How-To

How to Root the Kindle Fire

By Austin Krause

Updated August 10, 2021

Update: This article was originally written 10 years ago and the method described to root your Kindle is no longer valid. Amazon continuously pushes out updates to make the process more difficult.

Why root your Kindle?  Well if you are reading this then you have quite a few reasons in mind already. For those that don’t know, a rooted Kindle Fire can:

• Install the official Android Market
• Use apps that require root. (e.g.: Droid Wall, Root Explorer, Titanium Backup Pro, etc…)
• Set permanent custom lock screen backgrounds.
• Install custom soft-keyboards.
• And more!

Disclaimer: Although the risks involved with rooting are low, there is a possibility something could go wrong.  This is especially true if you are using cheap or unstable micro-usb cords to connect your Kindle Fire to your PC.

The root process involves 4 simple steps, albeit some of them are longer than others. Fortunately, rooting on the Fire is safe, reversible, free, and we have in-depth guides for each step.

1. Install the Java JDK and Android SDK. [Full Guide Here]
2. Modify %userprofile%/.android/adb_usb.ini to include 0x1949 and install Kindle Fire USB Driver.
3. Plug in the Kindle Fire to your computer via USB. [Full Guide Here]
4. Download the SuperOneClick root utility, extract it, open it, and click Root.

Now all you have to do is wait for it to finish.  Do not disconnect until the process is complete or you risk messing up your Kindle.

Done! Your Kindle Fire will now be rooted and Superuser is also installed.