Rooting an Android smartphone is something that all users with a phone running Google's operating system face at some point in their lives, if we are the kind of people who want to get the most out of our smartphone. With the Motorola Moto GWe have a very well-balanced Google phone that's perfect for everyday use. Plus, Rooting it is very easy when the correct steps are followed and the prerequisites are met.
Sometimes, rooting a smartphone means having to follow a very complicated series of steps that sometimes work and sometimes don't, and repeating them isn't always easy. However, this is not the case with the Motorola Moto G, as it is as simple as download a file and execute a command for the smartphone to have been rooted, as long as we have previously unlocked the bootloader, something we'll also explain to you. So, let's see how to root the Motorola Moto G step by step, what alternatives exist (Fastboot and Magisk), and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Dangers
It must be said, however, that rooting a smartphone can entail some dangers. For example, the warranty is lost. And to all this we must add that there is a possibility that the phone could be damaged if we don't do it right or if something works incorrectly. This is not common, nor are there any greater dangers with this procedure than with any other rooting process, but it is something that must be taken into account, since it is a process that is under the responsibility of each one.
Additionally, rooting can affect OTA updates already compatibility with sensitive services such as mobile banking or payments protected by Play Integrity/SafetyNet. It is always a good idea to do a Backup Before you start, charge your phone above 60% and have a quality usb cable to avoid disconnections during the process.
Finally, remember that unlocking the bootloader performs a factory reset on many models. If you don't want to lose data, back up your files, photos, and chats before proceeding.
1.- Unlock the Bootloader
The first step is to have the bootloader unlockedTo do this, you need to follow a few steps explained by Motorola itself. We won't focus on that, as it's something that We already explained you in detail in another Android Help article. We refer you to that one. We just have to follow the steps, and when you finish, return to this article to follow the rooting steps.
As a quick and complementary guide: activate the Developer Options By tapping on “Build Number” several times, enable OEM unlock y USB debugging, install ADB/Fastboot on your computer and use the official Motorola tool to get the unlock code. With the device in fastboot mode, run the corresponding unlock command. This step erases the phone's contents, so make sure you have a previous backup.
2.- Download Superboot
In this case, we are going to use a software image which, once started on the smartphone, performs the rooting process, installing all the files, with the Superuser application included. You just have to press the download link for it to begin downloading. If you have any questions, please consult the MoDaCo thread linked at the end, which is where this method comes from and where queries are resolved.
Before continuing, check that you have the Motorola drivers installed on your computer, that the Superboot file isn't corrupted, and that your antivirus isn't blocking the script. Some antivirus programs detect these types of tools as potentially dangerous, so you may need to temporarily disable them during the process.
3.- Extract the files
Once we have downloaded the file, it is necessary extract the files to another directory on our computer, one where only these files are located and it is easy to locate them, so that we can use them easily later and not lose them. Avoid paths with spaces or accents (for example, use C:\\moto\\superboot on Windows) and verify that the system allows you to run scripts in that folder.
If you are working on Mac or Linux, make sure that the script files have execute permissions and that you have ADB/Fastboot in your PATH. If not, install them (on a Mac, you can use Homebrew, and on Linux, use your package manager) or run the binaries from the project folder itself.
4.- Turn off the smartphone
Next, we'll activate the smartphone's Bootloader Mode. To do this, the smartphone must first be offWe recommend that the Motorola Moto G's battery be fully charged, or almost fully charged, to avoid any problems later. Disconnect the USB cable and, if you have a PIN or pattern, write it down; you shouldn't need to, but it's useful to have it handy if the device restarts.
5.- We start in Bootloader Mode
With the Bootloader unlocked, we can now start in what is called Bootloader modeTo do this, we simultaneously press the button lower volume and of on to start the phone. Release the button once it has entered Bootloader Mode. You'll see text on the screen indicating the bootloader status and fastboot options. Now connect your phone to your computer via USB.
6a.- Start Superboot in Windows
If you have Windows, then all you have to do is look among the downloaded files for one called "superboot-windows.bat" and start this as administrator. Next, follow the on-screen instructions to root your smartphone. If the script displays "waiting for device," install or update the Motorola drivers, use a USB 2.0 port and verify that the phone is in fastboot.
Extra tip: If your antivirus blocks the .bat, temporarily disable it and run the file again. Keep the symbol of the system to read any errors and be able to repeat the steps if necessary.
6b.- Start Superboot on Mac
On a Mac, the situation is a little more complicated. You should already know how to launch a Terminal, as it was necessary to unlock the bootloader. Once it's launched, go to the folder we created. To make things easier, put this folder in your user directory so you can find it more easily. In the Terminal, type "ls" (ls, s), which will give you a list of the folders where you're currently located in the Terminal. This should show you the name of the folder where you saved the installed files. Once you've done this, just type "cd (folder name)". Then, finish with "chmod +x superboot-mac.sh", and then type "sudo ./superboot-mac.sh". This will begin the rooting process. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen to root your smartphone.
If macOS prevents running for security reasons, check System Preferences > Security & Privacy and allow running Bus Terminal and the script. Keep ADB/Fastboot handy in case you need to reboot your phone at the end of the process.
6c. Start Superboot on Linux
If you have Linux, we won't explain how to launch a terminal and navigate to a specific folder, as we assume you know better. Once in the folder, enter "chmod +x superboot-linux.sh", and then "sudo ./superboot-linux.sh". Follow the instructions and your smartphone will be rooted by the end of the process.
To avoid permission issues, add rules udev For Android devices, or run the commands with sudo. Use "fastboot devices" to verify that the device is detected before running the script.
Modern alternative: Fastboot + Magisk (for more compatibility)
If you prefer a general and widespread method, you can root using Magisk. The idea is patch the boot image and flash it with Fastboot. In some recent variants of the Moto G family the file to patch is «init_boot.img» instead of the classic "boot.img"; this fixes root errors when patching the boot.img doesn't work. Find the official firmware for your version, extract the corresponding file, and copy "boot.img" or "init_boot.img" to your phone.
- Install to app by Magisk on the Moto G and use the “Install” > “Select and Patch File” option to generate the patched.img.
- Transfer the patched.img to your computer, reboot your phone. fastboot and run: on classic boot models, "fastboot flash boot patched.img"; on init_boot models, "fastboot flash init_boot patched.img." If you'd rather try it first, you can temporarily boot with "fastboot boot patched.img."
- Reboot your phone. Open Magisk and complete the installation. installation If requested, check with a "Root Checker"-type app to make sure the permissions are active.
This procedure is easy to reverse, compatible with most variants and easy to revert: just flash the original boot or init_boot firmware again if you want to unroot.
After rooting: checks and recommended uses
When the system boots up, it's a good idea to run some checks. Open the app Superuser/Magisk To ensure that you manage permissions, install a root checking utility and update the binaries If there's a warning, avoid installing too many modules at once: add changes incrementally to isolate potential failures.
Some common uses of root include: ad blocking through host lists, granular control of permissions and wakelocks, advanced automation or restoring apps with their data using solutions backup For root users. Make changes judiciously and always keep a recent backup.
If you need to pass integrity checks for sensitive apps, review the options for root hiding offered by Magisk and configure rules per app. Keep in mind that security requirements change over time and may require additional adjustments.
Troubleshooting common problems
- The PC does not detect the deviceReinstall the Motorola drivers, use a different port/cable, and run "fastboot devices" to test the connection. On Linux, add udev rules; on macOS, check Terminal permissions.
- Bootloop or no boot: enter fastboot and flash the boot/init_boot original firmware. Avoid mixing images from different builds. In extreme cases, reinstall the entire firmware using fastboot.
- Script stopped waiting for deviceMake sure you're in bootloader mode, that the battery is over 60% charged, and that the cable isn't broken. Temporarily disable your antivirus if it interferes with the script.
- “Warning Bootloader Unlocked” message: This is normal after unlocking. There are methods to replace the boot logo with one without a warning; only perform this process if you are aware of the risks, as an incorrect logo can prevent boot.
- Loss of OTA: with root, the OTA updates may fail. To update, disable modules, restore the original boot image, apply the OTA, and patch again with Magisk or use Superboot.
How to unroot and restore factory settings
If you want to revert changes, you can unroot from the Magisk app using its full uninstall option, which restores the original image if it is preserved. Alternatively, download the official firmware for your model and flash it with fastboot the system, vendor, and boot/init_boot partitions. Finally, lock the bootloader only when the system boots correctly, as locking it with modified images can bricking the device.
You can also find Get more info and ask questions to the discoverer of this system in the forum thread MoDaCo.
With all this, you have at your disposal a range of options to root the Motorola Moto G: the method Superboot due to its simplicity, the route Magisk for its versatility and the support of Fastboot To flash safely. By following the steps, preparing the environment, and having a good backup, you'll be able to enjoy superuser permissions, minimizing risks and maintaining control over the process.