[Q] First-time rooting questions from a noobie - Nexus 5 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I've never rooted a device, but have found an app I need that requires root access. So, before going through with the process, I just want to cover my bases to make sure I don't end up with a bricked device. So, first, a few questions:
- Is unlocking the bootloader the same thing as rooting? Are the terms synonymous, or are they two separate things? If the latter, which comes first?
- Do I need to back up my apps somewhere before going through the process? In other words, does rooting wipe the phone? If so, can I still download the apps that are stored in "My Apps" in Google Play?
- After rooting, will I still have access to and be able to download apps from Play?
- Does rooting make the device more vulnerable to viruses and malware attacks? No change from unrooted?
- Are there any general risks or drawbacks to rooting (aside from the potential of bricking the device)? Any standard functionality I lose by rooting?
Finally, I found ChainFire's root process. Seems to be pretty simple/straightforward. Is that all I need to do to gain root access? Anything else I should be sure to do?
Thanks!

Have you read the stickies at the top of this forum and the top of general? All your answers are there.

flick0416 said:
I've never rooted a device, but have found an app I need that requires root access. So, before going through with the process, I just want to cover my bases to make sure I don't end up with a bricked device. So, first, a few questions:
- Is unlocking the bootloader the same thing as rooting? Are the terms synonymous, or are they two separate things? If the latter, which comes first?
- Do I need to back up my apps somewhere before going through the process? In other words, does rooting wipe the phone? If so, can I still download the apps that are stored in "My Apps" in Google Play?
- After rooting, will I still have access to and be able to download apps from Play?
- Does rooting make the device more vulnerable to viruses and malware attacks? No change from unrooted?
- Are there any general risks or drawbacks to rooting (aside from the potential of bricking the device)? Any standard functionality I lose by rooting?
Finally, I found ChainFire's root process. Seems to be pretty simple/straightforward. Is that all I need to do to gain root access? Anything else I should be sure to do?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Unlocking the bootloader is just that - giving you access to the partitions on the phone. Gaining root access is like having administrator privileges on a Windows PC - you can install/do anything to the OS
2. Unlocking the bootloader wipes the phone, rooting does not (as the phone is already unlocked)
3. Yes, although some apps don't work on a rooted phone
4. Of sorts, yes, but so long as you're careful you'll be OK
5. Not really, and you'll usually gain functionality if you move to a custom ROM

I hadn't
rootSU said:
Have you read the stickies at the top of this forum and the top of general? All your answers are there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hadn't, but since you pointed it out, I'm finding abaaaabbbb63's FAQ post to be helpful. Thanks for the direction.

flick0416 said:
I hadn't, but since you pointed it out, I'm finding abaaaabbbb63's FAQ post to be helpful. Thanks for the direction.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No probs.
-----------------------
Sent via tapatalk.
I do NOT reply to support queries over PM. Please keep support queries to the Q&A section, so that others may benefit

Thanks
EddyOS said:
1. Unlocking the bootloader is just that - giving you access to the partitions on the phone. Gaining root access is like having administrator privileges on a Windows PC - you can install/do anything to the OS
2. Unlocking the bootloader wipes the phone, rooting does not (as the phone is already unlocked)
3. Yes, although some apps don't work on a rooted phone
4. Of sorts, yes, but so long as you're careful you'll be OK
5. Not really, and you'll usually gain functionality if you move to a custom ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. Also, regarding #3, how do you tell if an app <i>won't</i> work on a rooted phone? Just trial and error?

Also
Is ChainFire's process the easiest way for me to get what I need (namely, root access to download an app)?

flick0416 said:
Is ChainFire's process the easiest way for me to get what I need (namely, root access to download an app)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have always done the following:
1. Unlock bootloader (make sure you back up any files on your phone before hand as they WILL be deleted)
2. Flash CWM/TWRP (I've always been a CWM man myself, but it's your choice) through fastboot using 'fastboot flash recovery recovery.img' - where 'recovery.img' is the name of the file you downloaded. I always rename mine 'recovery' purely for ease of use
3. Boot the phone and copy this to the phones memory - http://download.chainfire.eu/365/SuperSU/UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.69.zip?retrieve_file=1
4. Boot into CWM/TWRP and flash the file you've just copied to the phone
5. Reboot and enjoy!

Haha
EddyOS said:
I have always done the following:
1. Unlock bootloader (make sure you back up any files on your phone before hand as they WILL be deleted)
2. Flash CWM/TWRP (I've always been a CWM man myself, but it's your choice)
3. Boot the phone and copy this to the phones memory - ttp://download.chainfire.eu/365/SuperSU/UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.69.zip?retrieve_file=1
4. Boot into CWM/TWRP and flash the file you've just copied to the phone
5. Reboot and enjoy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, that's way above my head. I'll try to break down what you said:
1. This is done by turning the phone off, then holding Power + Volume down, correct?
2. Are these custom ROM's? I don't really care about a custom ROM right now, just having root access.
3. When you say Boot, do you mean turn it off again, then turn back on normally? Also, would I turn it off again after copying the SuperSU file?
4. No idea what you mean by this.
5. Getting there slowly...

flick0416 said:
Haha, that's way above my head. I'll try to break down what you said:
1. This is done by turning the phone off, then holding Power + Volume down, correct?
2. Are these custom ROM's? I don't really care about a custom ROM right now, just having root access.
3. When you say Boot, do you mean turn it off again, then turn back on normally? Also, would I turn it off again after copying the SuperSU file?
4. No idea what you mean by this.
5. Getting there slowly...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Check this thread out - it outlines the entire process http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2507905
2. No - that is custom recovery that you need to perform nandroid backups (full system backup)
3. Yes
4. Go back into your newly installed recovery (step 2) to install the SuperSU file
But again, check out the link I provided above - fairly straightforward.

jj14 said:
1. Check this thread out - it outlines the entire process http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2507905
2. No - that is custom recovery that you need to perform nandroid backups (full system backup)
3. Yes
4. Go back into your newly installed recovery (step 2) to install the SuperSU file
But again, check out the link I provided above - fairly straightforward.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK cool, I think it's all starting to make sense. I could really accomplish the same end result without flashing a custom recovery, right? I most likely will flash a custom recovery, but as I understand it, a customer recovery isn't an essential part of the process, correct? The essentials are:
1) Unlock bootloader
2) Copy the SuperSU file to the phone
3) Boot back into recovery mode, flash the SuperSU file
Is that accurate?

flick0416 said:
OK cool, I think it's all starting to make sense. I could really accomplish the same end result without flashing a custom recovery, right? I most likely will flash a custom recovery, but as I understand it, a customer recovery isn't an essential part of the process, correct? The essentials are:
1) Unlock bootloader
2) Copy the SuperSU file to the phone
3) Boot back into recovery mode, flash the SuperSU file
Is that accurate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is correct. Only 'issue' is that you won't be able to take a full system backup (aka nandroid) before rooting.
(make sure that after you start your phone up after step 3, and get your accounts set up, update the SU app from the play store - new vulnerabilities were fixed)

jj14 said:
That is correct. Only 'issue' is that you won't be able to take a full system backup (aka nandroid) before rooting.
(make sure that after you start your phone up after step 3, and get your accounts set up, update the SU app from the play store - new vulnerabilities were fixed)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, thanks. Would it be correct to say that Chainfire's thing automated steps 2 and 3?

flick0416 said:
Cool, thanks. Would it be correct to say that Chainfire's thing automated steps 2 and 3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not sure which thing you are referring to - chainfire developed the SU app. Not sure what automation you are referring to.
In my opinion, run those commands manually - not that complicated, and you know what it is doing

jj14 said:
not sure which thing you are referring to - chainfire developed the SU app. Not sure what automation you are referring to.
In my opinion, run those commands manually - not that complicated, and you know what it is doing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. The CF-Auto Root.

flick0416 said:
This.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep - it should

jj14 said:
yep - it should
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright cool, thanks. Now that I feel like I have a better conceptual understanding of what each step is doing, I think I'd rather go through it manually, too.

flick0416 said:
Alright cool, thanks. Now that I feel like I have a better conceptual understanding of what each step is doing, I think I'd rather go through it manually, too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the important thing - read up and make sure you understand what you're doing and be comfortable with it all. Once you do it a few times it becomes second nature

an advice which came useful to me:
use original usb cable!
i've spent hours by trying to install custom recovery after unlocking bootloader.. tried number of times but having the error logo while booting to recovery.. then switched to original usb cable and everything worked fine at first attempt.
maybe this will helps =)

Recovery is important
I'd suggest this procedure:
1) Unlock bootloader
2) Copy the SuperSU file to the phone
3) Boot back into recovery mode, flash the SuperSU file
4) Flash a recoverylike cwm

Related

Guide to Root TF300T - JRO03C.US_epad-10.4.2.17-20121018

I'm more confused than ever on trying to find the *correct* guide to root my TF300T. The development forum has mislabeled threads, and most guides I found were guiding the root process for a device with a 9.x.x.x firmware. So, that said, can anyone point me to the CORRECT guide so I can root my TF running 10.4.2.17 please? Thanks.
Ramrod421 said:
So first off I totally understand the apprehension. I have rooted a lot thingd and this tablet seems especially technical and convoluted.
First read through this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1697227
1) In that thread download the "unlock bootloader" app, run it and unlock the bootloader. Your device warranty will now be void and it will say "device unlocked" in the top left corner every time you boot it up.
2) Now go to this thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1845377, scroll down to Part 3 and download the "fastboot + JB recovery" files. Extract them into the Fastboot folder that they are zipped in. There will be two .dll files, an ADB file, a Fastboot file and a twrp.blob file.
3) Turn off your tablet. Once it's off press the power and vol/dwn buttons at the same time. Keep holding them down until you see the screen with "RCK", "android", a usb symbol, and "wipe data". Once in that screen let go and use the Vol/dwn to move the cursor and vol/up to select the USB icon. Plug your tablet into your computer and the computer should recognize it as a "fastboot" device. You can check under "devices and printers".
4) Enter the "Fastboot" folder and while holding down shift, right click the mouse. In the menu you should have the option "open command window here". Select that and it will open a cmd window. Type in the line:
fastboot -i 0x0b05 flash recovery twrp.blob
This will copy the TWRP recovery file to the tablet and flash it. You will see a blue progress bar on your tablet while this is happening. Once that is done type:
fastboot -i 0x0b05 reboot
This will reboot your tablet and you will now have TWRP recovery installed.
5)Once in android again, go to this thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1668173, and download the "root-signed.zip" file in the second post and copy it to the tablet.
6)Turn off the tablet and boot into recovery by holding power and vol/dwn again. Once at the menu select "RCK" with Vol/up. It will boot into TWRP recovery now. Install the "root-signed.zip" file, reboot and the tablet should be rooted.
At this point I recommend creating a backup in recovery in case anything goes wrong from here on out.
Now you can flash any ROM your heart desires. I recommend CleanROM 2.7. It's fast, clean and very easy to install.
TWRP is easily the best recovery for this tablet. I have had many problems with CWM not installing ROM's properly and causing boot issues.
I hope this help you out. I know it's kind of a mine field of information but it works very nicely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Incredible 2 using xda app-developers app
Sent from my Incredible 2 using xda app-developers app
I was just about to link you to the same thing. This process will flash recovery and root your tablet.
d08speed3 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1697227
1) In that thread download the "unlock bootloader" app, run it and unlock the bootloader. Your device warranty will now be void and it will say "device unlocked" in the top left corner every time you boot it up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a relatively big deal: while you could root stock ICS ROMs pretty easily, you can't do it on stock JB ROMs without unlocking the bootloader, Once you're unlocked, however, it's a piece of cake.
For the amateurs. Could you elaborate on these steps?
Step (1) (a) which file to download? the .apk for the .exe file?
(b) Download to where (the tablet or onto a laptop/desktop)?
Step (2): (a) Again, download to where? Tablet or laptop/desktop? And extract to where?
Step (3) & (4): This make it sounds like the files in previous steps should be downloaded and extracted to a laptop/desktop?
Step (5) & (6): CleanRom 2.7 is already rooted. Do we need to run these steps? Or can we install CleanRom after Step 4?
Backup: What files to back up? Everything?
Critical Questions:
Do the above steps work for tablets already on Android version 4.1.1 with .29 (or .17) builds?
Sidenote: Last night, my tablets had an ASUS update and it went from build .29 to .17. Is this strange? It's going backward?
I have followed these instructions exactly, but titanium and adaway both cannot aquire root privileges. and reason why?
smokarz said:
For the amateurs. Could you elaborate on these steps?
Step (1) (a) which file to download? the .apk for the .exe file?
(b) Download to where (the tablet or onto a laptop/desktop)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Download the .apk and put it on your tablet. Install it. Run it.
Step (2): (a) Again, download to where? Tablet or laptop/desktop? And extract to where?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These files are to be put on your computer. It doesn't matter where you put the directory.
Step (3) & (4): This make it sounds like the files in previous steps should be downloaded and extracted to a laptop/desktop?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes
Step (5) & (6): CleanRom 2.7 is already rooted. Do we need to run these steps? Or can we install CleanRom after Step 4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These steps are not technically required but I put them in there because then you have a backup copy of stock JB that is rooted.
Backup: What files to back up? Everything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Run TWRP. Press the back up button.
Critical Questions:
Do the above steps work for tablets already on Android version 4.1.1 with .29 (or .17) builds?
Sidenote: Last night, my tablets had an ASUS update and it went from build .29 to .17. Is this strange? It's going backward?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method works for any version.
---------- Post added at 08:32 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:30 PM ----------
rboutin2 said:
I have followed these instructions exactly, but titanium and adaway both cannot aquire root privileges. and reason why?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you confirmed that you are truly rooted or are these apps the only ones that can't access the root directory?
So you have to root first in order to do a backup?
No you do not have to root first to do a backup.
---------- Post added at 10:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:15 PM ----------
rboutin2 said:
I have followed these instructions exactly, but titanium and adaway both cannot aquire root privileges. and reason why?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would try and clear the cache and data for supersu under settings>apps and that might make it start working properly.
jerry43812 said:
I'm more confused than ever on trying to find the *correct* guide to root my TF300T. The development forum has mislabeled threads, and most guides I found were guiding the root process for a device with a 9.x.x.x firmware. So, that said, can anyone point me to the CORRECT guide so I can root my TF running 10.4.2.17 please? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read the reply's to your Q, but as I have the same build as you I still haven't found one that anyone claims has worked.
You have any success?
Root TF300T
Thank you so very much for that very helpful post. Much appreciated.
After reading your instructions, I'm happy to proceed but may I ask one question first.
I've unlocked my TF300 with the ASUS application.
My build number is 10.4.2.18-20121122. It's a UK model.
Am I safe to use your instructions with this build?
Kind regards
I never obtained root, and since my OP, I've gotten an OTA as well, so it's back to square one in finding a viable root method.
Sent from my LG-P500 using xda app-developers app
I'm in the same boat. Got a 300 for Christmas, bumped up to JB w/o reading here first (yeah...that was dumb). So from looking around the only way to root is to unlock and the only way to unlock right now is via the ASUS tool which - from what I've gathered - will send my serial number to ASUS and void my warranty correct?
A few questions:
1.) does anyone know if work is being done to be able to unlock/relock w/o voiding the warranty? I love root, but I won't do it while in warranty in case something unthinkable happens . I'm not sure how much of this would be true, but can't we use nvflash to download the locked bootloader then find a way to spoof the ASUS unlock authorization? Hell, unless each tablet uses a different signature couldn't we just post the nvflash-able locked/unlocked bootloaders? I'm thinking back to the flash processes from my Tegra2 gTablet. I could be way off base, but it seems plausible with my limited knowledge.
2.) is it possible to root w/o unlocking? I know I won't get CWM/TWRP and the ability to load non-stock ROMs but I can live with that. I'd like to be able to run TiB, ES File - Root, etc though. I thought I saw something about obtaining root w/o unlock, but I can't find it and it might have been ICS instructions.
3.) I take it there's no downgrading back to ICS that would fix this either....
NeoMatrixJR said:
I'm in the same boat. Got a 300 for Christmas, bumped up to JB w/o reading here first (yeah...that was dumb). So from looking around the only way to root is to unlock and the only way to unlock right now is via the ASUS tool which - from what I've gathered - will send my serial number to ASUS and void my warranty correct?
A few questions:
1.) does anyone know if work is being done to be able to unlock/relock w/o voiding the warranty? I love root, but I won't do it while in warranty in case something unthinkable happens . I'm not sure how much of this would be true, but can't we use nvflash to download the locked bootloader then find a way to spoof the ASUS unlock authorization? Hell, unless each tablet uses a different signature couldn't we just post the nvflash-able locked/unlocked bootloaders? I'm thinking back to the flash processes from my Tegra2 gTablet. I could be way off base, but it seems plausible with my limited knowledge.
2.) is it possible to root w/o unlocking? I know I won't get CWM/TWRP and the ability to load non-stock ROMs but I can live with that. I'd like to be able to run TiB, ES File - Root, etc though. I thought I saw something about obtaining root w/o unlock, but I can't find it and it might have been ICS instructions.
3.) I take it there's no downgrading back to ICS that would fix this either....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
You can try to unlock your device with AsusUnlock app ! - is the safe way to unlock bootloader ! ( certainly will void your warranty ! )
I don't think that's cause for concern ...I've unlocked bootloader in the very next day after I bought it ( in august this year )
- so far I think I made five hundred " flash and reflash rom " - ( for testing "custom roms" ) - and the device shows like the first day when I bought it
So, be more confident - the device is not so easily to break , you can install as many "custom roms" as you want - you just have to be very careful about the steps that you make - when you try to install a custom rom !
Good luck ! :good:
regards,
Surdu Petru
Not worried so much about flashing causing issues. I've flashed my gTab more times than I can count. More worried about pre-voiding the warranty should I have any hardware issues. Like my battery life seems to be horrible and it might need sent in for that.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using Tapatalk HD

[Q] Root for the One Plus One?

This phone has had my attention for a while now, and after reading and watching videos on the phone, my biggest question is about root. If Cyanogenmod 11s isn't pre-rooted right out of the box, is there a root method/someone working on a root method and if not, how long will it be until that becomes a reality? If the phone doesn't have root, I'm afraid that I may not be able to go for this phone as I am heavily invested a number of root operations and apps that I have set up on my phone. Let me know if anyone knows anything.
adambombz said:
This phone has had my attention for a while now, and after reading and watching videos on the phone, my biggest question is about root. If Cyanogenmod 11s isn't pre-rooted right out of the box, is there a root method/someone working on a root method and if not, how long will it be until that becomes a reality? If the phone doesn't have root, I'm afraid that I may not be able to go for this phone as I am heavily invested a number of root operations and apps that I have set up on my phone. Let me know if anyone knows anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not rooted out-of-the-box. Google doesn't allow this. But apparently, root will be very easy; just plug it into your computer and enter in a few command lines and you're set (so I've heard). Undoubtedly someone will make a one-click script that makes it even easier.
EDIT: Sorry for that one, was posting too fast without thinking first... Actually rooting includes unlocking bootloader and flashing the required binaries via recovery like said below my post.
Sent from my Desire X using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
dansou901 said:
It will be even easier then that. You'll just have to enable root in developer settings, that's all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? Sweet!
Andrew Martonik at Android Central spent almost a month with the phone and had this to say about rooting in the review he released just a couple days ago.
Naturally if you want to root the phone, it's only a quick USB cable plug into your computer and a few command line entries away.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good read, BTW.
OnePlus One Review | Android Central
CafeKampuchia said:
Andrew Martonik at Android Central spent almost a month with the phone and had this to say about rooting in the review he released just a couple days ago.
Good read, BTW.
OnePlus One Review | Android Central
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's where I heard it. In any case, it'll be simple; that much was promised from the beginning.
What about SuperSU though? I'm honestly not sure how that gets installed to the right place; the only times I've rooted were with programs that did it for me.
I don't think the retail cm11 will have root. In order to pass android cts, they had to remove root from the release builds. Don't worry, the phone is likely either unlocked or unlockable and it can be rooted with supersu or superuser like a Nexus device. Speculation but I don't see the cm folk going with a locked down phone. Maybe someone who has cm11s should confirm if it has root.
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
dansou901 said:
It will be even easier then that. You'll just have to enable root in developer settings, that's all.
Sent from my Desire X using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh really? Absolutely ridiculous.
tiny4579 said:
I don't think the retail cm11 will have root. In order to pass android cts, they had to remove root from the release builds. Don't worry, the phone is likely either unlocked or unlockable and it can be rooted with supersu or superuser like a Nexus device. Speculation but I don't see the cm folk going with a locked down phone. Maybe someone who has cm11s should confirm if it has root.
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct - no retail device shipping with Google CTS/GMS can have root enabled, much less the ability to right OUT OF THE BOX. It has to be done manually by the user, at their discretion.
From what I've read so far, it seems that the phone is fastboot unlocked by default (Normally you'd have to run "fastboot oem unlock"). Since that's already been taken care of, all that would need to be done to gain root is flash a recovery using "fastboot flash recovery recovery.img" (official TWRP build is available), and finally install the SuperSU zip via your newly flashed custom recovery.
Essentially the same method as a Nexus device, other than the fact that the bootloader is already unlocked so that step can be skipped.
Chromium said:
From what I've read so far, it seems that the phone is fastboot unlocked by default (Normally you'd have to run "fastboot oem unlock"). Since that's already been taken care of, all that would need to be done to gain root is flash a recovery using "fastboot flash recovery recovery.img" (official TWRP build is available), and finally install the SuperSU zip via your newly flashed custom recovery.
Essentially the same method as a Nexus device, other than the fact that the bootloader is already unlocked so that step can be skipped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So no way to use CM's SuperUser app huh because that's built into the OS. We'll have to use a 3rd party app like SuperSU?
dmo580 said:
So no way to use CM's SuperUser app huh because that's built into the OS. We'll have to use a 3rd party app like SuperSU?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I'm just speculating since I don't actually have the device yet. The CM rom that comes on the phone is not prerooted, nor does it have the Superuser app in it (I'm basing that off an update.zip that's posted in the dev section which doesnt seem to contain the apk). So you'd most likely have to do as I explained above. You dont necessarily have to use SuperSU though. You could probably obtain root by flashing the Superuser zip instead.
cyanogenmod has been planning to separate root for years. i think they are coming up with a simple method of root. maybe just an app install?
You will be able to root with any existing root method with a custom recovery. I'm not sure if cm11s comes with cwm. Anyway rooting is trivial.
Cm I think opted to make root removal so they could get cts approval and install Google Apps.
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
it doesnt come with cwm. thats a different project, by a different group. and you dont necessarily need an alternative recovery, depending on the rooting method.
The Jack of Clubs said:
it doesnt come with cwm. thats a different project, by a different group. and you dont necessarily need an alternative recovery, depending on the rooting method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if they're using this recovery.
https://github.com/CyanogenMod/android_bootable_recovery-cm
Simple recovery is the working title.
You are correct that custom recoveries aren't always needed for root; however, in Android 4.3 and later, the two primary root applications need to install a superuser daemon which makes rooting outside of recovery more difficult.
tiny4579 said:
You will be able to root with any existing root method with a custom recovery. I'm not sure if cm11s comes with cwm. Anyway rooting is trivial.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You all guys keep saying that rooting is trivial, but nobody told how to root. I believe you that it's trivial but - anyway -please tell me how to do this step by step.
I'm actually having trouble getting my 64GB production unit to boot into TWRP or have it flash and stick. fastboot says everything is fine, then rebooting into recovery produces the stock simple recovery.
fastboot boot twrprecovery.img ends up hanging on the fastboot screen, basically nothing happens, but fastboot does stop responding to commands.
I'm sort of at a loss - I've done this to many Nexus devices before, and the idea is the same. My bootloader is unlocked, that went without any issues.
Booting a debug boot.img from https://cyngn.com/products/oneplusone via fastboot just ends up shutting down and showing the battery charging icon.
Volume Up + Power while booting ends up with a black screen - in fact, the only way I can get into recovery is from a booted OS.
Edit: After many tries, trying different cables and unchecking the Settings -> Development -> update recovery with system updates, the TWRP flash succeeded, and the subsequent SuperSU sideload went just fine. Now I'm rooted.
Another tip regarding using Power+VolDn or Power+VolUp - things happen so slowly that if you keep holding Power, it'll actually trip a reboot before it has a chance to load. Just hold the Power button for a few seconds when booting, then let go and keep the VolUp or VolDn pressed.
Chromium said:
Well, I'm just speculating since I don't actually have the device yet. The CM rom that comes on the phone is not prerooted, nor does it have the Superuser app in it (I'm basing that off an update.zip that's posted in the dev section which doesnt seem to contain the apk). So you'd most likely have to do as I explained above. You dont necessarily have to use SuperSU though. You could probably obtain root by flashing the Superuser zip instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did this and it seems to have worked. TiBu just completed..
Used "Fastboot boot TWRP-2.7.1.0.zip" at ADB/Fastboot interface. It booted to TWRP. As I closed, it stated that it looks like "Your device isn't rooted, Do you want to install SuperSU?" To which I said Yes. It rebooted and I was able to open SuperSU, already on the phone, and get root. Then, opened TiBU and performed a full backup.
Archon810 said:
fastboot boot twrprecovery.img ends up hanging on the fastboot screen, basically nothing happens, but fastboot does stop responding to commands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first time I did this it hung for a while. it eventually boots into the recovery. I think it took about 2 minutes for it to finally boot into it.
Maybe that helps?
Root One+ fastboot devices hnags "waiting for device"
I amd trying to unlock bootlaoder, and install TWRP on my ONE+. I have tried both android SDK, and TOOLKIT FOR ONEPLUS FROM XDA, and I cannot get fastboot devices to recognize my One+.
What I have do so far:
My PC: windows 7 - 64bit
Installed SDK kit form developer.android.com, and installed the latest composite usb driver from Google.
Installed OnePLus toolkit and tried using that, no dice.
when I execute "fastboot devices" from my fastboot folder, my prompt hangs "waiting for device" FOREVER!!!
"ADB DEVICES" WORKS PERFECTLY, AND ECHOES MY SERIAL NUMBER BACK TO ME."

[Q] Considering rooting the Nexus 5

So I have a black Nexus 5 with a capacity of 16GB. The device is only about 4 months old, so I still have it covered with warranty until June 2016. The device is as good as new and I'm very happy with it because everything is so fast and smooth.
Recently I've been thinking about rooting the device for maybe some little extras. For example, I have GTA SA installed but I would like to play it with the Cleo mod to have a little bit more fun. Or maybe I'll install some kind of adblocker so I could enjoy my brand new phone without the annoying gold diggers. Or perhaps I want to hide some apps from my app drawer so it would look neat and organised. Or I would like to install an apk that isn't available for non-rooted devices. Or in case I want to see the battery percentage next to the time display or anything like that.
As you can see I would only want to root it for rather small reasons. I definitely don't want to overclock anything because it already meets my criteria for speed, nor do I want to install any custom ROMs because I really like the pure android experience. So I have a few questions because I'm a total noob at the field of tweaking android:
Is my current data going to be wiped if I would want to root it?
I'm aware of the upcoming Android L release, so would I be able to update it right away (remember, I'm not going to use any custom ROMs) or would I have to unroot and reset everything first?
In case something goes wrong and I want to use my warranty, could any traces be found after I would have unrooted the device? (because rooting voids your warranty, right?)
What would be the top reasons to root the Nexus 5? For example, any features the device should've had but unfortunately hasn't.
And is it actually 100% safe...?
So regarding to the last question... A friend of mine has a rooted Moto G, he made me familiar with rooting and it's probably thanks to him that I'm considering it. Everything was going well but there were a few times that he woke up and his phone wasn't worth more than a brick. Apparently, it was because of some ROM he installed. This probably won't affect me in any way because like I said, I'm not going to install any custom ROMs, but my friend expected everything to be normal while it wasn't. He probably did everything like it should be done but then he suddenly woke up with a brick next to his head. So apparently, even if you do everything exactly like they tell you to do it, there's still a slight chance that it's going to end up badly, right?
So basically, I'm considering rooting my device but I'm still not sure what I would have to do because there are lots of tutorials and everything is quite confusing and I have some questions. All the help would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
root/unlockbootloader/install twrp&busybox no data loss
root/unlockbootloader/install twrp&busybox no data loss without P.C, okay here we go mod's remove if you think it's not helping. download towelroot by geohot,now the rest from playstore, es file exploer,super su,busybox,reboot app,nexus unlock bootloader,
make sure you have security unknowen sources ticked and verify apps unticked.
download towelroot from chrome with es file exploer open and install hit make it rain tab, next install busybox,next install super su app.unlockbootloader with in the app.,install twrp and auto install recovery for hammerhead from twrp, now you should have full root after reboot.super user and busybox unlocked bootloader and twrp installed, and you know what the reboot app is for . no data loss and without a P.C, or you could use fastboot install just look in Q&A, kind regard's joe hope this help's.
Spaceblow said:
Is my current data going to be wiped if I would want to root it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep; when you unlock bootloader of your device (before root), all of data will be wiped.
Spaceblow said:
I'm aware of the upcoming Android L release, so would I be able to update it right away (remember, I'm not going to use any custom ROMs) or would I have to unroot and reset everything first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. When you upgrade to Android L, it might be overwrite existing system clearly.
Spaceblow said:
In case something goes wrong and I want to use my warranty, could any traces be found after I would have unrooted the device? (because rooting voids your warranty, right?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We are using Google Nexus. Just revert with Nexus Factory Image.
http://developers.google.com/android/nexus/images
Spaceblow said:
What would be the top reasons to root the Nexus 5? For example, any features the device should've had but unfortunately hasn't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my case, to connect NTFS filesystem.
Spaceblow said:
And is it actually 100% safe...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe, but it's at your own risk.
Jongmin Kim said:
Yep; when you unlock your device (before root), all of data will be wiped.
Nope. When you upgrade to Android L, it might be overwrite existing system clearly.
No. We are using Google Nexus. Just revert with Nexus Factory Image.
http://developers.google.com/android/nexus/images
In my case, to connect NTFS filesystem.
Maybe, but it's at your own risk.
English is too difficult... I'm trying to understand right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
root and then unlock bootloader with the app from playstore. has to be this way. regard's p.s no data wiped ,
Spaceblow said:
So I have a black Nexus 5 with a capacity of 16GB. The device is only about 4 months old, so I still have it covered with warranty until June 2016. The device is as good as new and I'm very happy with it because everything is so fast and smooth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all:
Lethargy said:
I think OP got his question reversed. Should be:
"Why buy a Nexus 5 if you're not going to root?"
:angel:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Spaceblow said:
So I have a few questions because I'm a total noob at the field of tweaking android:
Is my current data going to be wiped if I would want to root it?
I'm aware of the upcoming Android L release, so would I be able to update it right away (remember, I'm not going to use any custom ROMs) or would I have to unroot and reset everything first?
In case something goes wrong and I want to use my warranty, could any traces be found after I would have unrooted the device? (because rooting voids your warranty, right?)
What would be the top reasons to root the Nexus 5? For example, any features the device should've had but unfortunately hasn't.
And is it actually 100% safe...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Unlocking the bootloader is what wipes the data partition, not root access.
2. Don't bother with OTAs to update, they're too much of a bother to try to get to work, when you can just flash factory images/zip, most likely before you even get the OTA pushed to you.
3. Depends where you bought it from. If you got it off the Play Store, then Google does not care about the software you have on your device as long as it's a legitimate manufacturing fault covered by the warranty. You can RMA to Google with a custom ROM and kernel if you wanted to. If you bought it from elsewhere, You'll have to send it to LG for repair. It's possible to reflash factory images and reset the tamper flag, there isn't anything else on the Nexus 5 that will tell LG anything. The easiest way is using LG Flashtool, which can be found in the first link of my signature. If your device is completely dead however, it doesn't matter since LG wouldn't be able to boot it up.
4. Root access is simply root access. You get access to /system, and therefore can use root apps and other modifications.
5. The root process itself is pretty much 100% safe. The Nexus 5 is really, really hard to brick, unless you flash something that isn't meant for your device or something similar, so user error is the only risk in the process. Software-wise, of course root access comes at some form of a security risk. Just be sure of what apps you're granting root access to and you should have no problem.
Spaceblow said:
So regarding to the last question... A friend of mine has a rooted Moto G, he made me familiar with rooting and it's probably thanks to him that I'm considering it. Everything was going well but there were a few times that he woke up and his phone wasn't worth more than a brick. Apparently, it was because of some ROM he installed. This probably won't affect me in any way because like I said, I'm not going to install any custom ROMs, but my friend expected everything to be normal while it wasn't. He probably did everything like it should be done but then he suddenly woke up with a brick next to his head. So apparently, even if you do everything exactly like they tell you to do it, there's still a slight chance that it's going to end up badly, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most likely user error, or simply because a Moto device could be locked down more (which also makes it riskier and harder to restore) and not as easy to develop for. The Nexus 5 is one of the hardest devices to brick (again, excluding user error), and if you have any issues it would either be user error or a bug in the ROM/kernel.
Spaceblow said:
So basically, I'm considering rooting my device but I'm still not sure what I would have to do because there are lots of tutorials and everything is quite confusing and I have some questions. All the help would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out the first link of my signature and read some threads before proceeding blindly.
There are ways to gain root access without unlocking the bootloader and without a PC as mentioned above, but it's recommended to do it the traditional way by backing up your internal storage to a PC first and using fastboot. Those methods are useful for other devices that are more locked down. This is a Nexus device, it's better to do it properly.
Lethargy said:
First of all:
1. Unlocking the bootloader is what wipes the data partition, not root access.
2. Don't bother with OTAs to update, they're too much of a bother to try to get to work, when you can just flash factory images/zip, most likely before you even get the OTA pushed to you.
3. Depends where you bought it from. If you got it off the Play Store, then Google does not care about the software you have on your device as long as it's a legitimate manufacturing fault covered by the warranty. You can RMA to Google with a custom ROM and kernel if you wanted to. If you bought it from elsewhere, You'll have to send it to LG for repair. It's possible to reflash factory images and reset the tamper flag, there isn't anything else on the Nexus 5 that will tell LG anything. The easiest way is using LG Flashtool, which can be found in the first link of my signature. If your device is completely dead however, it doesn't matter since LG wouldn't be able to boot it up.
4. Root access is simply root access. You get access to /system, and therefore can use root apps and other modifications.
5. The root process itself is pretty much 100% safe. The Nexus 5 is really, really hard to brick, unless you flash something that isn't meant for your device or something similar, so user error is the only risk in the process. Software-wise, of course root access comes at some form of a security risk. Just be sure of what apps you're granting root access to and you should have no problem.
Most likely user error, or simply because a Moto device could be locked down more (which also makes it riskier and harder to restore). The Nexus 5 is one of the hardest devices to brick (again, excluding user error), and if you have any issues it would either be user error or a bug in the ROM/kernel.
Check out the first link of my signature and read some threads before proceeding blindly.
There are ways to gain root access without unlocking the bootloader and without a PC as mentioned above, but it's recommended to do it the traditional way by backing up your internal storage to a PC first and using fastboot. Those methods are useful for other devices that are more locked down. This is a Nexus device, it's better to do it properly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol yeah i have to agree with you, but i find this help's when on the go,
joecool666 said:
lol yeah i have to agree with you, but i find this help's when on the go,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't have access to a PC, or you're using a locked-down Samsung/HTC/Moto/Sony/whatever device, then sure, go ahead and use the exploit methods.
But if you do have access to a PC, and it's a Nexus device, just do it properly, it'll cause fewer possible issues.
Lethargy said:
If you don't have access to a PC, or you're using a locked-down Samsung/HTC/Moto/Sony/whatever device, then sure, go ahead and use the exploit methods.
But if you do have access to a PC, and it's a Nexus device, just do it properly, it'll cause fewer possible issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i do use my p.c and lg flashtool and fastboot.just incase lol.and it is the better way of doing it, p.s when OTG rooting don't forget to bring the XDA app.
joecool666 said:
root and then unlock bootloader with the app from playstore. has to be this way. regard's p.s no data wiped ,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean Towelroot? I'm also considering this option because it would be nice to keep all my data.
Lethargy said:
First of all:
1. Unlocking the bootloader is what wipes the data partition, not root access.
2. Don't bother with OTAs to update, they're too much of a bother to try to get to work, when you can just flash factory images/zip, most likely before you even get the OTA pushed to you.
3. Depends where you bought it from. If you got it off the Play Store, then Google does not care about the software you have on your device as long as it's a legitimate manufacturing fault covered by the warranty. You can RMA to Google with a custom ROM and kernel if you wanted to. If you bought it from elsewhere, You'll have to send it to LG for repair. It's possible to reflash factory images and reset the tamper flag, there isn't anything else on the Nexus 5 that will tell LG anything. The easiest way is using LG Flashtool, which can be found in the first link of my signature. If your device is completely dead however, it doesn't matter since LG wouldn't be able to boot it up.
4. Root access is simply root access. You get access to /system, and therefore can use root apps and other modifications.
5. The root process itself is pretty much 100% safe. The Nexus 5 is really, really hard to brick, unless you flash something that isn't meant for your device or something similar, so user error is the only risk in the process. Software-wise, of course root access comes at some form of a security risk. Just be sure of what apps you're granting root access to and you should have no problem.
Most likely user error, or simply because a Moto device could be locked down more (which also makes it riskier and harder to restore) and not as easy to develop for. The Nexus 5 is one of the hardest devices to brick (again, excluding user error), and if you have any issues it would either be user error or a bug in the ROM/kernel.
Check out the first link of my signature and read some threads before proceeding blindly.
There are ways to gain root access without unlocking the bootloader and without a PC as mentioned above, but it's recommended to do it the traditional way by backing up your internal storage to a PC first and using fastboot. Those methods are useful for other devices that are more locked down. This is a Nexus device, it's better to do it properly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is some great information, thank you very much! So in case I would want to do it manually, this thread has everything I need (in combination with the 15 seconds ADB Installer)?
Spaceblow said:
This is some great information, thank you very much! So in case I would want to do it manually, this thread has everything I need (in combination with the 15 seconds ADB Installer)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. :good: I also recommend using TWRP instead of CWM as your recovery. PhilZ Touch is also another good alternative, but it is no longer maintained and probably won't work for Lollipop's default encryption.
Latest SuperSU is located here, flashable in a custom recovery.
Lethargy said:
Yep. :good: I also recommend using TWRP instead of CWM as your recovery. PhilZ Touch is also another good alternative, but it is no longer maintained and probably won't work for Lollipop's default encryption.
Latest SuperSU is located here, flashable in a custom recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for helping me but I used Towelroot and it works flawlessly!
Spaceblow said:
Thanks for helping me but I used Towelroot and it works flawlessly!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool. :good:
Even though you now have root access, I recommend using Bootunlocker or whatever app to unlock the bootloader from within Android (which doesn't wipe), then flashing a custom recovery with fastboot while in the bootloader anyways.
Why?
If something goes wrong and your phone doesn't boot, you'll have no choice but to unlock the bootloader WITH a wipe using fastboot, then flash a custom recovery or reflash factory images, unless you've done the above, in which case you can dirty-flash (no wipe) a stock ROM zip downloadable here. :angel:
back up
Spaceblow said:
Thanks for helping me but I used Towelroot and it works flawlessly!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
make sure you make a back up back up most important,regard's joe
To be clear, the *whole* phone including your sdcard partition will be wiped so make sure you back up before unlocking your bootloader. I would use an app like ES File Explorer and copy all your files to Dropbox or Google Drive if you dont have a computer but you'll need a computer anyway.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
MrObvious said:
To be clear, the *whole* phone including your sdcard partition will be wiped
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If we want to be clear, we should also be accurate. The *whole* phone is not wiped. The /data partition is wiped, which includes /data/app (where user apps are stored) /data/data (where user settings and app data is stored) and /data/media (where /sdcard data is stored)
Lethargy said:
Cool. :good:
Even though you now have root access, I recommend using Bootunlocker or whatever app to unlock the bootloader from within Android (which doesn't wipe), then flashing a custom recovery with fastboot while in the bootloader anyways.
Why?
If something goes wrong and your phone doesn't boot, you'll have no choice but to unlock the bootloader WITH a wipe using fastboot, then flash a custom recovery or reflash factory images, unless you've done the above, in which case you can dirty-flash (no wipe) a stock ROM zip downloadable here. :angel:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip but then I'll be unable to receive OTA updates unless I restore everything, including everything being wiped, right?
joecool666 said:
make sure you make a back up back up most important,regard's joe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
By using Titanium Backup?
Spaceblow said:
Thanks for the tip but then I'll be unable to receive OTA updates unless I restore everything, including everything being wiped, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All guides and info threads are in my signature. One such INFO thread is OTA help-desk, which explains that you can receive OTA with custom recovery, however there are extra steps.
However, please let me explain 1 thing. OTA is the ultimate noob move. Only root-noobs receive OTA updates. They are the most inconvenient method of updating your OS if you are rooted. Long before you even receive the OTA update, there will be a pre-rooted flashable.zip that can be flashed via recovery.
noobs will often say "but..but..but I wont have to wipe if I accept an OTA"... Little do they know... Even after an official OTA, things screw up. Whenever an OS is upgraded, a wipe is highly recommended as OTA's are imperfect and data between apps and settings conflicts between versions.
OTA is a fools errand if you're rooted. Now you're rooted, leave OTA to the unrooted and learn to manage your rooted device properly. All the info you could ever need is available in my signature as previously mentioned.
Spaceblow said:
Thanks for the tip but then I'll be unable to receive OTA updates unless I restore everything, including everything being wiped, right?
By using Titanium Backup?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
or helium back up
Owning a Nexus makes fastboot your best friend, especially if you have issues.
Read up on adb/fastboot and forget OTA's. Nothing like a clean fresh install of a new version. And there's many options to save /backup your data and important files.
Without learning fastboot and adb.... Simple fix issues can become major headaches.
Don't be intimidated. Read, learn, then do. ?
---------- Post added at 09:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:48 AM ----------
@rootSU has everything you need in his sticky roll up thread.
rootSU said:
All guides and info threads are in my signature. One such INFO thread is OTA help-desk, which explains that you can receive OTA with custom recovery, however there are extra steps.
However, please let me explain 1 thing. OTA is the ultimate noob move. Only root-noobs receive OTA updates. They are the most inconvenient method of updating your OS if you are rooted. Long before you even receive the OTA update, there will be a pre-rooted flashable.zip that can be flashed via recovery.
noobs will often say "but..but..but I wont have to wipe if I accept an OTA"... Little do they know... Even after an official OTA, things screw up. Whenever an OS is upgraded, a wipe is highly recommended as OTA's are imperfect and data between apps and settings conflicts between versions.
OTA is a fools errand if you're rooted. Now you're rooted, leave OTA to the unrooted and learn to manage your rooted device properly. All the info you could ever need is available in my signature as previously mentioned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you convinced me to take my N5 to a step further.
So I already Towelrooted my phone which gave me root access and an untouched bootloader and recovery. My next step would be to backup every app and all data to be sure in case something goes wrong, this would be done by using Titanium Backup. Then I should be unlocking the bootloader by simply using BootUnlocker for Nexus Devices so I wouldn't get my data wiped (I know I would be able to restore it with my backup but I rather do it a bit faster and less complex). When I did that, I have to head over to this thread and flash TWRP by following the instructions at "2. Installing a Custom Recovery".
So after all these steps my phone would have no limitations and it would be as unlocked as for example your Nexus 5, right?

What I do to achieve root (please help me)

For the life of me I can't figure out why I cannot achieve root thru normal means on lollipop. Currently this is what I have to do when flashing a new ROM (even this method isn't 100 percent successful every time) :
First I flash my rom
Then, if I want to use supersu to manage root, I would flash koush's superuser (that's right you aren't hallucinating, I said koush's superuser)
Then I boot the phone, get it all setup
Then i boot into recovery again and flash supersu
Then reboot
Now I have root.
If I wanted to use superuser I would just do the opposite of what I listed.
And like I said, even this doesn't always work
What the hell fire and brimstone is going on? This should not be so hard., right
DaveKid said:
For the life of me I can't figure out why I cannot achieve root thru normal means on lollipop. Currently this is what I have to do when flashing a new ROM (even this method isn't 100 percent successful every time) :
First I flash my rom
Then, if I want to use supersu to manage root, I would flash koush's superuser (that's right you aren't hallucinating, I said koush's superuser)
Then I boot the phone, get it all setup
Then i boot into recovery again and flash supersu
Then reboot
Now I have root.
If I wanted to use superuser I would just do the opposite of what I listed.
And like I said, even this doesn't always work
What the hell fire and brimstone is going on? This should not be so hard., right
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might wanna check Chainfire's posts about rooting Lollipop on here or G+ - it's a bit different to other Android versions
You cant use anything other that SuperSU BETA 2.27 unless you're wanting to use a permissive kernel.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/goo...basic-overview-root-options-lollipop-t2947144
EddyOS said:
You might wanna check Chainfire's posts about rooting Lollipop on here or G+ - it's a bit different to other Android versions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You wouldn't happen to have the direct link to it.
And, you are completely correct. I read all about it and then completely forgot that I read it and that I need to send it through ADB to the phone as opposed to flashing it. I just can't find the link in my history.
Thanks
DaveKid said:
You wouldn't happen to have the direct link to it.
And, you are completely correct. I read all about it and then completely forgot that I read it and that I need to send it through ADB to the phone as opposed to flashing it. I just can't find the link in my history.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just read the link I posted
rootSU said:
Just read the link I posted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, I got it, thanks.

[Q] How to root this device without deleting any data?

Is it possible to root one plus one, without deleting any data and apps from it? I just want root access but don't want any custom rom.
yes, of course..
root doesn't delete any of your data
senaferdy79 said:
yes, of course..
root doesn't delete any of your data
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that. How can I do that?
#newtorooting
senaferdy79 said:
yes, of course..
root doesn't delete any of your data
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That isn't technically true. In order to get root you must have a custom recovery installed. In order to install a custom recovery you must unlock the bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader wipes the device.
---------- Post added at 08:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:10 PM ----------
sourabhkejriwal said:
Thanks for that. How can I do that?
#newtorooting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry you got your hopes up, but the other poster isn't right. As per my reply to him you need to unlock your bootloader first, which is going to wipe your device. I'd suggest backing up any files that you have that are important to you. As for your apps and settings, you'll have to set them up again afterwards. Go to my guide thread here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-one/general/guides-bacon-timmaaas-how-to-guides-t2839471
You need to follow (in order) sections 1, 2, 3, and 4. This will give you root access on your stock ROM. You should also follow section 10, it's very important that you make a backup of your EFS partition.
timmaaa said:
That isn't technically true. In order to get root you must have a custom recovery installed. In order to install a custom recovery you must unlock the bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader wipes the device.[
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So are you saying all the many how to's that tell you that you can skip installing recover are wrong? Apparently, I don't have enough posts yet to create a link but I've seen posts here on XDA that say other wise and the one I have in front of me at the moment is from ibtimes . com titled "how-root-oneplus-one-install-twrp-recovery-1450708"
Their "Step-7" reads
Step-7: If you want to root the phone without installing TWRP recovery, type the following command
fastboot boot twrp.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess the real question being, why would you need a custom recovery?
pdhx said:
So are you saying all the many how to's that tell you that you can skip installing recover are wrong? Apparently, I don't have enough posts yet to create a link but I've seen posts here on XDA that say other wise and the one I have in front of me at the moment is from ibtimes . com titled "how-root-oneplus-one-install-twrp-recovery-1450708"
Their "Step-7" reads
I guess the real question being, why would you need a custom recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're looking at outdated information. They used to be correct, but now they are wrong. This is because you can no longer use the fastboot boot recovery.img command with a locked bootloader. In fact, that functionality was removed quite some time ago.
You need a custom recovery because that's how you flash SuperSU to get root. There's no way around it.
Transmitted via Bacon
The default recovery will only flash cm signed zip, which is another reason for needing a custom recovery. That method you mention at ibtimes meant that it would allow you to, for one boot cycle, do a "live boot" of twrp
Sent From Lollipopified Bacon Goodness!
But how is anything going to be written to the system partition if it is locked ?
timmaaa said:
You're looking at outdated information. They used to be correct, but now they are wrong. This is because you can no longer use the fastboot boot recovery.img command with a locked bootloader. In fact, that functionality was removed quite some time ago.
You need a custom recovery because that's how you flash SuperSU to get root. There's no way around it.
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Ugh, was afraid of that, you might want to add a comment to that effect to your guide....
Would have been nice to just add a setting to the default recovery to allow you to toggle whether you need a signed zip or not. Sucks that I could root my SGS III (which is far less hacker friendly than the One) without wiping it but I can't do that for the One, all i want is root for the moment. However, after playing around some more I'm getting stick before I even get that far; I can get ADB to find the device but when I adb reboot bootloader I cannot get fastboot to find the device. I've tried multiple drivers, different USB ports. When my One goes into fastboot the screen seems awfully dim, almost like it hasn't completely initialized, is that normal? And if so, any suggestions on why I can get adb to work but not fastboot?
pdhx said:
Ugh, was afraid of that, you might want to add a comment to that effect to your guide....
Would have been nice to just add a setting to the default recovery to allow you to toggle whether you need a signed zip or not. Sucks that I could root my SGS III (which is far less hacker friendly than the One) without wiping it but I can't do that for the One, all i want is root for the moment. However, after playing around some more I'm getting stick before I even get that far; I can get ADB to find the device but when I adb reboot bootloader I cannot get fastboot to find the device. I've tried multiple drivers, different USB ports. When my One goes into fastboot the screen seems awfully dim, almost like it hasn't completely initialized, is that normal? And if so, any suggestions on why I can get adb to work but not fastboot?
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Click to collapse
The one's bootloader is not like a nexus one where you can at least reboot recovery etc, once it boots thats it
what do get when you type fastboot devices ?
bombadier said:
The one's bootloader is not like a nexus one where you can at least reboot recovery etc, once it boots thats it
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Which seems to be somewhat limiting for such an otherwise developer friendly device?
bombadier said:
what do get when you type fastboot devices ?
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Click to collapse
Nada, nothing, nil. however, "adb devices" works fine... WTF?
pdhx said:
Which seems to be somewhat limiting for such an otherwise developer friendly device?
Nada, nothing, nil. however, "adb devices" works fine... WTF?
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Point one was just to say there is not anything really you can do in the bootloader, being able to reboot to recovery etc is actually a handy feature
Try a different fastboot.exe ? if you say that adb works perfectly then there has to be something wrong with your fastboot binary
I have attached my one,download and change the name back to .exe and see what happens
Going to need more info in order to help
bombadier said:
Point one was just to say there is not anything really you can do in the bootloader, being able to reboot to recovery etc is actually a handy feature
Try a different fastboot.exe ? if you say that adb works perfectly then there has to be something wrong with your fastboot binary
I have attached my one,download and change the name back to .exe and see what happens
Going to need more info in order to help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair point about bootloader, what I don't get is why they forced you to have to do the unlock to root? All I started out wanting to do was install Titanium and run a Nandroid or two. Guess if I'm going to have to wipe I guess I may end up installing a Lollipop ROM. However, I still can't get there. The fast boot you supplied gives the same problem. I was running the latest fastboot from the Android SDK and your's appears to be the same (though I haven't done a binary compare). As far as I can tell that leaves the device drivers, the laptop, or the phone itself. I'm running Win 7 SP 1 64 bit and I've tried various drivers including the Samsung the Google generic and they make no difference. Not sure how they would since adb works but I've seen some suggestions that drivers can be finicky in this regard.
What else can I tell you that might help?
Seems since I can get into the recovery that comes with the phone I could maybe get a works around somehow?
pdhx said:
Fair point about bootloader, what I don't get is why they forced you to have to do the unlock to root? All I started out wanting to do was install Titanium and run a Nandroid or two. Guess if I'm going to have to wipe I guess I may end up installing a Lollipop ROM. However, I still can't get there. The fast boot you supplied gives the same problem. I was running the latest fastboot from the Android SDK and your's appears to be the same (though I haven't done a binary compare). As far as I can tell that leaves the device drivers, the laptop, or the phone itself. I'm running Win 7 SP 1 64 bit and I've tried various drivers including the Samsung the Google generic and they make no difference. Not sure how they would since adb works but I've seen some suggestions that drivers can be finicky in this regard.
What else can I tell you that might help?
Seems since I can get into the recovery that comes with the phone I could maybe get a works around somehow?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They're "forcing" you to unlock the bootloader in order to root the device because that's the universally accepted standard (unlock bootloader, install custom recovery, flash root). Some devices have super secure bootloaders and that's why you end up needing to use hacks to get those devices rooted, but that isn't the normal way to go about it. Anyway, there's no advantage to leaving the bootloader at all. There's also no disadvantage to unlocking the bootloader at all. You might say that the fact that the device is wiped during the unlocking process is a disadvantage, but that fact is very well documented both here, on the OnePlus forums, and pretty much any other reputable tech site that mentions unlocking the bootloader on this phone. The point to that last sentence? It pays to research a device thoroughly before buying it, or before using it, the wiping of the device is no issue at all if you do it when you receive the phone (prior to using it), like many people have. But in your situation you're just going to have to backup any important media from the phone prior to unlocking.
Anyway, on to your fastboot issue. Exactly which drivers do you have installed on your PC? Do you have any other phone drivers or software installed on the PC? And do you have access to another PC in case the one you're using is the source of the issue?
Got it, 27th try (give or take) is the charm.... Had to use USBdeview and uninstall the Google and the Qualcomm drivers. Reinstalled the Google drivers (after a reboot) and got it to work. Guess I could have figured that out from dev manager by watching what drivers got activated while fastboot was active but nothing ever jumped out at me as an obvious culprit.
Interesting to note that TWRP now automatically prompts you to install SuperSU if you reboot after installing it. Maybe it found the zip but either way, nice touch!
Now to go and decide what ROM to install....
Thanks for your help!
I would suggest temasek unofficial cm12 ROM. Been using it pretty much as a daily driver since version 1.something of the ROM and no problems. At this point it's been almost a month of not having to boot into my cm11s ROM lol. I use it with AK kernel, seems like a good match cuz both devs are working together looks like. Flash AK ukm special edition after flashing his kernel and install synapse from play store if you want to play around with settings of the kernel
Sent From Lollipopified Bacon Goodness!
zenix23456 said:
I have been using AnyRooter for months and it is quite good to root OnePlus phones.
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Click to collapse
Except the Oneplus One.

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