I use my phone a lot, and a huge thing that bugs me about it is Moto's airtight grip on everything I do. So many apps I never use are flat out necessary, every update comes with 2 or 3 shitty mobile games I never play, and I am just sick of it. So I am looking at rooting and would like some advice from my comrades on lemdroid.

1. Can I use SMS/Calling/5G through my provider still (Tracfone)?
2. Is there custom OS for phones that is better than Android, or an Android version that isn't tainted by Google and phone manufacturers?
3. Are the risks associated with rooting played up more than usual, or are they legitimate?
4. Would using a backup phone as a rooted one and my current phone as normal be a better idea than rooting the phone I use and rely on every day?

I appreciate your help a ton, comrades. Have a splendid day.