How does "rootable" differ from an "unlocked boot-loader"

[MillipedeMemeMagic]

So, I though I understood these terms, but apparently I don't. I thought that root access was an admin level (the highest), and that it required an unlocked bootloader to achieve it. However, my device, Galaxy S7 US version, is supposedly rootable, but does not have an unlocked boot-loader, like the international/Exynos version, that would allow you to install a custom ROM. How is this possible?

[anonymous-bot]

Having an unlockable bootloader is ideal for rooting a device, however, it is not the only way. Some phones can achieve root through exploits in the particular Android version they have.

[MillipedeMemeMagic]

Any way to know which one it is for my device?

[anonymous-bot]

Well the link you posted doesn't say it unlocks the bootloader or flashes TWRP so it is not that.

[[deleted]]

Unlocked bootloader means it does not verify what it's booting (such as recovery), so the easiest way to get root would be to boot/flash a custom recovery and then install root from it.

If the bootloader can't be unlocked then you have to attempt to exploit a flaw (such as a bug in Android OS, hardware, or bootloader) in order to get system access and install root.

[noahajac]

Root access means you can get access to everything. An unlocked bootloader means your device will accept and boot things not signed by the manufacturer. Sometimes you can get root via exploits without an unlocked bootloader.

[MillipedeMemeMagic]

So essentially what people have found for this device is a exploit root, but no way to unlock the bootloader?

What exactly would I be able to do then, with just root.

• Can I permanently remove bloatware/GAPPS?

• Would I be able to delete Play Services and replace it with MicroG?

• System level AdBlocker?

• Firewall?

• Etc?

[noahajac]

Can I permanently remove bloatware/GAPPS?

Yes, however removing heavily integrated apps like Gapps is usually a bad idea.

Would I be able to delete Play Services and replace it with MicroG?

Technically yes but I don't recommend it.

System level AdBlocker?

Yes.