Advanced Permission Control and System Customization for Rooted Android Devices

At Magisk Modules, we understand the desire for granular control over your Android ecosystem. Rooting a device like the RedMagic 11 Pro opens the door to a level of customization and security hardening that is simply impossible with stock firmware. The user scenario provided—seeking robust permission control, system-level automation, and UI modification—represents the core motivation for the Android rooting community. We have compiled a comprehensive guide on the best applications, Magisk modules, and configurations to achieve a secure, highly customized, and efficient rooted environment.

This guide focuses on moving beyond basic root access to establish a fortress-like security posture while simultaneously unlocking the full potential of your hardware. From advanced firewall management to granular permission arbitration and deep UI theming, we will explore the tools necessary to transform your RedMagic 11 Pro into a truly personal device.

Foundational Security: The Firewall and Ad-Blocking Layer

Before diving into permission control, we must establish a foundational layer of network security. The applications mentioned by the user—AFWall+ and AdAway—are excellent starting points, but we must ensure they are optimized for modern Android versions and root implementations.

AFWall+: The First Line of Defense

AFWall+ (Android Firewall Plus) remains the gold standard for host-based firewall management on rooted devices. It leverages the Linux iptables (or nftables on newer kernels) to control network traffic at the kernel level. Unlike VPN-based firewalls, AFWall+ operates without a virtual private network, preserving your battery life and data throughput.

Key Configuration Recommendations:

• White-list Strategy: We recommend a default-deny policy. Block all apps from accessing the internet by default, then white-list only those that require connectivity (e.g., browsers, messaging apps). This prevents telemetry and background data hoarding by utility apps.
• LAN and VPN Control: AFWall+ allows specific control over LAN and VPN access. We advise blocking non-essential apps from accessing your local network to prevent snooping on other devices in your home or office.
• IPv6 Support: Ensure IPv6 support is enabled in the settings if your carrier uses it. Failing to block IPv6 traffic can inadvertently leave holes in your firewall.
• Tasker Integration: AFWall+ supports Tasker intents. We can automate profile switching based on location (e.g., a “Work” profile that blocks social media apps, and a “Home” profile that allows them).

AdAway: System-Wide Privacy

AdAway is the definitive solution for system-wide ad blocking. By modifying the hosts file, it redirects ad server domains to a local loopback (127.0.0.1 or ::1), effectively killing the request before it leaves the device.

Advanced Implementation:

• Source Selection: We recommend using multiple sources for the hosts file to maximize coverage, but be cautious of “Ommni” lists that may break legitimate app functionality.
• Web Server Mode: AdAway offers a web server mode on localhost. This can sometimes resolve app crashes that occur when an ad domain is simply blocked, as the app expects a response rather than a timeout.
• Root Detection Bypass: While not an ad blocker itself, root detection often triggers via telemetry servers. A robust hosts file effectively blinds many root-detection SDKs.

Advanced Permission Control: Moving Beyond Stock App Ops

The core request of the user is for permission control. On a rooted device, “permission” extends beyond the standard Android runtime permissions (Camera, Location, etc.) into deep system behaviors.

App Ops: The Hidden Power of Android

Android has a hidden, internal feature called App Ops (Application Operations) that allows users to toggle fine-grained permissions that are not exposed in the standard Settings menu. Examples include “Wake Lock,” “Vibrate,” “Toast,” “Bluetooth,” and “NFC” access. While AFWall+ handles network permission, App Ops handles device state permission.

Using App Ops Manager: We recommend installing the App Ops manager app (often available via the Magisk Modules repository or as a standalone APK requiring root). This interface exposes the hidden API.

• Restricted Settings: You can set permissions to “Ignore” or “Deny.” Unlike a standard “Deny” (which may cause crashes), “Ignore” often returns a null or empty response to the app, making it think the permission was granted but returning no data.
• Background Activity: Restrict “Run in Background” for apps like Facebook or Instagram to prevent them from draining battery when not open.
• Keep Awake: Deny “Wake Lock” for alarm clock apps only when the screen is off to save battery, while allowing it for media players.

Shizuku: Modern API Access

Traditional permission managers often rely on patching the framework, which can be fragile during system updates. Shizuku is a modern alternative that utilizes the system API directly. It allows apps to access system services using a designated API, which is safer and more stable.

Why We Recommend Shizuku:

• Stability: It does not modify system frameworks (like Xposed used to do).
• Integration: Many modern permission and utility apps (like Ice Box, Brevent, and App Ops) now utilize Shizuku as their backend rather than requiring direct Superuser access for every action.
• Fine-Grained Control: Shizuku-enabled apps can utilize the appops command with higher reliability, allowing you to disable specific flags like SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW or WRITE_SETTINGS without root interference.

MagiskHide and Zygisk: Hiding Root from Specific Apps

While not “permission control” in the traditional sense, preventing specific apps from knowing you have root is the ultimate form of access control. If an app detects root, it refuses to run or blocks features (banking apps, streaming services).

• Zygisk: Enable Zygisk in the Magisk settings. This injects a module into the Zygote process (the parent of all Android apps) to intercept system calls.
• DenyList: Configure the Magisk DenyList for sensitive apps. This hides Magisk from the app process.
• Shamiko: For users requiring absolute stealth, we recommend the Shamiko module. It bypasses the Magisk Hide mechanism entirely, hiding root while keeping Zygisk enabled (which is usually impossible with standard Magisk Hide).

System-Level Tasker Automation: The “Magic Button” Expansion

The user requested fine-tuning of the “Magic Button” (side slider) found on gaming phones like the RedMagic series. The native software often limits this to gaming mode or sound profiles. With root and Tasker, we can hijack this input.

Intercepting Hardware Triggers

Tasker does not natively recognize hardware sliders as variables. We need a bridge.

• EventGhost / AutoInput: While AutoInput is great for UI automation, hardware sliders are often read at the kernel level.
• Key Mapper (Root Mode): We recommend using the Key Mapper app. With root access, it can intercept hardware button presses and slider movements that are usually invisible to the OS.
  • Configuration: Map the slider position (e.g., “Slide Up”) to a Tasker intent. This intent can trigger a complex macro: enabling hotspot, launching a specific app, or toggling a restrictive permission profile.
• SecureTask Plugin: To perform secure actions (like changing device admin settings or modifying global settings), Tasker requires the SecureTask plugin. This allows Tasker to write to the Secure settings database, enabling automation of features usually locked behind system menus.

Automation Scenarios for the Magic Button

We can script the slider to perform context-aware actions:

1. Silent Mode + Permission Lock: Sliding to the “Silent” position can trigger a profile that revokes microphone access for all social media apps using App Ops.
2. Performance Toggle: Sliding to “Performance” can apply a CPU governor tweak via Kernel Adiutor (integrated with Tasker) and simultaneously boost GPU frequency.
3. Privacy Mode: Sliding to a specific position can launch a “Work Profile” (via Shelter or Island) and hide personal apps.

Deep System Customization: UI and Navigation

GravityBox was the pinnacle of Xposed customization. Since Xposed is largely deprecated in favor of Magisk and systemless modifications, we must look for modern alternatives that work with the RedMagic’s specific ROM and Android 14+.

Systemless UI Tweaking

Directly modifying framework-res.apk is risky and breaks OTA updates. We prefer systemless overlays.

• Lsposed (LSPosed) + Modules: If your RedMagic 11 Pro supports Riru or Zygisk, Lsposed is the successor to Xposed. It allows for module-based modification of the framework.
  • Keyguard Limiter: Allows you to bypass the lockscreen delay.
  • Hide Navigation Bar: For full-screen immersion.
  • Status Bar Icons: Tweak the icons for Wi-Fi, Signal, and Battery to match your aesthetic.
• Fabricate Overlay (FO): This is a Magisk module that allows users to create custom overlays (themes) for Android without compiling code. You can change system fonts, icon shapes, and color palettes system-wide.

App Removal and Debloating

The user wants to “safely uninstall apps normally not able to be removed.” Root allows this, but it must be done carefully.

• Universal Android Debloater (UAD): While primarily a desktop tool, running it with ADB over Wi-Fi (with root enabled) allows you to remove system packages safely. UAD maintains a database of safe-to-remove packages specific to your Android version and OEM.
• Titanium Backup: The classic tool for freezing apps. “Freezing” is safer than uninstalling system apps. If a system app is removed, the OS may bootloop. Freezing keeps the APK on the disk but prevents it from running or updating.
• AIолос (AIOLO): A Magisk module that provides a frontend for managing system apps. It allows you to卸载 (uninstall) or disable apps without the risk of breaking the system partition, as it operates in the Magisk environment.

Kernel Management and Performance Optimization

The user mentioned EX Kernel Manager (EKM). EKM is a premium tool, but there are open-source alternatives that offer similar or greater control, which we can integrate into our Magisk Module Repository.

Kernel Adiutor and Custom Profiles

Kernel Adiutor is a powerful, free alternative that provides deep control over CPU governors, I/O schedulers, and thermal throttling.

Optimization Strategy:

• Governor Tuning: For the RedMagic 11 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3), we recommend the “schedutil” governor for a balance of battery and performance. However, for gaming, “performance” or custom “blu_active” profiles can minimize frame drops.
• Thermal Control: Root allows you to modify thermal configuration files. By bypassing aggressive thermal throttling (often triggered at lower temperatures on gaming phones), you can maintain peak clock speeds longer. Caution: This requires adequate cooling solutions.
• ZRAM/Swap Management: Adjust ZRAM (compressed RAM in swap) size. Increasing this can help keep more apps in memory on devices with high RAM, preventing the OS from killing background tasks aggressively.

Magisk Modules for Performance

Our repository hosts modules specifically designed to enhance system stability and performance:

• LKT - Linux Kernel Tuner: Automates kernel tuning based on usage (screen on/off).
• Wake Gestures: Allows the phone to wake via double-tap or draw patterns, even if the OEM software locks these features.
• Busybox: Essential for many scripts and modules to function correctly. We ensure the latest version is available in our repository.

Advanced Safety and Integrity Maintenance

Rooting introduces security risks. Mitigating these is non-negotiable.

Banking and SafetyNet (Play Integrity)

Google’s Play Integrity API (formerly SafetyNet) checks for root and tampered firmware.

• Magisk Delta / Kitsune Mask: Standard Magisk has struggled with Play Integrity lately. We recommend using Magisk Delta or Kitsune Mask, which include patches to pass both Basic Integrity and Device Integrity checks.
• TrickyStore: A Magisk module that targets the Play Integrity API specifically. It spoofs the device certification to ensure banking apps and Google Wallet remain functional.

Data Encryption and Backups

• Seedvault: A backup solution included in many custom ROMs, but can be added via Magisk module on rooted stock ROMs. It backs up apps and data to local storage or Nextcloud.
• OAndBackupX: This tool requires root to back up applications and their data directly to an encrypted archive. It allows for selective restoration, which is critical for maintaining app states when switching ROMs or kernels.

Systemless Hosts Module

If you are using AdAway, ensure you are utilizing the Systemless Hosts module provided by Magisk. This redirects the hosts file modification to the Magisk partition rather than the system partition. This prevents conflicts with apps that check system file integrity (like Google Play Services) and ensures OTA updates (if preserved) do not overwrite your ad-blocking list.

Conclusion: Building the Ultimate RedMagic 11 Pro

By combining AFWall+ for network defense, App Ops for granular permission management, and Tasker for hardware automation, you transform the RedMagic 11 Pro from a standard gaming phone into a secure, automated command center.

We recommend visiting the Magisk Module Repository at Magisk Module Repository to download the latest versions of the modules mentioned in this guide. Always verify module compatibility with your specific Android version and Magisk installation before flashing.

Through careful selection of these tools and adherence to safety protocols—such as using systemless modifications and maintaining a backup routine—you can enjoy the freedom of root without compromising the stability or security of your device. The “Magic Button” is no longer just a slider; it is a trigger for infinite possibilities.