How To Enable USB Debugging on Android for Rooting and More

Prerequisites

Here’s what you’ll need before we get started:

• A phone running Android 4.2 or higher.
• ADB drivers installed on your computer.
• TWRP custom recovery for your specific phone if you’re using the recovery method.
• A good USB cable to connect your phone to your computer.

These instructions work for most Android devices, but if your phone is a bit different, you might see some small changes.

Enabling USB Debugging via Settings (Android 4.2 and Higher)

If your phone is working fine, this method is the easiest. Enabling USB Debugging is quick once you unlock the Developer Options. Let’s walk through it.

Unlock Developer Options

1. Open Settings on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on About phone.
3. Look for Build number at the bottom.
4. Tap Build number seven times. You’ll see a message like, “You’re now 3 steps away from being a developer.”
5. After the seventh tap, you’ll see “You are now a developer!” Developer Options are now available.

By doing this, you’ve unlocked a hidden part of your phone’s settings where USB Debugging lives.

Turn On USB Debugging

1. Go back to the Settings main menu.
2. Tap on Developer Options (it should now appear).
3. Scroll down and turn on USB Debugging.

That’s it! Now your computer can communicate with your phone, allowing you to root, install software, or run commands.

Enabling USB Debugging via Recovery Mode

If your phone’s screen is broken, or you can’t access settings, you can still enable USB Debugging using recovery mode (TWRP). This method helps when you’re stuck and can’t navigate your phone the usual way.

Boot into Recovery Mode

1. Turn off your phone.
2. Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons together until your phone boots into recovery mode (TWRP).
3. In TWRP, go to Advanced and then select ADB Sideload.

ADB Sideload lets your computer talk to your phone, even if the screen isn’t working.

Use ADB to Enable USB Debugging

1. 1. Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable.
   2. Open Command Prompt or Terminal on your computer.
   3. Run the following command to see if your device is recognized:

adb devices

1. 1. If your phone shows up, run these commands to enable USB Debugging:

  adb shell "settings put global development_settings_enabled 1"
  adb shell "settings put global adb_enabled 1"
  

Even if you can’t access your phone’s screen, you’ve now turned on USB Debugging!

Enabling USB Debugging via ADB Commands

Sometimes, you may not be able to boot into Android but still need USB Debugging on. This method allows you to enable it through your computer, which can be a lifesaver if your phone is stuck.

Boot into Fastboot Mode

1. Turn off your phone.
2. Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons together to enter Fastboot Mode.

Fastboot mode is a tool that helps when the regular Android system isn’t working.

Use ADB Commands

1. 1. Connect your phone to your computer with a USB cable.
   2. Open Command Prompt or Terminal.
   3. Run the command below to enable USB Debugging:

  adb shell "settings put global development_settings_enabled 1"
  adb shell "settings put global adb_enabled 1"
  

This will turn on USB Debugging even if you can’t boot into the Android system.

Turning on USB Debugging gives your computer the ability to perform more advanced actions on your phone. Whether you’re trying to root, troubleshoot, or install something new, enabling USB Debugging is a must. Always remember to turn it off when you’re done to keep your phone safe.