Database Users

New phone, MDB and rooted, should try to upgrade?

I just purchased a new AT&T Galaxy S4 via Amazon. Came with MDB software installed. I used the CASUAL root procedure and was successful. That left me with rooted MDB + TWRP recovery.
I am intending to stay with a stock ROM, not a complete custom ROM.
My question is: Should I try to update to a newer version of software? I believe right now I am two releases behind (MDB -> MDL -> MF3?)
I haven't been able to find much talking about the MDL version, so I don't know if there is anything useful in it (perhaps radio updates?). I did see some references to a performance enhancement which is always good.
I'm assuming I want to stay away from MF3 as there seems to be a lot of rapidly changing/conflicting information at this point about if and how one can get to that release (and keep root).
If I wanted to go to the MDL version, how would I go about it? I found two threads here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2348859&highlight=mdl
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2307157&highlight=mdl
Preferably, this would be done just as an update instead of wiping what I have now. But neither of those threads indicate if a wipe is necessary or if they can simply be installed on top of the stock MDB.
Appreciate any feedback!

cabadam said:
I just purchased a new AT&T Galaxy S4 via Amazon. Came with MDB software installed. I used the CASUAL root procedure and was successful. That left me with rooted MDB + TWRP recovery.
I am intending to stay with a stock ROM, not a complete custom ROM.
My question is: Should I try to update to a newer version of software? I believe right now I am two releases behind (MDB -> MDL -> MF3?)
I haven't been able to find much talking about the MDL version, so I don't know if there is anything useful in it (perhaps radio updates?). I did see some references to a performance enhancement which is always good.
I'm assuming I want to stay away from MF3 as there seems to be a lot of rapidly changing/conflicting information at this point about if and how one can get to that release (and keep root).
If I wanted to go to the MDL version, how would I go about it? I found two threads here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2348859&highlight=mdl
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2307157&highlight=mdl
Preferably, this would be done just as an update instead of wiping what I have now. But neither of those threads indicate if a wipe is necessary or if they can simply be installed on top of the stock MDB.
Appreciate any feedback!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You cannot OTA update to MF3 without ODINing back to stock - your custom recovery will prevent the update from working.
If you want to update to MDL, you can ODIN the stock MDL package and redo the CASUAL script.
I would suggest you stay on MDL until MF3 has not only root, but also custom recovery. At this point it's still too early to take the risk, even with a root access exploit now available.
If you want the updates, there are several ROMs available that incorporate updates...there's one that is almost completely stock MF3 without the bootloader (which is the main problem with it)...there's multiple based off of stock MF3 with some optimizations...and even some based on the latest Galaxy S4 International firmware which is several updates ahead of MF3.
Of course all that requires your willingness to install a custom ROM.

+1

I think you confirmed most of what I gathered - thanks for the clarifications.
jeffreii said:
If you want to update to MDL, you can ODIN the stock MDL package and redo the CASUAL script.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did this, and it didn't do quite what I expected (although maybe it is better than I expected). I downloaded the MDL firmware from:
http://galaxys4root.com/galaxy-s4-stock-firmware/
AT&T Galaxy S4 SGH-I337 UCUAMDL (Android 4.2.2)
After flashing it with Odin, and my phone rebooted, I was surprised to note that it didn't actually WIPE my device. Everything was still in place, except now the device reports that it is in fact updated to MDL.
Is that right? I was expecting it to basically be in factory-new state after flashing.

cabadam said:
I think you confirmed most of what I gathered - thanks for the clarifications.
I did this, and it didn't do quite what I expected (although maybe it is better than I expected). I downloaded the MDL firmware from:
http://galaxys4root.com/galaxy-s4-stock-firmware/
AT&T Galaxy S4 SGH-I337 UCUAMDL (Android 4.2.2)
After flashing it with Odin, and my phone rebooted, I was surprised to note that it didn't actually WIPE my device. Everything was still in place, except now the device reports that it is in fact updated to MDL.
Is that right? I was expecting it to basically be in factory-new state after flashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that's normal. It doesn't wipe your internal or external sd card. The parts you store info on

jd1639 said:
Yes that's normal. It doesn't wipe your internal or external sd card. The parts you store info on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Too easy, that basically gave me exactly what I wanted. I think I'm squared away until MF3 settles down.
Thanks for your time!

cabadam said:
Too easy, that basically gave me exactly what I wanted. I think I'm squared away until MF3 settles down.
Thanks for your time!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you ODIN an upgrade to the same firmware, you don't get a wipe. It's nice to keep your settings in those situations!
Now just make sure you root/recovery so you can avoid the OTA...otherwise make sure you freeze the OTA apps.

jeffreii said:
When you ODIN an upgrade to the same firmware, you don't get a wipe. It's nice to keep your settings in those situations!
Now just make sure you root/recovery so you can avoid the OTA...otherwise make sure you freeze the OTA apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha yeah, I had spent some time backing up some settings via TB, nice to know I don't have to deal with that (at least for now )
Already re-applied the CASUAL root process. I froze the "AT&T Software Update" app. Is there anything other than that?

cabadam said:
Haha yeah, I had spent some time backing up some settings via TB, nice to know I don't have to deal with that (at least for now )
Already re-applied the CASUAL root process. I froze the "AT&T Software Update" app. Is there anything other than that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=44022554&postcount=74

Hmm, so I went and also froze LocalFOTA, but I dont have anything called FW Upgrade
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

Good post.
I'm also on MDB. Do you think it's actually worth it to install the MDL update?
I'm currently running Kangabean with 4.3, if it matters.

Do not update ota may bypass mdl and go to mf3
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

deron37129 said:
Do not update ota may bypass mdl and go to mf3
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Would flash the MDL through Odin and immediately run Motochopper. Just trying to figure out if it's even worth it.

trunzoc said:
Nope. Would flash the MDL through Odin and immediately run Motochopper. Just trying to figure out if it's even worth it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely worth it. MDL irons out the issued that the S4 had upon release.
Sent from my SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 4

sd_N said:
Definitely worth it. MDL irons out the issued that the S4 had upon release.
Sent from my SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!.
Here goes nothing
***EDIT***
Flashed the MDL image. I pulled the SIM to avoid any kind of OTA crap and booted. Got stuck at the AT&T logo though.
I had to go into stock recovery and do a factory reset. Did that and it booted up. Ran Motochopper fine and was able to boot into TWRP.
I restored by backup, but wouldn't boot past the Samsung Logo. Did another factory reset, but still wouldn't boot. Restored a backup I had of rooted stock. That worked.
Reset again and reinstalled Kangabean from scratch. That worked. Went back to recovery again and just restored my data partition. that worked too. yay
Pain in the arse, but let's see if MDL has any noticeable differences.

Thank you ALL!! I am also on MDB firmware and was wondering about all of this.
I do have some questions if you don't mind. (sorry for the thread hijack)
On MDB firmware, can you install a stock modded rom w/o updating the firmware?(such as MDOB and Goldeneye)
Is the MDB modem compatible with these roms or will I have to flash to a newer firmware to use them?
Knowing its working perfectly now, I'd like to stick with my current setup, but Id like the ability to use a stock modded TW rom, as I have a Samsung smart TV and use most of the Samsung bloatware.
Is there really any reason to go to MDL over MDB?

custommx3 said:
Thank you ALL!! I am also on MDB firmware and was wondering about all of this.
I do have some questions if you don't mind. (sorry for the thread hijack)
On MDB firmware, can you install a stock modded rom w/o updating the firmware?(such as MDOB and Goldeneye)
Is the MDB modem compatible with these roms or will I have to flash to a newer firmware to use them?
Knowing its working perfectly now, I'd like to stick with my current setup, but Id like the ability to use a stock modded TW rom, as I have a Samsung smart TV and use most of the Samsung bloatware.
Is there really any reason to go to MDL over MDB?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check the roms you want to use. Most of them require mdl firmware.

MK2 Clarification

Okay, so I've been lurking these threads and I'd like to see if someone could clarify a few things. I come from the S3 which was a lot more simpler than the s4.
I recently bought a Galaxy S4 AT&T 32GB with MK2 ota installed. My understanding is that you cannot go back. I am fine with that, touchwiz is actually just fine and dandy on 4.3 (at least for me it is.) I do however, have a few questions in regards to the rooting process.
Rooting:
1. From what I understand, MK2 has a few privacy-concerned root methods. Once I root, I can proceed to the next question, correct?
Installing Roms:
2. After you root, from what I understand, you install a side strap program that creates partitions on your internal SDcard to install roms (side by side?) However, there is no currently stable SS for MK2. When a stable version of SS does come out, I can use it to install roms (particularly Virgin GPE sounds enticing to me, i love pure stock without much extra features) even with the boot loader being locked?
3. SS also voids the warranty, is that correct?
4. I am hearing knox is sort of like the new flash counter for S4, except it doesn't really count, it just voids your warranty, is that correct?
Thanks in advance to the community, you guys are doing an awesome job.

Dont try to flash a rom or recovery with mk2
itszcharlie said:
Okay, so I've been lurking these threads and I'd like to see if someone could clarify a few things. I come from the S3 which was a lot more simpler than the s4.
I recently bought a Galaxy S4 AT&T 32GB with MK2 ota installed. My understanding is that you cannot go back. I am fine with that, touchwiz is actually just fine and dandy on 4.3 (at least for me it is.) I do however, have a few questions in regards to the rooting process.
Rooting:
1. From what I understand, MK2 has a few privacy-concerned root methods. Once I root, I can proceed to the next question, correct?
Installing Roms:
2. After you root, from what I understand, you install a side strap program that creates partitions on your internal SDcard to install roms (side by side?) However, there is no currently stable SS for MK2. When a stable version of SS does come out, I can use it to install roms (particularly Virgin GPE sounds enticing to me, i love pure stock without much extra features) even with the boot loader being locked?
3. SS also voids the warranty, is that correct?
4. I am hearing knox is sort of like the new flash counter for S4, except it doesn't really count, it just voids your warranty, is that correct?
Thanks in advance to the community, you guys are doing an awesome job.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
from mf3 to mk2 you cannont flash roms.................but with hashcodes fix you only can flash 4.2.2 roms with a thing called safestrap look around and check out his blog he hasnt posted anything about an mk2 fix but he's working on it......btw im on mf3 and using safestrap and running a 4.2.2 google edition rom
http://blog.hash-of-codes.com/ <- blog
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1391900 <- safestrap recovery (not compatible with MK2 yet)
sorry bro you cant flash roms yet he's working on a fix
hope i helped

DyslexicTurtle said:
from mf3 to mk2 you cannont flash roms.................but with hashcodes fix you only can flash 4.2.2 roms with a thing called safestrap look around and check out his blog he hasnt posted anything about an mk2 fix but he's working on it......btw im on mf3 and using safestrap and running a 4.2.2 google edition rom
http://blog.hash-of-codes.com/ <- blog
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1391900 <- safestrap recovery (not compatible with MK2 yet)
sorry bro you cant flash roms yet he's working on a fix
hope i helped
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
okay so if I understand this correctly, once his 4.3 fix for mk2 is out, I am able to install GPE 4.3? Are there any downsides to this? I'm hearing you have to use the touchwiz kernel because of some kind of overwrite protection. is that the case here?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

No at this point when he updates it to mk2....what I understand is that only 4.2.2 Roms are compatible with safestrap as of now
Sent from my SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

DyslexicTurtle said:
No at this point when he updates it to mk2....what I understand is that only 4.2.2 Roms are compatible with safestrap as of now
Sent from my SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it's only ROM's that work with the stock kernel. Since our stock kernel is now 4.3, we can only use 4.3 ROMs.
There is a safe rooting method and you can find the thread in the general section. Hashcode is working on Safestrap for MK2, and is close as he made it for the Verizon S4 already. When the stable version comes out you can use 4.3 Touchwiz roms and GPE since it runs on a stock S4 kernel. Technically rooting voids the warranty by itself, but people just flash their phones back to stock in order to circumvent this. KNOX is a set of security tools for businesses and such, and for us it does add a counter to the bootloader that voids warranty.

itszcharlie said:
Rooting:
1. From what I understand, MK2 has a few privacy-concerned root methods. Once I root, I can proceed to the next question, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. There is a safe and easy method.
Here is the method: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
It's for the Verizon version of our phone, but it works.
itszcharlie said:
Installing Roms:
2. After you root, from what I understand, you install a side strap program that creates partitions on your internal SDcard to install roms (side by side?) However, there is no currently stable SS for MK2. When a stable version of SS does come out, I can use it to install roms (particularly Virgin GPE sounds enticing to me, i love pure stock without much extra features) even with the boot loader being locked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no safestrap for MK2 (which is Android 4.3) yet. I'm not familiar with the Rom you're talking about. If you look around a bit, there's a post that details the roms available for MF3. I'd imagine that list will be similar for MK2
itszcharlie said:
3. SS also voids the warranty, is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know. Wouldn't worry about it. If you need your warranty, go back to stock.
itszcharlie said:
4. I am hearing knox is sort of like the new flash counter for S4, except it doesn't really count, it just voids your warranty, is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Knox is actually part of Samsung's Enterprise security system. They developed Knox and all this other iPhoney lock-down crap as part of a push to win government & corporate contracts. My understanding is that the Knox counter voids the Knox warranty, not the warranty on the phone. You should locate the warranty and read it for yourself.

thanks for the thorough explanation. this clears a lot of things up.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app

SM-N900V Finally Rooted, How can I update to KitKat and preserve this root access?

Finally got Kingo root to work, switched over to CF's SuperSU, etc.
Currently running Android 4.3, MJ7 Build, SM-N900V
Is there a way I can keep root? And is there any special way that I need to flash a ROM or is it the standard wipe and flash even though I'm switching android versions?
Thanks, XDA.

jakichan77 said:
Finally got Kingo root to work, switched over to CF's SuperSU, etc.
Currently running Android 4.3, MJ7 Build, SM-N900V
Is there a way I can keep root? And is there any special way that I need to flash a ROM or is it the standard wipe and flash even though I'm switching android versions?
Thanks, XDA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you update to kk you will loose root

unless you trip knox, with a custom recovery for example.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

jakichan77 said:
Finally got Kingo root to work, switched over to CF's SuperSU, etc.
Currently running Android 4.3, MJ7 Build, SM-N900V
Is there a way I can keep root? And is there any special way that I need to flash a ROM or is it the standard wipe and flash even though I'm switching android versions?
Thanks, XDA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have Knox 0x0 then look at the Mobile Odin Pro thread here on N9005 - also ideally start looking after such a thread in the Verizon forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-note-3
(or start one - if I am not mistaken the locked Verizon bootloader could create extra problems and everything would be nice to be documented somewhere).

xclub_101 said:
If you have Knox 0x0 then look at the Mobile Odin Pro thread here on N9005 - also ideally start looking after such a thread in the Verizon forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-note-3
(or start one - if I am not mistaken the locked Verizon bootloader could create extra problems and everything would be nice to be documented somewhere).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I'll just wait until there's a for sure way I can keep root/get root back, but I'll for sure look into it on the Verizon Note forum.
Currently have SafeStrap after rooting with Kingo, not sure if that counts as a custom recovery (I don't know if holding down on volume and home when booting brings me to SafeStrap as I haven't tried yet, so I'm not sure if that's my recovery or if it's just some secondary recovery type deal).
Thanks everyone

Seeking best advice

I just recently purchased a Verizon Note 3 and would like some takeoff advice with this device. It came loaded with JB 4.3 and MJE baseband. I would like to upgrade the present stock JB 4.3 to KK 4.4.2 utilizing the best tools for the job. With root, a new recovery, and a reliable wifi hotspot apk too. I have found that it helps to get advice from an experienced user before potentially taking a wrong first step in unknown territory... Been there, done that.

Lexus One said:
I just recently purchased a Verizon Note 3 and would like some takeoff advice with this device. It came loaded with JB 4.3 and MJE baseband. I would like to upgrade the present stock JB 4.3 to KK 4.4.2 utilizing the best tools for the job. With root, a new recovery, and a reliable wifi hotspot apk too. I have found that it helps to get advice from an experienced user before potentially taking a wrong first step in unknown territory... Been there, done that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2543386
This is the method I used it worked perfectly, I came from sprint sammy GS3 so this was a bit different but its great now! if you go under your devices and go to the android development forum you will see how to update to 4.4.2 after you obtain your 4.3 root with safestrap. this is the safest method so follow the link i posted and you should have no problems:good: also if you miss the aosp feel the eclipse rom is amazing..Good Luck
---------- Post added at 06:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:08 PM ----------
Lexus One said:
I just recently purchased a Verizon Note 3 and would like some takeoff advice with this device. It came loaded with JB 4.3 and MJE baseband. I would like to upgrade the present stock JB 4.3 to KK 4.4.2 utilizing the best tools for the job. With root, a new recovery, and a reliable wifi hotspot apk too. I have found that it helps to get advice from an experienced user before potentially taking a wrong first step in unknown territory... Been there, done that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh also I stayed on the NC2 firmware when I went to kit kat from what I gathered in research its better than the NC4 for now

More importantly, is there anything that I MUST do while running JB4.3 that I can't do afterwards on 4.4.2? Like root with survival mode or something? Otherwise (from JB4.3) it looks like I could just install the OTA to 4.4.2 NC4 ... run Towelroot, install busybox, and then SafeStrap 3.72. So, is this a good or bad idea ???

Lexus One said:
More importantly, is there anything that I MUST do while running JB4.3 that I can't do afterwards on 4.4.2? Like root with survival mode or something? Otherwise (from JB4.3) it looks like I could just install the OTA to 4.4.2 NC4 ... run Towelroot, install busybox, and then SafeStrap 3.72. So, is this a good or bad idea ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is nothing special you need to do while on 4.3. You can do just as you said but you also need to install SuperUser.

Update, run the alpha root, install busybox, su, and safestrap. Download your ROM and flash it on the stock slot.
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk

leyvatron said:
Update, run the alpha root, install busybox, su, and safestrap. Download your ROM and flash it on the stock slot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you help me find the "alpha root" method? I don't see it anywhere.

Lexus One said:
Could you help me find the "alpha root" method? I don't see it anywhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
its not called alpha. [emoji12]
http://towelroot.com/
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk

I've been doing some reading in various places and have noticed that there are a good many people complaining about the 4.4.2 upgrade. Things like reception and battery issues...and the list goes on. They basically are saying that things were better before the update.
Would it be better (less problems overall) to upgrade via odin to 4.4.2 NC4...or just take the OTA route from the retail version 4.3 MJE...or should I stay on 4.3 and put up with the alleged GPS headaches...and bypass all the reception and battery issues?

Lexus One said:
I've been doing some reading in various places and have noticed that there are a good many people complaining about the 4.4.2 upgrade. Things like reception and battery issues...and the list goes on. They basically are saying that things were better before the update.
Would it be better (less problems overall) to upgrade via odin to 4.4.2 NC4...or just take the OTA route from the retail version 4.3 MJE...or should I stay on 4.3 and put up with the alleged GPS headaches...and bypass all the reception and battery issues?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't use the NC4 Odin or the OTA, root MJE then install a 4.4.2 ROM. That way you have the ability to go back to MJE if you want to, you can also try the different modems once you're on NC4 and find the one that works best for you.

airmaxx23 said:
Don't use the NC4 Odin or the OTA, root MJE then install a 4.4.2 ROM. That way you have the ability to go back to MJE if you want to, you can also try the different modems once you're on NC4 and find the one that works best for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks airmaxx, but I thought I read that I could use odin to go back if I wanted to after rooting the OTA NC4 with towelroot. Besides, if there are problems (as I've read) with 4.4.2 NC4, then it would make more sense not to upgrade at all. Or is NC4 really that much better even with the poorer reception and battery issues? Now I'm wondering what makes the NC4 upgrade worth the time and effort. Thanks again for your thoughts.

Lexus One said:
Thanks airmaxx, but I thought I read that I could use odin to go back if I wanted to after rooting the OTA NC4 with towelroot. Besides, if there are problems (as I've read) with 4.4.2 NC4, then it would make more sense not to upgrade at all. Or is NC4 really that much better even with the poorer reception and battery issues? Now I'm wondering what makes the NC4 upgrade worth the time and effort. Thanks again for your thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can downgrade from 4.4.2 (NC4) if you root MJE and install a pre-rooted version (ROM). The OTA and NC4 tar file have a different bootloader which prevents downgrading. I've had no problems with battery or signal on NC4, keep in mind that people usually post when they have problems but rarely pay when things are working fine.

airmaxx23 said:
You can downgrade from 4.4.2 (NC4) if you root MJE and install a pre-rooted version (ROM). The OTA and NC4 tar file have a different bootloader which prevents downgrading. I've had no problems with battery or signal on NC4, keep in mind that people usually post when they have problems but rarely pay when things are working fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that is good to know. Thanks. So I can assume that the bootloader from retail 4.3 MJE is what I want to keep...even if I move to a 4.4.2 NC2 or NC4 rom?

Lexus One said:
Now that is good to know. Thanks. So I can assume that the bootloader from retail 4.3 MJE is what I want to keep...even if I move to a 4.4.2 NC2 or NC4 rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The NC2 bootloader is really the one to be on. The basic steps can be found in the install instructions in this ROM thread, you can use any ROM, it doesn't have to be Jasmine. Just use steps 1-12. More detailed instructions can be found in this thread but use the Odin files from the first thread.

[Q] Proper Rooting and SafeStrap Process NC4

Okay so I've been browsing through the forums and been reading up on this phone (even contacted Samsung about info on unlocking the bootloader, no go on that. Had to try though)
Basically I want to know what's the proper procedure for installing custom roms on an NC4 device 4.4.2
Things I know:
Bootloader is unlockable at the moment (hoping for some good news in the future)
Towelroot for rooting
Safestrap for recovery
(Both just download and install the apk)
Things I don't know:
Kernel?
Somebody said I had to flash the NC2 kernel via Odin?
Knox?
What is this? What trips it?
I did see the list of guides and I did read and watch all the necessary ones, but the date on those are from 2 years ago and I just need confirmation on if I'm going about this right.
Any help is appreciated. I thank you in advance for taking the time to read this.
Please excuse my lack of knowledge, this is my first Samsung device.
Also, what would happen if somebody were to flash the DE stock files via Odin to a Retail N3?

If you upgraded to NC4 or NK1, you're stuck until Samsung unlocks the bootloader or Verizon stops lying to their customers. There is no root available after upgrade at this moment in time.

Dravekx said:
If you upgraded to NC4 or NK1, you're stuck until Samsung unlocks the bootloader or Verizon stops lying to their customers. There is no root available after upgrade at this moment in time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't upgrade to NC4, it came like this.

rdar_93 said:
I didn't upgrade to NC4, it came like this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sucks. You can't do anything about it at the moment. I was forced to upgrade and lost root. Custom ROMs won't be available to you or me until someone finds a hole to unlock the bootloader. Welcome to our Verizon Note 3 rooting dilemma.

mirrin said:
You do not have a dev version so cm 11 or 12 is a far off dream you won't get. Your bootloader is locked there is no unlock.
You are in luck nc4 is root able using towel root then safe strap and the unified firmware. You will need odin and a pc for flashing a few things the NK1 modem towel root and the unified firmware. Pick a rom from the development thread i suggest jasmine 1.x or eclipse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Copied from another post I had.
I don't know much about the device which is why I'm trying to find out.

Dravekx said:
That sucks. You can't do anything about it at the moment. I was forced to upgrade and lost root. Custom ROMs won't be available to you or me until someone finds a hole to unlock the bootloader. Welcome to our Verizon Note 3 rooting dilemma.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually just got root on my phone, I felt adventurous and installed towelroot and voila it rooted my phone.
I should state that I'm on 4.4.2, not 4.4.4.
Checked root status with Titanium Backup Pro, everything checked out a-okay.

rdar_93 said:
Okay so I've been browsing through the forums and been reading up on this phone (even contacted Samsung about info on unlocking the bootloader, no go on that. Had to try though)
Basically I want to know what's the proper procedure for installing custom roms on an NC4 device 4.4.2
Things I know:
Bootloader is unlockable at the moment (hoping for some good news in the future)
Towelroot for rooting
Safestrap for recovery
(Both just download and install the apk)
Things I don't know:
Kernel?
Somebody said I had to flash the NC2 kernel via Odin?
Knox?
What is this? What trips it?
I did see the list of guides and I did read and watch all the necessary ones, but the date on those are from 2 years ago and I just need confirmation on if I'm going about this right.
Any help is appreciated. I thank you in advance for taking the time to read this.
Please excuse my lack of knowledge, this is my first Samsung device.
Also, what would happen if somebody were to flash the DE stock files via Odin to a Retail N3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahhhh... You're good to go then! Find a good custom ROM and follow the instructions. Whatever you do.. Don't upgrade!
rdar_93 said:
I actually just got root on my phone, I felt adventurous and installed towelroot and voila it rooted my phone.
I should state that I'm on 4.4.2, not 4.4.4.
Checked root status with Titanium Backup Pro, everything checked out a-okay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Dravekx said:
Ahhhh... You're good to go then! Find a good custom ROM and follow the instructions. Whatever you do.. Don't upgrade!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol I still need clarification on the Kernel information that I don't know about.
What do I need to flash?
Do I flash it after I install a custom rom or before?

rdar_93 said:
Lol I still need clarification on the Kernel information that I don't know about.
What do I need to flash?
Do I flash it after I install a custom rom or before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My opinion: If you're doing a custom kernel, make sure it works with whatever ROM you're flashing. I suggest sticking with the stock kernel* until you get the hang of things OR do a little research and learn a bit before you attempt anything. There's a lot of forums with details and help here. I've installed kernels before and after installing ROMs with little or zero problems, but I'm more of a dabbler than a professional.
I would suggest backing up your current setup in case you need to reflash. That's a definite.

Dravekx said:
My opinion: If you're doing a custom kernel, make sure it works with whatever ROM you're flashing. I suggest sticking with the stock kernel* until you get the hang of things OR do a little research and learn a bit before you attempt anything. There's a lot of forums with details and help here. I've installed kernels before and after installing ROMs with little or zero problems, but I'm more of a dabbler than a professional.
I would suggest backing up your current setup in case you need to reflash. That's a definite.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol that doesn't really answer the question. I hope somebody sees it and clears it up for me

rdar_93 said:
Lol that doesn't really answer the question. I hope somebody sees it and clears it up for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The kernel can't be changed...although it can be "tuned" if you have root.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=58813428
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk

Still hoping somebody helps me out and posts a short but precise guide to install a custom rom on 4.4.2 NC4
I don't want to end up bricking my device on the first try. I've been there already and it sucks lol

rdar_93 said:
Still hoping somebody helps me out and posts a short but precise guide to install a custom rom on 4.4.2 NC4
I don't want to end up bricking my device on the first try. I've been there already and it sucks lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It really depends on the ROM, there is no set guide for all ROMs.
Did you install busybox? I like using busybox on rails. Just download the app and click install.
Download the safestrap apk (3.75 B04) and install that, open it and install recovery.
I'm currently running Clean ROM. I am on NC4. I downloaded the rom, and moved it to my SD card. I rebooted to safestrap, wiped data, cache and dalvik then installed the ROM to the stock slot. Then, following the instructions for Clean ROM, I rebooted to download mode from recovery and flashed the NC2 Kernel with odin.
The main thing is to read the installation instructions for the particular ROM you want to flash.
Don't forget to use Titanium backup to freeze SDM app (I think that's what its called) so your phone will stop trying to update.
---------- Post added at 05:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:23 PM ----------
rdar_93 said:
Still hoping somebody helps me out and posts a short but precise guide to install a custom rom on 4.4.2 NC4
I don't want to end up bricking my device on the first try. I've been there already and it sucks lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're at all proficient with Odin it is really REALLY hard to brick these phones.

BladeRunner said:
It really depends on the ROM, there is no set guide for all ROMs.
Did you install busybox? I like using busybox on rails. Just download the app and click install.
Download the safestrap apk (3.75 B04) and install that, open it and install recovery.
I'm currently running Clean ROM. I am on NC4. I downloaded the rom, and moved it to my SD card. I rebooted to safestrap, wiped data, cache and dalvik then installed the ROM to the stock slot. Then, following the instructions for Clean ROM, I rebooted to download mode from recovery and flashed the NC2 Kernel with odin.
The main thing is to read the installation instructions for the particular ROM you want to flash.
Don't forget to use Titanium backup to freeze SDM app (I think that's what its called) so your phone will stop trying to update.
---------- Post added at 05:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:23 PM ----------
If you're at all proficient with Odin it is really REALLY hard to brick these phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man, I was supposed to update this thread saying that I got through with the proper procedure for installing Jasmine Rom
Although I was running Eclipse before, and I wanted to try going back to stock but it just got stuck on the Verizon splash screen
I'm thinking it's because I had the NC2 kernel active when I should have gone back to the NC4 kernel
I looked for a NC4 kernel to flash but I only saw the modems and tar files, so not knowing if those were the same as kernels I decided to just try Jasmine. So far, I like it.
I have crazy battery drain though. I think it's because I'm running it in Slot 1

just picked up a verizon note 3 android 4.4.2 NC4
one of the very first posts above says you cant do anything on NC4 and then another post says NC4 is ok but just not android 4.4.4
NC4 is the latest update as of this writing isnt it?
what can actually be done with this vzw note 3 on android 4.4.2 NC4?
non dev edition of course
what about knox?
if rooting can be done with this phone on this OS is there any safe way not to trip knox?

en11gma said:
just picked up a verizon note 3 android 4.4.2 NC4
one of the very first posts above says you cant do anything on NC4 and then another post says NC4 is ok but just not android 4.4.4
NC4 is the latest update as of this writing isnt it?
what can actually be done with this vzw note 3 on android 4.4.2 NC4?
non dev edition of course
what about knox?
if rooting can be done with this phone on this OS is there any safe way not to trip knox?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd be happy to answer your questions
If you have an NC4 device that's running 4.4.2, you are able to gain root access and install safestrap recovery on your device. However, if the android version is 4.4.4, you cannot root or install safestrap.
NC4 is just our last build number, but there are two versions I think, the 4.4.2 and the 4.4.4. In the 4.4.4, they blacklisted every single compatible kernel that could work on the device. They forgot to do it in the 4.4.2 version, that's why we're able to gain root.
On our NC4 4.4.2 Verizon Note 3, we can root, install safestrap recovery and install a very limited amount of roms from the non developer edition selection on the XDA forums.
Rooting via towelroot, to my knowledge, does not trip knox. However, installing safestrap recovery does. But if you're worried about your warranty being voided, I wouldn't panic too much because with our bootloader being locked, it is very easy to flash the original Stock Verizon files through Odin to go straight back to factory settings so it looks like if you just pulled it out the box. The knox code would be reset and you would have a device that looked like if it has never been rooted or modified.

rdar_93 said:
I'd be happy to answer your questions
If you have an NC4 device that's running 4.4.2, you are able to gain root access and install safestrap recovery on your device. However, if the android version is 4.4.4, you cannot root or install safestrap.
NC4 is just our last build number, but there are two versions I think, the 4.4.2 and the 4.4.4. In the 4.4.4, they blacklisted every single compatible kernel that could work on the device. They forgot to do it in the 4.4.2 version, that's why we're able to gain root.
On our NC4 4.4.2 Verizon Note 3, we can root, install safestrap recovery and install a very limited amount of roms from the non developer edition selection on the XDA forums.
Rooting via towelroot, to my knowledge, does not trip knox. However, installing safestrap recovery does. But if you're worried about your warranty being voided, I wouldn't panic too much because with our bootloader being locked, it is very easy to flash the original Stock Verizon files through Odin to go straight back to factory settings so it looks like if you just pulled it out the box. The knox code would be reset and you would have a device that looked like if it has never been rooted or modified.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Safestrap does not trip knox.

mjh68 said:
Safestrap does not trip knox.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I must have tripped mine somehow cause my device says "custom" when booting.
I'm guessing it might be Xposed but I'm not too sure.

rdar_93 said:
Thanks. I must have tripped mine somehow cause my device says "custom" when booting.
I'm guessing it might be Xposed but I'm not too sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will say custom, but that isn't tripping knox. Custom can be removed with the triangle away app. Custom just gets flagged like you were saying by changing the recovery , but it doesn't trip the knox counter.

mjh68 said:
It will say custom, but that isn't tripping knox. Custom can be removed with the triangle away app. Custom just gets flagged like you were saying by changing the recovery , but it doesn't trip the knox counter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then I must be confused about what knox really is.
What is "Knox" then?