Root Why ROOT?

[Primate]

Everyone talks about "oooooh my phone is rooted". Besides being the "cool" thing to do what are the reasons to root? The only 2 things I am somewhat aware of is:

1. Remove bloatware.
2. Special Themes.

Neither of which sounds like a good risk vs reward for me personaly.

If I could get somewhat detailed responses that would be great.

 

[scary alien]

Everyone talks about "oooooh my phone is rooted". Besides being the "cool" thing to do what are the reasons to root? The only 2 things I am somewhat aware of is:

1. Remove bloatware.
2. Special Themes.

Neither of which sounds like a good risk vs reward for me personaly.

If I could get somewhat detailed responses that would be great.

Well, one biggie is that you can install root-only apps like drocap2, shootme, wi-fi tethering, and a whole bevy of others (http://androidforums.com/droid-x-all-things-root/131944-favorite-root-applications.html).

Another thing is that you can also overclock (make it snappier) or underclock (save some battery) provided the kernel supports this.

Edit: you could also throw in the ability to make Nandroid backups...although there is a risk involved in the process of getting to the point of making said Nandroid backup.

I went "all-in" with rooting my HTC Droid Eris: overclocking, custom ROM, root-only apps, etc. But I am "merely" rooted on the Droid X--no overclocking, themes, custom ROMs, no bloatware removed. The X is a pretty awesome phone, IMO, without changing it too much (so I haven't ).

Cheers!

 

[Primate]

I am familiar with OC on a PC but not on a phone. I would think there would be heat issues that would negate the speed increase? I don't know the first thing about phones so that is more of an assumption based on what I have seen with PC.

Thanks for the Root aps list. I will take a look at that.

 

[lexluthor]

Titanium backup
Ad free android

 

[bladebarrier]

I am familiar with OC on a PC but not on a phone. I would think there would be heat issues that would negate the speed increase? I don't know the first thing about phones so that is more of an assumption based on what I have seen with PC.

Thanks for the Root aps list. I will take a look at that.

Scary Alien covered a bunch of the main reasons, but to add to the list:

1. Backing up of apps in such a way as to save their current state and data, which makes restoring to a stock point that much faster to recover from.

2. Better tethering. I rarely tether, as it violates my ethical/legal obligations to my contract, and I really don't need it often, but it's nice in a pinch, and if I don't abuse it, it really isn't harming anyone.

3. Better file management. You can modify files in directories that would usually be protected. This is more advanced, and if you don't need to do so, it's not much of an issue.

4. Themes. Just a customized touch to things, but changing the battery display in the display bar to show within 10%, rather than 20% increments, is a handy feature.

5. ROMs, backups, etc. This was covered already, but is worth repeating. A custom ROM can really change your experience. It can also potentially improve battery life, performance, and also allow you to set restore points, like in Windows (and I assume OSX). Clearly that's a handy feature, because you could swap from a super fast streamlined ROM, to a "blurry" ROM with more new user friendly apps, within a minute or two.

6. By doing so, you throw yourself into a new world of learning about an operating system, and remove yourself from the idea that a phone is just a phone. This may waste a lot of your time, and turn you into a crackdroid user, but in the end you'll find out if Android is the system for you, or if a simple iphone would be better (or a RIM phone, for that matter).

It's more of a subculture, and there's a lot to learn, if you so desire. What makes Android different than most smart phone OS's is the idea that it's accepted, and almost encouraged, to root and tinker. In my opinion, it's that subculture that is forcing Android to the forefront, and making it improve faster than operating systems that are more locked down.

That, in and of itself (to use the cliche), is a viable means to root. To use the device for all it can do, and not limit yourself to what comes in the box.

 

[Primate]

Thanks Blade. All interesting reasons indeed. I was a crackberry before the Incredible came out now I am a die hard android fan, though it sounds like I might be at the kids table still

Might be worth a go.

 

[bladebarrier]

Thanks Blade. All interesting reasons indeed. I was a crackberry before the Incredible came out now I am a die hard android fan, though it sounds like I might be at the kids table still

Might be worth a go.

There's a lot to learn compared to the crackberries. I loved my Bold, I really did. It was fantastic as a reliable device, but Android opens up so many new doors, that RIM intentionally (and for good reasons, as it's primarily a business system) does not.

You'll pick it up quick enough. You're asking a lot of the right questions, so you'll find the right answers. Check the stickies, learn about rooting, SBF's, and nandroids. Once you're comfortable with those concepts you're ready to start using custom ROMs; of which there are a number to pick from, and each can suit the user's experience or not, depending on what you want.

As an overall rule though, if you're not sure, ask a question or do a search. Android is very open, and as such it can get overwhelming until you get the handle on things. But, you don't have to be a dev to still enjoy it.

There are a lot of good folks here to help.

Enjoy the Android experience

 

[jestyr]

As to the overclocking aspect, you can also change the voltages. I run my phone at 1.2 ghz on the ultra low voltage setting. So I have the extra bump in speed when I am actually using the phone. But at rest it is hardly using any juice at all. By my ultra accurate calibration testing (and by that I mean just using the phone and watching the battery) I get about 20% more battery life out of a day's use.

 

[nycebo]

As to the overclocking aspect, you can also change the voltages. I run my phone at 1.2 ghz on the ultra low voltage setting. So I have the extra bump in speed when I am actually using the phone. But at rest it is hardly using any juice at all. By my ultra accurate calibration testing (and by that I mean just using the phone and watching the battery) I get about 20% more battery life out of a day's use.

Ultra-low worked for you pretty well? I'm using low with the same frequencies as I wanted to ensure functionality. How long have you been 'down there'? Any issues?

 

[DroidJW]

I went "all-in" with rooting my HTC Droid Eris: overclocking, custom ROM, root-only apps, etc. But I am "merely" rooted on the Droid X--no overclocking, themes, custom ROMs, no bloatware removed. The X is a pretty awesome phone, IMO, without changing it too much (so I haven't ).

Cheers!

Hey hey, Scary, I remember you from the Eris forums, I too have now traded my Eris (how many ROMs did I flash on that thing??) for a Droid X.

Did you use z4root to achieve root ?

 

[bbuck002]

as someone who just recently rooted/ROMed I'm getting more and more sucked into tinkering with the X. I guess it's just in my nature, but I have to echo what Blade said about the users pushing the OS further. It's a very interesting topic that science and technology are finally being able to use effectively. The idea of crowd sourcing is going to change the way things are done. Look at android's startup time (with google pushing the open source ideas) compared to RIM and even Apple's. The iPhone definitely changed the mobile computing game for good, but it's rare that the first stab at a new technology is the best way to go. We are definitely seeing for the first time on a large scale what open source can really do. Open source (which leads to crowd sourcing) has been around in science and tech for a long time it really hasn't seen the light of day in the public that its getting right now with android. It sucks that the vendors and manufacturers are adding in locks that close the system somewhat, but just look at what this community can do. When the manufacturers finally forget about the closed systems (too worried about proprietary tech) and fully embrace the open community they will be able to achieve alot more. Think of all the free help and development that happens now. Instead of having to do mounds and mounds of internal testing, give it to the community at large and let us fix it and make them of proprietary issues that only they can fix. The market would eat it up and would probably accelerate the development even faster. This is what apple and RIM are missing out on imo. They aren't taking advantage of the really smart people that aren't on their payroll but live by their technology. Google gets this. For how long, that remains to be seen. But they are definitely proving the business model of open source technology that could alleviate problems across a whole spectrum of science and technology.

So, basically, what I'm trying to get at is that Android pushes tech forward by allowing users to do whatever they want with their devices. If you are going to have a smartphone, you can have whatever experience you want. But the more people realize that these aren't really phones, they are the closest thing yet to a true personal computer to come along so far, the faster the tech will evolve. The best part of being an android user is that I have the choice. With RIM and Apple you don't really have a choice b/c they are closed systems. I know I haven't mentioned windows phone 7 but thats cause I haven't any experiences with it yet. Not sure if they are going to be able to catch up. I don't think Microsoft is nimble enough to keep up with the mobile device market. Pretty much like RIM, they are stuck in the corporate world.

Welcome to the Android Community, it's a fun place to be. Ask questions, stay in your comfort level, and have fun with your device of choice. Just remember, these devices are supposed to make our lives easier. If right now, your's isn't and it's Android, I'm sure there's a ROM out there that will do what you want it to, from a stock google experience to the most blurred out and bloatware filled ones out there.

Best of Luck.

B

 

[jestyr]

Ultra-low worked for you pretty well? I'm using low with the same frequencies as I wanted to ensure functionality. How long have you been 'down there'? Any issues?

I have had zero issues with the ULV settings. I've been using JRummy's overclocking software ever since it came out...what was that like a month or two ago?

Just keep in mind that each phone is different. Each processor is rated to a minimum spec and as such just because one phone can run 1.2 ghz at a certain voltage doesn't mean they all can. Hell, I can run mine at 1.35 at ULV but I've also heard that some phones freak out 1.1 at normal voltages. It's just a trial and error kind of thing. The good thing is I don't think I have heard of anyone completely bricking their phone by fiddling with these settings. The worst that happens is the phone will reboot. Just make sure you don't change the settings so that it is overclocked on boot and you should be good to go.

 

[Primate]

The iPhone definitely changed the mobile computing game for good, but it's rare that the first stab at a new technology is the best way to go. We are definitely seeing for the first time on a large scale what open source can really do.

Apple seems to be repeating the same mistakes that they made the first time around.

Way back in the 1900's Apple put out the Macintosh. EVEYONE wanted one and came in droves to get what apple was pimping. Then along came the PC. While Mac was so busy trying to lock their system down and tell everyone what they could and could not do PC was saying here take this and do what you want. Have fun. Slowly the masses discovered that proprietary sucked and said bu-bye to Apple.

The new Macs and "I" products are following the same story line. Good marketing and a feeding frenzy has Apple riding high. Eventually the masses will realize they want some freedom and Apple will get smacked down again. Rest assured history always repeats itself.

Sincerely an Apple hatter

 

[nycebo]

I have had zero issues with the ULV settings. I've been using JRummy's overclocking software ever since it came out...what was that like a month or two ago?
...SNIP...
It's just a trial and error kind of thing. The good thing is I don't think I have heard of anyone completely bricking their phone by fiddling with these settings. The worst that happens is the phone will reboot.

Completely agree. It guess it was the warning on Jrummy's software (I'm using it the same as you and it is fantastic) about ULV that made me cautious and hence opted to start at Low voltage first. Glad to hear that you're experience has been solid. So has mine: I'm overclocked to 1.2 and it's amazing how much smoother things run compared to my experience with the same app or procedure before the adjustment. What I really love are the profiles for different conditions. Simply awesome!

 

[Dabitz]

I am confused.... I ended up reading this thread because I had the same question (why root?). What is ROM? Is it the ability to install themes?

 

[cultldr]

I am confused.... I ended up reading this thread because I had the same question (why root?). What is ROM? Is it the ability to install themes?

As I understand it a ROM is a rewrite of the operating system and the developer can really make the phone what it should be rather than the stuff carrier pushing their stuff on users.

And after running a few ROMs on my phone and currently on Apex 1.3. I can never go back to a "stock" ROM. I am so glad I learned how to root, sbf and theme from the great people here. My phone is truly mine and others that see my X compared to theirs can't believe the change.

 

[scary alien]

Hey hey, Scary, I remember you from the Eris forums, I too have now traded my Eris (how many ROMs did I flash on that thing??) for a Droid X.

Did you use z4root to achieve root ?

How's is going? I actually still have my Eris...I still play with it a bit to test/ research root-related issues. I rooted my X with doroot.bat (not exactly sure of its name...one of the early, SDK-based rooters).

 

[Dabitz]

When a Verizon OS update is released, do you have to remove roms and unroot to upgrade? Or do you guys don't update at all? Just curious since you say ROMS is a customized version of the OS. I am pretty computer savy and i am very tempted to jump in the bandwagon here as well.

 

[cultldr]

When a Verizon OS update is released, do you have to remove roms and unroot to upgrade? Or do you guys don't update at all? Just curious since you say ROMS is a customized version of the OS. I am pretty computer savy and i am very tempted to jump in the bandwagon here as well.

If you just root and don't remove or freeze (titanium backup) bloat you can take the OTA updates from what I understand, but if you put a ROM on it you have to wait. That's the down and dirty, there's a lot more to that when you ROM.


But that being said, rooting and putting a different ROM on the phone has been nothing but positive and I've learned a TON in a very short time. Read the stickies and you can't go wrong.

 

[eraursls1984]

If you just root and don't remove or freeze (titanium backup) bloat you can take the OTA updates from what I understand, but if you put a ROM on it you have to wait. That's the down and dirty, there's a lot more to that when you ROM.


But that being said, rooting and putting a different ROM on the phone has been nothing but positive and I've learned a TON in a very short time. Read the stickies and you can't go wrong.

It you've installed a Rom you can either restore a stock Nandroid or if you didn't backup then you can just use the sbf that takes you back to stock and update from there

 

[bbuck002]

Dabitz, the best place to start reading about all of this is the Sticky at the top of the All things Root forum.

Several people have taken a lot of time to put together guides that explain just about everything and give step by step instructions on how to do things like root/ROM/theme.
I would highly suggest reading through all of these and be proficient and making a full system backup(nandroid) before you dive into anything more technical like overclocking/running different ROMs and scripts.

good luck and definitely ask questions if you aren't sure about something, this is a great community with a lot of knowledgable and friendly people, so take advantage!

 

[wanna be]

Fellow technology users,
I want to thank all of you for participating in this forum as it is so valuable to guys like me, who don

 

[scary alien]

wanna be,

Welcome to Android Forums! You'll find that there's tons of very cordial and very knowledgable folks here on AF. The Guides and Mods are wonderful and take very good care of all of us.

Your best course of action is doing what you've already started: reading and asking questions. There's more than enough forums and threads to sate your thirst for knowledge and if you don't see if posted or find it by searching, feel free to ask.

As you've probably already seen, the Droid X forums are broken down into a few subforms:

Motorola Droid X - Android Forums
Droid X - Support and Troubleshooting - Android Forums
Droid X - Tips and Tricks - Android Forums
Droid X - All Things Root - Android Forums

You will undoubtedly find what you need somewhere in one of the above threads.

Now, to your questions, I'll throw in my 2-cents:

How to get the most from my Droid X?

Start with the "tip & tricks" thread above.

Do I need to "Root"?

Don't know if you "need" to, LOL. I rooted mine only after I was satisfied that it was safe to do so (I was already comfortable with the terminology, concepts, and had prior experience from rooting my Eris). What have I don't with this new found power: honestly, not much. Played with a few root-only apps and that's about it. I've found the X already very fast, feature-filled, and trouble-free. I have not themed, overclocked, or installed any custom ROMs since I didn't see or have the need or desire to do so.

That being said, you might very well want to and the best place to start is by checking in to the main stickied thread in the Droid X all-things-root subforum:

http://androidforums.com/droid-x-al...ide-updated-4-pm-eastern-time-11-10-10-a.html

Are there unsafe Apps? How do I avoid them?

I'm sure there are some and you should probably read and research a little before installing anything that doesn't look like its had a lion's share of downloads. That being said, Android does a pretty good job of letting you know of an apps "intentions" based on what permissions the app requests/requires when you go to download and install it. For example, let's say you go to download a game and the Market warns you that the apps requests/requires access to your call log, you might be suspicious and pass on that particular app. Caveat emptor.

Is it safe to download and try them indiscriminately?

I would check the download count, the comments posted by folks, and also reference and check on the other apps created / posted by the author. Reputable apps should be no problem. Again, "buyer beware" (even for free apps).

Do I need to take precautions to guard against identity theft, and or spying, if so what are they?

No personal experience here regarding that, but I would urge you to alway exercise good judgement when entering usernames, passwords, or personal information: i.e., know your app, its security and intentions, and never enter any such information over an unsecured wi-fi network (i.e., WEP is easily cracked).

I am more interested in efficiency and productivity than in the entertainment aspect of a smart phone or personal computing device.

I'm sure there's lots of great apps and tools out on the Market that can help you. I personally use the Citrix app for communicating with work. There's also Good for MS/Exchange email access (I don't use it but lots of folks at work do). Check out the Market or any one of the myriad of Android application sites out there to help you with your research.

Welcome to the world of the Droid X.

That's all I got. Hope it helps. Cheers!

 

[wanna be]

Thanks Scary

 

[nycebo]

One more thing wanna be: when you're reading through the forums, an easy way to see who's really helpful and knowledgeable is to check out how many times a guy has been thanked (you can do so by clicking the "Thanks" button at the end of a post. Some members, like scary alien, above take a lot of time to write nicely detailed posts and are really helpful. Indeed, I was as green as green can be when I got my first Droid, and now Droid X, and the members on this forum have been unbelievably patient and helped me a ton in fully customizing out X. What's funny is that 6 months ago, I would have asked why the heck I need root. Now, I go out of my mind for a weekend if I find I can't root right away after an update. Go figure! ;-)