In the world of Android customization, Magisk Manager has become a popular tool for users to gain root access and install various modules to enhance their device’s functionality. However, with the frequent updates and changes, it’s not uncommon for users to encounter issues or compatibility problems with the latest version of Magisk Manager. If you find yourself in such a situation, don’t worry! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of safely downgrading Magisk Manager to an older version, allowing you to restore stability and functionality to your device.
The Need to Downgrade Magisk Manager
Magisk Manager, the popular tool developed by topjohnwu, is known for its ability to provide root access without modifying the system partition. This unique approach allows users to enjoy the benefits of rooting their device while still being able to pass SafetyNet checks and use certain apps that would otherwise be restricted. However, with each new update, there is always the possibility of compatibility issues arising, especially when using custom ROMs or specific modules.
If you have recently updated Magisk Manager and are experiencing problems such as broken drivers, system instability, or app crashes, it may be necessary to downgrade to a previous version. Fortunately, the process is relatively straightforward and involves a few simple steps.
Step 1: Choose the Older Version of Magisk Manager
Before you can begin the downgrade process, you need to identify and download the older version of Magisk Manager that you want to install. It’s essential to choose a version that is compatible with your device and addresses the specific issues you are facing. To find older versions of Magisk Manager, you can visit the official Magisk GitHub page or other trusted sources that provide previous releases.
Once you have downloaded the older version of Magisk Manager, you will notice that it is in APK format. However, to proceed with the downgrade process, you need to convert the APK file into a ZIP file.
Step 2: Renaming the APK File to ZIP
To rename the APK file to ZIP, you will need a file manager application. There are several options available on the Google Play Store, such as Solid Explorer, which we will be using as an example. Follow these steps to rename the APK file:
- Open your file manager application.
- Locate the downloaded Magisk Manager APK file.
- Long-press on the file to select it.
- Tap on the rename option, usually represented by a pencil icon.
- Change the file extension from “.apk” to “.zip”.
- Confirm the name change.
After renaming the APK file to ZIP, you are now ready to proceed with the downgrade process.
Step 3: Flashing the Older Version of Magisk Manager
To install the older version of Magisk Manager, you will need to flash it as if it were a Magisk module. Follow these steps to flash the older version:
- Open the Magisk Manager application on your device.
- Tap on the Modules tab.
- Look for the “Install from storage” button at the top and tap on it.
- Navigate to the location where you saved the renamed ZIP file.
- Select the ZIP file and confirm the installation.
The Magisk Manager will now begin the installation process, flashing the older version of Magisk onto your device.
Step 4: Rebooting Your Device
After the installation is complete, you will see a blue reboot button at the bottom of the screen. Tap on this button to reboot your device. When your device restarts, you may notice that some apps require root access again. This is normal after downgrading Magisk Manager, and you will need to grant root access to these apps.
Step 5: Verifying the Downgrade
To ensure that the downgrade was successful, open the Magisk Manager application on your device. Check the version number displayed to confirm that you have indeed installed the older version of Magisk Manager.
Congratulations! You have successfully downgraded Magisk Manager to an older version. Your device should now be stable, and any compatibility issues you were experiencing should be resolved.
Additional Tips and Troubleshooting
While the steps outlined above should work for most users, there may be instances where you encounter difficulties or face additional challenges during the downgrade process. Here are some additional tips and troubleshooting steps to help you along the way:
- Clear App Data: If you continue to experience issues after downgrading, try clearing the app data for Magisk Manager. This can be done by going to the app settings on your device and selecting the option to clear data for Magisk Manager. Keep in mind that clearing app data will remove any saved settings or preferences.
- Perform a Clean Install: In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a clean install of Magisk Manager. This involves completely uninstalling the current version of Magisk Manager and then installing the older version from scratch. Remember to back up any important data before proceeding with a clean install.
- Seek Community Support: If you are still encountering issues or need further assistance, it can be helpful to seek support from the Android community. Online forums such as XDA Developers or Reddit have active communities where you can ask questions and get guidance from experienced users.
Conclusion
Downgrading Magisk Manager to an older version can be a useful solution when facing compatibility issues or system instability. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively revert to a previous version of Magisk Manager, restoring stability and functionality to your device. Remember to choose the appropriate older version, rename the APK file to ZIP, flash the older version, and reboot your device. If you encounter any difficulties, refer to the additional tips and troubleshooting section or seek support from the Android community. Happy downgrading!
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
