[GhettoBSD]

briefly, rooting your phone is akin to "unlocking it." I'm sure you have heard that phrase before.

With a rooted phone, you are now able to change the actual operating system, the thing you do everything with.

Different operating systems offer different things, usually an increase in speed and new options for customization. As with windows mobile, you are also able to obtain additional features not available 'for free' with the stock system, such was wifi tethering.

The risk you run is "bricking your phone," which basically means you damage the phone's chips where you can not do anything with it. Thus its a brick. But honestly, past experience has shown that even if you "brick" your phone you are actually able to recover somehow. usually with a lot of help by the experts.

As long as you follow the instructions step by step, you'll be ok! But there is a very big DISCLAIMER. You NEED to READ a LOT before you attempt it. That way, you are at least familiar with the process and won't skip any steps. Similar to driving on the freeway for the first time. Most people can't just get on and go when they're learning how to DRIVE because they don't have the sense of awareness and safety necessary at speed over 70 MPH.

So read up on rooting, the different methods and FAQs. Once you're an 'instant expert' and if you feel the need to do so, root your phone! It is generally safe, as long as you follow the guides. But beware, if you take your phone in for "service" (whatever issue you may have not caused by rooting) and they see your phone is rooted or worse, with a different operating system (referred to as a ROM) then you'll probably lose all rights to warranty and insurance. But fret not! You can always restore to "stock rom."

Other reasons to root: tweaks on battery life, speed, access to system otherwise not available.

good luck!