I've never rooted a device, but have found an app I need that requires root access. So, before going through with the process, I just want to cover my bases to make sure I don't end up with a bricked device. So, first, a few questions:
- Is unlocking the bootloader the same thing as rooting? Are the terms synonymous, or are they two separate things? If the latter, which comes first?
- Do I need to back up my apps somewhere before going through the process? In other words, does rooting wipe the phone? If so, can I still download the apps that are stored in "My Apps" in Google Play?
- After rooting, will I still have access to and be able to download apps from Play?
- Does rooting make the device more vulnerable to viruses and malware attacks? No change from unrooted?
- Are there any general risks or drawbacks to rooting (aside from the potential of bricking the device)? Any standard functionality I lose by rooting?
Finally, I found
this from ChainFire over on XDA. Seems to be pretty simple/straightforward. Is that all I need to do to gain root access? Anything else I should be sure to do?
Thanks in advance!