[Q] ROOT Beginners questions - Nexus S Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hey guys,
I saw alot of guides out there to Root your SNS, all different, and none explain some basics stuff. I want to understand what I'm doing and not doing it like a robot. So I'll ask some newbie questions I got into:
1) What's the difference between ROOT / unlocking bootloader / oem unlock ?
2) Is it possible to save all your apps and data before Rooting your SNS by some way ? I know there's these apps Nandroid and Titanium backup, but both can used only after rooting no ?
3) I saw there's guide to Root i9020T only, and i9023 & i9020A separately, what is it ? how do I know what I have ?
4) What's the best recovery out there ? Clockwork mod ? If I use it and I want to update it, do I need to download the new version and transfer it again, or does it have auto update ?
5) What is Fastloader / Fastboot ? what does it do ?
6) What is Superuser ? what does it do ?
7) What is Flash rom, or Flash recovery ?
8) What is the best and most updated guide for Rooting SNS out there ? there just so many, I need something that most reliable
9) I wanted to make sure the all these processes are reversible, that if I'll find out the original stock rom was better for me, if I could undone all the rooting and recovery changing and go back to the stock rom with original updates from google (like new) ?
10) For people that have done it, does it worth rooting the SNS at all ? does the Roms out there for SNS are good enough to replace the stock one ? I've heard that most good roms are for Galaxys, and SNS has the basics, is it true ?
Thanks for your patience, sorry for being pain in the ass

ariel2011 said:
Hey guys,
I saw alot of guides out there to Root your SNS, all different, and none explain some basics stuff. I want to understand what I'm doing and not doing it like a robot. So I'll ask some newbie questions I got into:
1) What's the difference between ROOT / unlocking bootloader / oem unlock ?
2) Is it possible to save all your apps and data before Rooting your SNS by some way ? I know there's these apps Nandroid and Titanium backup, but both can used only after rooting no ?
3) I saw there's guide to Root i9020T only, and i9023 & i9020A separately, what is it ? how do I know what I have ?
4) What's the best recovery out there ? Clockwork mod ? If I use it and I want to update it, do I need to download the new version and transfer it again, or does it have auto update ?
5) What is Fastloader / Fastboot ? what does it do ?
6) What is Superuser ? what does it do ?
7) What is Flash rom, or Flash recovery ?
8) What is the best and most updated guide for Rooting SNS out there ? there just so many, I need something that most reliable
9) I wanted to make sure the all these processes are reversible, that if I'll find out the original stock rom was better for me, if I could undone all the rooting and recovery changing and go back to the stock rom with original updates from google (like new) ?
10) For people that have done it, does it worth rooting the SNS at all ? does the Roms out there for SNS are good enough to replace the stock one ? I've heard that most good roms are for Galaxys, and SNS has the basics, is it true ?
Thanks for your patience, sorry for being pain in the ass
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will explain it to you in about one hour, because nobody want to tell you, but I'm on beach atm and writing from the is not very handy!
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App

Borky_16 said:
I will explain it to you in about one hour, because nobody want to tell you, but I'm on beach atm and writing from the is not very handy!
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I figured people won't have the strength to answer all that, I understand them
Ok thanks, take your time !

1. Root gives you ability to run applications that require root access.
Unlocking bootloader is the same thing as OEM unlock. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to flash custom recoveries which leads you to flashing custom ROMs & kernels. With the Nexus series, it is a legitimate device that permits you to unlock the bootloader without using a exploit.
2) No. This is not possible, upon unlocking the bootloader. It will wipe all of your data due to a security measure. And yes, nandroid can only be usable when you flash Clockwork Recovery. Titanium Backup requires root. And to obtain root, you need to flash su.zip (or whatever method you desire to). The best thing you could do when you first get the NS is to oem unlock. You don't have to gain root right away, but at least unlock the bootloader so you keep it.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=931865 but if you go that road.. its all you, i rather unlock the bootloader. easier on the long run
3) What is your location? Carrier?
4) There is only one recovery. Clockwork. Not many changes need to be done to the recovery in the first place. Once a stable version is out, it will remain that way. Recoveries don't get updated that much. I'd recommend the 4.0.0.2 modified version in the development forum than to the standard one. It is formatted a lot better than the original. If you wish to get the official one, download ROM manager from the market and flash it there. It will give you Clockwork v3.0.2.4.
To flash 4.0.0.2, you need to go into bootloader mode and use ADB (fastboot).
5) Fastboot allows you to flash custom image files such as bootloader, radio, recovery.
6) Superuser is 'administrative' access to your phone. It unlimits you and allows you to take full permissions all over your phone including changes outside of /sdcard/.
7) Let's use this as an example,
Android = Windows
ROM = Heavily modified version of Windows tweaked for faster speeds, new features, and so forth.
Flash Recovery allows you to flash custom ROMs & kernels.
Kernels... new features. Easy to do. Recommend Netarchy's 1.3.7 kernel.
8) Only one way to root the Nexus S. It's the easiest out of any other phone. One clicks are for lazy people.
9) Yes you can undo it. But you probably wont because custom ROMs are amazing.
10) Yes its worth rooting. You're asking about it, so you're obviously thinking about it. You can always unroot. But I doubt it
Anyway. Hit the thanks button, any more questions. Feel free to ask! I'll be here.
P.S. Just call it "NS" its not "SNS"

ariel2011 said:
Yea I figured people won't have the strength to answer all that, I understand them
Ok thanks, take your time !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh he was faster! but yeah thats it! and hit his thanks button
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App

Borky_16 said:
oh he was faster! but yeah thats it! and hit his thanks button
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not a race Just trying to answer his question hehe.

zephiK said:
It's not a race Just trying to answer his question hehe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah I know!

Since when does Salzburg have a beach?

First of all, thank you for your detailed explanation ! things are more clear now
and you too Borky_16, even tho you didn't make it eventually
zephiK said:
allows you to flash custom recoveries which leads you to flashing custom ROMs & kernels
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
zephiK said:
5) Fastboot allows you to flash custom image files such as bootloader, radio, recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I asked in question 7, I don't really understand the meaning of the verb flash, what does it mean to flash recoveries/roms/images ?
and btw what is kernels ?
zephiK said:
3) What is your location? Carrier?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Israel, Carrier: Cellcom, but I bought it on BestBuy from US. In my Baseband version is says: I9020XXKD1. Does it mean anything ?
zephiK said:
8) Only one way to root the Nexus S. It's the easiest out of any other phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you're saying the only real guide is the one in the General forum? :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=895545
again, thanks for your help

ariel2011 said:
So you're saying the only real guide is the one in the General forum? :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=895545
again, thanks for your help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://theunlockr.com/2010/12/17/how-to-root-the-samsung-nexus-s/

ariel2011 said:
First of all, thank you for your detailed explanation ! things are more clear now
and you too Borky_16, even tho you didn't make it eventually
As I asked in question 7, I don't really understand the meaning of the verb flash, what does it mean to flash recoveries/roms/images ?
and btw what is kernels ?
Israel, Carrier: Cellcom, but I bought it on BestBuy from US. In my Baseband version is says: I9020XXKD1. Does it mean anything ?
So you're saying the only real guide is the one in the General forum? :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=895545
again, thanks for your help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
to flash means to install; or, to write the image to the partition.
an image is a copy of something. a partition is an area of your phone's storage. when you flash, you write the content of the image into the partition.
the main partitions are system, data, recovery, boot, and radio.
when you flash custom kernel, you are writing an image to the boot partition.
when you flash a custom rom, you are writing images to the boot and system partitions (roms usually include kernels to ensure compatibility).
when you flash a recovery, you are writing an image to the recovery partition.
when you factory reset, you are erasing the data partition.
also you can flash other partitions easily from a modified recovery. so the easiest way to set up your phone to be easily modified is to use a program called fastboot to flash a custom recovery image. then you boot your phone into that custom recovery and from there you can easily flash custom roms and kernels. and if all you want is to gain root access, then you just go into recovery and flash a superuser file.
hopefully that explains it!

ariel2011 said:
and btw what is kernels ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A kernel is the "core" of an operating system which, in case of Android, is Linux. It provides interface to all hardware on you NS -- CPU, memory, touch screen, speaker, etc. (see the picture in the link)
Your NS cannot operate correctly without a compatible kernel, so mind what you are going to flash to your boot partition.

suksit said:
A kernel is the "core" of an operating system which, in case of Android, is Linux. It provides interface to all hardware on you NS -- CPU, memory, touch screen, speaker, etc. (see the picture in the link)
Your NS cannot operate correctly without a compatible kernel, so mind what you are going to flash to your boot partition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much what he said. I recommend a custom kernel such as Netarchy's kernel. Adds Voodoo Sound which is pretty much amazing. Custom kernels add a lot of custom features, highlights of the additional features can be found in a kernel thread such as OC, Voodoo Sound,Voodoo Color, Tunko, etc....

Thanks guys, u really helped me out, I'll work on rooting my NS right now

I also recommend Matr1x
But listen to zephik, he's a good person and is always willing to help
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App

rentaric said:
Since when does Salzburg have a beach?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in Italy! and I call my hotel home because I will be there the whole summer !

so, my NS is rooted, with clockwork mod 4.0.0.2
tell me, each time I want to change rom I need to wipe everything before ? including sdcard ?

ariel2011 said:
so, my NS is rooted, with clockwork mod 4.0.0.2
tell me, each time I want to change rom I need to wipe everything before ? including sdcard ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you don't have to wipe sdcard. Don't ever do that.
Only thing you need to wipe is factory settings, and cache, and dalvik when flashing one rom to another.
Upgrading from one rom to the same rom but a newer version, just flash but I usually wipe dalvik and cache. You don't have to.
Kernel is the same. The I wip those two, and you don't have to.
Wiping hose two doesn't make you lose any files or data. Just a longer first boot because android is rebuilding the cache
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App

zephiK said:
No, you don't have to wipe sdcard. Don't ever do that.
Only thing you need to wipe is factory settings, and cache, and dalvik when flashing one rom to another.
Upgrading from one rom to the same rom but a newer version, just flash but I usually wipe dalvik and cache. You don't have to.
Kernel is the same. The I wip those two, and you don't have to.
Wiping hose two doesn't make you lose any files or data. Just a longer first boot because android is rebuilding the cache
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wiping dalvik and cache is only to do if you change the kernel at a rom! when you upgrade a rom, then the updater-script will do that, only to be correct

Borky_16 said:
wiping dalvik and cache is only to do if you change the kernel at a rom! when you upgrade a rom, then the updater-script will do that, only to be correct
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm, didn't know the script would wipe it for you. Good to know! I'll continue wiping it just because it's a habit.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App

Related

How do I know if I have CWM installed?

Yes, a bit of a stupid question. How can I check if I have CWM installed? I'm trying to flash the debloater using Jul's wonderful flashign tutorial. I know my phone is rooted, but I am not sure I have CWM installed, because in the tutorial is says this:
To flash a kernel or modem follow these steps:
Boot into CWM and select the "Wipe cache partition" option, navigate through the "no" options until you hit the "Yes" and select it.
Then go to the Advanced menu and select "Wipe Dalvik Cache", once again, navigate through the "No" options, select yes, and let it do it's thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have none of the shown options. My screen has blue text, and only four options. I don't want to risk harming my phone by flashing a different ROM. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
EDIT:
It appears I don't have CWM. Would flashing to another kernel such as Basic with a Twist delete my data?
EDIT 2:
Sorry for the confusion, I accidentally said I was going to flash a ROM. This isn't the case, but thanks to everyone for your help so far .
Which phone r u using?
Sent from my WT19i using xda premium
Reboot to recovery and see what the screen says. If you are running CWM, it should say "ClockworkMod" or "CWM" and a version number near the top, or something pretty close to that.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/Samsung_Galaxy_S/SGH-T959V
stanlin salu said:
Which phone r u using?
Sent from my WT19i using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung Galaxy S 4G.
jeffsf said:
Reboot to recovery and see what the screen says.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It says, in blue text:
Android system recovery <3e>
Samsung Recovery Utils
- for BML-
Enter: POWER Key, Select: Vol Up / Vol Down
reboot system now
reinstall packages
delete all user data
delete cache data
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then below, in yellow:
# MANUAL MODE #
--Appling Multi-CSC...
Installing Multi-CSC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDIT:
Just noticed your edit, jeffsf. It doesn't say anything about CWM, so I guess I don't have it. Is it safe to flash to another ROM? And if I did, would that delete my apps?
You don't have CWM. That's the Samsung stock recovery. Download the Basic with a Twist kernel and flash it using the instructions from the wiki to get CWM.
Note that flashing a kernel on its own will not wipe your data, but once you flash a custom ROM you most likely will need to.
If all you want is to flash the debloater, then flash one of the heimdall one click kernels. Dont flash mine tho use just Antonx's kernel.
NomNuggetNom said:
Samsung Galaxy S 4G.
It says, in blue text:
Then below, in yellow:
EDIT:
Just noticed your edit, jeffsf. It doesn't say anything about CWM, so I guess I don't have it. Is it safe to flash to another ROM? And if I did, would that delete my apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing a ROM is most commonly done through CWM recovery, so you would need to flash a kernel loaded with CWM. However, flashing a new ROM deletes all user data; and you must be EXTREMELY careful, especially if you don't know much to begin with. I would either follow a guide to the T and/or read up a lot more on the ins and outs of flashing before you change anything with your phone.
Before you go any further with flashing a ROM, I'd strongly recommend downloading at least the "free" version of Titanium Backup from the market, if not the paid version. Once you have root access, you'll find it a good backup tool when you get to flashing ROMs.
As mentioned above, if you are just flashing a kernel you generally won't lose data, but backups are wonderful things.
I'd also read up on CWM/TWRP/nandroid backups before flashing more than just a kernel.
You might want to consider moving to one of the "ICS" ROMs once you are comfortable with flashing ROMs in general. The data upgrade is a little more involved (generally you can't just "restore" system-app data from one major release to another), but the usability and stability of the ICS ROM I use is, in my opinion, much better than the best of the GB ROMs that were produced.
farmerbb said:
You don't have CWM. That's the Samsung stock recovery. Download the Basic with a Twist kernel and flash it using the instructions from the wiki to get CWM.
Note that flashing a kernel on its own will not wipe your data, but once you flash a custom ROM you most likely will need to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, I'll check it out, thanks! That's good to know, I probably won't be flashing a ROM anyway, sorry for the confusion .
eollie said:
If all you want is to flash the debloater, then flash one of the heimdall one click kernels. Dont flash mine tho use just Antonx's kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is the kernel farmerbb linked good?
cpkelley94 said:
Flashing a ROM is most commonly done through CWM recovery, so you would need to flash a kernel loaded with CWM. However, flashing a new ROM deletes all user data; and you must be EXTREMELY careful, especially if you don't know much to begin with. I would either follow a guide to the T and/or read up a lot more on the ins and outs of flashing before you change anything with your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the confusion, but I'm not actually going to be flashing a ROM, just the debloater. Thank you for the information though!
You need root to do what he is suggesting. I dont recall you saying you have root so no it wont work. I suggest using the heimdall one click for antonx kernel in this thread.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1358498
eollie said:
You need root to do what he is suggesting. I dont recall you saying you have root so no it wont work. I suggest using the heimdall one click for antonx kernel in this thread.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1358498
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am rooted, and thank you .
I can't find a download for Odin, can anyone link me please?
Or if I use Heimdall, do I download the Kernel listed as "CWM" or "ODIN?
NomNuggetNom said:
I am rooted, and thank you .
I can't find a download for Odin, can anyone link me please?
Or if I use Heimdall, do I download the Kernel listed as "CWM" or "ODIN?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can find everything you need here.
SGS4G Wiki
NomNuggetNom said:
I am rooted, and thank you .
I can't find a download for Odin, can anyone link me please?
Or if I use Heimdall, do I download the Kernel listed as "CWM" or "ODIN?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just use the instructions that I gave you, it'll be so much easier and faster Use the CWM version.
I tried, I did something wrong I think . It starts turning on, then turns into a white screen with dots all over it that are different colors, then starts reloading. I made a backup, what should I do?
NomNuggetNom said:
I tried, I did something wrong I think . It starts turning on, then turns into a white screen with dots all over it that are different colors, then starts reloading. I made a backup, what should I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use the Heimdall one click back to stock that bhundven has
posted.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda app-developers app
cpkelley94 said:
Use the Heimdall one click back to stock that bhundven has
posted.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This will remove my user data, right? All my apps and contacts?
NomNuggetNom said:
This will remove my user data, right? All my apps and contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, yes it will. Do you have a backup of your original kernel? If you do, you can just flash that, that shouldn't delete any files if you only flash the kernel.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda app-developers app
Are you on Froyo or Gingerbread? It sounds like you might still be on Froyo; both the debloater and the custom kernel you're trying to install are designed for Gingerbread.
So yeah, Heimdall One-Click time. Make sure you flash bootloaders, you'll need them if you're coming from Froyo. This'll definitely delete your apps and contacts, but if you had your contacts synced with T-Mobile or Google, then they'll come back. Hopefully the backup you made was with Titanium Backup so you can get your apps back
Best of luck to you!
Please if you are going to give instructions atleast try to give proper ones.
You need to flash bootloaders with one of the heimdall one clicks. You will flash once, when it is done and starts to boot pull the battery and cable. Put the phone back in download mode and check the flash bootloaders box in heimdall one click.
cpkelley94 said:
Unfortunately, yes it will. Do you have a backup of your original kernel? If you do, you can just flash that, that shouldn't delete any files if you only flash the kernel.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do have a backup of the original kernel, yes, but it's on my phone. Any way I can get it?
farmerbb said:
Are you on Froyo or Gingerbread? It sounds like you might still be on Froyo; both the debloater and the custom kernel you're trying to install are designed for Gingerbread.
So yeah, Heimdall One-Click time. Make sure you flash bootloaders, you'll need them if you're coming from Froyo. This'll definitely delete your apps and contacts, but if you had your contacts synced with T-Mobile or Google, then they'll come back. Hopefully the backup you made was with Titanium Backup so you can get your apps back
Best of luck to you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, I don't have a Titanium Backup, but I can remember what apps I had.

[Q] ROOT without WIPE on 4.1 stock

Hello, This is not my primary device. I am trying to backup my buddies data/apps before installing a cm variant. I searched everywhere and i find guides to root with out wiping only for older versions of android. i'd like to be able to root the stock 4.1 without wipe so i can install titanium and backup before unlocking/wiping and installing a custom rom. Any help? is this locked down in newer versions? or did my searches miss a guide. thx a lot.
There is no stock 4.1 for this device. What phone is it cause it's not this one.
crap. I meant to post in the nexus s 4g. mod, can you move this?!
calisro said:
crap. I meant to post in the nexus s 4g. mod, can you move this?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK
Anyone? now that I'm in the right device forum.
bump
There's no way.
polobunny said:
There's no way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright. thx for the confirmation.
Last question, when I unlock the bootloader I understand it will wipe user data. Does it also wipe internal sdcard? I want to know if I should be worried about pulling all the pictures and stuff off before unlocking. thx.
calisro said:
Alright. thx for the confirmation.
Last question, when I unlock the bootloader I understand it will wipe user data. Does it also wipe internal sdcard? I want to know if I should be worried about pulling all the pictures and stuff off before unlocking. thx.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, make a backup of your SD card then do what you want..
If your bootloader is unlocked you can flash custom recovery image and then flash superSU or superuser

[Q] Root method

I have an ASUS TF300T running stock 4.2.1 build JOP400D_epad-10.6.1.27.5-20130902. I'd really like to, at a minimum, root this thing so I can boost it up a little bit. And at the most, install another ROM like CM 11.
I've rooted other machines (Droid Incredible, and my current Droid Razr) so I am not a novice by far. But after searching around I am finding that I can't really determine the 'best' method for rooting the TF300T. By best I mean - easiest and safest. With this in mind, can someone suggest the best method (and URL) for rooting the TF300T? And if I want to go so far as putting CM 11 on it (like I did for my phone) can Safestrap be run on this tablet? Any caveats?
Thanks in advance!
P.S. I might mention I use a Mac, so if whatever root method can run on a Mac that would be great. Otherwise if the method can work under a Win 7 VM (VirtualBox) that would be fine too.
-Tom
SimpTheChimp said:
I have an ASUS TF300T running stock 4.2.1 build JOP400D_epad-10.6.1.27.5-20130902. I'd really like to, at a minimum, root this thing so I can boost it up a little bit. And at the most, install another ROM like CM 11.
I've rooted other machines (Droid Incredible, and my current Droid Razr) so I am not a novice by far. But after searching around I am finding that I can't really determine the 'best' method for rooting the TF300T. By best I mean - easiest and safest. With this in mind, can someone suggest the best method (and URL) for rooting the TF300T? And if I want to go so far as putting CM 11 on it (like I did for my phone) can Safestrap be run on this tablet? Any caveats?
Thanks in advance!
P.S. I might mention I use a Mac, so if whatever root method can run on a Mac that would be great. Otherwise if the method can work under a Win 7 VM (VirtualBox) that would be fine too.
-Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about safestrap, but this is one of the pickiest tablets when it comes to ROMs: One mismatched bootloader, and it becomes an expensive paperweight.
There are several root methods in the General Forum if thats all you want to do.
For Customs ROMs, you will have to first unlock the bootloader, then update to the latest stock ROM, install the right TWRP, then pick the corresponding ROM. Never click wipe data in the bootloader menu.
cmendonc2 said:
I don't know about safestrap, but this is one of the pickiest tablets when it comes to ROMs: One mismatched bootloader, and it becomes an expensive paperweight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's my worry, from what I read it seems this is a very 'picky' tablet - and I don't want to blow it up... so maybe I'll just start with rooting it. That way I can at least customize a few things, get rid of bloatware, etc. Hopefully that will help it a bit.
cmendonc2 said:
There are several root methods in the General Forum if thats all you want to do.
For Customs ROMs, you will have to first unlock the bootloader, then update to the latest stock ROM, install the right TWRP, then pick the corresponding ROM. Never click wipe data in the bootloader menu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what would you consider the 'easiest' and 'safest' of the root methods shown in the general forum? Any suggestions? Also, I assume the latest stock ROM is still the 4.2.1 build JOP400D_epad-10.6.1.27.5-20130902? I haven't got anything newer yet via System Update. That's why I was thinking of going to CM 11 like I did on my phone - to get Kit Kit. We'll probably never get it directly from ASUS....
-Tom
SimpTheChimp said:
Yeah, that's my worry, from what I read it seems this is a very 'picky' tablet - and I don't want to blow it up... so maybe I'll just start with rooting it. That way I can at least customize a few things, get rid of bloatware, etc. Hopefully that will help it a bit.
So what would you consider the 'easiest' and 'safest' of the root methods shown in the general forum? Any suggestions? Also, I assume the latest stock ROM is still the 4.2.1 build JOP400D_epad-10.6.1.27.5-20130902? I haven't got anything newer yet via System Update. That's why I was thinking of going to CM 11 like I did on my phone - to get Kit Kit. We'll probably never get it directly from ASUS....
-Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To root, you can try this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2685628
cmendonc2 said:
To root, you can try this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2685628
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, I'll give this a try. So is this what you used to get root on your TF300T? It looks like it works for a variety of different machines.
Does this only do root? Or also bootloader unlock so you can run other ROMS? Also, if for whatever reason I had to revert root and reinstall stock, will that work after rooting with this method?
Thanks!
SimpTheChimp said:
Hmm, I'll give this a try. So is this what you used to get root on your TF300T? It looks like it works for a variety of different machines.
Does this only do root? Or also bootloader unlock so you can run other ROMS? Also, if for whatever reason I had to revert root and reinstall stock, will that work after rooting with this method?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This does ONLY root. Your bootloader is still unlocked, but if you reinstall stock, the root will be removed. If you do choose to unlock your bootloader, it can never be relocked and your warranty is forever void.
cmendonc2 said:
This does ONLY root. Your bootloader is still unlocked, but if you reinstall stock, the root will be removed. If you do choose to unlock your bootloader, it can never be relocked and your warranty is forever void.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK cool, I'll give it a shot. I'll first start with root and see if I can then optimize the tablet to run a little bit better (and get rid of the bloatware). Then later on I may consider unlocking the bootloader and trying another ROM - especially KitKat.
-Tom
cmendonc2 said:
This does ONLY root. Your bootloader is still unlocked, but if you reinstall stock, the root will be removed. If you do choose to unlock your bootloader, it can never be relocked and your warranty is forever void.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CMendonc2:
IT WORKED! Not only that, it was easy and quick!
Thanks!
SimpTheChimp said:
CMendonc2:
IT WORKED! Not only that, it was easy and quick!
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear it! Don't be afraid to ask any other questions
cmendonc2 said:
Glad to hear it! Don't be afraid to ask any other questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK cmendonc2, I like having root, but I think I am about ready to unlock this baby and put on another ROM. I know the risks, and that my warranty will be voided - but I've had this a couple of years so it's not under warranty anyway.
So... I got the ASUS Bootloader unlocker program from the ASUS site; and I have what I believe is the latest TWRP. Is there a good place for instructions on how to unlock this thing and install a new ROM? I know it can be picky so I want to do it right and not brick it.
Also any suggestions on a good ROM? I was thinking CM 11, but I've also heard good things about OmniROM.
Thanks.
-Tom
SimpTheChimp said:
OK cmendonc2, I like having root, but I think I am about ready to unlock this baby and put on another ROM. I know the risks, and that my warranty will be voided - but I've had this a couple of years so it's not under warranty anyway.
So... I got the ASUS Bootloader unlocker program from the ASUS site; and I have what I believe is the latest TWRP. Is there a good place for instructions on how to unlock this thing and install a new ROM? I know it can be picky so I want to do it right and not brick it.
Also any suggestions on a good ROM? I was thinking CM 11, but I've also heard good things about OmniROM.
Thanks.
-Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK so you have bootloader 10.6.1.27.5. That's the latest version, so you don't have to worry about upgrading stock. This TWRP (http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23329332407579270) is compatible with the bootloader. Download any 4.4.4 ROM from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/transformer-tf300t/development. Then download the latest GAPPS from here: http://goo.gl/ZcwCW9.
After unlocking, extract the TWRP blob and put it on your SD card. type this into Terminal Emulator on your tablet:
Code:
su
dd if=/sdcard/twrp.blob of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p4
Then restart and go into TWRP. Wipe Data and cache, then install your new ROM and gapps.
cmendonc2 said:
OK so you have bootloader 10.6.1.27.5. That's the latest version, so you don't have to worry about upgrading stock. This TWRP (http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23329332407579270) is compatible with the bootloader. Download any 4.4.4 ROM from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/transformer-tf300t/development. Then download the latest GAPPS from here: http://goo.gl/ZcwCW9.
After unlocking, extract the TWRP blob and put it on your SD card. type this into Terminal Emulator on your tablet:
Code:
su
dd if=/sdcard/twrp.blob of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p4
Then restart and go into TWRP. Wipe Data and cache, then install your new ROM and gapps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, cmendonc2... I'll give this a shot tonight. I think KitKat will perform better on this tablet (I hope). I think I'll try OmniROM first.
BTW, I thought I read somewhere that there was one TWRP option (a specific Wipe option) that I was to NEVER use or I would brick the tablet. You know what that option is?
-Tom
SimpTheChimp said:
Thanks, cmendonc2... I'll give this a shot tonight. I think KitKat will perform better on this tablet (I hope). I think I'll try OmniROM first.
BTW, I thought I read somewhere that there was one TWRP option (a specific Wipe option) that I was to NEVER use or I would brick the tablet. You know what that option is?
-Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the Bootloader option "Wipe Data". You see that when u press vol down and power to get the three icons. It is the icon on the far right. Selecting that will result in an expensive paperweight.
SimpTheChimp said:
Thanks, cmendonc2... I'll give this a shot tonight. I think KitKat will perform better on this tablet (I hope). I think I'll try OmniROM first.
BTW, I thought I read somewhere that there was one TWRP option (a specific Wipe option) that I was to NEVER use or I would brick the tablet. You know what that option is?
-Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK I got the TWRP but when I extract it there is no .blob file. So what am I missing? There doesn't seem to be much in this .zip file.... I guess to do it the terminal way (seems the easiest to me) I need the blob file. I've googled left and right but I can't find a TWRP 2.7.0.1 blob.
Or would this ROM Manager app work?
UPDATE: Never mind, I figured out how to flash recovery using Fastboot on my Mac! TWRP is now installed and working! Going to try flashing OmniRom and see how that goes. So I think the only question I have left is: When I am flashing a new ROM (i.e. over the old stock) what wipe options in TWRP should I use first? Obviously cache and Dalvik, but which other ones? System? Data? For this first flash I obviously want/need to start fresh.
SimpTheChimp said:
OK I got the TWRP but when I extract it there is no .blob file. So what am I missing? There doesn't seem to be much in this .zip file.... I guess to do it the terminal way (seems the easiest to me) I need the blob file. I've googled left and right but I can't find a TWRP 2.7.0.1 blob.
Or would this ROM Manager app work?
UPDATE: Never mind, I figured out how to flash recovery using Fastboot on my Mac! TWRP is now installed and working! Going to try flashing OmniRom and see how that goes. So I think the only question I have left is: When I am flashing a new ROM (i.e. over the old stock) what wipe options in TWRP should I use first? Obviously cache and Dalvik, but which other ones? System? Data? For this first flash I obviously want/need to start fresh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For factory reset: wipe data, cache, dalvik
For dirty flash: wipe cache, dalvik cache

[Q] updating from 5.0 to 5.0.1 problem

Ok so i'm running lollipop 5.0 with twrp 2.8.3.0 rooted with cf auto root and i want to update to 5.0.1. First what i did i tryed to install ota but it did not start to install when the device resets. So i downloaded factory images for 5.0 and flashed factory recovery via fastboot, now when i download ota and device starts to install it on 1/4 % of progress bar it says error. So what else i need to do to install ota? Or there is not any other way exepct to flash factory image for 5.0.1.
Best option is to download factory image 5.0.1 and flash it with no wipe.
zagorteney said:
Best option is to download factory image 5.0.1 and flash it with no wipe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so i do it with no wipe by editing the bat file right? i need to delete w?
Yeah, why download 5.0 instead of 5.0.1 factory image?
Easiest thing to do would have been flashing the 5.0.1 twrp flashable version of the rom from XDA...
rootSU said:
Yeah, why download 5.0 instead of 5.0.1 factory image?
Easiest thing to do would have been flashing the 5.0.1 twrp flashable version of the rom from XDA...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry i did not know that there is a flashable version :/ can you give me the link to it? i will flash back twrp now and flash it like you said.
Its in the resources section of general > sticky roll-up, by vomer
rootSU said:
Its in the resources section of general > sticky roll-up, by vomer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did all as u said and it went without a problem. So thanks a lot
Alexandar92zr said:
I did all as u said and it went without a problem. So thanks a lot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can u give me more information ?
chessjoe said:
Can u give me more information ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What more do you need? If you read my post, all the information is there
rootSU said:
What more do you need? If you read my post, all the information is there
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
someone else asked for more information, but it all went well im on 5.0.1 now rooted with twrp so thanks again
Alexandar92zr said:
someone else asked for more information, but it all went well im on 5.0.1 now rooted with twrp so thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was talking to the guy who asked for more information.
rootSU said:
I was talking to the guy who asked for more information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's great to hear. By the time, Is there any handy guide just to sideload the 5.0.1 update without actually wiping the data.
A lot of people will be looking the same just like me!
CODENEX said:
That's great to hear. By the time, Is there any handy guide just to sideload the 5.0.1 update without actually wiping the data.
A lot of people will be looking the same just like me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can only sideload OTA and OTA doesn't wipe data.
rootSU said:
You can only sideload OTA and OTA doesn't wipe data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So it's the same way like we flash the factory image/custom ROM. Since the manual wiping doesn't even require, no need for apps backup?! #n008
CODENEX said:
So it's the same way like we flash the factory image/custom ROM. Since the manual wiping doesn't even require, no need for apps backup?! #n008
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are 100% stock, you can:
- sideload OTA. No wipe
If you have a custom recovery you can
- flash a ROM.zip, without wipe
No matter what state you are:
- flash a factory image, with some modification to not wipe. This can be done by moving the -w from the flash script or individually flashing via fastboot, the system, boot, radio images. Though if you want ota in the future, you'll need to flash bootloader and recovery the same way.
Everything you need is in general > sticky roll-up
rootSU said:
If you are 100% stock, you can:
- sideload OTA. No wipe
If you have a custom recovery you can
- flash a ROM.zip, without wipe
No matter what state you are:
- flash a factory image, with some modification to not wipe. This can be done by moving the -w from the flash script or individually flashing via fastboot, the system, boot, radio images. Though if you want ota in the future, you'll need to flash bootloader and recovery the same way.
Everything you need is in general > sticky roll-up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the Section - B of the guide complies what you said.
Why is there three links, with warning (Original, may not flash for most people and full radio)?
rootSU said:
If you are 100% stock, you can:
- sideload OTA. No wipe
If you have a custom recovery you can
- flash a ROM.zip, without wipe
No matter what state you are:
- flash a factory image, with some modification to not wipe. This can be done by moving the -w from the flash script or individually flashing via fastboot, the system, boot, radio images. Though if you want ota in the future, you'll need to flash bootloader and recovery the same way.
Everything you need is in general > sticky roll-up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is best explanation as you can get. But for newbies like me, there is also tool, named Wugfresh Root Toolkit. It does exactly what rootSU said above, but for ordinary users in more friendly way.
Regards, Zagor
zagorteney said:
This is best explanation as you can get. But for newbies like me, there is also tool, named Wugfresh Root Toolkit. It does exactly what rootSU said above, but for ordinary users in more friendly way.
Regards, Zagor
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True but the problem there is that toolkits take away the learning curve for noobs. This means if something goes wrong using the toolkit of even later on, when we try to help, the noob doesnt understand the basic things we're saying.
Sure, it saves noobs time, but it wastes our time later when the noob needs our help (which is unfair and a bit selfish) So we strongly urge noobs to NOT use toolkits.
rootSU said:
True but the problem there is that toolkits take away the learning curve for noobs. This means if something goes wrong using the toolkit of even later on, when we try to help, the noob doesnt understand the basic things we're saying.
Sure, it saves noobs time, but it wastes our time later when the noob needs our help (which is unfair and a bit selfish) So we strongly urge noobs to NOT use toolkits.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It makes sense. But there is another truth, too. There aren't so many professionals like you with understanding android enviroment.
For example. I'm steel worker. I know how to weld. But also I know just few basic things about how welding machines works. I do not need exactly know how it works I just need to know how to adjust some of parameters to get better results. Because I have a good welding machine, it is almost impossible to go anything wrong. So for me good Toolkit is like good welding machine.
When I try to install SDK from Google and start with it I just give up after only 10 min. Toolkits works for me since X10. Of course there were many mistakes I've made (and probably will do), but I never bother people for such a situations like "I flash HTC Xspeed kernel on Samsung device - my gosh, please help". There are also unpredictable situations. I hate that with Titanium Backup and its /storage folder most. But the beauty of android system is that you can't do anything wrong. If you have somekind of backups you can allways start fresh. And that is the best school for everybody.
Regards, Zagor
You don't need the SDK. Its worth reading the stickies. The problem is when someone uses a toolkit and doesn't know how to use fastboot and we have to explain everything to them whilst panicking. Its easier to learn fastboot first.
Of course you must feel free to use toolkits yourself but many of us will say what I have said today if you recommend it.
Fastboot is not knowing how it works. Fastboot is the same knowledge you have as your welding machine. Developing would be more than you know than your welding machine.

Some Android newbie questions

Will be an apple to android convert when my zenfone comes. Been reading around to educate myself but have some questions that could use some insight.
1. Once you unlock the bootloader and root your phone, can you still get monthly/yearly or new android version updates in system updates in settings and update from there? If not, do you have to pretty much reset everything to factory defaults and then update it like that? And root all over again? Or is there any other way?
2. Will the phone be pretty much be "stock" after the factory reset?Working OTA updates and all? (Minus the unlocked bootloader)
3 Which up to date rooting method seems best? There's 2 methods that I can see but I can't tell which one is better.
a) https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...uide-how-to-root-asus-zenfone-6-twrp-t3940168
b) https://forum.xda-developers.com/zenfone-6-2019/how-to/simple-guide-to-root-device-twrp-t3956784
4. Is TWRP needed?
Thanks!
midnight3ow said:
Will be an apple to android convert when my zenfone comes. Been reading around to educate myself but have some questions that could use some insight.
1. Once you unlock the bootloader and root your phone, can you still get monthly/yearly or new android version updates in system updates in settings and update from there? If not, do you have to pretty much reset everything to factory defaults and then update it like that? And root all over again? Or is there any other way?
2. Will the phone be pretty much be "stock" after the factory reset?Working OTA updates and all? (Minus the unlocked bootloader)
3 Which up to date rooting method seems best? There's 2 methods that I can see but I can't tell which one is better.
a) https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...uide-how-to-root-asus-zenfone-6-twrp-t3940168
b) https://forum.xda-developers.com/zenfone-6-2019/how-to/simple-guide-to-root-device-twrp-t3956784
4. Is TWRP needed?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) No, once unlocked, no more OTAS. You can flash the update manually, no wipe needed, but you also need to flash Root and custom recovery again (2 minutes extra, no big deal).
2) Stock, no OTAS
3) They are pretty much the same, but the easiest (and safest) way is just to get a custom recovery and then flash the Magisk Zip
4) For normal method yes, for the ones you posted in 3), no.
papete said:
1) No, once unlocked, no more OTAS. You can flash the update manually, no wipe needed, but you also need to flash Root and custom recovery again (2 minutes extra, no big deal).
2) Stock, no OTAS
3) They are pretty much the same, but the easiest (and safest) way is just to get a custom recovery and then flash the Magisk Zip
4) For normal method yes, for the ones you posted in 3), no.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your reply, but I need some clarification on a couple things.
1. I suppose I'll figure out once I get the phone but I'm anxious and don't know when the phone will arrive but how do you flash the update manually? I understand having to flashing root again but what do you mean flashing custom recovery again?
2. Where do you get a hold of the update for the phone? Is updating manually pretty much the same as resetting your phone to factory settings?
3. I can't seem to find the method you mention that is the easiest and safest way to root. Could you kindly lead me to that guide??
midnight3ow said:
Thank you for your reply, but I need some clarification on a couple things.
1. I suppose I'll figure out once I get the phone but I'm anxious and don't know when the phone will arrive but how do you flash the update manually? I understand having to flashing root again but what do you mean flashing custom recovery again?
2. Where do you get a hold of the update for the phone? Is updating manually pretty much the same as resetting your phone to factory settings?
3. I can't seem to find the method you mention that is the easiest and safest way to root. Could you kindly lead me to that guide??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) To flash manually you download the firmware from the Asus site, and use a recovery (stock or custom) to flash it. If you want root, you need a custom recovery to flash it, as stock recovery only flashes Asus Firmware. Whenever you flash a stock firmware, it "overwrites" the custom recovery with the stock recovery, so if you want/need a custom recovery, you need to flash it again. The same with root, stock flashed boot partition again, so you need to flash Magisk zip again so it can make the patch to boot to make root work.
2) I personally don't update that much, but you can check every once in a while https://www.asus.com/Phone/ZenFone-6-ZS630KL/HelpDesk_Download/
You can update without factory reset, just flash the new firmware (+root if needed) and you are done, it is just like an OTA but done by yourself.
3) Follow this: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...covery-unofficial-twrp-recovery-asus-t3937844
papete said:
1) To flash manually you download the firmware from the Asus site, and use a recovery (stock or custom) to flash it. If you want root, you need a custom recovery to flash it, as stock recovery only flashes Asus Firmware. Whenever you flash a stock firmware, it "overwrites" the custom recovery with the stock recovery, so if you want/need a custom recovery, you need to flash it again. The same with root, stock flashed boot partition again, so you need to flash Magisk zip again so it can make the patch to boot to make root work.
2) I personally don't update that much, but you can check every once in a while https://www.asus.com/Phone/ZenFone-6-ZS630KL/HelpDesk_Download/
You can update without factory reset, just flash the new firmware (+root if needed) and you are done, it is just like an OTA but done by yourself.
3) Follow this: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...covery-unofficial-twrp-recovery-asus-t3937844
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm grateful for all your thoughtful and clear responses.
When do you normally decide to update?
Do you lose any data from updating security update/firmware or rooting and installing custom recovery?
Also, I've been looking through that link you posted, and also seen another thread about another newer "official" TWRP version? What's the difference?Which one should I use?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...nt/tool-utility-twrp-3-3-1-0-teamwin-t3963876
midnight3ow said:
Will be an apple to android convert when my zenfone comes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So ZF6 will be your first Android phone ever?
_jis_ said:
So ZF6 will be your first Android phone ever?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it will be! Excited and anxious at the same time.
midnight3ow said:
Yes it will be! Excited and anxious at the same time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then please do yourself a favor and forgot about unlocking the bootloader and rooting your new phone.
Just learn how to use nearly stock Android with lightweight Android skin in its user-friendly and widely configurable form called ZenUI.
Trust me, there is no need for tinkering with root as an Android newbie when using ZF6.
_jis_ said:
Then please do yourself a favor and forgot about unlocking the bootloader and rooting your new phone.
Just learn how to use nearly stock Android with lightweight Android skin in its user-friendly and widely configurable form called ZenUI.
Trust me, there is no need for tinkering with root as an Android newbie when using ZF6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with this, unless you want to achieve something specific that can only be done rooted, stay completely stock.
papete said:
unless you want to achieve something specific that can only be done rooted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But this hypothetical condition is impossible because Android newbie cannot even achieve basic Android tasks which doesn't require root at all so why complicate his upcoming long journey of gaining experience and knowledge yet by the rooting his device from the very beginning?

Categories

Resources