Kali Linux is a widely known operating system used for penetrating testing, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity. If you’re an enthusiast about security and want to test the vulnerability of your Android device, Kali Linux can help you in this endeavor. One of the most popular things about Kali Linux is that it can root your Android device. The process of rooting gives you full control over your device, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Video Tutorial:
This article aims to show you how to root your Android device using Kali Linux. The article will provide you with several methods, each with its procedures, advantages, and disadvantages. The article will also include what to do if you can’t root your Android device using Kali Linux.
Why You Need to Root Your Android Phone Using Kali Linux
Rooting your device using Kali Linux has its benefits. They include:
- You will have full control of your Android system, including the ability to remove pre-installed applications and replace them with others that meet your needs.
- You will be able to install custom firmware. Custom firmware often comes with new features, which your Android device might not have had before.
- You will improve your Android device’s performance. Rooting your device allows you to remove bloatware, which often slows down your phone’s performance.
- You can backup the entire contents of your Android device. This is essential, especially when migrating from one device to another.
Method 1: Via KingoRoot
KingoRoot is a popular rooting tool used for Windows, Android, and iOS devices. This tool has a high success rate because it uses various rooting methods. To root your Android device via KingoRoot, follow the steps below.
- Download the KingoRoot tool from their website.
- Connect your Android device to your computer.
- Enable USB debugging. You can enable USB debugging from your phone’s Developer Options. If the option is not available, go to About Phone and tap the Build Number seven times.
- Run the KingoRoot app on your computer.
- Click the Root button. The rooting process will begin.
Pros:
- It supports many Android devices.
- It uses various rooting methods, increasing your chances of success.
- The tool is straightforward to use, making it ideal for beginners.
Cons:
- Rooting your device via KingoRoot can be risky if not done correctly.
- Your device will be vulnerable to threats since it will not receive OTA updates.
Method 2: Via SuperSU
SuperSU is a favorite rooting tool used to give a user complete access to their Android device. The tool is known for its high success rate. Follow the steps below to root your device via SuperSU.
- Download the SuperSU tool and transfer it to your Android phone’s internal storage.
- Boot your phone into TWRP recovery.
- Select Install and navigate to the SuperSU ZIP file.
- Follow the prompts to install SuperSU.
- Reboot your device.
Pros:
- It’s open source, meaning it’s free to use.
- It has a high success rate.
- It’s compatible with several devices.
Cons:
- You have to install a custom recovery to use SuperSU.
- Your device will be vulnerable to threats since it will not receive OTA updates.
Method 3: Using Magisk
Magisk is a relatively new rooting tool compared to SuperSU, but it has become increasingly popular among Android enthusiasts. Magisk is known for its modular approach, which allows users to customize their Android devices the way they want. Follow the steps below to root your device via Magisk.
- Download Magisk and Magisk Manager.
- Reboot your phone into TWRP recovery.
- Select Install and navigate to the Magisk ZIP file.
- Flash Magisk.
- Reboot your device.
Pros:
- It’s open source, meaning it’s free to use.
- It has an easy installation process.
- It allows for customization of your Android device.
Cons:
- It requires you to install a custom recovery.
- Your device may not be compatible with Magisk.
Method 4: Via ADB commands
The ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands are a set of instructions that allow you to access your phone’s system files. Follow the steps below to root your device via ADB commands.
- Download ADB and install it on your computer.
- Enable USB debugging on your device.
- Connect your phone to your computer via USB.
- Open a terminal window on your computer and type the following commands:
adb devices (to confirm whether your device is connected)
adb shell (to open a shell)
su (to give you superuser privileges)
Pros:
- It’s an easy process.
- It doesn’t require you to install any software.
Cons:
- It’s a risky process. One wrong command can brick your device.
- Your device will be vulnerable to threats since it will not receive OTA updates.
What to Do If You Can’t Root Your Android Phone Using Kali Linux
In some cases, you may not be able to root your device using Kali Linux. If that happens, you can try the following fixes.
- Ensure that your device is supported by Kali Linux. Not all Android devices are compatible with Kali Linux.
- Check that you have enabled USB debugging on your device.
- Ensure that you have installed the correct drivers for your device on your computer.
- Try a different rooting tool. Some rooting tools work better with certain devices than others.
Bonus Tips
Here are some bonus tips for rooting your Android device using Kali Linux.
- Before rooting your device, ensure that you have backed up all your important data. This will help you recover data in case something goes wrong.
- Ensure that your device has enough battery before rooting. The rooting process can take a long time, and you don’t want your device to run out of battery in the middle of the process.
- Read the instructions before rooting your device. Following the instructions will increase your chances of success.
5 FAQs
Q1. Is rooting my Android device safe?
A: Rooting your Android device can be risky if not done correctly. It can open up your device to threats, remove your device’s warranty, and prevent it from receiving OTA updates. However, rooting your device can also allow you to customize it to your liking, improve performance and battery life, and remove bloatware.
Q2. Will I lose my data when rooting my device?
A: Rooting your device can result in data loss. It’s essential to backup your important data before rooting your device.
Q3. Will I be able to remove the root access?
A: Yes, you can remove root access from your device. You can do this by using an app like SuperSU or by flashing a stock firmware of your device.
Q4. Can I still use my banking apps after rooting my device?
A: Most banking apps will not work on rooted devices for security purposes. However, some banking apps may still work after rooting your device. It’s best to check with your bank to confirm.
Q5. Is it legal to root my Android device?
A: Rooting your Android device is legal in most countries, but it may void your device warranty. It’s essential to read the manufacturer’s terms and conditions before rooting your device.
Final Thoughts
Rooting your Android device using Kali Linux can give you full control over your device, allowing you to customize it to your liking. However, rooting your device can be risky if not done correctly. It’s essential to backup your important data, follow the instructions, and ensure that you’ve installed the correct drivers before rooting your device. If you encounter any issues, you can try the fixes provided in this article.