Biareview.com - How to Root Sony Xperia XZ1

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Introduction

Rooting your Sony Xperia XZ1 can unlock a world of possibilities, providing you with full control over your device. This process allows you to access system files, customize the operating system, and install applications that require root access. However, rooting can also void your warranty and potentially brick your device if not done correctly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of rooting your Sony Xperia XZ1, covering the benefits and risks, the necessary preparations, step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting tips.

Understanding Rooting

What is Rooting?

Rooting is the process of gaining administrative (root) access to the Android operating system. This grants you the ability to modify system files, remove bloatware, improve performance, and install apps that require root access. Essentially, rooting allows you to take full control of your device, beyond the restrictions imposed by the manufacturer.

Benefits of Rooting

Customization: Install custom ROMs and themes to change the look and feel of your device.
Remove Bloatware: Uninstall pre-installed apps that you don’t need, freeing up system resources.
Enhanced Performance: Optimize your device’s performance with tools that require root access.
Better Battery Life: Use apps to manage and extend your battery life more effectively.
Access to Root-Only Apps: Install applications that offer advanced features and functionality.

Risks of Rooting

Void Warranty: Rooting can void your device’s warranty, which means you may not be eligible for official support or repairs.
Bricking: An incorrect rooting process can brick your device, rendering it unusable.
Security Risks: Rooting can expose your device to security vulnerabilities, as it removes some of the built-in protections of the operating system.
Unstable System: Custom ROMs and modifications can sometimes lead to system instability.

Preparing to Root Your Xperia XZ1

Before you begin the rooting process, it’s crucial to prepare your device and gather the necessary tools. Here are the steps to prepare:

Backup Your Data

Rooting your device will erase all data, so it’s important to back up your data first. You can use the following methods to back up your data:

Google Backup: Go to Settings > System > Backup and ensure Backup to Google Drive is enabled.
Xperia Companion: Download and install Xperia Companion on your computer, then connect your device and use the Backup feature.

Charge Your Device

Ensure your Xperia XZ1 is fully charged or has at least 80% battery life to avoid interruptions during the rooting process.

Enable Developer Options and USB Debugging

Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > System > About phone. Tap on the Build number seven times until you see the message “You are now a developer!”
Enable USB Debugging: Go back to the System menu, tap on Developer options, and enable USB Debugging.

Unlock the Bootloader

Unlocking the bootloader is necessary for rooting. However, this process will erase all data on your device, so ensure you have backed up your data.

Get Unlock Code: Visit the Sony Developer website and follow the instructions to get the unlock code for your device.
Enable OEM Unlocking: Go to Settings > System > Developer options and enable OEM unlocking.
Boot into Fastboot Mode: Power off your device, then press and hold the Volume Up button while connecting your device to your computer via USB.
Unlock Bootloader: On your computer, open a Command Prompt or Terminal window and type the following command:
fastboot oem unlock [unlock_code]
Replace [unlock_code] with the code you received from the Sony Developer website.

Install ADB and Fastboot

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and Fastboot are essential tools for rooting your device. Download and install the Android SDK Platform Tools from the official Android developer website.

Download Rooting Tools

Magisk: Download the latest version of Magisk, a popular rooting tool that allows you to manage root permissions and install modules.
TWRP Recovery: Download the TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) image for the Xperia XZ1.

Rooting Your Xperia XZ1

Now that you have prepared your device and gathered the necessary tools, you can proceed with the rooting process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Flash TWRP Recovery

Boot into Fastboot Mode: Power off your device, then press and hold the Volume Up button while connecting your device to your computer via USB.
Open Command Prompt: On your computer, open a Command Prompt or Terminal window.
Navigate to Platform Tools: Navigate to the folder where you installed the Android SDK Platform Tools.
Flash TWRP: Type the following command to flash TWRP recovery:
fastboot flash recovery [twrp_image.img]
Replace [twrp_image.img] with the filename of the TWRP image you downloaded.

Step 2: Boot into TWRP Recovery

Reboot to Recovery: After flashing TWRP, reboot your device into recovery mode by pressing and holding the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously.

Step 3: Install Magisk

Transfer Magisk: Connect your device to your computer and transfer the Magisk zip file to your device’s internal storage.
Install Magisk: In TWRP recovery, tap on Install, navigate to the Magisk zip file, and swipe to confirm the installation.
Reboot: Once the installation is complete, tap on Reboot System.

Step 4: Verify Root

Install Magisk Manager: Once your device has rebooted, install the Magisk Manager app from the Google Play Store or directly from the Magisk website.
Check Root Status: Open Magisk Manager to verify that your device is rooted.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Booting

If your device is stuck in a boot loop or not booting correctly after rooting:

Boot into Recovery: Boot into TWRP recovery and try flashing Magisk again.
Wipe Cache/Dalvik: In TWRP recovery, go to Wipe > Advanced Wipe and select Cache and Dalvik Cache, then swipe to wipe.
Restore Backup: If you created a Nandroid backup before rooting, restore it from TWRP recovery.

Root Not Working

If your device is not properly rooted:

Reinstall Magisk: Boot into TWRP recovery and reinstall the Magisk zip file.
Update Magisk Manager: Ensure you have the latest version of Magisk Manager installed.

Apps Not Functioning Properly

If some apps are not working correctly after rooting:

Magisk Hide: Use the Magisk Hide feature in Magisk Manager to hide root from specific apps that do not function on rooted devices.
Reinstall Apps: Uninstall and reinstall the affected apps.

Best Practices After Rooting

Backup Regularly

Rooting provides you with powerful tools, but it also increases the risk of making changes that could harm your device. Regularly back up your data to avoid data loss.

Keep Magisk Updated

Magisk frequently releases updates to improve performance and security. Regularly check for updates in the Magisk Manager app.

Use Root Checker Apps

Install a root checker app from the Google Play Store to periodically verify that your device remains rooted.

Be Cautious with Root Permissions

Grant root permissions only to trusted apps. Malicious apps with root access can cause significant damage to your device.

Conclusion

Rooting your Sony Xperia XZ1 opens up a new world of customization and control, allowing you to optimize your device to suit your needs. While the process involves several steps and carries certain risks, following this comprehensive guide ensures that you can root your device safely and effectively.

Remember to carefully prepare your device, back up your data, and follow the step-by-step instructions to avoid common pitfalls. With your Xperia XZ1 successfully rooted, you can enjoy enhanced performance, remove bloatware, and explore a range of root-only apps and customizations.

By understanding the benefits and risks, and by following best practices after rooting, you can make the most of your rooted Xperia XZ1 while maintaining the stability and security of your device. Happy rooting!