One of the most important tools we have for flashing images directly from a PC is fastboot. Almost anyone who's rooted an HTC or Nexus device has used it, either through command line or through an automated tool making use of fastboot.

After all, this is how we execute that fastboot oem unlock command that we all know and love on Nexus devices. However, there's much more that you can do with fastboot. Now thanks to XDA Recognized Contributor demkantor, we have a simple and incredibly easy to understand guide that teaches you how to setup fastboot, what it can do, how you can use it, and why you would even want to use it.

After drawing parallels to ADB and giving beginners a brief overview of what it can do, the initial setup is covered with two options: either manual setup via the Android SDK or a more automated tool to obtain the requisite binaries. After this, basic fastboot commands are covered such as erasing an existing partition or flashing it with an image. Sample output text is provided so that you know what to expect when doing it for yourself for the first time.

If you're a new user who has never used fastboot, now would be a great time to learn. Head over to the guide thread to learn more.