Bricking

Bricking is a term in the computing and programming fields used to describe a device or program that has become partially or totally inoperable due to an incorrect setting or firmware change. Getting a device or program “bricked” means it is unable to perform any of its basic functions and requires repair or reinstallation of the operating system or firmware.

Generally, bricking is caused by an incorrect or incomplete setting change or software update. It can also be caused by a malicious remote attack, or an aggressive hardware alteration such as overclocking. In some cases, simply turning the device off or on can cause bricking.

The term “bricked” originated with the exponential rise in popularity of Lego bricks, the toys made of small colorful blocks. When a toy is put together incorrectly, it is likened to having its parts held together by a few Lego bricks, which can result in poor construction, and ultimately malfunctioning. This analogy is used to describe the frustration of getting a device into a state which can make it completely unusable.

Typically, the advice to fix a bricked device is to either reverse the change that caused it to brick (if possible); or reinstall the operating system or firmware. Occasionally, a device may be completely bricked and require professional help, often with the need for later-determination of the actual cause.

In cyber security, bricking a target’s device may be a part of a malicious attack. This can be done with malware, a malicious bootloader, a damaged hard drive, or via physical tampering.

A related term, “unbricking” is used to describe the process of restoring a bricked device or program to its intended functioning state.