Root on Android - what are the advantages?

In connection with Android you often hear the term "root". But what good is root in Android and what are the advantages? We explain it to you in this article.

Android: What does "root" actually mean?

• Android is technically based on a Linux kernel. Linux is an open source operating system. The user with administrator rights (system administrator) in Linux is referred to as "root" and is comparable to the system administrator in Windows.
• As root, i.e. as a system administrator, Android gives you more in-depth rights at the system level to which a normal user has no access. This means that you can make changes to and in the system with Android root rights. In the next few paragraphs, we will explain what exactly this is useful for.

1. Install custom ROMs by root

• An advantage of root in Android is the possibility to install so-called custom ROMs. A ROM is the Android system itself, which is already preinstalled on all smartphones. Custom ROM is derived from "Customized ROM". Behind it is a ROM, an Android system that has been modified by a developer.
• Custom ROMs are based on open source software officially released by Google. The developers can therefore make changes to the actual system.
• The advantages of custom ROMs are, on the one hand, that they can often be operated more smoothly, since there is no unnecessary third-party software from manufacturers, such as HTC or Samsung.
• In addition, custom ROMs are often further developed when there are no official Android updates from the manufacturer. So you can enjoy the latest versions of Android, which are actually not officially available.
• Custom ROMs also have more setting options compared to the manufacturer ROMs. Root is required to install Custom ROMs.

2. Limit apps in their permissions

• All apps on Android have certain permissions. These are sometimes useful - for example, if "WhatsApp" wants to access your contacts.
• However, a flashlight app, for example, does not need access to your location. With root and an additional app like "LBE Privacy Guard" you can revoke the permissions of the apps and protect your privacy. Each authorization can be restricted individually.

3. Back up system and app data

• Many backup apps are listed in the Google Play Store. But they have one thing in common: contacts, SMS, pictures or music can be backed up, but it looks bad with system and app data. With root rights, you can also back up app data. These are the settings of the app or also saves.
• You can also back up and restore the entire Android system. Individual apps can also be completely restored without having to download and install them again from the Play Store - for example with "Titanium Backup".

4. Uninstall system apps

• Most manufacturers integrate their apps into Android - so-called system apps, which are fully integrated into the system. Providers like Telekom or Vodafone also often integrate their own apps.
• Some of these are useful, but they are often completely unnecessary. System apps can be removed with root rights and a corresponding app such as "Root Uninstaller".

5. Manipulate system files

System files can be manipulated through root rights. For example, you can deactivate the trigger tone of the smartphone camera or change the boot animation and sound.

6. Make kernel tweaks

• The Android kernel is responsible for controlling the smartphone hardware - for example, that of the processor. If you have root privileges, you can make changes to the kernel.
• So you can overclock the processor, change its voltage or lower the maximum clock speed in order to gain more battery life.

7. Other modifications

Other modifications can also be made with a root. For example, you can install a sound equalizer like "Beats Audio".

Conclusion: does a root make sense?

• A root has many advantages, but there are also dark sides: If system files are deleted or other modifications are carried out, improper handling can result in your smartphone no longer working properly.
• In the worst case, the smartphone can "snap" and become unusable. That means it is irreparably destroyed. Therefore, if you want to root your smartphone, read the topic carefully in specialist forums. Ask if you do not understand something and follow the instructions exactly. If you keep that in mind, nothing should go wrong.

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In the next practical tip, we will show you step by step how to root your Android smartphone.