What is the Root for Android
Root - this is a feature of the operating system Android, which sets it apart from other platforms. By using Root-rights can access the hidden features of OS from Google, change the appearance of the interface, to set a different firmware, but also reduce the security of your gadget. In root there is a positive side and negative. In this article you will find out what the root on Android, and what opportunities it offers.
The concept and terminology Root.
Root - a special account in UNIX-like operating systems, which has an identifier (UID, User IDentifier) value of 0 and has access to system files. The owner of this account can perform all operations without exception and edit any files in the operating system. Since the Android-based incorporated Linux kernel, Root Access migrated to her along with the other features of the creations of Linus Torvalds.
Obtaining root-rights requires a modification of the Android operating system. Also, get an account from Root-access possible after installing custom firmware, but to do so without the same root is quite difficult.
Root rights may be different. They are divided into three types:
Full Root - full access to system functions and rights. Permanent root access without restrictions. After receiving the Full Root is not possible to update the firmware in the usual way.
Shell Root - a kind of root-rights circumcised access to the system folder / system /. You can not use some functions, and edit the files in the appropriate directory.
Temporary Root - temporary access to Root rights until the next reboot of the device.
What opportunities does Root?
As already mentioned, root-rights provide full access to all directories, files and functions of the Android operating system. The user gets complete freedom of action - you can do whatever you want.
Here are the main features and characteristics that are root-rights:
Full control of all applications (removal, backup, granting privileges transferred to the external SD-card).
Access to the system files with the possibility of changes (activation of latent functions loader editing and loading of a custom recovery).
Full customization of the system interface.
The ability to use third-party applications that use the route-add additional functions (removing advertising, backup, game hacks, changing interface, lock numbers for incoming calls and SMS, the restriction of Internet access for programs, cleaning the system from the "trash").
Installing firmware and custom kernels.
However root - it is not only the advantages of continuous positive side, but also a number of disadvantages. Two major drawbacks - the safety device and decrease the rejection of the official firmware updates. Learn more about all the shortcomings of Root-rights, you will soon find out in a separate article on why it is not necessary to get root on Android.
Also give the concept a few things software associated with root-rights:
Custom ROM or ROM - firmware (the image of the Android OS) collected manually by the user. The author of this firmware is not the official manufacturer of the device.
Bootloader (loader) - software that is installed in a memory device separate from the operating system and other modules. He is responsible for loading the operating system and other modules. Almost all gadgets loader initially blocked, so to install custom firmware you need to unlock it, and this often requires root.
Kernel (core) - the "heart" of the operating system, which connects all the functional units together. Every time you use your smartphone or tablet, Android OS kernel software sends requests to the hardware (process and memory). An experienced user can build a custom kernel, which can be sewn on using Root-rights. With the custom settings in the kernel can increase CPU frequency, or reduce battery consumption.
Custom recovery (custom rekaveri) - the software installed and running separately from the Android operating system (BIOS analogue computers). Custom rekaveri means that it is a third-party rekaveri instead of the standard set by the manufacturer. With such rekaveri as TWRP and ClockworkMod, you can create and restore full backups of the operating system and install third-party firmware. rekaveri also contain a variety of additional functions.
Systemless Root (non-system Root) - a method of producing Root-rights, which do not change the system firmware files in the directory / system. Instead, all the modified files are installed in the directory / su and are loaded at system startup. Nonsystem Root allows you to receive the official firmware update from the manufacturer.
FastBoot (fastbut) - special software for diagnostics and testing devices. In FastBoot mode connected to the computer device can be used to launch any files or install firmware.
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) - the utility of a formal set of Android SDK. Used to control your smartphone via a computer using the command line or other programs. Basically ADB is used to install any software or firmware modifications.
GApps (Google Apps) - a set of proprietary applications and Google's services. Required to install the firmware on AOSP, which are collected without Google. Basically GApps package is installed through rekaveri.
Backup Nandroid - backed up not only the system but also the user data on the device. After the restoration of the beekapa can regain full status of the device, which it was when the backup. Such backup is better to leave those who like to experiment with firmware. Create a Nandroid backup, you can use custom rekaveri TWRP or Clockwork Mod.
