What is Bricking?

Bricking is a term used to describe the state of a device that is no longer operable due to faulty software or hardware. It is a term most commonly used with electronic devices like cellular phones, PDAs, and tablets, but can also apply to consumer electronics like TVs and game consoles. When these devices “brick”, they become completely unusable and must be rendered inoperable.

The Origins of Bricking

The term “bricking” was first used as early as 2002 when it was used by people attempting to flash or update their phones or other devices. Whenever a device became bricks after flashing, the user would refer to it as “bricking” or “bricked”. The origin of the term “bricking” can be traced back to the physical brick used to build walls. A bricked device becomes as immobile and useless as a brick wall.

What Causes a Device to Brick?

A device can brick due to software failure or hardware failure. When it comes to software, a device can brick if the firmware or operating system is corrupted or not compatible with the device. This is usually due to improper installation of an operating system or firmware update. Another common cause of bricking is a failed hardware installation, such as a new RAM module or hard drive being installed incorrectly. Sometimes, a device can brick just by virtue of age, as even the most reliable hardware eventually loses its ability to function properly.

Bricking is a serious issue that can render even the most reliable devices inoperable. However, in most cases, it can be resolved with the help of a knowledgeable technician. If you ever find yourself with a bricked device, it’s important to have it looked at as soon as possible. The sooner you can get it back up and operational, the better your chances of recovering data or salvaging the device itself.