KernelSU
Root that lives inside the Android Linux kernel itself β the leading kernel-based alternative to Magisk's boot-image approach.
What is KernelSU?
KernelSU is an open-source rooting solution created by tiann. Where Magisk patches the boot image from userspace, KernelSU works directly in kernel space on devices that ship with a GKI (Generic Kernel Image) kernel: the kernel itself is what grants superuser access to apps, managed through the KernelSU manager app.
What it gives you
Superuser (root) access with per-app profiles β including per-app capabilities and mount-namespace rules β plus a module system compatible with many Magisk modules, so much of the existing module ecosystem carries over.
How it differs from Magisk
Both are systemless in spirit: the operating-system partition stays untouched. The difference is where the root logic lives β Magisk injects it during boot from a patched boot image, while KernelSU's lives in the kernel itself, which is why KernelSU only targets GKI-kernel devices.
Before you root
KernelSU requires an unlocked bootloader, and rooting trips integrity checks that some apps β banking and payment apps above all β actively look for. Download KernelSU only from the official GitHub page; files from unknown sources can be malicious. Knowing your exact device and bootloader state is step one β our freebrowser-based scan reports both over USB.
Official links
- github.com/tiann/KernelSUβ releases, documentation, and source code
- kernelsu.orgβ the official documentation site
This page is an independent, unofficial overview of KernelSU, which is developed bytiann. Root My Android is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by tiann. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. All other product names, logos, and brands mentioned are the property of their respective owners and are referenced here for identification and informational purposes only.
