[Q] Need help understanding how all of this works - General Questions and Answers

Greetings all and thanks for any help offered.
I come from the world of pcs. I have several android devices, however have never tried to dive into the deeper workings of them. I am used to the pc world where if you want to install a new operating system you go buy or down load it then you install in. Brand of pc did not matter nor did the model. So I guess I am having a hard time understanding the concept of hardware specific roms. Can't I just get a stock kit kat rom and install it, and if not why not.
on another note does a stock kit kat rom even exist? All I find are things like cyanogen mod, or clockwork mod. I assume that these are essentially someone taking kitkat and adding stuff to it to customize it and then naming it.
I am looking to make a kindle fire hd look and feel like a nexus 7 with nothing but android 4.2.2 (or what even the number sequence is for the lates version of kitkat).
Thanks again for your replies

Hesperian9x said:
Greetings all and thanks for any help offered.
I come from the world of pcs. I have several android devices, however have never tried to dive into the deeper workings of them. I am used to the pc world where if you want to install a new operating system you go buy or down load it then you install in. Brand of pc did not matter nor did the model. So I guess I am having a hard time understanding the concept of hardware specific roms. Can't I just get a stock kit kat rom and install it, and if not why not.
on another note does a stock kit kat rom even exist? All I find are things like cyanogen mod, or clockwork mod. I assume that these are essentially someone taking kitkat and adding stuff to it to customize it and then naming it.
I am looking to make a kindle fire hd look and feel like a nexus 7 with nothing but android 4.2.2 (or what even the number sequence is for the lates version of kitkat).
Thanks again for your replies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same question i also want to ask...... they say android is open source.....where can i find the original kitkat
...and can i flash it to my device or not.......why does every phone/tab model need specific rom version.....
I think ram and cpu are enough......what is the deference between all device....

Hesperian9x said:
Greetings all and thanks for any help offered.
I come from the world of pcs. I have several android devices, however have never tried to dive into the deeper workings of them. I am used to the pc world where if you want to install a new operating system you go buy or down load it then you install in. Brand of pc did not matter nor did the model. So I guess I am having a hard time understanding the concept of hardware specific roms. Can't I just get a stock kit kat rom and install it, and if not why not.
on another note does a stock kit kat rom even exist? All I find are things like cyanogen mod, or clockwork mod. I assume that these are essentially someone taking kitkat and adding stuff to it to customize it and then naming it.
I am looking to make a kindle fire hd look and feel like a nexus 7 with nothing but android 4.2.2 (or what even the number sequence is for the lates version of kitkat).
Thanks again for your replies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Getting a new OS (in this case we call these OS's: ROMs) on android is a little similar to PC installation it just has a few things we have to get past. so if you know what Linux is (another OS its almost like OSX for macs) that's what android is built upon the only problem is is that we don't have Admin access or in other words, super user, rooting your Android device gives you root/admin/SuperUser Access so there are lots more things you can customize about your device in this case a New operating system. Clockworkmod is almost like booting into your Bios on a computer, its pretty much a fail-safe if we break something or want to install (our way of installing is called "Flashing") a mod or a new OS.
Now there are a few different types of ROMs its all the personal preference on what you want most roms are AOSP which is pretty much Stock android (Nexus phones/tablet look) with a few mods here and there. Cyanogenmod is one of the type of roms as well (most popular), its is basically pure android with a little here and there stuff that you wouldn't need to worry about and i would recommend if you do flash a new ROM on any device i would start with Cyanogenmod first if its available, it has the most work put into it and is stable for the most part. (not that other ROMs developers don't put hard work into their own ROMs but still Cyanogenmod is getting bigger and bigger) be advised that flashing a new rom deletes all of your data, its just what we have to do to make the rom install properly, if you bought kindle books you can still get the books back by downloading the kindle fire app on the play store when you do get a new ROM. WARNING: DO NOT Flash roms that are for other devices, it will brick your tablet making it unrecoverable.
Seeing that the kindle fire hd is a very popular tablet and does have a few kitkat roms. (Android 4.2.2 is Jelly bean, Android 4.1 - 4.3 is jelly bean as well, Android 4.4 is kitkat) so pretty much it looks like the kindle fire hd has a locked bootloader which can be a problem but seeing that there is custom roms it must have been unlocked. a locked bootloader pretty much means we cannot flash a new OS but we are still able to root it. so pretty much see herehttp://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hd (there are two kindle fire HD's 7" and a 8.9" which is yours?) ask in the Q&A where you can start, i imagine you would need to do this stuff in this order: Unlock bootloader, Root the tablet, install a custom recovery (like Clockworkmod or TWRP) Wipe Data/Factory reset, Wipe Cache (these two actions are done in your recovery) flash a new Rom.
If you have any other questions or i left something out please ask
---------- Post added at 03:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:18 PM ----------
Killwish said:
Same question i also want to ask...... they say android is open source.....where can i find the original kitkat
...and can i flash it to my device or not.......why does every phone/tab model need specific rom version.....
I think ram and cpu are enough......what is the deference between all device....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a kindle fire HD as well? Android is sorta open source sure we can root it and install new OS's and other mods but Google allows OEMs can lock boot-loaders and cause awful lot of mess by not letting us developers do anything. You CANNOT flash a rom that is not for your device, it has to do with the other Devices Specs.
why does every phone/tab model need specific rom version.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what do you mean here?

Trozzul said:
Getting a new OS (in this case we call these OS's: ROMs) on android is a little similar to PC installation it just has a few things we have to get past. so if you know what Linux is (another OS its almost like OSX for macs) that's what android is built upon the only problem is is that we don't have Admin access or in other words, super user, rooting your Android device gives you root/admin/SuperUser Access so there are lots more things you can customize about your device in this case a New operating system. Clockworkmod is almost like booting into your Bios on a computer, its pretty much a fail-safe if we break something or want to install (our way of installing is called "Flashing") a mod or a new OS.
Now there are a few different types of ROMs its all the personal preference on what you want most roms are AOSP which is pretty much Stock android (Nexus phones/tablet look) with a few mods here and there. Cyanogenmod is one of the type of roms as well (most popular), its is basically pure android with a little here and there stuff that you wouldn't need to worry about and i would recommend if you do flash a new ROM on any device i would start with Cyanogenmod first if its available, it has the most work put into it and is stable for the most part. (not that other ROMs developers don't put hard work into their own ROMs but still Cyanogenmod is getting bigger and bigger) be advised that flashing a new rom deletes all of your data, its just what we have to do to make the rom install properly, if you bought kindle books you can still get the books back by downloading the kindle fire app on the play store when you do get a new ROM. WARNING: DO NOT Flash roms that are for other devices, it will brick your tablet making it unrecoverable.
Seeing that the kindle fire hd is a very popular tablet and does have a few kitkat roms. (Android 4.2.2 is Jelly bean, Android 4.1 - 4.3 is jelly bean as well, Android 4.4 is kitkat) so pretty much it looks like the kindle fire hd has a locked bootloader which can be a problem but seeing that there is custom roms it must have been unlocked. a locked bootloader pretty much means we cannot flash a new OS but we are still able to root it. so pretty much see herehttp://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hd (there are two kindle fire HD's 7" and a 8.9" which is yours?) ask in the Q&A where you can start, i imagine you would need to do this stuff in this order: Unlock bootloader, Root the tablet, install a custom recovery (like Clockworkmod or TWRP) Wipe Data/Factory reset, Wipe Cache (these two actions are done in your recovery) flash a new Rom.
If you have any other questions or i left something out please ask
---------- Post added at 03:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:18 PM ----------
Do you have a kindle fire HD as well? Android is sorta open source sure we can root it and install new OS's and other mods but Google allows OEMs can lock boot-loaders and cause awful lot of mess by not letting us developers do anything. You CANNOT flash a rom that is not for your device, it has to do with the other Devices Specs.
what do you mean here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry dude....... But I just want to say that on PCs I just need windows or Linux or any os image...... And I can install it on any brand cpu ram motherboard........ It doesn't depend on brand..... Then why they made android or phone devices like this.... I m not saying that they would have make android free but.. It should be installable on all devices with better confg than minimum requirement.... Thats all.

Killwish said:
Sorry dude....... But I just want to say that on PCs I just need windows or Linux or any os image...... And I can install it on any brand cpu ram motherboard........ It doesn't depend on brand..... Then why they made android or phone devices like this.... I m not saying that they would have make android free but.. It should be installable on all devices with better confg than minimum requirement.... Thats all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that a little harder to explain, from what i think its mostly because of the CPU drivers, these ROMs are non professional, anyone can make a rom but its a harder to make your own OS for a computer. i cant explain the most part of it for you but we just cant do it right now. you sure can port roms but it has to be from a similar device with almost every spec the same.

Trozzul said:
that a little harder to explain, from what i think its mostly because of the CPU drivers, these ROMs are non professional, anyone can make a rom but its a harder to make your own OS for a computer. i cant explain the most part of it for you but we just cant do it right now. you sure can port roms but it has to be from a similar device with almost every spec the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you sir......

Trozzul said:
that a little harder to explain, from what i think its mostly because of the CPU drivers, these ROMs are non professional, anyone can make a rom but its a harder to make your own OS for a computer. i cant explain the most part of it for you but we just cant do it right now. you sure can port roms but it has to be from a similar device with almost every spec the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that the roms are not professional. That is why I asked for the "stock" kitkat as google released it. shouldn't the "stock google release work on any android device?? if not why not?? this is nothing like pc world ans mentioned above.
I have installed linux on pcs. It runs the installer and does its thing and a few minutes later you have a shiny new system to run. Why is this so different in the mobil environment since as you already mentioned android is essentially linux. None of this device specific ROM stuff makes any sense to me.

Hesperian9x said:
I understand that the roms are not professional. That is why I asked for the "stock" kitkat as google released it. shouldn't the "stock google release work on any android device?? if not why not?? this is nothing like pc world ans mentioned above.
I have installed linux on pcs. It runs the installer and does its thing and a few minutes later you have a shiny new system to run. Why is this so different in the mobil environment since as you already mentioned android is essentially linux. None of this device specific ROM stuff makes any sense to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as for why Roms dont work on all devices and have to be made for specific only i cannot answer, i think it has to do with specs being so different, i think its the CPU that ruins it all because today there are so many different types of partitions for each kind of CPU given out, Rockchip, mediatek, samsung exynos, TI Omap, qualcomm there is quite a lot i cant list lol.
There sorta is a "Stock Google release" for some devices but that is only for Google play edition devices like a Samsung galaxy s4/HTC one M7/M8. if you bought a Non-Google play edition S4 or m7 you are able to install a official Google rom (different process not like flashing stuff in custom recovery's) please dont think that Just because Roms are non-professional does not mean that they are broken or dont work as good as stock material because Custom Roms most of the time get the bugs worked out and everyone is happy. i would recommend a custom rom over Stock kindle firmware, its very limited plus you dont have access to the google play store which has so much more stuff.

Related

[Q] Will froyo work out of the box, or does it need to be "fit" to device?

Sorry for what must seem like stupid question, but haven't found this answered anywhere.
I've heard that OTA updates can block root avenues, so that means I should root as soon as I can, right?
But what I'm wondering is: Is Froyo a finished product, ready to use on any phone it is installed on (right specs of course)? Or does each phone manufacturer need to customize Froyo for their specific phone?
I can go to a computer parts store, and as long as I buy everything I need, I know I can install and run windows on it. Is Android the same way? Or do the manufacturers need to take "virgin" Android and plug it into their hardware?
I have an Epic, and while waiting for Cyanogen, I would like to install stock 2.2 right now. Can I do that? And have a fully functional phone?
Thanks to everyone here.
If you are upgrading to 2.2 from the manufacturer, you should be fine. There are still methods to root that. If it is a 2.2.1 upgrade I would hold out and wait for a 2.2[.1] ROM to be created for your device.
To answer your other question. There is the 2.2 user interface which is pretty portable and should work on any device. The KERNEL is NOT. And that is what needs to be developed for your device by the community before you can get real custom ROMs. Unfortunately these two things come hand in hand so you can't just put any 2.2 rom on your device. It needs to be "fitted" (as you put it) with the right Kernel (among other things). Because of the nature of that, some of the UI and other System code may also need to be changed for the device to function properly. Do NOT flash a ROM not listed for your device. If the ROM flashes both the recovery partition and the normal boot partition, your phone will most likely be bricked. Even if it doesn't it can still brick your phone.
what about apps to SD card
(Dcow90, thanks for the quick response )
I read that rooted 2.1 would allow this, is this correct? Rooting won't change anything on my phone, just the permissions, right? So I could root now and move my apps, and then upgrade once the kernal is out, yes?
Is there a tutorial on rooting anywhere on the site? A clear explanation of what it is and what it does? If not, there should be, I wouldn't have needed to post if there was.
Thanks again for all your help guys.

[Q] Where to start?

I got myself a brand new nexus S and Ive got some questions
Im debating on using a custom ROM or just go stock ICS.
A good reason why people use custom ROMs is because of better battery because of the kernel. so would it be possible to flash a better kernel on stock ICS?
If I am going with Custom,
whats the most Recommended:
way of rooting(1 click or manual, and why)
Custom recovery
best kernel
best ROM
is it possible to save a custom UI(so you could do dual booting through custom UI u made)
WoolyMarmot said:
I got myself a brand new nexus S and Ive got some questions
Im debating on using a custom ROM or just go stock ICS.
A good reason why people use custom ROMs is because of better battery because of the kernel. so would it be possible to flash a better kernel on stock ICS?
If I am going with Custom,
whats the most Recommended:
way of rooting(1 click or manual, and why)
Custom recovery
best kernel
best ROM
is it possible to save a custom UI(so you could do dual booting through custom UI u made)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash a stock kernel on stock ICS, this is what i have done in the past and it was great. However I will note that the new ROM modifications that increase usable System RAM make a very noticeable difference with no negatives as far as i see. You also get things like notification power toggles, more lockscreen options and so on with a custom ROM.
Anyway, to answer your questions:
1) Best way of rooting: We have a Nexus device so i would not waste time using one clicks. Unlock the bootloader using fastboot, flash a custom recovery and then either flash superuser.zip or a custom ROM. This allows the most versatility when changing ROMs, mainly if you ever decide to flash or restore a stock ROM. The Nexus S allows you to lock the bootloader if you ever need to so warranty issues based on unlocked bootloaders are minimal.
2) ClockWorkMod is generally the most favorable, compatible and least buggy of the lot. TWRP, although good, has a couple of hidden bugs in it and is no longer being developed. Further, CWM now gives you the option between a Touch based recovery and a button based one. This is up to you as they're both essentially the same, but i still prefer the buttons.
3) There is no best kernel, just the best for you. Find the features you want in a kernel first, and then pick a handful and try them all. If you are using a ROM with fixes for the extra RAM (CM9, Slim, etc), you will need a kernel that supports this.
4) Same with kernels. CyanogenMod is generally a good choice. Although on the surface it looks just like stock it is heavily modified. Others have only minor modifications and additions, practically a stock experience with a couple of extra features. Pick a handful with features you want and try each for a couple of days. Feel free to switch kernels from the one that comes with each ROM.
Custom UI? If you mean bootloader or something like that, not really. There have been one or two devs who have tried to make this possible (not specific to the Nexus S) but i don't think their (working?) attempts have taken off. Don't get your hopes up here though.
Harbb said:
1) Best way of rooting: We have a Nexus device so i would not waste time using one clicks. Unlock the bootloader using fastboot, flash a custom recovery and then either flash superuser.zip or a custom ROM. This allows the most versatility when changing ROMs, mainly if you ever decide to flash or restore a stock ROM. The Nexus S allows you to lock the bootloader if you ever need to so warranty issues based on unlocked bootloaders are minimal.
4) Same with kernels. CyanogenMod is generally a good choice. Although on the surface it looks just like stock it is heavily modified. Others have only minor modifications and additions, practically a stock experience with a couple of extra features. Pick a handful with features you want and try each for a couple of days. Feel free to switch kernels from the one that comes with each ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Im fairly new to android OS and while I do generally understand what youre saying its best you give me some links. The only root Ive done with a phone so far are 1 clicks
4. can you elaborate more of why cyanogenmod is a good rom. I hear about it alot and people recommend it,but why?
also, what ROM do you use yourself?
WoolyMarmot said:
1. Im fairly new to android OS and while I do generally understand what youre saying its best you give me some links. The only root Ive done with a phone so far are 1 clicks
4. can you elaborate more of why cyanogenmod is a good rom. I hear about it alot and people recommend it,but why?
also, what ROM do you use yourself?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll all make sense as soon as you do it, I assumed you had a read through some rooting guides for the Nexus S.
The Nexus S uses a little flashing utility called fastboot. fastboot gives us the ability to replace certain parts of our phone with customised versions. For example, you can replace the stock Recovery partition (which only lets you install Google-signed .zip files) with a custom one, such as TWRP or ClockWorkMod (which let you install any correctly-formatted .zip file). To be able to use fastboot, you need to unlock the bootloader. On our phones it is possible to lock it again afterward with no trace, but the phones warranty would technically be voided (<-- scare tactics). So basically, you unlock the bootloader, flash a custom recovery and then you can freely install a .zip file through the recovery which gives you root privileges. Afterward with this new recovery, feel free to install custom ROMs and the such straight through it.
I personally used Zedomax's guide found here. This does exactly what i stated above and gives you all of the tools to do it, as well as a video. Just follow the video to a T and you'll be fine, it is all pretty simply laid out. I personally use CWM recovery though, not TWRP as it is no longer being developed. I'm pretty sure i explained what each of the steps do above.
CyanogenMod, unlike most other ROMs, have a somewhat large team of developers working together. They add many features to many phones which are often ported to other ROMs, whether it be the concept or the code. It is a great ROM once stable with countless features and they generally do a great job making sure everything is just about perfect, and there is plenty of support and a large userbase. This doesn't mean it's the best, it is just one of the most known.
I personally use Slim ICS daily right now. Largest benefit at the moment is compatibility with CMs bigmem mod, the phone loves the extra RAM.
well in that case I dont wanna use cyanogenmod. I was thinking something as close to stock(or just simple) as possible because I plan on using themes and widgets to customize it.
1 more question before I root, does it matter which version of OS it has? For example, this guide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782
nvm, phone already rooted
new question: is it possible to dual boot roms? Ive been reading and they say its possible with using particular apps and an SD card, but the nexus S has no sd slot so...

[Q] Questions about Note 10.1 Wi-fi only version

Hey guy I recently got a Galaxy Note 10.1, the Wi-Fi only version (N8010 I think?). I really want to get Jelly Bean on it as soon as possible. I know there are a ton of ROMS out there for the Wi-Fi/3G version and most people who have flashed those onto the Wi-Fi only version have been successful. I just had a few questions for you guys as I'm still a noob at this.
1. Do I have to root my tablet to be able to flash a ROM on it?
2. Is there a chance of bricking the tablet? Is there any danger involved?
3. Will I still get OTA updates when they become available?
4. Anyone have instructions on how to flash Jelly Bean onto it?
5. Where could I find ROMS that will work with my tablet?
Thank you guys for taking the time to answer. If any of you have any experience with the Wi-Fi only version let me know. Also I live in the US if that is of any importance.
The U.S. version of wifi only is the 8013. It is what I have. There is always a risk involved with everything you do, even breathing. Every breath you take you take the risk it is not poision and feel the benefits of not suficating our weigh the risk of being poisoned.
For flashing the roms on here you need a custom recovery, like cwm. There are guides on this in the development area. Darkman-rs has some very good stuff out. I have some stuff for the 8013 as well. Check out everything, get a good feel, make a backup of your stuff, like apps, nand backups, copy your internal memory to something else, whatever else you feel like doing. One day when you have nothing going on, sit around and play with things, talk to the google machine about stuff. I have done a lot to this tablet, nothing I couldnt recover from. Always have a backup on your external sd card just in case, like an extra sd card in case you wipe the one in your tablet
Oh, and have fun!
Also, the thread for the roms should have the info on installing.
i am using @smaw51 jb uk release custom gt 8013 version and its very smooth rom really love it and there is a thread on how to add more apps to the multiwindow launcher which makes this tablet even more amazing
follow the guides on how to root and install cwm recovery and then start flashing and enjoy this beast tablet ...lol
I have recently rooted my 8010 using "method 2" do you have to unlock the bootloader too before you can use a new kernel (I know there isn't any for my model yet) . I just haven't seen much mention of bootloader unlocking
Sent from my MB860 using xda premium
Can you go to Settings > About device and see what your build number ends in? If it's LG4 then you will be getting Jelly Bean through Kies within a week.
Hey guys, thank you for all of the useful information. I honestly can't go into my settings right now because I don't have it yet. I bought it but am only getting it this weekend for my birthday. Then I'll be able to give you information about my device. What is the LG version?
Yes
Yes
Most likely not
Check the development thread
Check the development thread
CWM is super easy to install and obtain root (this was my first time using ODIN for anything). Simply follow the directions here (especially the part about turning Auto Reboot off): http://rootgalaxynote.com/galaxy-no...t-galaxy-note-10-1-easiest-methodcwmmethod-2/
As for installing JB, I've got the 8010 version and I had no problem installing the older German version found here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1909950&page=9 along with the build prop fix here (which eliminates the random reboot issues): http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1909950&page=9
And once all that is done, don't forget to go here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1985240 for all your Multi-Window app goodness!!
Thank you for those links Rickroller! They are extremely helpful!
Anytime!
Was anyone able to use chainfire3D on JB?

Noob Root Question

Hi all. I want to keep this short and simple. I have the I9020A with 4.1.2, and a couple of days to spare. My phone is running OK and I am happy, but if I could improve the performance or experience it would only be better. How long does it take to root and install a new ROM (or so they call it) like CM 10.1, for a beginner like me? And, very briefly in one sentence, what are the main benefits from rooting and gains I could see from a ROM like CM 10.1?
Do you have any previous experience with rooting?
I got my phone last week (had experience with two previous phones and it took me 30 minutes to have it rooted, cwm-ed and cm10.1-ed. nexusshacks.com helped me very much
OnlySkills said:
Hi all. I want to keep this short and simple. I have the I9020A with 4.1.2, and a couple of days to spare. My phone is running OK and I am happy, but if I could improve the performance or experience it would only be better. How long does it take to root and install a new ROM (or so they call it) like CM 10.1, for a beginner like me? And, very briefly in one sentence, what are the main benefits from rooting and gains I could see from a ROM like CM 10.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About an hour for an average total beginner to figure out how, then only 10minutes to flash a new pre-rooted rom. Read the changelog of your desired ROM so you know why you're flashing it, read their corresponding threads.
The main reason i first rooted my nexus s is because i heard it was the best-sounding android phone due to its built-in wolfson amplifier, and the only way to unleash it's true power is by rooting and installing voodoo sound app. Another thing is, custom roms provide the feature where you can use the volume buttons to seek music tracks. So for a music lover like me, i really benefit from custom roms.
A few things, the first step you will have to do is unlock the bootloader. That one setup will wipe all partitions back to a factory state (just stock OS of what ever variety you are on). Be prepared, you can back up your sdcard via a PC, and use the new app carbon to backup your user apps and data if you like (it is the only app that can do that for an unrooted user that I know of). There benefits to rooting, but we would have to know what you hope to gain with it to let you know if it is worth it for you. Most of us that root and rom do it for one reason, to get a better user experience. So a boost in performance or battery life. Added user options within android like notification power control buttons or added lockscreen targets.
No I actually don't have any previous experience with rooting (the most I've done is manually installed an update). And I am glad to hear that it takes around an hour, I thought it'd take a day. As long as it gives me better performance and a few extra features, I'm down for it!
So after I unlock the bootloader, what do I do next regarding the ROM and kernel? Do I just need a ROM, or do I have to get a new "kernel" too? And how come some ROMS are named after 4.2.2 (or the latest version), whereas others like CM is at version 10.1? I am thinking of getting CM 10.1 because that's the most I hear about, I hope it is stable and good. Any thoughts?
Writing from memory (I only did it once, yes it is that simple):
1. Unlock bootloader
2. Install a recovery (Never used anything else than ClockworkMod)
3. Install ROM.
Everything is reversible, in case you need to take it to the service. Also, don't get scared if something goes a bit wrong. For example, the first time I rebooted into recovery, the phone showed a red triangle. But I remained calm, searched about what was happening and I found the solution. Just always be careful to flash only device specific stuff. Be aware: there is nexus s and nexus s 4G!
This is the video that helped me very much, from start to end: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=4AHucGBZHMQ
Edit: i forgot to mention, do an efs backup. Needless to say i also forgot to make it...
Hi guys. I have successfully rooted my Nexus S now, using this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782&page=3&nocache=1
Also thanks for that video posted above, it helped me in some places. It took a while, I'd say about 2 hours in total because I ran into some issues..(those instructions should really be updated)
Anyways, I have 4.1.2 atm..and on the ROMs under Android Development, they all say [4.2.2] .. does this mean I have to be on 4.2.2 to install these? I thought 4.2.2 wasn't available for the NS..
AW: Noob Root Question
OnlySkills said:
Hi guys. I have successfully rooted my Nexus S now, using this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782&page=3&nocache=1
Also thanks for that video posted above, it helped me in some places. It took a while, I'd say about 2 hours in total because I ran into some issues..(those instructions should really be updated)
Anyways, I have 4.1.2 atm..and on the ROMs under Android Development, they all say [4.2.2] .. does this mean I have to be on 4.2.2 to install these? I thought 4.2.2 wasn't available for the NS..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesnt matter on which version you are on atm, you can flash whatever version you like!
4.2.2 is officially not available for the ns but as you can see we have amazing devs which make it work anyway...
4I-I said:
It doesnt matter on which version you are on atm, you can flash whatever version you like!
4.2.2 is officially not available for the ns but as you can see we have amazing devs which make it work anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!! I just flashed CM 10.1 Nightly...loving it atm! It has exactly those features that I wanted..Phone runs overall better too (at least for now).
Thanks everybody..great help!

Android to a dummie

Hello
(sorry for my english)
I'm a noob in this world and i need some help.
In the past few days i've been reading a lot of posts in this forum but to a noob it's a little bit hard to understand somethings.
So, i'm using this topic to ask some questions. If there is another thread that answer all my questions and explain things for a newbie, feel free to tell me and apologize to create this new thread.
I have a smartphone android, Galaxy S2 with android 4.1.2, all locked to the provider (I know that there is a specific forum for this smartphone and i read some threads).
Now, i want to make it a ROOT and maybe try new ROM's.
Let's start with the questions:
-To make a root, it's better with kernel exchange or with a simple file?
-In the future, if i want to install another ROM, having the root made from the kernel that is with the phone (using a file in the SD Card) may cause some problems? To do this it's better to go to root insecure kernel?
-Why i need to change kernel? which is the benefits?
-It's possible to restore to the previous kernel?
-What are necessary to backup the ROM that actually i have?
-Changing one time the kernel, i can install all the roms i want or i need to install another kernel's?
Thank you for your atention, and one more time, sorry for my english!
@pedrocrv,
Your English is fine! Don't worry about that, man.
Here is my opinion.
Generally speaking, you don't need to replace your kernel. Replacing the kernel can both drastically change your device's performance for the better, as well as render your device completely unusable, which in Android terminology is called "bricked". If your device is "bricked", it is completely useless as an electronic device, making it nothing more than a brick.
But to get back on topic, it's normally only developers like myself who need to replace the kernel, and even then only every once in a while. It's somewhat unsafe for new users, because one little mistake can lead to a huge problem. Trust me, I've seen them here on XDA myself. Don't become one of them.
However, using and flashing ROMs is a whole different story. ROMs normally change aesthetic parts of your device, like the look and features. If you follow the instructions given to install the specific ROM very well, it is practically impossible to brick your device.
If you find a good ROM, go for it. It's almost definitely going to change your device in a very good way.
So to wrap up this post, basically (for you):
Replace the kernel = bad idea, don't do it until you have more experience
Install/flash a ROM = a great idea, go for it if you find a nice one!
The most important thing to remember, however, is to m a k e a b a c k u p. Once you make a backup, you can mod your system however you want without fear of bricking.
Hope this helps.
@thenookieforlife3
Thank you for your explanation!
I understand what you said, but in one thread of my smartphone i see a lot of people talking about rooting their phones but for this is needed to use another kernel.
I want to root my device, and in a near future maybe install one ROM of CyanogenMod (and try others too), but i'm afraid of rooting because that story of changing the device kernel and using Odin... I don't want a brick
Another question:
If i find a file to root my device without Odin, but i don't have the 100% that it's the file indicated for my device, there is some problem if I try to root with that?
And, as i see, there is some diferent files, how i choose one? it's indifferent or one file have specific itens that another don't have?
Thanks a lot!
pedrocrv said:
@thenookieforlife3
Thank you for your explanation!
I understand what you said, but in one thread of my smartphone i see a lot of people talking about rooting their phones but for this is needed to use another kernel.
I want to root my device, and in a near future maybe install one ROM of CyanogenMod (and try others too), but i'm afraid of rooting because that story of changing the device kernel and using Odin... I don't want a brick
Another question:
If i find a file to root my device without Odin, but i don't have the 100% that it's the file indicated for my device, there is some problem if I try to root with that?
And, as i see, there is some diferent files, how i choose one? it's indifferent or one file have specific itens that another don't have?
Thanks a lot!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
like Thenookieforlife3 said you do not need a kernel, you dont need one to root or install roms/custom recovery's, they are just for tweaking things or being able to overclock. So, first of all, you are going to have to tell us your model number (or which carrier your phone is on) so we can direct you to the right root guide, s2's are fairly easy to root so dont be scared we will hold your hands the entire way!
Trozzul said:
like Thenookieforlife3 said you do not need a kernel, you dont need one to root or install roms/custom recovery's, they are just for tweaking things or being able to overclock. So, first of all, you are going to have to tell us your model number (or which carrier your phone is on) so we can direct you to the right root guide, s2's are fairly easy to root so dont be scared we will hold your hands the entire way!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. ^
We can definitely give you a hand, but we do need a few details to make sure everything works out.
hello again!
@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you!
So there is the information asked for: (see the attachment for more details)
Bandbase: I9100BULS1
Kernel: 3.0.31-889555 [email protected] #3 SMP PREEMPT Thu Jan 31 14:48:54 KST 2013
Compilation Number: JZO54K.I9100XWLSD
I have another questions to do:
-What vary from file to file on root?
-What is a AOSP ROM? Where I can find a rom that is almost empty of trash, like i think it is a Stock Rom?
-In the information given above, wich is more important to see if I can install that rom? Can I install a rom that is not XWLSD?
Many thanks!
Answers to your questions are in red.
Thank you! You're very welcome!
So there is the information asked for: (see the attachment for more details)
Bandbase: I9100BULS1
Kernel: 3.0.31-889555 [email protected] #3 SMP PREEMPT Thu Jan 31 14:48:54 KST 2013
Compilation Number: JZO54K.I9100XWLSD
I have another questions to do:
-What vary from file to file on root? Normally not much changes from root method to root method - basically, if anything does, it's negligible to you, meaning that it won't really matter. What does matter is that the root method actually roots your phone.
-What is a AOSP ROM? ASOP stands for Android Open Source Project, and it pretty much means that it's a ROM that is as minimalistic and "free of trash", as you say, as you can get it.
-Where I can find a rom that is almost empty of trash, like i think it is a Stock Rom? Here are a few good ones:
AOSP NeatROM for S2
CarbonRom KitKat for S2
SuperNexus for S2
-In the information given above, which is more important to see if I can install that rom? Can I install a rom that is not XWLSD? The ROMs that you can install will be labelled "S2" and "I9100". Don't try to install any other ROMs unless they have those labels.
Hope these help!
I understand what you said!
For example, the AOSP NeatROM have a version that is not AOSP. What it means?
To Install other ROM's i need to root first?
And now, how i simply root by a file?
@pedrocrv,
Answers to your questions in red.
For example, the AOSP NeatROM have a version that is not AOSP. What it means? That means that there is another version of that ROM that is more full of extra features, a.k.a "trash".
To Install other ROM's i need to root first? Yes.
And now, how i simply root by a file? It depends from method to method - some methods are apps that you install and then hit a "big red button", some methods are files that you have to flash through a custom recovery, for example, ClockworkMod. Basically, just read and follow the instructions that come with each root method.
again, thank you!
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done?
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work?
what is flashing?
Thank you for your attention!
@pedrocrv,
Once again, answers to your questions in red.
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done? Yes, that's right.
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work? The rooting method will tell you in the instructions whether or not you need a custom recovery, and if it does, it will tell you which one to use and how to use it.
what is flashing? Simply put, flashing is installing a file (normally a .zip) that has been specially formatted via a recovery method (custom or stock).
Thank you for your attention! No problem!
thenookieforlife3 said:
@pedrocrv,
First, please make sure to hit "Thanks" on each of my helpful posts.
Once again, answers to your questions in red.
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done? Yes, that's right.
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work? The rooting method will tell you in the instructions whether or not you need a custom recovery, and if it does, it will tell you which one to use and how to use it.
what is flashing? Simply put, flashing is installing a file (normally a .zip) that has been specially formatted via a recovery method (custom or stock).
Thank you for your attention! No problem!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im sure we should introduce him to cyanogenmod, cyanogenmod can be more stock than Asop most of the time, Asops nice but there are most of the time little additions that the creator likes, plus if cyanogenmod installer is compatible for your device he shouldn't have todo much!
@pedrocrv , im not trying to steal his thunder but im trying my best to explain it to you too if he left anything out, otherwise if you guys want me to i will back out .
Custom recovery's are basically a way of getting out of a bad spot and being able to Flash new Roms, if you get stuck in a bootloop (stays stuck at the samsung screen for a very long time, the first time you flash a rom you should let it sit for it can take awhile for the first time you turn it on.) you can most likely get out of the problem and be able to backup your stock firmware if you decide you dont like rooting/custom roms, it does stuff the Stock recovery does not do.
Flashing is basically as thenookieforlife3 said its so you can install Roms, when you hear the term flashing think "installing".
@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you for both atention! i'm learning a lot of things with both of you!
I know cyanogen, and as i search in the wiki of cyanogen page i think my phone is compatible.
What I need to do with the installer? And if i use the installer, how I backup my actual ROM to future problems or needs to come to origins?
stock ROM-> My actual ROM?
Custom ROM-> a new one
So, if i understand everything:
With my actual recovery i'm not able to install other ROM's. But, with my recovery, i'm able to root my device unless the root method needs a custom recovery and it say's how to install it right?
With the root by my recovery, i'm able to install other ROM's but I will need to further install a custom recovery right?
Many thanks :good:
pedrocrv said:
@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you for both atention! i'm learning a lot of things with both of you!
I know cyanogen, and as i search in the wiki of cyanogen page i think my phone is compatible.
What I need to do with the installer? And if i use the installer, how I backup my actual ROM to future problems or needs to come to origins?
stock ROM-> My actual ROM?
Custom ROM-> a new one
So, if i understand everything:
With my actual recovery i'm not able to install other ROM's. But, with my recovery, i'm able to root my device unless the root method needs a custom recovery and it say's how to install it right?
With the root by my recovery, i'm able to install other ROM's but I will need to further install a custom recovery right?
Many thanks :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes your stock rom is what the device comes with when you buy it. every device method of being able to get custom roms is different, so when you do get a new phone always do your research, sometimes you can root it and dont need a custom recovery (thats only if you want to stay on stock rom) sometimes you need a custom recovery to get root. with my S2 what i needed todo was get a custom recovery first, installing cyanogenmod already comes rooted so you can make a backup of your stock rom without rooting it.
so i dont also exactly know which device you have, where are you from? it looks spanish in your phones setttings with that screenshot, region is important. is it a GT-i9100 or a GT-i9100b? take out the battery and tell us what the model number says there. this is important for the cyanogenmod installer.
Trozzul said:
Yes your stock rom is what the device comes with when you buy it. every device method of being able to get custom roms is different, so when you do get a new phone always do your research, sometimes you can root it and dont need a custom recovery (thats only if you want to stay on stock rom) sometimes you need a custom recovery to get root. with my S2 what i needed todo was get a custom recovery first, installing cyanogenmod already comes rooted so you can make a backup of your stock rom without rooting it.
so i dont also exactly know which device you have, where are you from? it looks spanish in your phones setttings with that screenshot, region is important. is it a GT-i9100 or a GT-i9100b? take out the battery and tell us what the model number says there. this is important for the cyanogenmod installer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No i'm from portugal
so:
Model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Wich is the diference?
pedrocrv said:
No i'm from portugal
so:
Model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Wich is the diference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's very little difference between the i9100 and the i9100b, but the difference is enough that there is a separate CyanogenMod installer for both models.
thenookieforlife3 said:
There's very little difference between the i9100 and the i9100b, but the difference is enough that there is a separate CyanogenMod installer for both models.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@thenookieforlife3 i think the cyanogenmod installer installs a CWM right for his question on it? also look at these stated on the Cyanogenmod wiki for the GT-i9100
WARNING:
Some second-generation Samsung Exynos devices are potentially susceptible to a "superbrick" caused by performing a factory reset with the stock kernel, which effectively kills the internal memory in the device. It is highly recommended you do not perform this operation while using a stock kernel for safety reasons. To make sure you aren't running the stock kernel (only needed when coming from the stock ROM), fully install CM without performing a factory reset and reboot to recovery before you perform the factory reset.
WARNING:
If you used a non-official method to remove a provider lock, your /efs partition may become corrupt! It is highly recommended you make a backup of this for safe keeping before attempting to modify your device, especially if you plan to remove such a lock.
WARNING:
The newest Gapps package (20140606) is too big for the /system partition of i9100. Please use the 20140105 package instead. This message will disappear when this is resolved.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should we tell him to run a benchmark and tell us his CPU?
@pedrocrv (Edit:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.antutu.ABenchMark download this app real fast and tell us what CPU you have) so the cyanogenmod installer will be the easiest thing for you, even though installing a custom rom is insanely easy this is basically a one click method, note that all of your data will be deleted so back that up somewhere where you can save it and put it on your phone when its done installing. so as i asked thenookieforlife3i believe that the cyanogenmod installer will also install the latest and best custom recovery for you (CWM: Clockworkmod will be a huge term like CM: Cyanogenmod you will hear a lot, they are both very popular for being the most stable.) it would be stupid enough for it not to install it as well, but if it does not we will show you an easy app that will install a custom recovery, basically one click just like cyanogenmod. now as i looked on the cyanogenmod site, the installer IS compatible with your phone and will install a Stable version of Cyanogenmod 10.2 which is android 4.3. note that the highest right now is CM 11 which is android 4.4.4 kit kat but right now is what we call a "Nightly".
i will try my best to explain this to you, there are four stages that cyanogenmod puts out i will rate them from lowest to highest: "experiments" "snapshot" "nightly" and "Stable", you only need to worry about nightly and stable, Stable is basically the final product the last update for that android version so its the most stable and with less bugs and this is what you want to aim for, Nightlys are Nightly generated updates that update bugs every night asked by people like us to be fixed, Honestly Nightlys are Very stable and are perfectly fine.
Now you might like Cyanogenmod 10.2, personally a lot of my phones run 10.2 if its available, you might like kit kat (Cyanogenmod 11) better instead, honestly try out 10.2 first and if you dont like it, you can update to Cyanogenmod 11 (they push updates out like how samsung would push out updates.) without deleting your information on CM 10.2, im sorry if i confused you at all please ask a lot of questions if needed!
Trozzul said:
@thenookieforlife3 i think the cyanogenmod installer installs a CWM right for his question on it? also look at these stated on the Cyanogenmod wiki for the GT-i9100
Should we tell him to run a benchmark and tell us his CPU? …
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, installing CyanogenMod installs ClockworkMod as the default recovery.
Yes, let's have him run a benchmark and tell us the results.
@thenookieforlife3 and @Trozzul
Again, thank you for your patience!
I'm now running the benchmark!
Let's put new question's..
-With CM 10.2, it comes with root, and how to unlock the SIM?
-With CM 10.2, in wich phase of the installation I will be able to backup my stock ROM?
-Imagine that after sometime I want to go back to my stock ROM, What I need to do, because i will have another recovery?
-WIth the CM 10.2 I will have my RAM memory more free?
In the attachment are the images of the test
thank you again!
Pedro
@pedrocrv,
As always, answers to your questions in red.
-With CM 10.2, it comes with root, and how to unlock the SIM? @Trozzul, if you'd please answer this question, that would be great, because I don't know much about SIM unlocking.
-With CM 10.2, in wich phase of the installation I will be able to backup my stock ROM? You will want to make a Nandroid backup before you do anything at all in relation to rooting and CyanogenMod.
-Imagine that after sometime I want to go back to my stock ROM, What I need to do, because i will have another recovery? You will use either the "Install update from SD card" or the "Install .zip from SD card" feature. I don't know exactly, but if that time comes, please let me know and I'll do the research necessary to help you out.
-WIth the CM 10.2 I will have my RAM memory more free? It all depends on what apps you have running at one time. I personally use Advanced Task Killer Free to kill apps directly after I'm finished using them, and that frees up a lot of RAM. CM probably overall will make your RAM memory less free, but if you use the app killing trick, you won't ever have a problem with it.
In the attachment are the images of the test Great, thank you for doing that.

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