Now that you know how to use ADB and Fastboot, what can you do with them? Here are a few tools to try: Important! The Difference Between Windows and Mac/Linuxīefore we continue, there's one small but essential difference between using Windows and Mac or Linux that you need to know about. Easier still, on Windows you can hold Shift while right-clicking in the platform-tools folder, then select Open Command Prompt Here.An easier way is to type cd and then drag the platform-tools folder into the Command Prompt window-it will autofill the path for you.Type cd into the Command Prompt or Terminal window and hit Enter. The standard way is to use the cd command.

To use ADB and Fastboot, you need to change the path in the app to point to the platform-tools folder you downloaded. There's a list of links for many popular manufacturers on the Android developer website. If you're using Windows, you will also need to download drivers for your device. It's essential if you need to unbrick your phone, and is most commonly used to install a custom recovery. On Android, Fastboot is a diagnostic tool. It enables you to access all your device's partitions-not just the Android system, but also the data partition, the boot partition, and so on. You can copy system files to and from the device using ADB, uninstall bloatware, and there's also a sideload function that can be used to install system updates.įastboot works when Android is not running and the device is booted into 'Fastboot mode' instead. It enables you to access system folders or tweak hidden settings, which are otherwise off-limits to users. You normally use ADB when Android is running. The computer and cable are integral to this-there's no app version, and while you can use ADB wirelessly, it's much more complicated to set up. ADB and Fastboot are utilities that unlock access to the Android system while your phone is connected to a desktop computer via a USB cable.

Install adb and fastboot windows