Need expert help: Is it possible to decrypt userdata? - General Questions and Answers

I need some help.
Not sure which is the best place in the forums, so I try it here.
My problem: unlock pattern is not accepted, at boot stage, after fastboot flashing_all_except_storage, so it cannot decrypt userdata, therefore it doesn't boot. Not to say I cannot access my data.
Device: Xiaomi MiA2 Lite. Bootloader unlocked. Magisk rooted
What I did:
- "Justification": I just came from a trip with no connectivity, too tired (without giving a second thought), resolved several family tech issues, and as I've had not problem upgrading the same device from a relative with the same configuration, I made no backup of mine.
- I was trying to upgrade from 10.0.10.0 to 10 10.0.12.0, but OTA was sistematically failing, despite I'd followed the same recommended procedure than in my relatives':
the Magisk uninstall - OTA_update - Magisk install_on_empty_slot procedure.
- I first tried flashing stock boot, in order to override the OTA error. What I got is the system destroy message!
- At that moment I only new about the fastboot file from xiaomi, that only shows 10.0.9.0.
Downloaded it, and ran (downgraded) the flash_all_except_storage.sh of this version.
It seemed to work well until I got stuck in "incorrect pattern" (previous to the full boot)
What I tried:
- I repeated the flashing, just in case, with no success.
- Also tried to access userdata with twrp-3.3.0-0 and 3.3.1-dees_troy. No success.
- Then, too late (don't know why this xiaomi doesn't upload the latest), I found at xda-dev newer fastboots images (10.0.10.0 and 10.0.12.0). Tried to flash_all_except_storage, but not changes at all.
- Almost forgotten: I have no doubt on my pattern, and I got the warning of 9 attempts left (hope that the ones within TWRP do not count).
So my "request":
- The most important: any help on how could I regain access to my userdata partition?
Let me add that I have a previous unencrypted TWRP userdata backup (only that partition), from a few months before.
Could I get any file from it that is part of the encryption process?
In this case, what should I do?
- and, secondly, (I guess you have a good level, obviously not me): what could have broken the access to the userdata? In my previous mobiles, flashing boot, system or vendor caused not problems to me. I ask it because it's not my first problem rooting this 2 slot device.
Thanks in advance

It seems it wasn't the best place to rise the question, but I don't know where address it to.
Is there any admin/moderator reading Q&A that could kindly point me where should I ask?
Thanks
xabier

Related

How 2handle HTC s/wupdate install & twrp

I just checked my Magisk 13.3-rooted Sprint htc u11, running 1.13.651.6 for htc s/w updates & d/l'ed the update abt 750Mb, which is said contained a security update & it was supposed to bring me to 1.28.651.3.
After d/l & clicking on install, it went thru 20% on the "gas gauge" progress bar, before the screen went black & 5 second
screen came up as usual & then the twrp main screen came up.
Not knowing what to do, I decided playing it safe was best, I simply rebooted the system & all went fine. I got a msg telling me that I have a system update & I chose to put installation off & chose to be reminded in 4hrs. In 4hrs, the fone will be off. I'm going to be AFK fm the fone - as I have to be away & the fone has to be of until Sat. nite when I'm done w/the other stuff I'm doing until then.
I'm not sure what to do, or why it rebooted, showed the 5 second screen & then went into the twrp main screen. I did nothing to make that happen. In the past I obviously unlocked the BL, installed twrp, & rooted w/Magisk 13.3 & Magisk Mgr. 5.11- carefully following posted instructions, but I have no idea why reboot went fm 5 second screen to main twrp screen & equally no idea if that should have happened- or what in hindsight I should have done.
***BTW, I have an icon in my notification bar fm the Updater program that is telling me I have a System Update Ready & I should tap on the notice to install.***
PLEASE ADVISE!
Is there any problem taking the 1.13.651.6 -> 1.28.651.3 update w/unlocked BootLoader & twrp & root that will damage my fone, the setup, or Bootloader, twrp, or root?
What should I do when I power-on & restart fone on Sat. nite when I will ostensibly get the update process kicking in after the 5 Second screen & then progressing to 20% of the update & then the Update process reboots & reboots me back to 5 second screen & then the twrp main screen (or maybe another prompt)? Or can I do something to prevent / remove the update if there are any problems.
Would going into a diff mode fm 5 second screen, like bootloader, download, or recovery mode & then have to do something else to get the System Update to work?, or do I have to do something else - related to unrooting, &/or removing twrp, &/or re-locking the bootloader ? - (please don't let it be any of that!), & how would I do whatever I have to do?. Or do I have to somehow avoid the update - don't know how to do that either- I've played w/this kind of stuff on a # of prev devices, but not on an htc device & I'm sorta like a newbie w/htc 'under the hood' stuff. ***Thanks very much in advance***. This is the only Sprint device I have… so I can't just switch to another fone & do whatever I have to do on this fone w/out any stress & plenty of time to sort out the details.
Again, TIA, oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
I just checked my Magisk 13.3-rooted Sprint htc u11, running 1.13.651.6 for htc s/w updates & d/l'ed the update abt 750Mb, which is said contained a security update & it was supposed to bring me to 1.28.651.3.
After d/l & clicking on install, it went thru 20% on the "gas gauge" progress bar, before the screen went black & 5 second
screen came up as usual & then the twrp main screen came up.
Not knowing what to do, I decided playing it safe was best, I simply rebooted the system & all went fine. I got a msg telling me that I have a system update & I chose to put installation off & chose to be reminded in 4hrs. In 4hrs, the fone will be off. I'm going to be AFK fm the fone - as I have to be away & the fone has to be of until Sat. nite when I'm done w/the other stuff I'm doing until then.
I'm not sure what to do, or why it rebooted, showed the 5 second screen & then went into the twrp main screen. I did nothing to make that happen. In the past I obviously unlocked the BL, installed twrp, & rooted w/Magisk 13.3 & Magisk Mgr. 5.11- carefully following posted instructions, but I have no idea why reboot went fm 5 second screen to main twrp screen & equally no idea if that should have happened- or what in hindsight I should have done.
***BTW, I have an icon in my notification bar fm the Updater program that is telling me I have a System Update Ready & I should tap on the notice to install.***
PLEASE ADVISE!
Is there any problem taking the 1.13.651.6 -> 1.28.651.3 update w/unlocked BootLoader & twrp & root that will damage my fone, the setup, or Bootloader, twrp, or root?
What should I do when I power-on & restart fone on Sat. nite when I will ostensibly get the update process kicking in after the 5 Second screen & then progressing to 20% of the update & then the Update process reboots & reboots me back to 5 second screen & then the twrp main screen (or maybe another prompt)? Or can I do something to prevent / remove the update if there are any problems.
Would going into a diff mode fm 5 second screen, like bootloader, download, or recovery mode & then have to do something else to get the System Update to work?, or do I have to do something else - related to unrooting, &/or removing twrp, &/or re-locking the bootloader - (please don't let it be any of that!), & how would I do whatever I have to do?. Or do I have to somehow avoid the update - don't know how to do that either- I've played w/this kind of stuff on a # of prev devices, but not on an htc device & I'm sorta like a newbie w/htc 'under the hood' stuff. ***Thanks very much in advance***. This is the only Sprint device I have… so I can't just switch to another fone & do whatever I have to do on this fone w/out any stress & plenty of time to sort out the details.
Again, TIA, oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You cannot update the phone while rooted. You need to be on an Untouched System image. There is quite a few threads explaining this. Did you do a twrp System image and boot.img backup? If not, there are a few different ways to update. You can flash(a few different ways to flash the signed firmware update in BadBoys ROM/Firmware thread. RUU(wipes everything) and then take the OTA. Flash the OTA in TWRP, however you will still have to manually flash firmware.zip inside the OTA. You could have saved yourself the trouble of writing this page long explanation and read through a few threads, lol.
Since you are on Sprint, there is BadBoyz ROM/Firmware thread HERE. 5m4r7ph0n36uru's firmware HERE
Schmeggy929, thanks so much!
If I knew why I got that result I would've searched threads for an answer. I turned on my U11 tonite & told it to cancel update. It told me install would be removed. Whew! Was afraid I keep getting prompted to do update, or worse, I'd not be given the chance to remove!
So far, I've only unlocked BL (htc provided step by step), rooted, & installed twrp (courtesy of Capt Throwback's guide) so that's the extent of my htc dev experience / knowledge.
You mentioned flashing OTA in twrp. Did a quick search & scanned thru replies, got basic idea; but need to ask, will that wipe my 3d party apps & data & settings? I'm guessing not... also, in which mode would I flash? Recovery, Download, Bootloader? Also, you asked if I did a twrp system image & boot.img backup & if not you listed those approaches. What should I do if Ihad done twrp backup? Usually I b/u everÿhing but the cache & will be doing that soon, along w/my homework i.e. looking up threads…
I'll do w/out the update until I'm better prepared.
I've been considering going to BadBoyz ROM, but would be curious to see what main screens look like & I see you are a recognized themer & on Team BadBoyz; would itbe possible to please send me some screen captures of the rom via PM; looked in ROM thread but didn't find any…
TIA, Oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
Schmeggy929, thanks so much!
If I knew why I got that result I would've searched threads for an answer. I turned on my U11 tonite & told it to cancel update. It told me install would be removed. Whew! Was afraid I keep getting prompted to do update, or worse, I'd not be given the chance to remove!
So far, I've only unlocked BL (htc provided step by step), rooted, & installed twrp (courtesy of Capt Throwback's guide) so that's the extent of my htc dev experience / knowledge.
You mentioned flashing OTA in twrp. Did a quick search & scanned thru replies, got basic idea; but need to ask, will that wipe my 3d party apps & data & settings? I'm guessing not... also, in which mode would I flash? Recovery, Download, Bootloader? Also, you asked if I did a twrp system image & boot.img backup & if not you listed those approaches. What should I do if Ihad done twrp backup? Usually I b/u everÿhing but the cache & will be doing that soon, along w/my homework i.e. looking up threads…
I'll do w/out the update until I'm better prepared.
I've been considering going to BadBoyz ROM, but would be curious to see what main screens look like & I see you are a recognized themer & on Team BadBoyz; would itbe possible to please send me some screen captures of the rom via PM; looked in ROM thread but didn't find any…
TIA, Oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Taking OTA, whether normal or flashing will not wipe apps. From what I gather you can (if you are stock and untouched System Image) can download OTA, Extract Firmware.zip , then back to OTA install, let it install(will reboot to TWRP and install) then reboot to Download Mode and fastboot flash Firmware zip.
If you did make a System, Recovery and Boot Image backup(even better) Boot to TWRP and restore those backups, reboot and take the OTA normal(as you would with a completely stock phone).
Or easier, download the updated signed firmware from BadBoyz Thread HERE. Flash with either scard method or computer fastboot method. Then download The latest ROM for 1.28.651.3.
None of these will wipe you apps and Data. Badboyz ROM is nothing more than a Stock ROM with great Tweaks. Other than my Boot animation , the two BadBoyz apps and some bloatware missing, you would never know the difference, except for performance and extra goodies.
this is the easiest way I've found to install a ota...preparation
-from 100% stock, unlock bootloader, flash twrp
-on 1st twrp boot, keep ready only & immediately do a system & boot img backup
-once backup is done, copy stock recovery into the twrp/backup stock imgs folder & rename it recovery.emmc.win
-flash rom, magisk, supersu, whatever changes u want
-when a ota is available, boot to twrp, & restore your system/boot/recovery imgs backup
-boot to OS, download & install ota
repeat steps from top
@ Schmeggy929 is this the latest updated signed firmware ? : ->
2PZCIMG_1.28.651.3_RUU.zip ? & is the scard method renaming that file on root of sd card to 2PZCIMG.ZIP & flashing it fm twrp in download mode? If so the next step, as you said, would be to d/l the ROM - would that be
{ Bad_Boyz_Sprint_HTC_U11_v2.0.zip } ? & then just flash that fm download mode in twrp?
@ OMJ, After unlocking BL, & flashing twrp, & rooting (or does it have to be unlock & then root & then flash twrp,I forget) I had some 3d party apps & I made a nand backup of everything but cache fm twrp, to have a clean, stock, relatively new setup. I noted in Solid Explorer that under twrp/backups/sdcard_hexname/twrp_bu_name directory, there is a recovery.emmc.win file - is that the 'stock recovery' you were referring to? & wouldn't I just restore that whole backup to take an ota? - after unrooting of course! Also, aren't there stock image files to either recover from or take OTA? Have I missed anything? TIA…
Thanks much to all, Oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
@ Schmeggy929 is this the latest updated signed firmware ? : ->
2PZCIMG_1.28.651.3_RUU.zip ? & is the scard method renaming that file on root of sd card to 2PZCIMG.ZIP & flashing it fm twrp in download mode? If so the next step, as you said, would be to d/l the ROM - would that be
{ Bad_Boyz_Sprint_HTC_U11_v2.0.zip } ? & then just flash that fm download mode in twrp?
@ OMJ, After unlocking BL, & flashing twrp, & rooting (or does it have to be unlock & then root & then flash twrp,I forget) I had some 3d party apps & I made a nand backup of everything but cache fm twrp, to have a clean, stock, relatively new setup. I noted in Solid Explorer that under twrp/backups/sdcard_hexname/twrp_bu_name directory, there is a recovery.emmc.win file - is that the 'stock recovery' you were referring to? & wouldn't I just restore that whole backup to take an ota? - after unrooting of course! Also, aren't there stock image files to either recover from or take OTA? Have I missed anything? TIA…
Thanks much to all, Oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2PZCIMG_1.28.651.3_RUU.zip is a full RUU which will wipe your phone (except ext sd card) & restore factory imgs
this is the latest signed firmware, you can rename to 2PZCIMG.ZIP, copy to ext sd card & boot into download mode to flash...firmware is not flashed from twrp... 2PZCIMG_Sprint_1.28.651.3_signed_firmware.zip
signed firmware will overwrite twrp, so you'll need to reflash twrp after the signed firmware. my latest ROM is Bad_Boyz_Sprint_HTC_U11_v2.0.zip (based on 1.28.651.3), it's always flashed from twrp
unlocking bootloader is a 1 time thing, you've already unlocked so no need to worry about it. when u backup in twrp, you would need to make sure you chose the system img option to be able to restore for an ota, and you would only need to backup system & boot, if u chose recovery, it's not backing up stock recovery, it's backing up twrp.
if you flash my rom, there's really no need to worry about all this, I typically have a updated ROM ready for everyone the same day or within 24-48hrs of a ota. in this case, you would just need to flash the updated firmware, then flash my new/updated ROM.
for now, I would just flash the latest signed firmware, then flash twrp, boot to twrp & flash my ROM....no need to flash root prior to the ROM. if you do want to restore stock system/boot/recovery imgs for the next ota, I'll upload my backup...
OMJ, I was going to leave my fone on pure stock, but since BB is mostly stock, & there are improvements & less bloat & you quickly update for new OTA's & put up prev stock img's in case OTA is needed, & you have been *so* responsive, I'm going to go w/your rom.
I have some stuff I want to research myself & then I'll go to BB.
I do have some Q's that I'd like to ask you now: You said that flashing the latest FW would kill twrp, if I put the Official TWRP App on my U11, can I use that to reflash twrp?, it has a "Flash TWRP" button, but I don't know if that process will work in this situation.
Also, will flashing the FW & thereby killing twrp do anything to "under the hood" stuff like pointers/links to NAND backups I already did since I added twrp? I have original setup + some critically needed apps I loaded until the 10day return period ended in 1 NAND (didn't want to unlock BL & root until I was sure I had no h/w probs, like some had w/audio adapter) a 'base NAND backup' & I keep one other, 'latest' backup of everything except Cache to ensure I have a NAND image to restore in case of emergency.
I'd hate to lose access to those if flashing FW & killing twrp would also kill needed pointers/links to those backups.
Since you said flashing FW can't be done from twrp, pls confirm that going into Download mode is done by pressing Vol. Up, Power, & Home/fingerprint buttons. Is there any order & do I have to release any button at any point to get where I have to be?
One last Q: I looked on pg for your rom, & need clarification - which mode do I have to choose in twrp to install your rom?
TIA, oldwolf
p.s. once installed, I will add BB to my forum sig!
oldwolf613 said:
OMJ, I was going to leave my fone on pure stock, but since BB is mostly stock, & there are improvements & less bloat & you quickly update for new OTA's & put up prev stock img's in case OTA is needed, & you have been *so* responsive, I'm going to go w/your rom.
I have some stuff I want to research myself & then I'll go to BB.
I do have some Q's that I'd like to ask you now: You said that flashing the latest FW would kill twrp, if I put the Official TWRP App on my U11, can I use that to reflash twrp?, it has a "Flash TWRP" button, but I don't know if that process will work in this situation.
Also, will flashing the FW & thereby killing twrp do anything to "under the hood" stuff like pointers/links to NAND backups I already did since I added twrp? I have original setup + some critically needed apps I loaded until the 10day return period ended in 1 NAND (didn't want to unlock BL & root until I was sure I had no h/w probs, like some had w/audio adapter) a 'base NAND backup' & I keep one other, 'latest' backup of everything except Cache to ensure I have a NAND image to restore in case of emergency.
I'd hate to lose access to those if flashing FW & killing twrp would also kill needed pointers/links to those backups.
Since you said flashing FW can't be done from twrp, pls confirm that going into Download mode is done by pressing Vol. Up, Power, & Home/fingerprint buttons. Is there any order & do I have to release any button at any point to get where I have to be?
One last Q: I looked on pg for your rom, & need clarification - which mode do I have to choose in twrp to install your rom?
TIA, oldwolf
p.s. once installed, I will add BB to my forum sig!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good decision
good question about the twrp app, honestly I've never used it, I'm old school so I always manually flash via fastboot...I'll have to give it a try so I know.
new firmware usually does has fixes & improvements but HTC is not the greatest at sharing what has been improved...I always store my backups to ext sd, but no, updated firmware will not affect your backups.
yes you would flash twrp via download mode....when phone is powered off, hold power + volume down, once you feel the vibration or screen come on, let go of both....once on my ROM, I have a option on the reboot menu to reboot to download mode.
when flashing the ROM, from twrp main menu, choose install, then find the rom zip
oldwolf613 said:
OMJ, I was going to leave my fone on pure stock, but since BB is mostly stock, & there are improvements & less bloat & you quickly update for new OTA's & put up prev stock img's in case OTA is needed, & you have been *so* responsive, I'm going to go w/your rom.
I have some stuff I want to research myself & then I'll go to BB.
I do have some Q's that I'd like to ask you now: You said that flashing the latest FW would kill twrp, if I put the Official TWRP App on my U11, can I use that to reflash twrp?, it has a "Flash TWRP" button, but I don't know if that process will work in this situation.
Also, will flashing the FW & thereby killing twrp do anything to "under the hood" stuff like pointers/links to NAND backups I already did since I added twrp? I have original setup + some critically needed apps I loaded until the 10day return period ended in 1 NAND (didn't want to unlock BL & root until I was sure I had no h/w probs, like some had w/audio adapter) a 'base NAND backup' & I keep one other, 'latest' backup of everything except Cache to ensure I have a NAND image to restore in case of emergency.
I'd hate to lose access to those if flashing FW & killing twrp would also kill needed pointers/links to those backups.
Since you said flashing FW can't be done from twrp, pls confirm that going into Download mode is done by pressing Vol. Up, Power, & Home/fingerprint buttons. Is there any order & do I have to release any button at any point to get where I have to be?
One last Q: I looked on pg for your rom, & need clarification - which mode do I have to choose in twrp to install your rom?
TIA, oldwolf
p.s. once installed, I will add BB to my forum sig!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The twrp app worked like a charm...
Sent from my HTC U11 using XDA Labs
OMJ, Great news abt the TWRP app, thanks for trying it out & sharing. Will let you know how well everything went.
OMJ, can't try your ROM yet. Flashing the FW zip you showed above finished, but didn't bring fone to 1.28… 1st time twrp & Magisk root were killed; but wasn't upgraded to 1.28... that was w/buttons->Download. Tried again on Win10 laptop w/'adb reboot downdoad', but didn't try to re-root. Same result, no 1.28… Then I reflashed twrp successfully, & I tried again (adb) - no joy. Odd thing, the Download screen showed two iterations of 2PZCIMG.ZIP in yellow (color was expected) @ the bottom of the screen, even tho my SDcard root had only 1 copy of the file & the processing of the zip took place in two stages, scrn went dark between 1st & 2nd- but I got the expected msg at the end. BTW, I tried OTA, between 2d & 3d flash failure, it got thru to the reboot, & I missed something on the screen & that too failed.
Back to flashing: iCould it be I missed something abt what is supposed to happen after you get the msg to press power btn? Would you please elaborate on that? Everything else seems to be working fine & I have nand bu of relatively new, pre- rooting & another bu w/a much more recent image. Just had probs w/restoring nands, got msg abt SD card; but I'm sure it'll all get worked out.
TIA, oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
OMJ, can't try your ROM yet. Flashing the FW zip you showed above finished, but didn't bring fone to 1.28… 1st time twrp & Magisk root were killed; but wasn't upgraded to 1.28... that was w/buttons->Download. Tried again on Win10 laptop w/'adb reboot downdoad', but didn't try to re-root. Same result, no 1.28… Then I reflashed twrp successfully, & I tried again (adb) - no joy. Odd thing, the Download screen showed two iterations of 2PZCIMG.ZIP in yellow (color was expected) @ the bottom of the screen, even tho my SDcard root had only 1 copy of the file & the processing of the zip took place in two stages, scrn went dark between 1st & 2nd- but I got the expected msg at the end. BTW, I tried OTA, between 2d & 3d flash failure, it got thru to the reboot, & I missed something on the screen & that too failed.
Back to flashing: iCould it be I missed something abt what is supposed to happen after you get the msg to press power btn? Would you please elaborate on that? Everything else seems to be working fine & I have nand bu of relatively new, pre- rooting & another bu w/a much more recent image. Just had probs w/restoring nands, got msg abt SD card; but I'm sure it'll all get worked out.
TIA, oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
time for another lesson....flashing firmware only does not update the OS....when you update via official ota, both firmware & OS are updated...but if you only flash updated firmware, you need to flash a updated ROM to match
OMJ, ohhh thanks! Was losing root upon flashing FW to be expected like losing TWRP Recovery? BTW, maybe such comments abt flashing a matching updated ROM w/the updated FW should be included w/the FW update install text, so I wouldn't have to bother you w/these issues.
Also, short of trying to flash a matching updated ROM (which I presume will then show the new version numbers) how do you know if flashing the FW was successful?
What if there is a problem w/the FW installation, what happens when you a flash matching updated ROM?
Also, when you said "if you only flash an updated FW, you need to flash an updated ROM to match“
I'm guessing that since my fone is working, the need to flash an updated rom to match is to have the new version #, i.e. 1.28… , show up in Settings->About 7.1.1
… also, in the Settings-> System update section- what is UICC lock? Thanks for all your help.
oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
OMJ, ohhh thanks! Was losing root upon flashing FW to be expected like losing TWRP Recovery? BTW, maybe such comments abt flashing a matching updated ROM w/the updated FW should be included w/the FW update install text, so I wouldn't have to bother you w/these issues.
Also, short of trying to flash a matching updated ROM (which I presume will then show the new version numbers) how do you know if flashing the FW was successful?
What if there is a problem w/the FW installation, what happens when you a flash matching updated ROM?
Also, when you said "if you only flash an updated FW, you need to flash an updated ROM to match“
I'm guessing that since my fone is working, the need to flash an updated rom to match is to have the new version #, i.e. 1.28… , show up in Settings->About 7.1.1
… also, in the Settings-> System update section- what is UICC lock? Thanks for all your help.
oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again root has nothing to do with firmware as Root is software. Like OMJ said flashing the firmware will replace Recovery.img for S-on users. Like you did easy fix is reflash TWRP whether fastboot, sdcard or the Official TWRP app. While flashing Firmware with any method, on the screen will show progress and failed or successful install. That's how you know if it installed correctly. Even though your phone might be working with new firmware and old software, the new software will contain patches, fixes, features and security updates. The reason to update the firmware along with software is to have them work together perfectly.
UICC lock is for Sprint sim card. Basically unlocking it for another carrier, but it is not that simple I believe.
Also you being somewhat new, asking these questions is the best thing you can do. You will see many people brick(phone useless, will not turn on or keeps bootlooping) simply because they didn't ask questions until it was too late. Keeping as much as you and you will start understanding.
OTA= Firmware and software update
signed firmware= for S-on users, usually all the firmware.zip removed from the OTA for those who can't take the OTA.
modified firmware= s-off users with usually with stock recovery removed(for convenience)
ROM= the software or operating System.
oldwolf613 said:
OMJ, ohhh thanks! Was losing root upon flashing FW to be expected like losing TWRP Recovery? BTW, maybe such comments abt flashing a matching updated ROM w/the updated FW should be included w/the FW update install text, so I wouldn't have to bother you w/these issues.
Also, short of trying to flash a matching updated ROM (which I presume will then show the new version numbers) how do you know if flashing the FW was successful?
What if there is a problem w/the FW installation, what happens when you a flash matching updated ROM?
Also, when you said "if you only flash an updated FW, you need to flash an updated ROM to match“
I'm guessing that since my fone is working, the need to flash an updated rom to match is to have the new version #, i.e. 1.28… , show up in Settings->About 7.1.1
… also, in the Settings-> System update section- what is UICC lock? Thanks for all your help.
oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just to add a little more that what schmeggy929 said...
when u flash magisk or supersu, the install process modifies the boot.img, when u flash firmware that writes a new boot.img, you wont have root until you flash magisk or supersu again
disclaimers...never been a fan, I do not add a disclaimer on my ROM thread, it means nothing...anyone that wants to root/hack/modify their phone has the responsibility to do their research prior to doing so...learning that you need to update firmware along w/ software is part of the research process
as schmeggy929 said, when flashing firmware, always pay attention to what it's doing & if there are any errors, some firmware need to be flashed 2x but it states so after the 1st flash...once firmware is flashed, you can verify the firmware level in download mode.
Thanks again to both Schmeggy & OMJ,
I am trying to do my diligence, help on these forums makes a big difference. My request for comments in the ROM install thread was not my own idea. I saw that on other ROM install threads in the past. It saved everyone time: the users get better educated & the Dev didn't get as many questions bc problems were avoided. Now w/help in this thread I will likely always remember that boot.img is affected by flashing root & firmware. Rest assured, just as I did when I was into Moto modifying - I got advice fm xda folks & then when I was familiar w/the ins & outs, I helped others. And....
I have another problem. Since having flashing the FW, & twrp replaced by the native recovery, I am not able flash TWRP again. I keep getting the following error msg:
C:\Users\a\Desktop\Minimal ADB and Fastboot>fastboot flash twrp.img
unknown partition 'twrp.img' error: cannot determine image filename for 'twrp.img'
After losing twrp due to flashing the FW, the tarp.img file didn't work - so I downloaded fresh copy of the 3.1.1.0 htc u11 twrp file & renamed it to twrp.img thinking it was just corrupt. No joy. I have it stored in the same directory as immediately above; from where I am running the adb stuff.
My workflow was as following: connected fone w/orig htc data cable, checked connection via running 'adb devices', then ran 'adb reboot download', which started properly. Ran 'fastboot devices' & got expected confirmation. Then I did 'fastboot flash twrp.img' the error msg above was the result.
Please advise. TIA, oldwolf
oldwolf613 said:
Thanks again to both Schmeggy & OMJ,
I am trying to do my diligence, help on these forums makes a big difference. My request for comments in the ROM install thread was not my own idea. I saw that on other ROM install threads in the past. It saved everyone time: the users get better educated & the Dev didn't get as many questions bc problems were avoided. Now w/help in this thread I will likely always remember that boot.img is affected by flashing root & firmware. Rest assured, just as I did when I was into Moto modifying - I got advice fm xda folks & then when I was familiar w/the ins & outs, I helped others. And....
I have another problem. Since having flashing the FW, & twrp replaced by the native recovery, I am not able flash TWRP again. I keep getting the following error msg:
C:\Users\a\Desktop\Minimal ADB and Fastboot>fastboot flash twrp.img
unknown partition 'twrp.img' error: cannot determine image filename for 'twrp.img'
After losing twrp due to flashing the FW, the tarp.img file didn't work - so I downloaded fresh copy of the 3.1.1.0 htc u11 twrp file & renamed it to twrp.img thinking it was just corrupt. No joy. I have it stored in the same directory as immediately above; from where I am running the adb stuff.
My workflow was as following: connected fone w/orig htc data cable, checked connection via running 'adb devices', then ran 'adb reboot download', which started properly. Ran 'fastboot devices' & got expected confirmation. Then I did 'fastboot flash twrp.img' the error msg above was the result.
Please advise. TIA, oldwolf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been here at XDA for over 10yrs, one thing I've learn, most most don't read the OP, they just jump in with questions....I constantly have to repeat myself, so why waste my time in the OP....I just wait for the questions now
here is the correct cmd...
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
..
OMJ, well, I'm not close to being a dev, so I won't comment further abt what to put into OP, based on your reply; I'd just wish there was a book w/all this stuff, or maybe I'll get pointed somewhere. I can give user viewpoint, & but I'm not a typical user. I used to teach in Novell's official edu-channel as a Certfd Netware Instructor, so I try to remember the 'good workflow habits' I preached in the Service & Support class.
But thanks for your help, the corrected command did it, but when notified of success & told to hit power to continue, nothing happened, so I used download mode to go into bootload mode & then rebooted system (saw on Root Junky's U tube vid) & now I have TWRP! THANKS SO MUCH!!!
Apparently, my copy of the BB2.0 has bad signature or something- so I'll have to re-D/L it & flash again.
Once I've taken care of that & 'kicked the tires' I'll get back to you & let you know how much I like it.
Thanks again, oldwolf
OMJ I got it working- but had to turn off zip signature verification. In fact, this is the case of all zip installs. I suspect that it is related to the fact that on install flash the scrn says data was decrypted w/the default password, & the verification signature failed (md5). This is even the case when I used the rom's tweaks to flip the order of the sdcard's name.
The vid that Root Junky made for the flashing twrp for the htc 10 showed to cancel using a password & to leave the (data or card) unencrypted. I never got that screen.
I was following the instructions on the u11 twrp thread- Start: as you corrected my syntax- fastboot flash recovery twrp.img & Finish: fastboot reboot.
Even the modules fm the rom's tweaks failed in the same manner until I unchecked the box for verifying the zip.
I trust your code, (constantly updating right after htc sends slw updates is gonna keep your coding fresh) but who knows what'll be if I flash other packages?
BTW, the tweak to long-press the Recent Apps button & assign Menu is a real big boon. It allowed me to use my fave & unfortunately outdated & no-longer-developed app- Loot … no menu button cut it off at the knees. It was well planned out, & a feature set that was just right, & I couldn't find a good replacement. Now that I have a Menu button; I was able to pull Loot out of the cobwebs… thanks! All the best, oldwolf

(FIXED) Bootloader Locked but Device Won't Boot

I recently ran into the issue during custom rom work. I reflash the stock android ZIP, it starts booting, then I hard reset it with the power button and try to reach bootloader again. This, as it turns out, is terrible to do if you want a fast setup. The moment it starts and you reboot it, the boot image is corrupted (that's my guess) because escaping the boot screen during a clean flash bricks your phone. If you're reading this, it happened to you as well.
The answer is so flipping obvious and it took me an hour to figure it out - nowhere on the internet is there a "solution" for this problem, no matter how frequent it is. But there are lots of people who deal with this, whether still on their factory images (like the Pixel 3 EDL issue) or like me bouncing from custom to stock. So here's the answer:
ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS SIDELOAD THE CURRENT SOFTWARE OTA OR A BETA OTA FROM ANOTHER FUTURE VERSION.
It doesn't recognize timestamps before your current software, so you'll need to assume you're on the latest of whatever you're on and do that. Future versions work as well, so if you wanted to reach 12 in one shot, your phone's bootloader would fully accept it as long as the file isn't corrupted. If you need a sideloading or flashing guide, here you go.
For me, I flashed the latest build of Android 11 (August patch) and rebooted during the boot up. What I did was download the OTA of the same exact file to my laptop, and entered adb sideload coral.xxx.x.zip. (The name of the file) It ran all the way through and it started up perfectly normal.
I hope this helps someone!
P.S. I don't have any pictures or tutorials, I only wrote this to help others understand what happened and how to fix it. Probably wouldn't have needed to say it if the forum for it existed.

I can't get wifi to work after installing TWRP

Hi all,
Before you jump at me telling me I haven't searched the forum, I DID and I couldn't solve my issue even with these solutions. To get you up to speed on what exactly I did.
Briefing (not very important):
I was doing my own business and I was free, I use my phone daily and it served me well. But I noticed that the last security patch I got was on 2020 and got me thinking. Why not just use custom ROMs to update my phone and get a year or two from my MIX3 (2018). I just recently flushed my brother's phone (Samsung) with a custom ROM and I liked it. I already installed TWRP 3 years ago on my brother's phone and I just had to install a zip file and boom new Android 12 on a 2014 phone.
The problem:
after reading here on the forums, it seemed that it is more complicated to do. I'm up to the challenge, I have done it before and the reward is worth it.
+Unlocking the Bootloader
this was a bit easy other than the connection issues but I got it unlocked eventually. (use the QR code to sign it. it is much easier)
I had an issue where after unlocking the bootloader the phone didn't allow me to install TWRP and do a backup, it immediately went into erasing the entire phone.
+Installing TWRP
I downloaded the files from TWRP website and everything was smooth other than the Mi Recovery popping every time I restart (install Magisk to plant TWRP then remove it if you don't need root)
+The downhill
after restarting, the phone worked fine I installed all the apps and restored everything. Afterward, I noticed that the camera does not work. It gives me an error. I reinstalled TWRP again since it was reverting to its Mi Recovery and I think here was the problem I flashed the recovery.img into the boot partition by mistake (I didn't notice at first) but after going back to the command I saw I made a mistake and reflashed the recovery with recovery.img and installed the Magisk and everything was ok. At the initial start, the SIM and the WIFI are not working.
after several attempts at reinstalling different flashable stock ROMs, I saw that the issue is consistent. I read online that you have five .img files that control the different parts of your phone. I got tired and decided to reflash the stock ROM via the Mi flasher and get it back to stock.
Even after flashing the stock ROM, I'm still having the same issue.
I reflashed the modem.img in the modem and still wifi and sim card are not working
I read that some phones have an A/B partition and my phone does NOT have it.
I'M AT A LOSS I CAN NOT FIX IT. IT'S BEEN 3 DAYS ON THIS AND I CAN NOT FIGURE IT OUT!!
Ok, If anyone was passing by I think I found what was the problem.
First, check if your problem matches mine. Go to Settings and check your IMEI. Or just dial *#06# ,if your phone did not return with a number then you lost your IMEI number.
follow this guide and I hope it helps. this is only for some phones so don't try it, it might break your phone
[GUIDE] Backup, edit and restore QCN. Fixing lost IMEI.
Introduction This is a guide to backup and restore the QCN, and to edit other's QCN in case you lost your IMEI and you don't have a backup of your QCN. There are other ways to do some steps (the most popular is via Fastboot) but I'm gonna...
forum.xda-developers.com

I super messed up, need suggestions. [I fixed it like the chad I am :) ]

Cant flash twrp nor the patched magisk boot img to both slot a and b.
Bootloader is unlocked.
Flashing scripts via .bat files for stock zips of both android 10 and 12 results in "FAILED (remote: Partition product not found)" or "FAILED (remote: variable not found)" respectively.
I have no recovery.
When I had twrp, I've made the mistake of wiping my whole android 12 data, storage, and system and flashing an android 10 rom without reading up of the separate a and b boot slots nor the effects of my actions leading to bootlooping. (I've done with this other devices before with no problems). This in turn wiped the twrp recovery I had flashed and left me only fastboot commands and a twrp version up to 3.3 and 3.2 with no hope of getting usb otg to work as it was only available with the later versions of twrp and since I and now technically on an android 10 bootloader, any attempt at that time to flash twrp 3.6 was met with a (remote: Error calling AvbLoadAndVerifyBootImages Load Error) or some kind of other error I have no logs for. Now I cant even tetherboot to twrp 3.2 nor 3.3 and I get that error regardless.
[Boots to bootloader no matter what. Shows as UFS:Micron, Error reason - reboot bootloader - bootloader version is b1c1-0-4-7617406]
I believe I can get access to internal storage to flash these updates once I get a recovery tethered from the bootloader. I do not know if its possible to boot to fastbootd or whatever its called (used for write permissions/sideload update zips) even if I hadn't gotten into this predicament. I will be buying another Pixel 3 in the meantime as I have money to burn and like to hurt myself financially, and emotionally to get to my goal with this device. ( Didn't buy another one, I was committed to the cause!)
I am not a noob nor a pro, but somewhere in between. My biggest point of failure is not reading up on how the partitions are set up and the various issues others had when flashing android 10 and 11 roms. Any suggestions other than "uPdAtE tHe fAsTbOoT aNd AdB dRiVeRs" are not welcomed. Thank you. I will update once I find a soluton to my problem Which I Will.
Again, my main concern right now is getting tethered twrp to work again and need suggestions. I have older versions of platform tools and the latest so please non of those comments I see on literally every other thread.
Edit: I didn't mention this before, but I did have the ability yo sideload when I had twrp at the time before crapping everything out the window, but nothing would work and gave up. Just wanted to add if anyone was wondering.
First update, I used the propriatary "Tool All In One Tool" and I was able to boot to fastbootd, and wipe my data and storage, while updating my stock zip to android 12. Now I can tetherboot twrp 3.6.1_11-0 with the option for usb otg, wish me luck boys. I'm in.
Second update. Still stuck on first update, but weighing my options in the meantime. I flashed twrp via the flash current twrp option, but when I boot to it, touch is disabled so thats great... I can fast boot to only the twrp versions after 3.6+, so not so bad. I have no os installed, but I will try my hand again at that tool all in one tool again. I'll update tomorrow if anything comes of it.
3rd update. FROM THE BRINK OF DEATH!!! WHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! I got the pixeldust rom flashed and working like a BOSS!!!!! You won't believe the 2 days I've had trying to get this thing to work. All in all 1 out of my 3 flashdrives finally worked with otg. I had a windows recovery drive premade on it so I just copied and pasted the files there without a hitch! Thank you Google for having to make me miss work and actually do research to get this thing working again! Thank you for the guys at Tool All In One Tool for making this recovery possible, I will shout out your thread. If anyone who's in a similar situation needs any help from me or any info, I'll be glad to help. This will be the second to last update. I can also make phone calls and use data so Pixel Dust rom is good to go if that was one of your concerns. See ya!
Final update, I got crdroid flashed with root and safetynet passed, I just found out that google Pay was imbedded in gapps so now I don't need the pay app anymore to do transactions! My banking app also works, got vanced finally installed (couldn't do it on regular stock ROM) some glitches with the ROM here and there but no worries. For who ever reads this. There's hope. I fd up as bad as you can get shy of a hard brick. I still don't know too much but learned near twice as much as I knew just a few days ago. If you need help just DM me and I'll work my hardest to bring the light. This phone is absolutely amazing and on god wished google was a better company to praise. I have more plans for these phones and hope more Roms come out to support it.
I have one question however, how do I make a backup of my system/system_ext partitions? I can make a back up of everything else but that with these two Roms... I have a backup of it with my stock ROM, but it resumed to mount when I used otg... Didn't try internal yet but I'll assume the same, is it a glitch with current twrp?

Question "Your device is corrupt" error before successful boot (Android 13 May update rooted with Magisk)

Hey all, I'm not new to this, but I'm looking for some guidance and explanation of the root cause so I don't break my phone worse than it is.
I bought a Pixel 6a last fall, and I have been using it non-rooted since. I have accepted each OTA update since Android 13 was released and as of today I am running on TQ2A.230505.002.
I took the OTA update for May 2023 as soon as it was released before rooting. After it successfully installed, I downloaded the matching factory image zip and extracted the boot.img from the ROM, patched it with Magisk, and then flashed by doing fastboot flash boot magiskboot.img.
It was working fine for a few days, until today when my phone reboot and I was greeted with the "Your device is corrupt" message. If I continue, the phone boots successfully and it works like normal. Magisk says it is loaded and modules are active.
I have reboot my phone several times since I rooted it, and I never received this error. However, the last time I reboot before I received this error was Sunday night. I have not installed any apps since then.
Looking around on this forum and others, I have seen posts from other users who got this error, but their situations are different. In those cases, they received the message only after accepting an OTA on a rooted device or got stuck in a boot loop, but neither of those scenarios apply to me. The solutions in other threads also seem to be a mixed bag of results, so I'm hesitant to do anything until I understand the root cause and ask for guidance.
Since I am unlocked and booting, my hope is that it should be easily recoverable. However, what could cause it to suddenly become "corrupt", and how would I diagnose or remediate the issue with minimal disruption or risk to data? My main concerns at this point are not knowing how it got into this state, and how to quickly recover from it if it happens again.
---- Edit below with more info ----
I found another user with a very similar issue from a month ago. While the issue seems to have been inflicted differently, their symptoms are very similar. The suggested solution is linked here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/your-device-is-corrupted-message-on-bootup.4578141/#post-88446647
The other post states the issue is caused by "the bootloader is looking for a new/updated OS without corruption errors so it will go back to restart mode rather than being stuck in the RED eio mode which displays that message."
Since my phone was working, what corruption could I have experienced over the past two days of regular usage? I did not install any updates or make any changes that failed.
Also, what would be the recommended solution in my case? Should I try flashing an older boot.img and then reflash the newest? Or should I do "fastboot --disable verity flash vbmeta vbmeta.img"? Are there any risks with either approach?
Your bootloader is unlocked, hence the message.
dexlemaffo said:
Your bootloader is unlocked, hence the message.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not the "your bootloader is unlocked" warning. This is the eio message saying the system is corrupt and requires manual intervention to boot.
After doing a bit more research and learning more about the "eio" mode that it was stuck in, I decided to take a stab at it.
Since I have the May update installed, I downloaded the April factory image. I also downloaded platform-tools r33.0.3 because I read there was mixed results with the latest version.
I extracted the boot.img from the bluejay-tq2a.230405.003.e1 April image and flashed it to my phone with fastboot. I then reboot the device. It failed to boot, as expected. However, I immediately noticed the error was gone and I only had the regular unlocked bootloader warning.
I boot into fastboot again and flashed the boot.img from the bluejay-tq2a.230505.002 May image matching my system version. After it flashed successfully, I reboot and the error did not return.
Edit:
I proceeded with rooting again. This time, I did "fastboot boot boot-magisk.img" and flashed from Magisk instead of from fastboot, though I doubt there is any difference.
It reboot successfully. I am back to being rooted without any error message and without any factory reset.
I still don't know what would have caused the bootloader to think there was corruption after it was working for several days. Can anyone reading this can provide some insight?
This whole issue has me very uneasy. I'm worried something else could be wrong - whether it's a bug with Android, or a hardware fault, or a bug in Magisk.
I'm wondering if I should be concerned.
Today, when my phone reboot, it was sudden. I did not initiate the reboot. I thought it was a benign crash as I have experienced many times before. However that was when I saw the "your device is corrupt" message.
I'm reading up on dm-verity and the dm-verity driver here: https://source.android.com/docs/security/features/verifiedboot/dm-verity
I suspect the dm-verity driver is used to hash and verify the system partitions on the fly? If so, could it be that when I was using my phone, it was trying to access some data and the hash failed, the signature mismatched, and it triggered the bootloader to mark the system as corrupt?
If that is what happened, is that cause for concern? Would that be the result of actual system file corruption or bad NAND? Or is it some bizarre Android glitch when running rooted?
Youll likely need to do a factory reset to get rid of that message.
That is incorrect. Based on the other reports of users with the same issue, this is a bootloader message and a factory reset has nothing to do with it. Additionally installing a factory image and wiping the phone would not get rid of the image either. Only an upgrade can supposedly remove the message, unless it is caused by something else.
He said it's the device is corrupt message, not the normal unlocked bootloader one.
afaik thats a bug in Android Verified Boot.
what you did is exactly the "normal" method to solve it, e.g. flash boot.img of the prior version, try to reboot and then flash the correct version again.

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