How to Root an Android Tablet

PDF download Download Article
Everything you need to know using a root app on your Android tablet
PDF download Download Article

Rooting your Android tablet comes with multiple benefits, such as the ability to gain administrative rights to the Android operating system, the option to extend your battery life and memory, and the ability to install apps exclusive to rooted devices. The method you use to root your Android device is different depending on the make and model of your tablet, as well as the version of Android you are running. If you are running an older version of Android (5.1.1 "Lollipop" and below), you maybe be able to use a one-click app such as KingoRoot, TowelRoot, or One Click Root. If you are using an new version of Android (6.0 "Marshmallow" or newer), you'll need to use Magisk Root, which requires you to unlock your bootloader and flash a new custom recovery. This wikiHow teaches how to root your Android tablet.

Things You Should Know

  • While rooting gives you superuser permissions and unlimited customization, it does open your tablet up to potential security threats.
  • Most Android root tools require you to connect your tablet to a computer with a USB cable.
  • If you want to root a Samsung Galaxy tablet, you will lose access to Samsung services like Samsung Pay and the Galaxy Store.
Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Magisk (Marshmallow & Later)

PDF download Download Article
  1. Rooting your tablet gives you superuser permissions over your tablet. The process for rooting your tablet varies quite a bit from one model to the next. It also takes away many of the security features that Google has put in place. This puts your tablet at greater risk of viruses and malware. Some apps and services may stop working on a rooted tablet. Many carriers do not support rooting your tablet and may deny access to their network. In most cases, rooting your tablet will void the warranty from your carrier or tablet's manufacturer. Continue at your own risk.
    • Many tablet models and carriers do not allow you to unlock bootloader. If you are unable to unlock bootloader, you may be able to find an unofficial way to unlock your bootloader at https://forum.xda-developers.com/ . If you can't find an unofficial way to unlock the bootloader on your tablet, it is unlikely you will be able to root your tablet.
    • Unlocking the bootloader on Samsung tablets will break Knox and you will not be allowed to use any Samsung services such as the Galaxy Store, Samsung Pay, Samsung Cloud, etc. Additionally, the process will wipe all data from your tablet.
  2. The process for rooting your Android tablet requires you to flash a new recovery system onto your tablet. This may wipe all data on your tablet. Before you begin, be sure to transfer any photos and videos you want to keep to your computer. You can back up your account settings, app data, and other information to your Google Cloud account using thing the following steps:
    • Open the Settings app.
    • Tap the magnifying glass icon in the upper-right corner.
    • Search the Settings menu for "Backup".
    • Tap the Backup & Restore option.
    • Tap Backup data .
    • Tap Back up .
    Advertisement
  3. You'll need the USB drivers for your Android tablet to interface with your computer. Especially if you are using a Windows computer. You'll need to download the drivers from the manufacturer's web page. Use Google to search for the drivers for the make and model of your Android tablet. Locate the drivers on your manufacturer's web page and download and install them. The following are some of the websites you can download the device drivers for your Android tablet:
  4. Some tablet manufacturer's such as Sony , HTC , and Huawei require you to get a special code to unlock the bootloader for your tablet. To do get that, you will need to go to the manufacturer's bootloader unlocking page and select your tablet model. Then you will need to sign in or create an account to request an unlock code. You should receive the bootloader unlock code an any special instructions through email.
  5. Android SDK are command line tools that allow your computer to interface with your device using the command prompt or terminal. Use the following steps to download Android SDK tools.
    • Go to https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools in a web browser.
    • Click the download link for the operating system your computer is using.
    • Open the zip file in your web browser or Downloads folder.
    • Extract the "Platform-tools" folder to your desktop or another location or your choice.
  6. In order to interface with your tablet on your computer, you'll need to enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging. Not all tablets have OEM unlocking. Don't worry too much if it's not available on your tablet. Use the following steps to enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging mode.
    • Open the Settings app in your Apps menu.
    • Tap About tablet .
    • Tap Build number 7 times to unlock Developer Options.
    • Tap the back button in the upper-right corner to return to the root Settings menu.
    • Tap Developer Options .
    • Tap the toggle switch to enable OEM unlocking (if available) and enter your passcode.
    • Tap the toggle switch to enable USB debugging and enter your passcode.
  7. The way you do this is going to be different depending on the make and model of your tablet. First you'll need to start by completely turning off your tablet. Then you'll need to press and hold a button combination to boot your tablet into bootloader mode. If your tablet displays a boot menu, use the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons to navigate the menu. Press the Power button to select the bootloader option. The button combination to unlock the Bootloader is as follows:
    • Press and hold the Volume Up and Power button to boot into the bootloader menu on most Android tablets. Release the power button and continue holding the Volume Up botton when you see your tablet's logo on-screen.
    • Some tablet models require you to press and hold the Volume Down and Power button to boot into the Bootloader menu.
    • On Samsung Galaxy tablets with a Bixby button, press and hold the Bixby , Volume Down , and the Power button all at the same time.
    • Alternatively, you can connect your tablet to your computer, open the Terminal on Mac, or open the "Platform-tools" folder, hold Shift and right-click any empty space and click Open Powershell window here . Type adb reboot bootloader and press Enter.
  8. If you are using a Mac, you only need to open the Terminal. On Windows, open the Platform-tools folder you downloaded and extracted, hold Shift and right-click any empty space. Then click Open Powershell window here
    • To check if your tablet is properly connected, type the command "adb devices". It should display your tablet's serial number.
    • To see if your bootloader is unlockable type the command "fastboot flashing get_unlock_ability". If it returns a code of "1", your tablet's bootloader can be unlocked. If it returns a code of "0", your bootloader can't be unlocked and you will need to find an unofficial way to unlock your tablet's bootloader.
  9. This is different depending on the your tablet's make and model. The most common command to unlock the bootloader is "fastboot oem unlock" or "fastboot flashing unlock". Some tablet models may require you to enter the unlock code in addition to the command. Follow the instructions from your tablet's manufacturer to enter the correct unlock command. You may also see a confirmation prompt on your tablet's screen. If so, use the volume buttons to select the option to confirm that you want to unlock your bootloader. [1] [2]
    • Be aware that this will most likely void your warranty on your tablet.
    • Samsung users will not be able to unlock their bootloader using the terminal or command line. Instead, launch Odin.
  10. TWRP is a custom recovery that allows you to install custom software on your tablet, including the software needed to root your tablet. TWRP is not available for all tablet models, but it is available for most. If you can't find it on the website, try search Google or xda-developers.com . Use the following steps to download TWRP for your tablet model.
    • Go to https://twrp.me/Devices/ in a web browser.
    • Click your tablet's manufacturer name.
    • Click your tablet's model.
    • Click the download like to download TWRP for your tablet.
    • Download the latest ".img" file for TWRP (Samsung users download the ".img.tar" file).
  11. Magisk is the utility that you will be using to root your tablet. Use the following steps to download Magisk:
    • Go to https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk in a web browser.
    • Scroll down and click the latest version of Magisk below "Downloads".
    • Save the zip file to your tablet's internal storage where you can find it. You can transfer files using the USB connection.
  12. If your tablet is not already in fastboot mode and connected to your computer use the same methods as before to put it in fastboot mode and use the USB cable to connect it to your computer. Open the terminal or Powershell window in the Platform-tools folder and type "adb devices" and press enter to make sure it is connected.
  13. This will give you the command to boot your tablet into the TWRP custom recovery from the file on your computer. This will not install TWRP on your tablet, but it will temporarily boot it into TWRP. When your tablet boots TWRP, select "Keep read only" and swipe the arrows at the bottom to the right.
    • Samsung users open Odin and click AP on Windows or PDA on Mac. Select the TWRP "img.tar" file and click Open . Click the Options tap and uncheck Auto Recovery . Then click Start to flash TWRP to your tablet. Then you will need to reboot your tablet into recovery mode to boot into TWRP. You will also need to use TWRP to wipe the data on your tablet in order to remove the encryption. Additionally, you will need to download a file called No Verity from here and save it to your tablet's internal storage. This file will keep your tablet from getting stuck in a boot loop and unable to function. [3]
  14. Almost done. Once you flash Magisk to your tablet it will reboot and then it will be rooted. Use the following steps to flash Magisk to your tablet in TWRP.
    • Tap Install .
    • Browse to and select the Magisk zip file.
    • Swipe to flash the magisk file to your tablet (Samsung users also need to use this same method to install the No Verity file).
    15. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Kingo Root (Lollipop & Earlier)

PDF download Download Article
  1. Rooting your tablet gives you superuser permissions over your tablet. The process for rooting your tablet varies quite a bit from one model to the next. It also takes away many of the security features that Google has put in place. This puts your tablet at greater risk of viruses and malware. Some apps and services may stop working on a rooted tablet. Many carriers do not support rooting your tablet and may deny access to their network. In most cases, rooting your tablet will void the warranty from your carrier or tablet's manufacturer. Continue at your own risk.
    • Rooting a Samsung tablets will break Knox and you will not be allowed to use any Samsung services such as the Galaxy Store, Samsung Pay, Samsung Cloud, etc. Additionally, the process will wipe all data from your tablet.
  2. You can back up all data on your Android to Google’s servers, your computer, or to a third-party cloud storage service. Rooting will erase all personal data from your tablet, such as photos, contacts, and music. [4]
  3. It has an icon that resembles a gear. You can find it in your Apps drawer.
  4. Use the following steps to unlock Development Options in the Settings menu:
    • Scroll down and tap About Tablet'.
    • Tap the Build Number 7 times.
    • Tap the back arrow to return to the root Settings menu.
  5. This will allow the rooting software to communicate with your device. Use the following steps to enable USB debugging in the Settings menu:
    • Scroll to and tap on Developer options .
    • Place a checkmark next to or tap the toggle switch next to “USB debugging."
  6. Navigate to https://www.kingoapp.com/ in a web browser on your computer. This is the website where you can download Kingoroot. It is the software needed to root your Android device.
  7. Kingo is available for both Windows and Mac. Click which ever version is appropriate for your system.
  8. Double-click on the Kingo installation file in your Downloads folder or web browser. Then follow the on-screen prompts to install Kingo on your computer.
  9. Kingo will automatically detect your device, and start installing the latest drivers for the tablet on your computer.
    • If it does not install the latest drivers for your Android Tablet, you can download them from the manufacturer's web page of your Android tablet.
    • If you are asked if you want to allow your computer to connect to your Android tablet, place a checkmark next to “Always allow from this computer” on your tablet, then tap on Ok .
  10. Kingo will start rooting your tablet, which may take up to several minutes.
  11. This will appear when Kingo displays that it has successfully rooted your Android tablet.
  12. To eject your tablet, open File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac. On Windows, right-click your tablet name and click Eject . On Mac, click the eject icon next to your tablet.
  13. If it doesn't reboot automatically, simply press and hold the power button to power off and then press it again to power it back on. After your tablet restarts, the SuperSU app will display in the app tray, and your Android will be rooted.
    14. Advertisement


Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Towelroot (Lollipop & Earlier)

PDF download Download Article
  1. Rooting your tablet gives you superuser permissions over your tablet. The process for rooting your tablet varies quite a bit from one model to the next. It also takes away many of the security features that Google has put in place. This puts your tablet at greater risk of viruses and malware. Some apps and services may stop working on a rooted tablet. Many carriers do not support rooting your tablet and may deny access to their network. In most cases, rooting your tablet will void the warranty from your carrier or tablet's manufacturer. Continue at your own risk.
    • Rooting a Samsung tablets will break Knox and you will not be allowed to use any Samsung services such as the Galaxy Store, Samsung Pay, Samsung Cloud, etc. Additionally, the process will wipe all data from your tablet.
  2. You can back up all data on your Android to Google’s servers, your computer, or to a third-party cloud storage service. Rooting will erase all personal data from your tablet, such as photos, contacts, and music. [5]
  3. It has an icon that resembles a gear. To open the Settings app, tap on Menu, then tap on “Settings” on your Android tablet.
  4. The Security menu has an option that allows you to allow your tablet to download apps from unknown sources.
  5. This will allow your tablet to install programs from sources outside of Google Play Store.
  6. Navigate to https://towelroot.com/ in a web browser. This is the website where you can download to Towelroot APK file. Use any web browser on your tablet to navigate to the website.
  7. It is the red icon that kind of resembles an "A". It's located in the middle of the landing page.
  8. This will download a file called "tr.apk" to your tablet.
  9. When the download is finished, tap on Download Complete , then tap on Install. The Towelroot app will begin the installation process on your tablet.
  10. When the installation is complete, tap on Installation Complete , then tap on Make it Ra1n . Your Android tablet will begin the rooting process, which may take up to several minutes to complete.
  12. This superuser app will help prevent unauthorized apps from making changes to your tablet.
  14. The app will automatically configure and prepare your device for use with rooted apps, and the rooting process will be complete. [6]
    15. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Troubleshooting

PDF download Download Article
  1. if the rooting process renders your tablet inoperable. The rooting process is not supported by Android, and may not work across all devices. Unbricking your Android can often help resolve major software problems, and return your device to the original factory settings.
  2. For instance, Towelroot may not work effectively for Android tablets manufactured by HTC or Motorola. In most cases, you can check the developer’s website for updates regarding software compatibility for your Android tablet.
  3. Try performing a recovery reset on your Android if rooting fails to work and causes problems on your device. A recovery reset, also known as a hard reset, can help restore your device back to the original factory settings.
    4. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can this work on my Tecno Lite 8?
    Umitalia nyan
    Community Answer
    Probably not. Android 6.0 cannot usually be rooted, sadly. Try it with the app and then with a computer.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      • Rooting your Android tablet will void its warranty with the manufacturer. Keep in mind that if your rooted device malfunctions, you may not be able to return, exchange, or have your device repaired under the manufacturer’s warranty. If your device requires repairs, follow these steps to unroot your Android tablet and reinstate the warranty.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Add Widgets on Android
      How to
      Check What Android Version You Have
      How to
      Add an App Back to Home Screen: Tips for Finding Apps
      4 Simple Ways to Turn Off Safe Mode on Any Android
      3 Ways to Unlock an Android Tablet
      How to
      Block All Incoming Calls on an Android Phone
      How to
      Find Your Phone Number on Android
      How to
      Connect Android Phone to Computer
      How to
      Hide Apps on Android
      How to
      Copy an Entire Text Conversation on Android
      How to
      Change Number of Rings on Android
      A Guide to Copying and Pasting with the Android Clipboard
      How to
      Disable Parental Controls on Android
      6 Ways to Fix "Insufficient Storage Available" on an Android
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqJArNiMJJM&t=196s
      2. ↑ https://www.howtogeek.com/239798/how-to-unlock-your-android-phones-bootloader-the-official-way/
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1APxJdqzN04
      4. ↑ https://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/how-to/google-android/how-root-android-device-3342120/
      5. ↑ https://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/how-to/google-android/how-root-android-device-3342120/
      6. ↑ https://theunlockr.com/2014/06/24/how-to-root-your-android-device-towelroot-method-video/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 182,748 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement