Jailbreaking refers to the process of removing all restrictions imposed on an iOS device. It allows root access to system files that can be manipulated to enable installation of apps, themes, and extensions that are not supported by Apple. iOS device users jailbreak their smartphones and tablets to download unapproved programs, such as religious apps, tweaks, and user-interface customization apps. Jailbreaking iOS devices poses many security threats to the device and the user. A jailbroken smartphone can easily be affected by malware and Trojans that can cause great damage to the system files. Hackers can easily install a tracking program on a jailbroken device to steal important files and information from a user.

Jailbreak allows the user to get control over the root and media partition of their device. This is where all the iOS files are stores. An untethered jailbreak is a process where a jailbreak is achieved without the need to use a computer. As the user turns the device off and back on, the device starts up completely, and the kernel is patched without the necessity of a computer. With a tethered jailbreak, a computer is needed to turn the device on each time it is rebooted. If the device starts back up on its own, it will no longer have a patched kernel, and it may get stuck in a partially started state.