
    fastboot flash boot boot.img

    fastboot reboot

Method 3: Full reset via stock recovery:

  1. Boot into stock recovery (usually Power + Vol Up).
  2. Select Wipe data/factory reset.
  3. After resetting, flash the original firmware via Odin (for Samsung) or SP Flash Tool (for Mediatek).
⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Sony Xperia) after removing root, a label may remain in TA-section, which cannot be reset. This will permanently void the warranty.
💡

Before selling your device, be sure to check it through Root Checker - even after removing root access, some applications (for example, banking) may detect traces of modifications.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about root access on Android 7

Is it possible to get root on Android 7 without a computer?

Theoretically, yes, but in practice it is extremely difficult. Most "one-click" applications (like KingRoot or iRootdo not support Android 7 Nougat due to enhanced protection. way is to use Magisk Manager to flash the patch via TWRP, but even here you will need at least temporary access to the PC to unlock the bootloader.

Why did banking applications stop working after getting root?

Banking applications (for example, SberBank Online or Tinkoff) use SafetyNet —the Android integrity verification system. root access trigger SafetyNet, which causes applications to be blocked. Solutions:

  • 🔧 Enable MagiskHide in settings Magisk and add the banking application to the list of hidden ones.
  • 📱 Use module Universal SafetyNet Fix (installed via Magisk).
  • 🔄 Refuse root access or use a second device for banking transactions.
How to update Android 7 to a new version after getting root?

Over-the-air (OTA) update with root access is impossible - system blocks the installation of official updates. Options:

  • 📲 Remove root (via Magisk or stock firmware boot.img), update, then repeat the root procedure.
  • 🔄 Install custom firmware (for example LineageOS 20) with a newer version of Android.
  • ⚠️ Risk flashing OTA manually via TWRP, but this may lead to a bootloop.

Before updating required do backup via TWRP (Backup → Select Partitions).

Will Google Pay work with root access?

No, Google Pay (like other services with payments via NFC) blocks work on devices with root due to security requirements Workarounds. paths:

  • 🔧 Install a module Magisk named MagiskHide Props Config and replace the device fingerprint (fingerprint) with a certified one.
  • 📱 Use alternative payment systems (for example Samsung Payif it supports your device).
  • 💳 Link the card to another device without root access.

Please note that bypassing SafetyNet may violate Google's user agreement, and your account could theoretically be blocked.

Is it possible to get root on Android 7 without unlocking the bootloader?

On most devices, no. Unlocking the bootloader (bootloader) is a mandatory step for firmware TWRP or modified boot.img. data-i="289">📱 Some devices on

  • 📱 Some devices on Mediatek allow you to get temporary root through exploits (for example, DirtyCOW), but this is unreliable and prone to crashes.
  • 🔧 Devices with vulnerabilities in the kernel (for example, Samsung Exynos until 2018), where you can use TowelRoot.

However, such methods often lead to unstable operation of the system and do not provide full control.