Something that an Android user must keep knowledge of includes USB debugging which is an amazing & hidden feature, to begin with. This might not seem important for an average user but for a developer, it is an essential part indeed. Before moving ahead, let us just understand more about it.
What Is USB Debugging?
If you are an app developer, then it is definite that you wish to access the internal working of an Android phone to use advanced options. Debug mode is allowing you to do the same using a USB. Moreover, it is also allowing Android phone communication with the computer having an Android Software Developer Kit (SDK).
A developer can test new apps with Android debugging whereas a regular user can root their Android device, install APK files, recover bricked Android device, or install a custom recovery.
How To Enable USB Debugging Mode On Android?
Well, these settings for USB debugging vary according to the model you are using. In this case below, one example has been explained for Android debugging.
Step 1: Open your phone’s Settings and tap on About Phone
Step 2: In some cases, you can see Build Number here only by scrolling down. Tap on it several times.
Whereas in the case mentioned below, you need to tap on MIUI number a few times till the screen pops up “You are now a developer.”
Step 3: Get back to Settings once again and choose Additional Settings.
Step 4: Here, find Developer Options and tap on it. Scroll down and toggle on the switch of USB Debugging. As the next option will ask ‘Allow USB debugging?’, tap on Ok.
Now that your phone is ready with enabled USB debugging mode, connect your phone with PC using a USB cable.
Tip:
- To disable the Android debug, toggle off the switch of USB Debugging.
- Choose ‘Revoke USB debugging authorizations’ from Developers option menu if you have accepted a wrong prompt.
Security & USB Debugging!
Accept it or not, when your phone is ready for debug mode, it becomes quite vulnerable to malware attacks or other outside threats. This is the reason for regular security prompts each time the phone is connected to a new PC.
Despite this, it is also necessary to secure your phone in advance from any such vulnerability by installing Systweak Anti-Malware. This security app will take care of your phone’s health by scanning and removing malware quickly.
Note: This app has been discontinued.
How USB Debugging Is Helpful?
Well, you need to know that any kind of advanced commands to be sent from phone to PC using a USB cable is possible only after debug. This feature allows apps pushing to other devices for testing and interaction.
If you are an Android developer, Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands could be used after Android debug only. With this, you can also install APK files to your phone, view debugging errors and shift various files from phone to PC or vice versa.
Wrap-Up
Now that you have a sure-shot method to enable USB debugging, being a developer or not, it is only a matter of minutes to apply it. Debug your Android today and begin testing of apps, rooting the phone, etc. without any hassles externally.