Jailbreaking a phone means removing software restrictions that are intentionally put in place by the device manufacturer to gain root access to the phones operating system. This process allows the user to install apps that are not available from the official app store, customize the device, and unlock carrier restrictions. Jailbreaking is most often used in relation to iPhones, which are considered the most locked-down mobile device currently on sale. However, the term "rooting" is used for Android devices, which aims to bypass protections put in place by manufacturers to install alternative mobile operating systems.

Jailbreaking a phone is not the same as unlocking a phone from carrier restrictions, which is a much simpler process. Jailbreaking a phone is a much deeper alteration than a simple carrier unlock, which doesnt change a phone’s core infrastructure.

While jailbreaking a phone can provide benefits such as customizations and access to third-party apps, it also exposes the phone to several risks, including security vulnerabilities, stability issues, potential crashes and freezes, shortened battery life, and the inability to apply some software updates. Jailbreaking a phone also means giving up the devices dedication to security, as side-loaded apps are not checked and screened through the app store and may represent a security risk.

In summary, jailbreaking a phone means removing software restrictions to gain root access to the phones operating system, allowing the user to install apps that are not available from the official app store, customize the device, and unlock carrier restrictions. However, it also exposes the phone to several risks and may void the warranty.