Root Sony Xperia Z2 with Locked or Unlocked Bootloader

Android is the most popular operating system for mobile devices. And what makes it so fascinating is its open source nature that allows modification of system files and enhances the performance of the device through root apps, custom kernels, mods and ROMs. However, to be entitled to such modification, the OS requires being rooted. Root access in Android is just another term for immense possibilities.

While most Android devices get a rooting method within a few hours after their release, there are a few others that come with heavily coded locked bootloaders that do not allow a root script to do its magic so easily. The past couple of days have been very good for two flagship devices, namely the US variants of Samsung Galaxy S5, and the Sony Xperia Z2.

Yesterday, Geohot released his famous Towelroot exploit that works on the US models of the Galaxy S5 and various other smartphones. On the same blessed day, recognized Sony developer DooMLoRD came up with his Community RootKit that brings root access to the Sony Xperia Z2 with locked or unlocked bootloader.

Community RootKit takes advantage of a system vulnerability called ASEC to achieve full root access on the Xperia Z2. DoomLord’s rootkit has been successfully tested on Xperia Z2 with firmware version 17.1.A.2.55/.6917.1.A.2.55/.69, but it should work on other firmwares too. The rootkit is very easy to use and according to its developer, its upcoming versions will also work on the Xperia Tablet Z2 and some other Xperia devices.

Preparations:

• Download and install Sony USB Drivers on your computer.
• Enable USB Debugging on your Xperia Z2. Read our guide to get instructions on how to do so.
• Go to Settings> Display and set the screen timeout to 10 minutes.
• Enable Unknown sources option in Settings> Security.

Root Sony Xperia Z2

Now here’s is what you need to do to obtain root privilege on your Xperia Z2:

1. Download the latest version of the Community RootKit: Z2-Community_RootKit.zip
2. Connect the USB cable to your phone first and then hook it up to the computer.
3. Extract the zip and open the extracted folder.
4. Find the RUNME.bat and double-click the file to run it.
5. You’ll see a cmd window on your computer.
6. Read and follow the on-screen instructions.
7. When the root script is finished, reboot your phone.

Done! The Community RootKit has successfully rooted your Xperia Z2, installed BusyBox and SU files on it. If you wish to verify proper root privilege on your phone, install the Root Checker app from the Play Store and run it.