If you’re into Android customization, flashing ROMs, or fixing boot issues, you’ve probably heard about ADB and Fastboot. These are powerful tools provided by Google that allow you to interact with your Android device from a computer using command-line instructions.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain what ADB and Fastboot are, how to set them up, and cover some of the most useful commands for each.
🔍 What Are ADB and Fastboot?
- ADB (Android Debug Bridge): A versatile command-line tool that lets your computer communicate with your Android device. It’s useful for debugging apps, transferring files, installing APKs, accessing device logs, and more.
- Fastboot: A tool used for low-level modifications such as unlocking the bootloader, flashing firmware, and accessing recovery or bootloader modes. It only works when your phone is in Fastboot Mode.
🛠️ What You’ll Need
- A Windows/Mac/Linux PC
- An Android phone with USB Debugging enabled
- A USB cable
- The ADB and Fastboot drivers (also known as Platform Tools)
📦 Step 1: Install ADB and Fastboot (Platform Tools)
- Download the official Platform Tools from Google:
👉 https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools - Extract the ZIP file to a folder on your desktop (e.g.,
C:\platform-tools). - Open the folder, hold Shift + Right Click on empty space, and select “Open PowerShell/Command Prompt here.”
🔗 Step 2: Enable USB Debugging on Your Phone
- Go to Settings > About Phone
- Tap Build Number 7 times to unlock Developer Options
- Go back to Settings > System > Developer Options
- Enable USB Debugging
🔌 Step 3: Connect Your Phone to PC
Use a USB cable to connect your phone. On your phone, you’ll see a prompt asking to allow USB debugging. Tap Allow.
💻 Step 4: Test the ADB Connection
In the command prompt, type:
bashCopyEditadb devices
If your phone is connected properly, it will show a device ID with the word “device” next to it.
🧰 Common ADB Commands
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
adb devices | Lists connected devices |
adb reboot | Reboots the phone |
adb reboot bootloader | Boots into Fastboot/Bootloader mode |
adb push <file> /sdcard/ | Sends a file from PC to phone |
adb pull /sdcard/<file> | Pulls a file from phone to PC |
adb install app.apk | Installs an APK on the device |
adb logcat | Shows system logs in real-time |
⚡ Booting into Fastboot Mode
You can manually boot into Fastboot Mode by:
- Powering off the phone
- Pressing and holding Volume Down + Power
Or use ADB:
bashCopyEditadb reboot bootloader
🔧 Common Fastboot Commands
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
fastboot devices | Checks if device is detected in Fastboot |
fastboot oem unlock | Unlocks the bootloader (erases data!) |
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img | Flashes a custom recovery |
fastboot flash boot boot.img | Flashes boot image |
fastboot reboot | Reboots the phone normally |
⚠️ Warning: Flashing or unlocking bootloader can void warranty and erase your data. Always back up before proceeding.
🧩 Tips for Troubleshooting
- Make sure you have correct drivers installed.
- Use an original USB cable.
- Try different USB ports.
- If
adborfastbootcommands aren’t recognized, ensure you’re in the Platform Tools folder or set environment variables correctly.
✅ Final Words
ADB and Fastboot are essential tools for every Android power user. Whether you’re unlocking your bootloader, fixing a soft-bricked device, or installing a custom recovery, knowing how to use these commands gives you full control over your Android phone.
Let us know if you want detailed guides on using ADB for rooting, flashing ROMs, or backing up your data!