Bootloader, what is it and what is it for? It is a very recurring double question. Possibly, the term seems familiar to you and the truth is that if you are an Android user, then surely you have seen it. In this article we will tell you more about it, so I recommend that you continue reading the next few lines and enjoy the experience that you are about to live.
Keep in mind, that even though we will be talking about somewhat advanced terms, you do not have to fear, I will simply show you, it is a good tool, which does not hurt to learn. Keep reading to discover in depth what Bootloader is and what it is for.
Let's get to know the Bootloader, what it is and what it is for
If you know something about the English language, you can deduce that Bootloader comes from the union of two words, boot is boot and loader is load, however, this term comes from a more technical one, such as Bootstrap loader.
Bootloaders or bootloaders, are used in various systems, starting with computers, serving to boot a personal computer, supporting the initial execution of the operating system.
Basically, we can affirm that a Bootloader is a bootloader, which has file packages that allow an operating system to start up, our case of interest being Android.
This file package not only allows the boot execution of the operating system, but also gives instructions to recover the boot in the event of a failure or data loss.
In practical terms, the bootloader starts when the system boots, checks the boot and recovery options, and also detects possible errors in the operation. This kind of tools not always active on devices, many times it is necessary to unlock it for it to run.
Why is my Bootloader locked?
The manufacturer of the device, regardless of its operating system, has the power to define which data packets are executed when the equipment boots. This is done for the purpose of optimize boot of the same and in turn, in many cases, increase the security of execution.
Possibly, at this point, this measure can be read somewhat contradictory, however, Allows you to maximize boot security, preventing malicious files from corrupting the initial commands, being an important recovery option in case it is needed.
Locking the Bootloader also prevents the mobile can only be booted with the version of the operating system that is installed initially. This measure reduces the possibility of the operating system being modified or manipulated by third parties.
Other manufacturers decide to give a little more freedom to their users and allow the device bootloader can be unlocked without inconvenience. To do this, Android devices have a combination of keys during boot, which give access to the boot system, ideal for recovering or installing other ROMs other than those originally added.
How to unlock the computer bootloader
We have already talked a bit about the advantages and disadvantages of unlocking the Bootloader on your mobile. Before proceeding to run it, you must take into account several factors, remember that despite having the same operating system, each manufacturer has different elements and characteristics.
Another item to keep in mind is that each model has a custom process, so the script or even steps may vary. In a general way, I give you the step by step so that you unlock the Bootloader yourself.
- Enter the configuration or settings of your mobile. To do this, you must enter the option that has a small gear.
- Once you access, you must look for the option “Device Information" or "About of the phone”. This can vary between versions, models, or even regional settings.
- On many computers you should find the option “Build Number”. Particularly, for Xiaomi equipment, you should search for “MIUI version".
- On the option you must click several times, until an announcement appears indicating that you have unlocked the development options or simply that you are a programmer.
- This last step will enable a new option called “Development options" or "Developer Options”. This option, depending on the version of the operating system, may appear directly in the configuration menu or in additional settings.
- Here, you need to find the option “OEM Unlock”. He enters by pressing on it.
- Here, for security measures, it will request the password of the equipment.
- Once entered, a pop-up window will ask for confirmation to unlock. On many devices, it is also necessary to enter the option “USB debugging".
Once you have unlocked the Bootloader, you can connect your mobile to the computer through a USB cable and you will be able to enter the commands through a terminal. Keep in mind that this process requires advanced knowledge, so be careful before making changes to the default behavior.
Another element that you must take into account is that when unlocking the Bootloader, your equipment loses the guarantee, because you will directly access the operating system, leaving a record that it was opened.
Advantages of keeping the Bootloader unlocked on your Android mobile
As we said before, the Bootloader offers direct access to the boot of our mobile, an advantage that Android has over other operating systems. Unlocking this module opens the possibility of a greater customization of the equipment, also allowing the installation of new versions of Android.
Please note that by default, Your mobile has a stable operating system, with quite generic modules and that seek to keep the team working under the standards. There are modifications and improvements that allow greater customization or even the use of other applications.
Change the version of your computer's operating system opens up endless possibilities, however, it is an element in which you must be very careful, especially with the instability of other versions.
This does not mean that the mobile will be lost forever, but it will be necessary to install a new ROM, which can be a significant waste of time and also, be for a few hours without using your mobile.
To conclude, I hope you know a little more about the Bootloader, what it is and what it is for. If you are a new user, I hope this is just the beginning of a great adventure, we will read in a future note.
