How To Root Your Android Phone With SuperSU

Rooting your Android phone can significantly enhance its functionality and customization options, but it requires careful steps to avoid any potential risks. Here’s a detailed guide on how to root your Android phone using SuperSU, a popular and reliable rooting tool.

Prerequisites for Rooting

Before you begin the rooting process, ensure you have the following prerequisites in place:

Unlock the Bootloader: This is the first step in the rooting process. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to install custom recoveries and ROMs. The process varies by device, so you need to find specific instructions for your model.
Install TWRP Recovery: TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is a custom recovery environment that you need to install on your device. Download the TWRP recovery image for your device from the official TWRP website and follow the installation instructions.
Download the SuperSU ZIP File: Download the latest SuperSU ZIP file from a reliable source. This file will be used to flash SuperSU and gain root access.

Preparing Your Device

Backup Your Data

Before proceeding with the rooting process, it is crucial to back up your data. Rooting can sometimes lead to data loss, especially if you are also installing a custom ROM. Use TWRP to create a backup of your current system, data, and boot partitions.

Transfer the SuperSU ZIP File

Download the SuperSU ZIP file to your computer and transfer it to your phone's internal storage or SD card. Ensure the file is easily accessible from TWRP recovery.

Booting into TWRP Recovery

To boot into TWRP recovery, you need to use a specific button combination that varies by device. For example, you may need to hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously, then use the volume keys to select "Recovery Mode". Search for the specific instructions for your device model.

Flashing SuperSU

Once you are in TWRP recovery:

Navigate to the Install Menu: Tap the "Install" button on the TWRP home screen.
Select the SuperSU ZIP File: Navigate to the location where you transferred the SuperSU ZIP file and select it.
Confirm the Flash: Swipe to confirm the flash. This process should only take a few moments.
Wipe Cache/Dalvik: After the flash is complete, tap the "Wipe cache/Dalvik" button and swipe to confirm. This step helps ensure a clean installation.
Reboot the System: Finally, tap the "Reboot System" button to boot back into Android.

Managing Root Permissions with SuperSU

After rebooting, you should see the SuperSU app in your app drawer. This app manages which other apps on your phone get root permissions.

Granting Root Access: Whenever an app requests root permissions, SuperSU will prompt you to grant or deny the request. You can manage these permissions by opening the SuperSU app and viewing the list of apps that have been granted or denied superuser access.
Verifying Root Status: To ensure that the rooting process was successful, download the Root Checker app. This app will verify whether your device has root access and prompt you to grant superuser permissions if necessary.

Common Issues and Solutions

Permission Problems

If you encounter permission issues during the rooting process, especially with certain devices like the OnePlus One, you may need to use additional tools or commands. For example, using ADB and Fastboot can help resolve some permission issues.

Backup and Restore

If you have custom ROMs like LineageOS and GAAP installed, it is essential to back up these installations before attempting to root. TWRP allows you to create backups that you can restore later if needed.

Additional Tips

Avoid Unnecessary Reinstalls: If TWRP asks if you want to install its built-in version of SuperSU, choose "Do Not Install". It is generally best to flash the latest version of SuperSU yourself.
Use Root-Only Apps: Once rooted, you can explore various root-only apps that offer advanced features and customization options. Apps like Greenify and Titanium Backup are popular choices.

By following these steps carefully, you can successfully root your Android phone using SuperSU and unlock a world of customization and advanced features.