[REF][Guide] Bootloader/Root + FAQ

[REF][Guide] Bootloader/Root + FAQ - Xperia SP General

Glossary
Post 1 FAQ
Post 2 Guides + after rooting
FAQ A.K.A The Basics
What is root?
Root is basically being able to run as a superuser in linux or admin in windows, giving you the ability to go deeper into the file system. It is a pre-requisite for most tweaks.
WTF is bootloader locked/unlocked?
For many people root is enough. However, if you want to change your kernel (for overclock etc.), try leaked builds or have a taste of custom roms such as Cyanogen Mod by FXP, you must unlock the bootloader.
What are ftf files?
They are essentially firmware files. They can be flashed with flashtool, and are used for recovering from a bad flash or getting updates from other regions.
List of ftfs can be found here.
Will be constantly updated.

The guides
Unlocking the bootloader
WARNING: You will lose Bravia Engine 2 for photos FOREVER! Before you start, do a full backup of your phone data with backup and restore app. Remember to take out the SD card after backup or you will LOSE ALL DATA. Unlocking the bootloader WIPES THE INTERNAL MEMORY (and SD CARD if you don’t TAKE IT OUT). YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!
First check if your bootloader can be unlocked. Type *#*#7378423#*#* and click service info. If it says bootloader unlockable, you may proceed to unlock it.
Follow Doomlord’s excellent guide here. Feel free to ask questions if in doubt.
Relocking the bootloader
If you want to use PC Companion or Sony Update Service to update your phone, you must relock the bootloader. Follow this thread by alivanov79.
Rooting the phone
DooMLoRD Easy Rooting Toolkit (the very easy way)
1. Follow DooMLoRD's guide here. It's that simple.
Flashing kernels (unlocked bootloaders)
1. Download Superuser zip and place it in the sd card.
2. Install flashtool from HERE.
3. Open up flashtool and select fastboot option by clicking the lightning icon.
4. Turn off your phone and hold the volume up button while plugging in the usb cable.
5. Download Kernel with CWM.
6. Select the kernel you downloaded in flashtool.
7. When the phone restarts, continuously press the volume up key.
8. You should end up in the recovery. Use volume keys to move up and down while using the power button to click.
9. Choose install zip from sdcard >> choose zip from external sd card >> navigate to the superuser zip you downloaded earlier.
10 .Reboot and you are done!
The After Root Guide
First of all, congrats on making it this far. You have proven to yourself to be a daring and adventurous individual. :victory:
Moving app data to SD card
1. Install DirectoryBind here. Choose the latest in alphabetical order.
2. Open up your game and install the data on internal memory. (skip this step if you have already done so)
3. Use a file explorer to create a new folder in your external SD card. Name it "Game data" or whatever.
4. Copy your whole game folder(eg. com.ea.games.nfs13_row ) to the folder you created on your external SD card, eg."Game data". You can use a computer if you want to. Remove the files inside the game folder in the internal memory but leave the game folder intact.
5. Open DirectoryBind and grant superuser permissions.
6. Add new entry by clicking the settings button, a.k.a the 3 dots at the bottom right.
7. Hold on the box for data path and point it towards game data in the "Game data" folder.
8. Hold on the box for target path and link it to the empty folder in internal memory.
9. Do not check the "Transfer files" option.
10. Click add.
11. Turn on the button beside Root Access OK. It mounts the game data at boot.
12. Click settings >> more >> backup database
13. Done!

Thanks for the rooting guide.
I was wondering if you have to unlock the bootloader for Sony xperia SP in order to Root it.
Can I root it without unlocking the bootloader?
Thanks

ahgahg said:
Thanks for the rooting guide.
I was wondering if you have to unlock the bootloader for Sony xperia SP in order to Root it.
Can I root it without unlocking the bootloader?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta

ahgahg said:
Thanks for the rooting guide.
I was wondering if you have to unlock the bootloader for Sony xperia SP in order to Root it.
Can I root it without unlocking the bootloader?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think so. Losing bravia engine is not exactly a big deal.
Sent from my Xperia SP using xda premium

jasonwsc said:
I don't think so. Losing bravia engine is not exactly a big deal.
Sent from my Xperia SP using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you even serious? BE2 is a big Deal!! without it, your screen would just be a regular low end device screen. The fact that our SP's screen is already inferior to S3's super amoled, and you will still remove the bravia engine? what's wrong with you man. Don't encourage people here to lose their bravia engine.
Guys lets wait for a proper root. It will come. just be patient.

cidane said:
Are you even serious? BE2 is a big Deal!! without it, your screen would just be a regular low end device screen. The fact that our SP's screen is already inferior to S3's super amoled, and you will still remove the bravia engine? what's wrong with you man. Don't encourage people here to lose their bravia engine.
Guys lets wait for a proper root. It will come. just be patient.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You lose ONLY for photos, not for videos. It's NOT a big deal, since it oversaturates the photos anyway.
I actually prefer it this way, but unlike you, I respect other people's opinions.

If we re-flash the rom, can we use BE2 again?!
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta

frogerra said:
If we re-flash the rom, can we use BE2 again?!
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will be gone forever if you unlock the bootloader.

jasonwsc said:
You lose ONLY for photos, not for videos. It's NOT a big deal, since it oversaturates the photos anyway.
I actually prefer it this way, but unlike you, I respect other people's opinions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry if my post offended you, what im just trying to say is, not everyone wants to lose their BE2, if it's cool with you then its fine, for everyone else I suggest wait a little bit more. here's a bit of infro from GSMarena btw:
From GSMArena: http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_sp-review-924p3.php
The TFT screen is backed by the Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, which enhances contrast and sharpness, brings down noise and saturates colors to make them more pleasing to the eye. The reds in particular tend to really pop out.
The contrast is only average and colors are hardly the best around. Brightness levels are pretty decent, though.
frogerra said:
If we re-flash the rom, can we use BE2 again?!
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK, you need to backup your TA, before you unlock your bootloader so you can restore it afterwards. Saw it on ZL's forum before. SP's forum is a bit empty, not much info and instructions on tinkering with our device. Im still waiting though

cidane said:
AFAIK, you need to backup your TA, before you unlock your bootloader so you can restore it afterwards. Saw it on ZL's forum before. SP's forum is a bit empty, not much info and instructions on tinkering with our device. Im still waiting though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I'm don't understand. What the meaning of TA?
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta

frogerra said:
Sorry, I'm don't understand. What the meaning of TA?
Sent from my ST18i using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
Xperia SP in not yet included. Hopefull it will be

cidane said:
AFAIK, you need to backup your TA, before you unlock your bootloader so you can restore it afterwards. Saw it on ZL's forum before. SP's forum is a bit empty, not much info and instructions on tinkering with our device. Im still waiting though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't backup your TA partition without root. :crying:

jasonwsc said:
You can't backup your TA partition without root. :crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see, so its better to wait for official root for locked BL

When purchased the phone in india in 1st week of may...when i checked the status of bootloader unlock allowed it said Yes. However, there was a s/w update to the firmware .211 after the update when today i saw the status it says bootloader unlock allowed No...do you think after the firmware upgrade they disabled this option????

puneethv said:
When purchased the phone in india in 1st week of may...when i checked the status of bootloader unlock allowed it said Yes. However, there was a s/w update to the firmware .211 after the update when today i saw the status it says bootloader unlock allowed No...do you think after the firmware upgrade they disabled this option????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess No.
Did you try any script available for root of other devices in our Xperia SP device. Cause i tried it, which end up in bootloader unlock allowed status to No. After that I reflash the stock firmware using Sony Update service, then I got back to the normal status bootloader unlock allowed status to Yes.

anthonythangaraj said:
I guess No.
Did you try any script available for root of other devices in our Xperia SP device. Cause i tried it, which end up in bootloader unlock allowed status to No. After that I reflash the stock firmware using Sony Update service, then I got back to the normal status bootloader unlock allowed status to Yes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did try many rooting tool available in XDA where it said tht it might have worked with SP maybe tht caused id....to reflash the stock rom do i need to use the repair tool from pc companion???

cidane said:
Read here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
Xperia SP in not yet included. Hopefull it will be
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Xperia SP is not yet included because nobody has tried that tool yet
Not for compatiblity reason
And it's likely to be compatible
@jasonwsc adding that tool in the OP would be a nice thing (especially for who cries for his DRM keys)
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app

mirhl said:
Xperia SP is not yet included because nobody has tried that tool yet
Not for compatiblity reason
And it's likely to be compatible
@jasonwsc adding that tool in the OP would be a nice thing (especially for who cries for his DRM keys)
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesn't work without root. Read the thread on backing up TA.
Will put it up once the phone can be rooted without unlocking bootloaders.

Root for locked bootloader is available now based on perfmon exploit by doom lord. You can try it..
Sent from my Xperia U using xda app-developers app

Related

Rooting Xperia PlayOrange locked

I've been trying to root my Xperia Play, however, as most of you are aware, SOME Xperia Plays cannot be unlocked due to no fastboot enabled on some models (namely network branded ones) my question is, can anyone help me root? I've tried unlocking the bootloader with no luck, I've also tried GingerBreak 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 and there's just been no luck, on Gingerbreak the screen just sits on rooting... running exploits... or something of the sort
any help anyone?

i'm going to assume you are on 2.3.3 or later, so my recommendation to you would be to downgrade to 2.3.2, root with gingerbreak, then OTA back to the latest OTA will take you too. i too, have (though it is now unlocked now) an orange device, and before i got fastboot enabled, this was the method i used.
even though bootloader is locked, you CAN still flash ftf files via flashtool. i'll grab the link to the 2.3.2 firmware in a sec, and i do recommend this method if you want root
Edit:
here is the post with 2.3.2
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=14547231&postcount=1
literally just flash it with flashtool (you know how to use it?), and gingerbreak it right after initial setup. connect to wifi (please tell me you have it?!) and upgrade via OTA. and BAM!!! rooted 2.3.3

in the process of downloading flashtool and the generic play rom, I take it adb is required too correct? and would rooting not kill the OTA updates? at least that's what I've read anyway.
thanks for the help, I've been trying to root for about 2 weeks now and orange just won't let it happen.

OTA updates are killed if you delete any SYSTEM BLOATWARE apps WITH ROOTed Apps!!

You can almost see flashtool as an unofficial barebones version of the Sony Ericsson update. Flashtool just allows you to downgrade as well as upgrade. Provided you have the required package.
You don't need to download anything else as everything you need is included. Just double click the flashtool.exe (I think it's an exe, says summat about java *shrugs*).
Ota is only broken with removed bloatware (which is why you remove bloat after upgrading after rooting), or if bootloader is unlocked.
So,
Extract flashtool
Copy ftf into firmware folder
Install ggdrivers if necessary
Turn phone off
Open flashtool
Click flash
Select the ftf and tick wipe data
Confirm
And when prompted, hold the back button and insert USB and wait
Simple. Then root and ota obviously. If you need any more guidance. I finish work in an hour
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

well, successfully rooted my Play, thanks for the help! shame it's gonna cost me to get the sim lock off and be able to access recovery mode, ah well, I still have my root apps back, is there a topic here that advertises the precedure for rooting branded phones? if not, there should be, while I was looking around (I personally didn't see anything that stuck out) there seemed to be alot of people struggling with rooting locked bootloaders. just a thought! thanks again guys

if you mean sim Unlock,you should ask alejandroiss-whatever his name is

Will this method work with the r800x
Edit: meant the gingerbreak with 2.3.2
Sent from my R800x using XDA App

odst0016 said:
Will this method work with the r800x
Edit: meant the gingerbreak with 2.3.2
Sent from my R800x using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you wont be able to use the ftf file included in this method, unfortunately, as it is for a different radio system (and therefore, uses different drivers) to the r800i. i'm pretty sure that in the dev thread, there are some threads dedicated to rooting the r800x in various ways, but as i'm not a developer or an owner of the x variant, i cant say i know what the methods involve etc. sorry. so i reccommend that you pop over to the dev thread, and have a look. it can be a hard place to find what you need, at times, but it is such a rich library of info, it's definately worth going to.
---------- Post added at 05:26 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:19 PM ----------
Cat_On_Droid said:
if you mean sim Unlock,you should ask alejandroiss-whatever his name is
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1254416
this guy is awesome!! not only does the process remove sim lock, it also activates fastboot mode on carrier branded phones (shivers with joy), AND!!!! unlocks the bootloader ALL IN ONE!!! alejandrissimo charges a fee for this (as it does cost money to run the process, sadly), but for just under £20 and getting what it gives you, the value added to the phone is just great!!
if anyone is serious about unlocking the potential of their phone, i couldnt recommend alejandrissimo more!!

[GUIDE][ARC/S][WALKMAN][LOCKED BL]Get SenseME Info (Download music info) working

Managed to get Download Music Info on my Xperia arc S with UNLOCKED bootloader, running a custom ROM.
Requirements:
Xperia arc/Xperia arc S (only tested on arc S though)
Android ICS 4.0.4
Walkman app - get it from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1726322 (many colour variants) or http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1681250 (for Beats MOD)
Flashtool - get it from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=920746
Stock ICS Kernel for rooting - found in ZIP attached
Relock bootloader file - found in Zip attached
Before starting, unzip the two FTF files in the attached ZIP to your local Flashtool folder, under 'firmwares'.
Instructions:
1) Flash your ROM (must be ICS, custom ROMS are fine) on your device - either via CWM or Flashtool.
2) Install Walkman (using the two links above) - NOTE: Ignore this if you have one in your ROM and you are satisfied with it.
3) Boot your phone into FLASH mode. (Shut your phone down, hold the BACK key while plugging it into your computer)
4) Open Flashtool and click on the FLASH icon (lightning shape), select 'Flashmode' and click OK. Then select the firmware with Device lt18i, Version 4.1.B.0.431, Branding ready to root. There should be only two files on the right, loader.sin and kernel.sin . Click OK. (Don't check any boxes!)
5) Wait for the flashing to complete... and you're done! Your phone should be able to boot properly, and Walkman Download Music Info should work.
Warning:
If you would like to have CWM/root even after locking up the bootloader, MAKE SURE you have a PRE-ROOTED ROM! Then you can install CWM via Market apps such as X-Parts and so on.
Hit Thanks if I have helped you! Sorry but I'm new to XDA-developers, so maybe I'm doing this wrongly, I dunno...

This is great! :victory: but can it work for stock .587 kernel?

SuperMari064 said:
This is great! :victory: but can it work for stock .587 kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure, I didn't try. But I don't think so, since the kernel is for .431 Build. Sorry!

alright am on a custom kernel with Unlocked bootloader...its good to know that i do have the option to lock my bootloader again...just wanted to know wat i wud need to do if i want to keep the kernel!!! would it work???

Unfortunately the music info need drm keys to work, and relocking the bootlaeder wouldn't not make it reapear
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app

b_nikz said:
just wanted to know wat i wud need to do if i want to keep the kernel!!! would it work???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most definitely not.

it Does not Work With Unlocked BootLoaders.

ArcMan09 said:
it Does not Work With Unlocked BootLoaders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course it doesn't, DRM keys are lost upon unlocking the bootloader.

I'm so excited with this mod...then I unlock my bootloader and feel so bad that lost this great music effect...is that no way to make it works on unlock BL ???
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

[Q] Question about rooting

Hey everyone. I was wondering if you could root without unlocking the bootloader first. I know i wouldn't be able to flash roms and such, but I just want the Superuser app so I can use apps like Titanium backup and sixaxis controller. Thanks in advance!

timour79 said:
Hey everyone. I was wondering if you could root without unlocking the bootloader first. I know i wouldn't be able to flash roms and such, but I just want the Superuser app so I can use apps like Titanium backup and sixaxis controller. Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry to tell you, but there is no way of rooting without unlocking the bootloader, since its secured and you won't be able to flash the necessary super user scripts. i could be wrong, but i think its necessary to unlock the bootloader.

Billchen0014 said:
sorry to tell you, but there is no way of rooting without unlocking the bootloader, since its secured and you won't be able to flash the necessary super user scripts. i could be wrong, but i think its necessary to unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?

timour79 said:
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well

Billchen0014 said:
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, thanks

Billchen0014 said:
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a good example of where using a toolkit fails.
You can re-lock the bootloader without affecting root. Boot the phone in fastboot mode, connect to computer and run the following command:
Code:
> fastboot oem lock

timour79 said:
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's your reason for wanting it relocked?
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda app-developers app

noneabove said:
What's your reason for wanting it relocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not the OP, but I don't like the open padlock icon that shows that the device's bootloader is unlocked.
Any disadvantage to re-locking the bootloader?

Nate2 said:
I'm not the OP, but I don't like the open padlock icon that shows that the device's bootloader is unlocked.
Any disadvantage to re-locking the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I dont want to completely void the warranty, unless rooting already does that. If it was mine then i would've unlocked and rooted. I'd probably already have a rom and kernel on it. But it's actually my dad's, and he said I can root it if I don't do anything too serious(like I said, I just want Superuser so I can use things like the sixaxis controller app.)

comminus said:
This is a good example of where using a toolkit fails.
You can re-lock the bootloader without affecting root. Boot the phone in fastboot mode, connect to computer and run the following command:
Code:
> fastboot oem lock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would that be manual rooting?

NRT questions
hey there
have some newb questions about rooting along the same lines of the OP. hope you can help me
1. what are the chances of bricking the nexus by rooting if all i am going to do is the same as the OP. use sixasis and the usb stick apps. has anyone completely bricked their device or is there always a way back. i have seen a lot of info and guides to suggest you can always get the factory image restored.
2. does the superuser app already need to be installed on the nexus or does the toolkit install it for me?
3. if i am only rooting for basic stuff like sixasis is there any point installing clockword mod?
4. i have downloaded the toolkit and tried the driver installation. my experience was different from the screenshots in the toolkit and guides i have seen but when i run the driver check/step 3 it comes back with success and i have managed to make a backup. so does this imply i can safely unlock and root.
5. if i have to get my device repaired and relock the device and un-root it will my warranty be ok or can google still detect rooting has been done?
sorry for the newb questions but there are so many different guides out there and some of them refer to older versions of the NRT so just want to clarify these points.

timour79 said:
Would that be manual rooting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. All you are doing there is unlocking the bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader is the equivalent of pre-heating your oven. You haven't messed with any ingredients or cooked anything yet.
---------- Post added at 01:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:53 PM ----------
Lemegeton300 said:
1. what are the chances of bricking the nexus by rooting if all i am going to do is the same as the OP. use sixasis and the usb stick apps. has anyone completely bricked their device or is there always a way back. i have seen a lot of info and guides to suggest you can always get the factory image restored.
2. does the superuser app already need to be installed on the nexus or does the toolkit install it for me?
3. if i am only rooting for basic stuff like sixasis is there any point installing clockword mod?
4. i have downloaded the toolkit and tried the driver installation. my experience was different from the screenshots in the toolkit and guides i have seen but when i run the driver check/step 3 it comes back with success and i have managed to make a backup. so does this imply i can safely unlock and root.
5. if i have to get my device repaired and relock the device and un-root it will my warranty be ok or can google still detect rooting has been done?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The chances are pretty slim for permanently bricking. That is the beauty of Nexus devices - the entire factory image is available to be flashed back on if you screw things up. That is the equivalent of reformatting your harddrive & reinstalling your OS on your desktop.
2. mkskip's toolkit will install it for you. I am sure wug's will too.
3. You don't have to install CWM, especially if you are thinking that you will pretty much always stay stock. But, the bug might hit you in a month or two to start playing around, and then CWM or TWRP is your friend. I installed CWM & made a backup pretty quickly in case I do something I shouldn't, such as accidentally deleting a vital system app. That way you do not have to do the factory reinstall route. Every few weeks you can make yourself a fresh backup just for fun.
4. You should be fine - the drivers must be working if the toolkit is doing backups for you. I am assuming you are using mkskips toolkit based on this question - his instructions say that sometimes in 1 step it says drivers didn't install correctly when they actually do - Windows is...Windows. If you want to be sure, ask away on mkskip's thread. He is quite helpful.
5. If you reflash the factory image & the bootloader is relocked, there is nothing for them to see...not that they'd really care since the point of a Nexus is to develop on it. You would only be returning it for a hardware issue, and the software unlocking has no impact on the hardware problem, since your hardware issue would've happened no matter what software you had on it. The only way a software thing could cause a hardware issue would be if you over-overclocked it & cooked some parts. You'd really have to work at doing that since these things usually shut down when the temperature gets too high.
In short: root it & enjoy it!

Thanks for the info. Its wugs tool I am using so not sure what happened with drivers but like you said its good to go. So will the clockwork mod essentially create a restore point for me ?
Going to go ahead and root the device now. Thanks for the help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

Lemegeton300 said:
Thanks for the info. Its wugs tool I am using so not sure what happened with drivers but like you said its good to go. So will the clockwork mod essentially create a restore point for me ?
Going to go ahead and root the device now. Thanks for the help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. When you restore a backup it will be just as it was when you made it. Have fun!

Androxyde Updated FlashTool to 0.9.13 Full Supported Z1

New FlashTool Updated To Full Supported Xperia Z1 With (FlashTool Driver 1.1)
Available Download Now
http://www.flashtool.net/ (Official Site)
Mirror Link: (Dev-Host)
http://d-h.st/Xrv

anyone succesfully root the xperia z1 with flashtool?. Cheers.

No, it's not supported.
Follow the routing goes in the development section
Sent from my C6903 using xda premium

No Mac release of 0.9.13 yet

Rekoil said:
No Mac release of 0.9.13 yet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about now?
Troll
You can't report a negative...
Sent from my C6903 using xda premium

While flashing a stock firmware over another stock firmware, do we have to exclude anything from the package.????
I saw an option to exclude TA as well. So if i don't exclude it, will i lose my original DRM keys??

crk1995 said:
While flashing a stock firmware over another stock firmware, do we have to exclude anything from the package.????
I saw an option to exclude TA as well. So if i don't exclude it, will i lose my original DRM keys??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can only lose your TA partition if you unlock your bootloader, flashing a firmware ftf file does not touch that. please search and read the available threads on how to flash a firmware file and what you can and cannot check, the only things that people sometimes uncheck is wipe data, cache etc

sofir786 said:
you can only lose your TA partition if you unlock your bootloader, flashing a firmware ftf file does not touch that. please search and read the available threads on how to flash a firmware file and what you can and cannot check, the only things that people sometimes uncheck is wipe data, cache etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I'm new to Sony Xperia line. So i m a bit scared about all this TA thing.
I have watched some videos but none has an option to exclude ta but mine has. I m still not convinced. Can you confirm that you have done it with your phone and did you have an option to exclude TA in your flashtool software...
Thanks in advance. Sorry to bother you.

crk1995 said:
Actually I'm new to Sony Xperia line. So i m a bit scared about all this TA thing.
I have watched some videos but none has an option to exclude ta but mine has. I m still not convinced. Can you confirm that you have done it with your phone and did you have an option to exclude TA in your flashtool software...
Thanks in advance. Sorry to bother you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just use a tool (or my guide if you're not a Windows user) to backup your TA partition and you won't have to worry about a thing (except losing the backup ).

Rekoil said:
Just use a tool (or my guide if you're not a Windows user) to backup your TA partition and you won't have to worry about a thing (except losing the backup ).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the problem is that i m updated to the latest firmware which cannot be rooted at the moment. So i want to first revert back to previous firmware and then root and backup.
And in the guide i didnt find the option for exclude TA in the screenshot.

crk1995 said:
Actually I'm new to Sony Xperia line. So i m a bit scared about all this TA thing.
I have watched some videos but none has an option to exclude ta but mine has. I m still not convinced. Can you confirm that you have done it with your phone and did you have an option to exclude TA in your flashtool software...
Thanks in advance. Sorry to bother you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When ive flashed ftf files, i have never checked anything in the exclude section of the flash tool, leave that as it is.
There are 2 versions of flashtool, one is an official from Sony, this tool does not have the option and can only be used with a unlocked bootloader. The flashtool that can be found here in the forum can be used wether you have unlocked or not, it was originally designed back when the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 came out.
So to conclude
1. Make sure you have the latest version of flashtool installed.
2. Download your preferred firmware.
3. Open flashtool and click the lightning icon at top left.
4. make sure bootmode selected is Flashmode.
5. Select your firmware file when prompted.
6. Flashtool will now process the file (give it a minute or 2 to do this)
7. It will now prompt for you to connect phone in flash mode.
8. make sure your phone is turned off, in order to connect in flash mode while holding volume down
connect the usb, keep everything held down until the flash starts.
9. Follow onscreen instructions, it will take around 5 minutes for this to flash, flashtool will tell you went to
disconnect and reboot.

crk1995 said:
Actually the problem is that i m updated to the latest firmware which cannot be rooted at the moment. So i want to first revert back to previous firmware and then root and backup.
And in the guide i didnt find the option for exclude TA in the screenshot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or just wait for a root exploit to show up for the latest version. I mean unless you're planning to flash CyanogenMod or something now then why worry about it?

sofir786 said:
When ive flashed ftf files, i have never checked anything in the exclude section of the flash tool, leave that as it is.
There are 2 versions of flashtool, one is an official from Sony, this tool does not have the option and can only be used with a unlocked bootloader. The flashtool that can be found here in the forum can be used wether you have unlocked or not, it was originally designed back when the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 came out.
So to conclude
1. Make sure you have the latest version of flashtool installed.
2. Download your preferred firmware.
3. Open flashtool and click the lightning icon at top left.
4. make sure bootmode selected is Flashmode.
5. Select your firmware file when prompted.
6. Flashtool will now process the file (give it a minute or 2 to do this)
7. It will now prompt for you to connect phone in flash mode.
8. make sure your phone is turned off, in order to connect in flash mode while holding volume down
connect the usb, keep everything held down until the flash starts.
9. Follow onscreen instructions, it will take around 5 minutes for this to flash, flashtool will tell you went to
disconnect and reboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CORRECTION:
sony's official flash tool is for locked bootloader and not unlocked bootloader.
And the Sony's official flashtool require some login details. i went through a new user option. But i didnt receive a confirmation email.
I m giving flashtool a try now. Lets see what happens. God save me...:laugh:

crk1995 said:
CORRECTION:
sony's official flash tool is for locked bootloader and not unlocked bootloader.
And the Sony's official flashtool require some login details. i went through a new user option. But i didnt receive a confirmation email.
I m giving flashtool a try now. Lets see what happens. God save me...:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You missed something, you're supposed to edit the configuration file so that the program will allow use without a login. But it only works for unlocked bootloaders.
Follow the instructions in the link below and you'll get it running:
http://developer.sonymobile.com/services/flash-tool/how-to-download-and-install-the-flash-tool/

crk1995 said:
CORRECTION:
sony's official flash tool is for locked bootloader and not unlocked bootloader.
And the Sony's official flashtool require some login details. i went through a new user option. But i didnt receive a confirmation email.
I m giving flashtool a try now. Lets see what happens. God save me...:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sony's flashtool only works if you have a unlocked bootloader, go ahead try and use it if you dont believe me, the software will actaully tell you, but hey go ahead.
---------- Post added at 08:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:54 AM ----------
crk1995 said:
CORRECTION:
sony's official flash tool is for locked bootloader and not unlocked bootloader.
And the Sony's official flashtool require some login details. i went through a new user option. But i didnt receive a confirmation email.
I m giving flashtool a try now. Lets see what happens. God save me...:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://developer.sonymobile.com/services/flash-tool/
Read that if you don't believe me, read the first paragraph!
i quote "Flash tool for Xperia™ devices
Here you can learn more about the flash tool for Xperia™ devices, which is a desktop application that you can use to flash Sony software on your unlocked Xperia™ device. This is useful if you’ve for example flashed a custom ROM on your device, and want to go change to a standard Sony software. This flash tool can only be used by Xperia™ devices having an unlocked boot loader. Please note that your phone still stays unlocked, and that the warranty may still be voided."

sofir786 said:
Sony's flashtool only works if you have a unlocked bootloader, go ahead try and use it if you dont believe me, the software will actaully tell you, but hey go ahead.
---------- Post added at 08:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:54 AM ----------
http://developer.sonymobile.com/services/flash-tool/
Read that if you don't believe me, read the first paragraph!
i quote "Flash tool for Xperia™ devices
Here you can learn more about the flash tool for Xperia™ devices, which is a desktop application that you can use to flash Sony software on your unlocked Xperia™ device. This is useful if you’ve for example flashed a custom ROM on your device, and want to go change to a standard Sony software. This flash tool can only be used by Xperia™ devices having an unlocked boot loader. Please note that your phone still stays unlocked, and that the warranty may still be voided."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OHHH!! Thank You for correcting me...
I m damn scared right now...to flash even a stock rom on new device.. This was not the case with samsung. They didnt have this bootloader thing earlier, dont know about current gen samsung phones.

crk1995 said:
OHHH!! Thank You for correcting me...
I m damn scared right now...to flash even a stock rom on new device.. This was not the case with samsung. They didnt have this bootloader thing earlier, dont know about current gen samsung phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do not touch the bootloader at the moment, there is a reason why people are not unlocking their bootloader as doing this breaks camera functionality. Don't be scared, it is quite a simple procedure.

Flashing with flash tool will NOT break your phone and you can airways force a repair with pccompanion.
Just try it, it's perfectly safe
Sent from my C6903 using xda premium

crk1995 said:
OHHH!! Thank You for correcting me...
I m damn scared right now...to flash even a stock rom on new device.. This was not the case with samsung. They didnt have this bootloader thing earlier, dont know about current gen samsung phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
New Samsungs are worse, you can't restore them to a state where Samsung can't detect that you've been running custom software on it.
sofir786 said:
Do not touch the bootloader at the moment, there is a reason why people are not unlocking their bootloader as doing this breaks camera functionality. Don't be scared, it is quite a simple procedure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless you have a TA backup in which case you can do whatever you want.
I'm too much of a ***** to confirm the following theory, but I wouldn't be completely surprised if someone who flashed the wrong TA-backup was able to start the phone in fastboot mode, unlock the bootloader again (perhaps with the unlock token matching the new TA), and flash his own TA from CyanogenMod or something. (Do not quote me on this please, not taking responsibility for someone breaking their phone trying this.)

Restoring a ta that did not come from your phone will result in a hard brick, nobody should try it EVER
Sent from my C6903 using xda premium

[TUTORIAL] ROOT Sony Xperia Z - EASY! (C6603,C6602,L36h)

WARNING: Only works with firmwares under 4.3!
Since Kingo has now replied and the IMEI issues have been resolved, here is my tutorial on how to get root privileges on your Xperia Z safely and even more important easily! No need to worry about bricking now I will also post an alternative method that is just as easy!
So, here we go:
1. Download this file here: http://goo.gl/AIUANa
2. Install it on your computer (you can remove it later)
3. Open the installed program
4. Connect the phone to the computer
5. Go in settings and in developer options and then enable USB debugging
6. Click on ROOT!
7. The phone will now reboot, ROOTED! You are welcome! Please thanks if it helped!
Alternative method(10% more difficult). The only problem is that this is chinese language, so you have to click the exact buttons I tell you.
1. Download this file: http://goo.gl/U6Jwaf
2. Install the software, using the installation buttons as you would on any other windows installation.
3. When you have installed it, you will see a green button, press it. Then connect your phone on USB debugging mode.
4. When the phone is connected the software will recognise the phone and the green button will show "ROOT", click on it.
5. The phone is going to be rooted in some seconds and the process is finished when it will show a tick on the software.
6. The phone will reboot.
7. When it is rebooted, go to google play and download super su.
8. Open super su and it will ask you to update the binaries, and you must click on update, and then normal.
9. A window in chinese will pop up on the phone, this is the screen that allows you to give root permissions to any app. You must click the button on the right.
10. You are done! Root process is complete!
11. This is the most important step. Leave a thanks! If you liked the tutorial, please show it to me!
Post below if you have questions or don't understand!

can it root the latest .101 firmware on sony xperia z

aristide1997 said:
Since Kingo has now replied and the IMEI issues have been resolved, here is my tutorial on how to get root privileges on your Xperia Z safely and even more important easily! No need to worry about bricking now I will also post an alternative method that is just as easy!
So, here we go:
1. Download this file here: [MOD EDIT: Against XDA rules to use PPC links like ad.fly]
2. Install it on your computer (you can remove it later)
3. Open the installed program
4. Connect the phone to the computer
5. Go in settings and in developer options and then enable USB debugging
6. Click on ROOT!
7. The phone will now reboot, ROOTED! You are welcome! Please thanks if it helped!
Alternative method(10% more difficult). The only problem is that this is chinese language, so you have to click the exact buttons I tell you.
1. Download this file: [MOD EDIT: Against XDA rules to use PPC links like ad.fly]
2. Install the software, using the installation buttons as you would on any other windows installation.
3. When you have installed it, you will see a green button, press it. Then connect your phone on USB debugging mode.
4. When the phone is connected the software will recognise the phone and the green button will show "ROOT", click on it.
5. The phone is going to be rooted in some seconds and the process is finished when it will show a tick on the software.
6. The phone will reboot.
7. When it is rebooted, go to google play and download super su.
8. Open super su and it will ask you to update the binaries, and you must click on update, and then normal.
9. A window in chinese will pop up on the phone, this is the screen that allows you to give root permissions to any app. You must click the button on the right.
10. You are done! Root process is complete!
11. This is the most important step. Leave a thanks! If you liked the tutorial, please show it to me!
Post below if you have questions or don't understand!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is valid for 4.3?

Kingo isn't able to root 4.3 as of now, but all the older ones yes. Try the second method.
To go back to 4.2, please use this:
https://app.box.com/s/pnqhi5o9tqg1fv7uxunf
Contains the instructions to go back.

Or use this tool by trusted developer bin4ry that will root the same firmware versions (.67 and older) and doesn't need an internet connection to root your device - Root many Android
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

kingvortex said:
Or use this tool by trusted developer bin4ry that will root the same firmware versions (.67 and older) and doesn't need an internet connection to root your device - Root many Android
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah but you need to have adb tools installed right?

aristide1997 said:
Yeah but you need to have adb tools installed right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, unless Bin4ry removed them from the tool since I last used it (unlikely).
Even if you did, it's preferable to use it over Kingo/Vroot that both send hardware IDs to China as part of the process. Security and transparency should not be sacrificed for ease of use.
Before you give me the usual line that Kingo doesn't collect anything, I suggest you look on their official Facebook page. They admit they collect various data from your device. Look at the images they posted on 7th November 2013, where they state that they collect hardware IDs and serial numbers.
Also, they were caught modifying open source software for their tool and only admitted that once caught.
Anyway, their tool is nothing but a collection of other people's work passed off as their own and nobody on a development site such as this should be recommending use of software created by bottom feeders like that.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

kingvortex said:
No, unless Bin4ry removed them from the tool since I last used it (unlikely).
Even if you did, it's preferable to use it over Kingo/Vroot that both send hardware IDs to China as part of the process. Security and transparency should not be sacrificed for ease of use.
Before you give me the usual line that Kingo doesn't collect anything, I suggest you look on their official Facebook page. They admit they collect various data from your device. Look at the images they posted on 7th November 2013, where they state that they collect hardware IDs and serial numbers.
Also, they were caught modifying open source software for their tool and only admitted that once caught.
Anyway, their tool is nothing but a collection of other people's work passed off as their own and nobody on a development site such as this should be recommending use of software created by bottom feeders like that.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i believe you. I still posted both methods so people can chose the one they want, and if they want to root it, hey, it's there and it's easy. Personally, I used the second one (which is even more risky than kingo since it's chinese) and nothing happenes to my phone, and I did that back in september 2013.
So for now everyone is safe!

Not working for me on 4.3
It says "Need Root" to download the requisite dependency files then FAILED

Ben Ling said:
Not working for me on 4.3
It says "Need Root" to download the requisite dependency files then FAILED
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try the second method?

The second method will 100% not work either.
There is currently no way to root 4.3 directly without unlocking the bootloader.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

kingvortex said:
The second method will 100% not work either.
There is currently no way to root 4.3 directly without unlocking the bootloader.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah ok sorry then, you will have to unlock the bootloader first!

Perhaps change the thread title to reflect that only 4.2.2 and older is rootable by these methods.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

kingvortex said:
Perhaps change the thread title to reflect that only 4.2.2 and older is rootable by these methods.
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will put it in red now in the first line of the thread!

Thank for the guide..

aristide1997 said:
Ah ok sorry then, you will have to unlock the bootloader first!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true you can use NUTs method from 2.67 or .569..
But ye... quite the hassle and a one-click is welcome..

Is there a way to root/custom recovery when my usb port is broken ?

theorlyowl said:
Is there a way to root/custom recovery when my usb port is broken ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try using wifi adb.

Aka91 said:
Try using wifi adb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cant get wifi adb to work, the guide says it needs to be connected via usb first. And i cant do that, since my usb port is permanently broken.

Database Users

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