Root n00b question: What is Fastboot and why doesn't it work for me?

[Theta9]

Nook Tablet 8GB running CM10.1.3RC1 (Android 4.2.2)
and TWRP 2.6.0.0

What is the "Fastboot" option that I get in my CyanoBoot menu? What would I want to use it for?

And if I would want to use it, why isn't it working? When I select it, I get the message
-Fastboot has started, press POWER to cancel-

I can leave it like that for hours and it will stay that way. What's wrong with it and how can I correct it>

 

[jhawkkw]

fastboot is the bootloader interface for many android devices. In most cases, it sits in this mode waiting to receive files from a usb tether. This is how many people either return their device to factory settings, or flash a custom image to the correct partition (recovery, boot, system, radio).

 

[Theta9]

So it needs to be connected to a computer via the USB cable then?
Is there some reason I'd want to use Fastboot rather than TWeRP or CWM?

 

[jhawkkw]

So it needs to be connected to a computer via the USB cable then?
Is there some reason I'd want to use Fastboot rather than TWeRP or CWM?

TWRP or CWM are custom recoveries, rather than the bootloader itself. It's easier to use the recoveries than the bootloader because most developers make their stuff as flashable zips which are flashed in recovery.