How to Root Samsung Galaxy S2

If you do not have Samsung’s KIES 2.0 installed, download and install it. Correct USB drivers must be installed, so that programs can communicate with the device. Reboot computer after KIES installation.

Root Instructions

1. Make sure that your phone is in USB debugging mode (Settings -> Applications -> Development -> USB debugging)
2. Reboot your phone into download mode (Turn the phone off, then power it on again by pressing and holding VolumeDown + Home + Power simultaneously)
3. Download ODIN and then extract the .zip file. (download link – download no longer available on this site, see the note below)
4. Start ODIN
5. Connect the device to your computer via USB.
6. Wait a few seconds, the ODIN screen will show that a device is now connected
7. Make sure that in ODIN nothing is checked, except the “Auto reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checkboxes.
8. Download the XWKDD tar file (NOT extract the .tar file). (download link – download no longer available on this site, see the note below)
9. Press the “PDA” button, and select the “XWKDD_insecure.tar” file.
10. Press “Start” and ODIN will now flash the kernel, and the device will reboot.
11. Download and extract SuperOneClick
12. Once the phone reboots (still plugged in) start SuperOneClick
13. press ROOT.
14. Reboot the phone
15. Congrats you have a rooted Samsung Galaxy S2!

While this is a nearly flawless device without having to root it of course we all like the total control and freedom of no restraints.  As always this is completely educational and you take all risks associated with following these instructions.  We like to help you get root access on your phone but don’t need you knocking down our door if you get bricked somehow.