KernelSU is a kernel-based root solution for Android devices, working at a lower level than traditional root tools. People use it to get root access on supported devices while managing which apps can use root through its App Profile system.
Developer: tiann · License: GPL-3.0 (open source) · Price: Free
Before you start: KernelSU requires an unlocked bootloader and a GKI 2.0 compatible kernel (Android kernel 5.10 or newer) for official support, or a manually built kernel for older 4.14+ kernels. Follow the installation guide at kernelsu.org/guide/installation.html before flashing anything, since installation involves patching your boot image.
Official file from the developer's release · Oct 12, 2026 · SHA-256 b4a059ace71de2fa…
Key features
- Kernel-based su and root access management
- Module system based on metamodules for pluggable systemless modifications
- App Profile to restrict and control root permissions per app
- Supports Android GKI 2.0 devices (kernel 5.10+)
- Also works on older kernels (4.14+) with manual kernel build, plus WSA, ChromeOS and container-based Android
Why isn’t KernelSU on Google Play?
KernelSU is a root tool that modifies the kernel, which is the kind of app Google Play does not allow. It is published by its developer on GitHub.
Is KernelSU safe?
KernelSU is open source under GPL-3.0 (with the kernel directory under GPL-2.0), and this page links to the official release from the developer's GitHub repository. Note that it requires flashing a custom kernel or boot image, which carries the usual risks of rooting, and recent kernel versions have a known breaking change that can cause a kernel panic on x86_64, so check the official website before installing. KernelSU comes straight from its developer rather than through Google Play, so it hasn’t gone through Google’s app review. As with any app, check the permissions it asks for and install it if you’re comfortable with them.
How to install
- Tap the download button above: the APK file downloads straight to your phone.
- When Android asks, allow your browser to install unknown apps.
- Open the file and tap Install.
FAQ
Is KernelSU free
Yes. It is open source and released under the GPL-3.0 license (GPL-2.0 for the kernel directory).
Which devices and architectures does KernelSU support
Officially, Android GKI 2.0 devices with kernel 5.10 or newer, on arm64-v8a and x86_64 architectures. Older 4.14+ kernels are supported too but need to be built manually.
Is KernelSU the same as Magisk
No. KernelSU is a separate, kernel-based root solution, though it credits Magisk as inspiration for its root tooling. It also has its own module system and App Profile permission control.
More free apps you won’t find on Google Play: Open Source Apps · Best Android apps not on the Google Play Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KernelSU free
Yes. It is open source and released under the GPL-3.0 license (GPL-2.0 for the kernel directory).
Which devices and architectures does KernelSU support
Officially, Android GKI 2.0 devices with kernel 5.10 or newer, on arm64-v8a and x86_64 architectures. Older 4.14+ kernels are supported too but need to be built manually.
Is KernelSU the same as Magisk
No. KernelSU is a separate, kernel-based root solution, though it credits Magisk as inspiration for its root tooling. It also has its own module system and App Profile permission control.
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