Sorry, I'm an Android newbie... but what is rooting?

[slinky317]

So I'm looking to get into Android shortly, but I hear people talking about "rooting" everywhere. What exactly is it? I assume it has something to do with putting custom ROMs on phones, but I'm really not sure. Can someone explain? Thanks guys!

 

[slinky317]

Can anyone explain?

 

[Cory Streater]

Here you go.

Cory

 

[chdtpn]

Basically just gaining Super User access.

 

[slinky317]

Awesome, thank you!

Some things I didn't see in that thread:

1. If you root, does that void your warranty with your carrier?
2. Not sure if you'd need to do this, but is there any way to "unroot" your phone, or is there no turning back?

 

[weirdkid]

Awesome, thank you!

Some things I didn't see in that thread:

1. If you root, does that void your warranty with your carrier?
2. Not sure if you'd need to do this, but is there any way to "unroot" your phone, or is there no turning back?

1. I believe it does Void it.
2. You can unroot it.