[Q] Proper Rooting and SafeStrap Process NC4 - Verizon Galaxy Note 3 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

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?

Related

[Q] (Noob?) question - stock 4.3 to custom 4.4 rom

I've been trying to figure this out for the last day, with no success.
I've got a rooted Note 3 N9005 (MJ7) stock. this is a 4.3 Rom. Knox status is0x0 (didn't trip it when I've rooted it ages ago).
I had enough of sammy rom, and I want to play with some of the new 4.4.4 custom roms.
I'm totally and utterly lost regarding what's tripping knox, and what are the needed steps in order to achieve that.
From what I understand, flashing TWRP (or any other custom recovery) will trip knox. I'm fine with that.
I'm not sure if I'm supposed to first upgrade my 4.3 to an official 4.4.2, and what / if is all the lock/unlock bootloader which seems to differ between versions (4.3 and 4.4). There also seem to be different versions of TWRP depending on if you're on 4.3 or 4.4?
Can I simply flash TWRP on my rooted 4.3, backup, flash new shinny 4.4.4 rom, and be happy ? Will that keep the root ?
Otherwise, do i need to upgrade to official 4.4.2 version first? will that lose root and I'll have to reroot the new version, and then flash TWRP and then flash 4.4.4 roms?
Any kind of help (or point me to an article that discusses it, even though I didn't find any, and i've searched) will be highly appreciated.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
_Noctis_ said:
I've been trying to figure this out for the last day, with no success.
I've got a rooted Note 3 N9005 (MJ7) stock. this is a 4.3 Rom. Knox status is0x0 (didn't trip it when I've rooted it ages ago).
I had enough of sammy rom, and I want to play with some of the new 4.4.4 custom roms.
I'm totally and utterly lost regarding what's tripping knox, and what are the needed steps in order to achieve that.
From what I understand, flashing TWRP (or any other custom recovery) will trip knox. I'm fine with that.
I'm not sure if I'm supposed to first upgrade my 4.3 to an official 4.4.2, and what / if is all the lock/unlock bootloader which seems to differ between versions (4.3 and 4.4). There also seem to be different versions of TWRP depending on if you're on 4.3 or 4.4?
Can I simply flash TWRP on my rooted 4.3, backup, flash new shinny 4.4.4 rom, and be happy ? Will that keep the root ?
Otherwise, do i need to upgrade to official 4.4.2 version first? will that lose root and I'll have to reroot the new version, and then flash TWRP and then flash 4.4.4 roms?
Any kind of help (or point me to an article that discusses it, even though I didn't find any, and i've searched) will be highly appreciated.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you aren't concerned about KNOX, upgrade to a 4.4 ROM (Official) via ODIN which will upgrade the bootloader, then once that's all done, flash TWRP for 4.4 then download your ROMs and flash via TWRP as normal.
radicalisto said:
If you aren't concerned about KNOX, upgrade to a 4.4 ROM (Official) via ODIN which will upgrade the bootloader, then once that's all done, flash TWRP for 4.4 then download your ROMs and flash via TWRP as normal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not concerned any more ...
Out of curiosity, what exactly kills the root? flashing a rom doesn't. upgrading via odin ? I'm assuming it has nothing to do with the system/cache, since each flash usually wipes them, so, where does it live?
Cheers
_Noctis_ said:
Not concerned any more ...
Out of curiosity, what exactly kills the root? flashing a rom doesn't. upgrading via odin ? I'm assuming it has nothing to do with the system/cache, since each flash usually wipes them, so, where does it live?
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reflashing the ROM back to stock is what kills root. It's easy to re-root again once you've tripped KNOX anyways.
But tbh, once you install a custom recovery after you've upgraded your boot loader, you won't need to root. It isn't required for custom recovery
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
EDIT: Have you used ODIN to flash stock images before? If not, have a read around, it's pretty straight forward though.
radicalisto said:
Reflashing the ROM back to stock is what kills root. It's easy to re-root again once you've tripped KNOX anyways.
But tbh, once you install a custom recovery after you've upgraded your boot loader, you won't need to root. It isn't required for custom recovery
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
EDIT: Have you used ODIN to flash stock images before? If not, have a read around, it's pretty straight forward though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see ... so -> flash stock (kills root) -> flash TWRP (trips knox) -> flash custom rom without worrying about root ? (wouldn't i need it for titanium backup ,or do custom roms come with SU preinstalled?)
Yep, used odin. file on comp, download mode, couple of ticks, clicky clicky, happiness ensues ...
Yeah you're pretty much spot on. Yeah most ROMs are pre-rooted and if they aren't you can just flash superSU via your recovery. But you should be good to go and know what you're doing by the sounds of it.
Enjoy flashing them ROMs and make an efs backup and store off the device too. There's an adb script for it here (forget where but its here, development thread I think) don't use any apps from the play store as they are notorious for bricking Samsung devices.
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
radicalisto said:
Yeah you're pretty much spot on. Yeah most ROMs are pre-rooted and if they aren't you can just flash superSU via your recovery. But you should be good to go and know what you're doing by the sounds of it.
Enjoy flashing them ROMs and make an efs backup and store off the device too. There's an adb script for it here (forget where but its here, development thread I think) don't use any apps from the play store as they are notorious for bricking Samsung devices.
Sent from my Spectrum ZX +2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol ...notorious for bricking samsung devices ... i like it ...
i ran one already (zipped a 6MB and a 14.5MB image and tar into a 300kb zip), and been told you can do that from inside TWRP as well ...
I'll take a deep breath, and start downloading the official image and roms ...
I'll update if i'll get to the other side
out of curiosity ... does it matter which official 4.4.2 image i'm flashing ? (i'm getting the NZ one ...but i assume they should all be similar, and / or that it doesn't matter since i'll be flashing something else on it anyways, right ?
_Noctis_ said:
out of curiosity ... does it matter which official 4.4.2 image i'm flashing ? (i'm getting the NZ one ...but i assume they should all be similar, and / or that it doesn't matter since i'll be flashing something else on it anyways, right ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah try and keep to the country your device is from, otherwise you have to find the right PIT file, and the partitions vary etc
radicalisto said:
Yeah try and keep to the country your device is from, otherwise you have to find the right PIT file, and the partitions vary etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rubbish. ..I don't recall seeing an australian one... I'll have another look, otherwise ill look into the pit thingy. Thanks.

How do I root from unrooted, stock lollipop 5.0?

I have seen many threads with info about how to upgrade to lollipop and keep root but I have not seen any that tell how to take a phone that has never been rooted and is at lollipop 5.0 and root it.
Please point me in the right direction.
I second this question.
KainRacure said:
I have seen many threads with info about how to upgrade to lollipop and keep root but I have not seen any that tell how to take a phone that has never been rooted and is at lollipop 5.0 and root it.
Please point me in the right direction.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you will have to Odin back to NCG, root your phone, install safestrap and follow the instructions in this thread. See the "notes #5" in the bottom of the original posting.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...l/how-to-update-to-g900vvru1boa8-5-0-t3020546
Tulsadiver said:
I believe you will have to Odin back to NCG, root your phone, install safestrap and follow the instructions in this thread. See the "notes #5" in the bottom of the original posting.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...l/how-to-update-to-g900vvru1boa8-5-0-t3020546
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Through a combination of googling and reading here I finally figured it out. I might make a tutorial on how I did it here for those who were confused like I was. Though you are correct sir. I think the issue was that I kept stopping reading when all of the tutorials here kept saying "YOU MUST HAVE ROOT!" or saying "YOU MUST HAVE ____ VERSION!" I think a tutorial that is written with unrooted OA8 users in mind (and possibly with explanations of the terms like ODIN, NCG and OA8) might help some people out.
But for now if anyone is reading this he is 100% right, that method will work.
Would I lose my app data through this method?
glicholas said:
Would I lose my app data through this method?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very likely. Without a custom recovery you have no way to backup your data unless your individual apps have there own way to back it up kind of like your contacts.
You could try titanium backup. There is a version for phones without root. Not sure what all it can backup.
did the method you followed trip knox?
I have full confidence in muniz_ri's instructions as well as any other contributor to the development of the root/exploit; and if they say it will not trip KNOX, I am inclined to believe them. But there is so much to do, so much flashing, I wanted to see if I could get a confirmation that flashing through the use of all of the files offered in the post that it does not trip KNOX, does it KainRacure?
simplepinoi177 said:
I have full confidence in muniz_ri's instructions as well as any other contributor to the development of the root/exploit; and if they say it will not trip KNOX, I am inclined to believe them. But there is so much to do, so much flashing, I wanted to see if I could get a confirmation that flashing through the use of all of the files offered in the post that it does not trip KNOX, does it KainRacure?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went directly from rooted 4.4.2 to rooted Lollipop without tripping Knox and this was using Muniz's method. I did not start with Lollipop. I am running the ROM called MOAR. Since I've had this phone, I've flashed the holy crud out of it, both with Odin and safestrap and have not tripped Knox. When using Odin, always have a charged up phone and use the original data cable that came with your phone.
Tulsadiver said:
I went directly from rooted 4.4.2 to rooted Lollipop without tripping Knox and this was using Muniz's method. I did not start with Lollipop. I am running the ROM called MOAR. Since I've had this phone, I've flashed the holy crud out of it, both with Odin and safestrap and have not tripped Knox. When using Odin, always have a charged up phone and use the original data cable that came with your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response. It's a relief to know for when I do it as well...

5.0.1 OC4 to OctOS 6.0.1 ?

i have rooted OC4 installed on my phone and have i've been reading up on OCTos and their 6.0.1 custom firmware (found a good link too: http://www.teamandroid.com/2016/01/20/update-att-galaxy-s4-i337-android-601-octos-marshmallow-custom-rom/ ) . and now am more confused.
it should be simple from what i am reading.
1) backup everything
2) revert to 4.3 (mk2), root, and install ClockworkMod 10.2+
3) install custom rom 6.0.1 OCTos
however, i'm reading on this page (http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s4-att/general/guide-odin-to-stock-updating-rooting-t2926642) but it states >> Once you flash NB1, you CANNOT go back to MK2. <<
So now I'm trying to figure out exactly how i can get the OCTos onto my phone. what guide should i follow !?!?!?!
:silly:
They meant the MK2 boot loader based devices, same with MDL. Aside from a few exploited boot loaders.. it's been the general consensus that they're all locked up, therefore.. only stock roms. The lowest boot loader you can possibly be on is NB1. Download "Terminal Emulator" for the Play Store and then when you open it up, type the following:
getprop ro.bootloader
^ exactly like that, then see what it says. The last three characters (MDK, MDL, MK2, NB1, NC1, OC3, OC4)--that's how you can figure out which boot loader you are using. I am on NB1's bootloader but I can still downgrade to MK2, i.e. Android 4.3, and still have it work.. only because of how the roms in these threads are rooted and the fact that they're stock, aside from a few other small details. When they say OC3 or MK2, or NB1... whichever.. then typically they mean the boot loader when saying you cannot revert. Definitely cannot revert to MK2 bootloader after taking an OTA update.
pr3dicament said:
getprop ro.bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i337ucugoc4
egiblock said:
i have rooted OC4 installed on my phone and have i've been reading up on OCTos and their 6.0.1 custom firmware (found a good link too: http://www.teamandroid.com/2016/01/20/update-att-galaxy-s4-i337-android-601-octos-marshmallow-custom-rom/ ) . and now am more confused.
it should be simple from what i am reading.
1) backup everything
2) revert to 4.3 (mk2), root, and install ClockworkMod 10.2+
3) install custom rom 6.0.1 OCTos
however, i'm reading on this page (http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s4-att/general/guide-odin-to-stock-updating-rooting-t2926642) but it states >> Once you flash NB1, you CANNOT go back to MK2. <<
So now I'm trying to figure out exactly how i can get the OCTos onto my phone. what guide should i follow !?!?!?!
:silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even though it was not mentioned, the article appears to be written for the SGH-i337 with old bootloaders (MDB, MDL). These are the only two bootloaders that can be exploited and installed the custom recovery like CWM or TWRP.
Since your bootloader is OC4 you can not install the CWM or TWRP. You could try flashing with safestrap though. If that custom rom is not written with Aroma then you could also try to flash with flashfire. These are the only two options for you.
egiblock said:
i337ucugoc4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, yeah.. you're not on MDK or MDL, not even NB1.. you're simply on OC4. You aren't going to be able to do any flashing of any Custom Roms that are not Safestrap compatible (touchwiz)
Good luck.. you can't go anywhere backwards, not even OC3. That really sucks. I'm sorry. It looks like you took the OTA's.
I can still ODIN to NB1 and that was because I never took the OTA update. I got lucky.. I can still choose between kitkat and lollipop. You can't. You might be able to with someone's help.. but your bootloader is OC4.. that's a problem. You more than likely will have trouble doing anything unless it's not MDK/MDL or even NB1 based.
---------- Post added at 08:23 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:21 PM ----------
sway8966 said:
Even though it was not mentioned, the article appears to be written for the SGH-i337 with old bootloaders (MDB, MDL). These are the only two bootloaders that can be exploited and installed the custom recovery like CWM or TWRP.
Since your bootloader is OC4 you can not install the CWM or TWRP. You could try flashing with safestrap though. If that custom rom is not written with Aroma then you could also try to flash with flashfire. These are the only two options for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah.. You might have a shot with FlashFire. I might test that via the NB1 bootloader that I'm on but I don't think it matters that much aside from being able to Odin back to 4.3 software.
sway8966 said:
Even though it was not mentioned, the article appears to be written for the SGH-i337 with old bootloaders (MDB, MDL). These are the only two bootloaders that can be exploited and installed the custom recovery like CWM or TWRP.
Since your bootloader is OC4 you can not install the CWM or TWRP. You could try flashing with safestrap though. If that custom rom is not written with Aroma then you could also try to flash with flashfire. These are the only two options for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FlashFire came out with another release (0.32) that seems to have an AROMA emulation option.. my guess is that it's still in testing, but it's worth a shot even without it. The way I have OC3 with the NB1 boot loader is because of FlashFire.. Safestrap.. it's been awhile since I've used it. I've tried recently for other ROMS but you can't do a custom kernel.. that's the reason most custom roms aren't able to work, i.e. CM v13 runs a totally different kernel. It's not just TouchWiz now.. now it's just stock kernels.. at least via SafeStrap. So far I've gotten none to work with SafeStrap aside from Stock rooted roms. OC3, OC4, and if I felt like it, OK2.. but why even bother with OK2, I'm not gonna see any difference given all of the patches you can use with Xposed.. including any memory leak bull****, that's all good now in 5.0.x -- 5.1+ has that patched up.. and OK2 certainly isn't 5.1. I don't see any difference between OC3 and OC4.. and if my opinion counts for anything.. the one thing that I noticed (bloatware script ran and other apps not needed were frozen for both) is a very high amount of battery usage with OC4.. same userdata, same everything.. and when you flash the kernel, the modules, and move up to OC4.. it's still the same looking.. feels the same.. more ram used.. OC3 is superior in this instance. I'd love to try and give an AOSP rom a shot.. but.. via SafeStrap (someone made a guide for those not on the MDK or MDL boot loaders) .. eh.. no luck. That was all via SafeStrap. I'm just putting in my two cents. I think development for this phone is finished.. no one has come out with anything new aside from the SafeStrap kernel workarounds.. not many FlashFire users.. and the one that used to find every single exploit is now EMPLOYED by Samsung so his development.. gone. That was a huge kick in the ass to this entire community. Plenty of people around, just.. they don't give a **** about the S4 with boot loader all locked up. NB1 was an accident for me.. I was on MDL for a long, long time.. I really ****ed that up or I'd be running MarshMallow already It seems to run best with KitKat, but a lot of AOSP roms have shown huge differences in MarshMallow.. oh well. Can't try it at the moment.
Unfortunately I can't remember what I did in the past to this phone, but I have never had luck with OTA updates. I'll have to see if I can find my note to see what I originally did on this stupid thing.
egiblock said:
Unfortunately I can't remember what I did in the past to this phone, but I have never had luck with OTA updates. I'll have to see if I can find my note to see what I originally did on this stupid thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since you are on OC4, the lowest you can go is NB1 (kit-kat).

Sprint Galaxy S4 Rooting

I've spent hours searching and I know this is an old phone. Is ther anyway to root the Lollipop and download Jelly Bean (custom or stock) to it? I'm not worried about Warranties. I'm not exactly a newb and I don't like Lollipop at all. I don't mind KitKat, but what I hate is the front facing camera can't be flipped. Dumbest thing ever.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s4-sprint
Search for CF-Autoroot.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s4-sprint
Search for CF-Autoroot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm supposedly rooted. I used KingRoot and then switched over yo SuperSU. But I can't seem to get the Rom's to install. This is where I'm probably going wrong. I'm assuming it has to do with the Bootloader.
BikerSk8rKid said:
I'm supposedly rooted. I used KingRoot and then switched over yo SuperSU. But I can't seem to get the Rom's to install. This is where I'm probably going wrong. I'm assuming it has to do with the Bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ask the right questions if you want the right answer.
You said you're not a newb. So what exactly was the procedure used to to install those ROMs?
Well, you should be using CF-Autoroot, as it's the recommended method to root these devices. That said, unless you have a frankenphone, only AT&T and Verizon models have locked bootloaders. Enter download mode and verify your device's model number please?
GDReaper said:
Ask the right questions if you want the right answer.
You said you're not a newb. So what exactly was the procedure used to to install those ROMs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was half asleep and stressed out when I posted this. It's been a couple weeks or longer since I messed with the phone. Damn forums weren't resetting my password. When I mean I'm not a newb I mean I'm not like brand new to this and I know how to research. I guess you could say I'm not THAT stupid. haha
I'mma have to try this again and figure out what path's I kept trying. I'm so spaced out I can't remember hard any of it. Just that I tried to flash a stock and rooted rom with old odin and new odin. Spent 2 days straight messing with it and trying to get around it. But I kept getting blocked. I didn't come across CF-Autoroot. So I'll try that.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Well, you should be using CF-Autoroot, as it's the recommended method to root these devices. That said, unless you have a frankenphone, only AT&T and Verizon models have locked bootloaders. Enter download mode and verify your device's model number please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of all the researching I've done (I couldn't login) that one never showed up in my searchs. haha I'll have to give that one a try. It's been a couple weeks or longer. SPH-L720. I had a few Tri-Bands, but it seemed those were limited compared to the standard model.
Update: I went the CF-AutoRoot route and then tried to use Odin to flash stock mk2 rom. Now that I remember it kept failing everytime and then it would corrupt the current rom. I also tried using TWRP and couldn't get it to work properly.
That's a Sprint device, so your bootloader is unlocked.
Here's something you should note: If you want to flash a ROM, of any kind, you don't necessarily have to be rooted.
Stock ROMs require Odin and custom ROMs require a custom recovery. None of them require root.
Your flash to an older version fails most probably due to the fact that you're trying to downgrade the bootloader (Any stock ROM flash also modifies the bootloader and modem partitions).
But your windows, cable, USB port and windows can also be at fault here.
GDReaper said:
That's a Sprint device, so your bootloader is unlocked.
Here's something you should note: If you want to flash a ROM, of any kind, you don't necessarily have to be rooted.
Stock ROMs require Odin and custom ROMs require a custom recovery. None of them require root.
Your flash to an older version fails most probably due to the fact that you're trying to downgrade the bootloader (Any stock ROM flash also modifies the bootloader and modem partitions).
But your windows, cable, USB port and windows can also be at fault here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason I kept reading that it was locked or thinking it was locked because of not being able to downgrade.
So that's what I thought and I guess that's what I was trying to get at in my first post. Trying to go from Lollipop 5 to Jelly Bean 4.3 or so. Is it possible to do that whether it's custom or not?
I just hate the Lollipop and the KitKat. My Galaxy S2 had the JB and Power Button took a crap. So I ended up getting a S3 and now been sitting on an S4.
I know it's not the cable or at least it shouldn't be because it works to flash the stock current rom everytime I corrupt it. The computer is like brand new and running Windows 8.1
BikerSk8rKid said:
For some reason I kept reading that it was locked or thinking it was locked because of not being able to downgrade.
So that's what I thought and I guess that's what I was trying to get at in my first post. Trying to go from Lollipop 5 to Jelly Bean 4.3 or so. Is it possible to do that whether it's custom or not?
I just hate the Lollipop and the KitKat. My Galaxy S2 had the JB and Power Button took a crap. So I ended up getting a S3 and now been sitting on an S4.
I know it's not the cable or at least it shouldn't be because it works to flash the stock current rom everytime I corrupt it. The computer is like brand new and running Windows 8.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downgrading sometimes succeeds. There are also guides on how to downgrade, though there aren't any special procedures. Maybe the bootloader version of the firmware-to-be-flashed matters.
With custom ROMs it's definitely possible, as they do not change the bootloader.
GDReaper said:
Downgrading sometimes succeeds. There are also guides on how to downgrade, though there aren't any special procedures. Maybe the bootloader version of the firmware-to-be-flashed matters.
With custom ROMs it's definitely possible, as they do not change the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I'm more of a newb with this than I expected. :/ It's been years since I've been on the forums or even tinkered with phones. HTC Touch Pro 2 was the last one I believe. haha
So... With that being said. Custom Roms are typically to the current stock rom, correct? or is it possible to get a Custom Jelly Bean and flash/overwrite it to the Lollipop/current? Since I just tripped wit the Knox Warranty with the CF-AutoRoot. LoL
BikerSk8rKid said:
I guess I'm more of a newb with this than I expected. :/ It's been years since I've been on the forums or even tinkered with phones. HTC Touch Pro 2 was the last one I believe. haha
So... With that being said. Custom Roms are typically to the current stock rom, correct? or is it possible to get a Custom Jelly Bean and flash/overwrite it to the Lollipop/current? Since I just tripped wit the Knox Warranty with the CF-AutoRoot. LoL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can find some viable download links, then yes, you should be able to flash custom jelly bean ROMs. But you need a custom recovery in order to do that.
The recovery can be flashed with Odin. Or, since you're rooted, you can also flash a recovery by using an app called Flashify.
Odin requires a .tar file and Flashify requires a .img file.
Oh, and you also need the gapps package for the Google Apps. You need a package for that specific android version, so it should be jelly bean gapps.
GDReaper said:
If you can find some viable download links, then yes, you should be able to flash custom jelly bean ROMs. But you need a custom recovery in order to do that.
The recovery can be flashed with Odin. Or, since you're rooted, you can also flash a recovery by using an app called Flashify.
Odin requires a .tar file and Flashify requires a .img file.
Oh, and you also need the gapps package for the Google Apps. You need a package for that specific android version, so it should be jelly bean gapps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll look into that and give it a shot. Thank you! I knew it wasn't THAT easy. LOL

Rooted Verizon Galaxy S5 (G900V) - Upgrade from Kitkat to Lollipop and Keep Root?

I have a Verizon Galaxy S5 (G900V) that I rooted a couple of years ago and never updated any further. It's currently running 4.4.4 / NK2 and I've been looking at upgrading to a Lollipop build. I have the Toshiba 11x eMMC so it doesn't sound like Marshmallow is an option if I want to keep root. I've spent significant time rooting through the forums and I can't seem to find a method to update my phone from KitKat to Lollipop (while keeping root) that is current, has the necessary files available to download, and works. Using FlashFire and G900V_OE1_Stock_Rooted_ROM.zip followed by Odin and an OD5 bootloader is failing on my phone for whatever reason. The other methods, including muniz_ri's, don't seem to have current files available for download.
I've fried my brain searching with no success. If anyone could point me to current directions/files to upgrade from KitKat to a solid Lollipop build while maintaining my root access, it would be GREATLY appreciated.
Thank you.
I would Odin this file https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24438995911970571
That will take you to stock PB1 then follow this guide to get root https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/general/root-method-og5-ok3-t3290370
Then I would use flash fire or LP safe strap to flash a ROM I recommended
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...ang5litre-edition-5-0-pb1-devnon-dev-t3381850 or https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...enix-rom-9-0-ported-g900v-ported-rom-t3188443
OrneryTX said:
I have a Verizon Galaxy S5 (G900V) that I rooted a couple of years ago and never updated any further. It's currently running 4.4.4 / NK2 and I've been looking at upgrading to a Lollipop build. I have the Toshiba 11x eMMC so it doesn't sound like Marshmallow is an option if I want to keep root. I've spent significant time rooting through the forums and I can't seem to find a method to update my phone from KitKat to Lollipop (while keeping root) that is current, has the necessary files available to download, and works. Using FlashFire and G900V_OE1_Stock_Rooted_ROM.zip followed by Odin and an OD5 bootloader is failing on my phone for whatever reason. The other methods, including muniz_ri's, don't seem to have current files available for download.
I've fried my brain searching with no success. If anyone could point me to current directions/files to upgrade from KitKat to a solid Lollipop build while maintaining my root access, it would be GREATLY appreciated.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have root so just skip the rooting part everything you need is here to https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71202995&postcount=3
jrkruse said:
You have root so just skip the rooting part everything you need is here to https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71202995&postcount=3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I'm reading that correctly, I can skip to step #9 of the "Directions For Users With CID 11' Toshiba eMMC" section and then use the EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and VZW_BPB1_ODEX_DEODEX_V9.zip files. Is that correct?
OrneryTX said:
So if I'm reading that correctly, I can skip to step #9 of the "Directions For Users With CID 11' Toshiba eMMC" section and then use the EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and VZW_BPB1_ODEX_DEODEX_V9.zip files. Is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. You must have safestrap and use it to flash EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and rom
jrkruse said:
Yes. You must have safestrap and use it to flash EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Success! Now on 5.0 and PB1 with no significant issues during or after the upgrade.
Many thanks!
jrkruse said:
Yes. You must have safestrap and use it to flash EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me add a caveat to that success story. I do notice that I don't have the Safestrap recovery option during the boot up process and it looks like this is expected behavior for Lollipop. The "Reboot to Recovery" option with the app is also not active or functional. What's the best way to get back the full Safestrap functionality? I found the below thread of yours but I'm not sure if the files and instructions are current. Thoughts?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/development/safestrap-5-0-lollipop-t3313800
jrkruse said:
Yes. You must have safestrap and use it to flash EMMC_11_PB1_5_0_1_LL_Firmware_Bootloader.zip and rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OrneryTX said:
Let me add a caveat to that success story. I do notice that I don't have the Safestrap recovery option during the boot up process and it looks like this is expected behavior for Lollipop. The "Reboot to Recovery" option with the app is also not active or functional. What's the best way to get back the full Safestrap functionality? I found the below thread of yours but I'm not sure if the files and instructions are current. Thoughts?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/development/safestrap-5-0-lollipop-t3313800
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I see where I went wrong with Safestrap but it's going to be a little while before I can investigate further. Don't want to brick my phone at work and not be able to phone home.
I'll update after I do some more troubleshooting.
Thanks again.

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