Questions related to the process of gaining root access to a mobile device for the purpose of software and OS modification. This term is generally used in association with iOS devices, but can be used to describe the rooting process for other devices.
Jailbreak is a term that is used to describe the process of getting root access to a mobile device. This can come in a variety of ways depending on the device, but the purpose is the same. Root access will give the user the ability to install software outside approved methods. It also allows you direct access to OS files that you would not normally have access to.
Questions that should have the jailbreak tag would include:
- achieving an escalation of privileges or entitlements
- accessing system file locations
- creating 'jailbroken' apps or tweaks to other apps
As the iOS platform is locked from user modification and the confines of the App Store, a need arose to allow users to install apps and change the OS to work around and outside the basic offerings of the OS. While some methods can be reused, Apple generally tries to close any open loopholes that allow this to happen. This creates the cycle of closing the holes and finding new ones to gain root access to the device. In the iPhone's short history, access has always been obtained.
While jailbreaking your device is generally regarded as being a safe practice, it is not for the faint of heart. Some methods can be very complicated to achieve a proper jailbreak, and others like the jailbreakme.com exploit can be very easy. It is suggested that before you attempt to jailbreak your device that you back it up and read the proper documentation for your device and OS version.
If you are interested in jailbreaking your device, you can find a wealth of information on these sites, or by using a simple search.
redsn0w - The most popular unlock tool for iOS some years ago
evasi0n - iOS 6.0-6.1.2 Untethered JB.
Cydia - The jailbreak 'App Store' equivalent
iOS JB Wiki - Wikipedia page with history, definitions, and general info on jailbreaking
In 2021, the popular jailbreak tools for iOS include:
Checkra1n - exploiting the m8 hardware flaw
unc0ver - re-jailbreak conveniently by pressing a button in an app
taurine - along with chimera and odyssey before it, uses the Sileo store rather than Cydia
As a disclaimer, jailbreaking will void any warranty you have on your device. If your phone is broken, or bricked as it is referred to, don't expect any help from the Apple Store or Genius Bar. While jailbreaking is almost always reversible with a simple restore in iTunes, it is not 100%. So proceed at your own risk.
