Database Users

[Guide] Ultimate Nexus 4 Root Guide

Post One: Unlocking and Rooting
Post Two: Installing Roms / Kernels / Tweaks
Post Three: Panic Section / FAQ / Miscellaneous
Unlocking The Bootloader And Obtaining Root
*This part of the tutorial is geared towards Windows users. The MAC instructions are very similar, from what I understand. Install the package the same way. All ADB/Fastboot commands may need to start with "adb-mac" (no quotes) rather than "adb" (no quotes). Due to the vast amount of Linux distros available; instructions will vary for your device. Once ADB/Fastboot are set up all command will begin with "./adb" (no quotes) rather than "adb" (no quotes). Once ADB/Fastboot are set up; this guide is relevant to everyone.*
Time required:
20-40 minutes.
Setting up ADB for our device:
Download the AndroidSDK onto your computer.
Note: Google changes their mind every other week as to if this will be distributed as a .zip or an .exe. If you get an .zip file, simply extract the contents to your C:\ drive. For an .exe install it like you would any other program, but set the path directly to the C:\ drive when the installer asks.
Or...you can use this page to download the "ADB for Dummies AIO App."
This will automatically install ADB for you to your C:\ directory. It's very very simple this way.
If your platform-tools folder doesn't have a fastboot.exe, place this fastboot.exe file in your C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools (or possibly simply called tools, if you set up ADB ages ago) folder.
Now you have ADB installed! Congratulations.
Unlocking the Bootloader:
***NOTE***
This will perform a factory reset on your device. You will lose all applications. Even the data on your SD Card! I'd recommend making a Backup to your computer BEFORE performing this. There is a method for backing your data up, detailed HERE.
For the time being, there is a method available that will allow you to unlock your device (and root it) without losing your data.
For instructions, click HERE. Please note: this is a hack and isn't the "conventional" and "accepted" way of unlocking your bootloader on a nexus device. The wipe requirement is there for your safety, really, and I'm certain this will be patched in the upcoming releases.
Get the drivers:
Uninstall any previously attempted drivers if they don't work and move to the next.
Option One:
Navigate to the "Device Manager" (Control Panel > Device Manager) in Windows and Select the android device. Open the properties and select the "Install Driver" option. Pick the driver with "Install from disk." Ignore any warnings about the driver not being signed properly.
PDAnet's drivers may work if the above options don't. Simply install PDAnet (after uninstalling any previous attempted driver installations) to get the drivers.
While that is downloading, on your Nexus 4: turn USB debugging on.
To do so; you must first go to Settings>About>Build Number and click seven times.
The actual setting can then be found in Settings>Developer Options>USB Debugging
Once the drivers are installed, navigate to the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder on your computer.
Hold shift and right click. Select "Open Command Window Here."
Plug your phone into the computer. Now in this command window type:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
(Hit Enter)
Your phone should now boot into a screen with a green android with his chest exposed.
Type this:
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
(Hit Enter)
If your Command Prompt displays the message "waiting for device" your driver wasn't successfully installed.
Close the Command Prompt window and open Device manager while your phone is still plugged in. (Search for it using the search option).
Right Click the "Android" option and select Update Driver. Choose to "Browse My Computer" and "Let Me Pick From A List." Pick the Driver with the newest date and install it. Now retry the code above.
Your phone will ask if you want to unlock it. Select "Yes" by using the volume keys and use power to select it.
Now, navigate to "Recovery Mode" with the volume keys. Use power to select.
A screen with another Android will pop up. Press Volume Up and Power at the same time.
Select Factory Reset. This process may take a few minutes. Be patient and let it work.
Once finished, select "Reboot."
Your phone is now unlocked!
Obtaining Root Access and Custom Recovery:
Turn on USB Debugging.
To do so; you must first go to Settings>About>Build Number and click seven times.
The actual setting can then be found in Settings>Developer Options>USB Debugging
Download the following:
SuperSU (CWM .zip)
CWM (Pick the version for your device)
Place the recovery-clockwork-VERSIONNUMBER-mako.img file into your C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder.
Put the SuperSU.zip on your phone.
Open another Command Prompt if it isn't still open. (Navigate to C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools and shift + right click. Select "Open Command Window Here.")
With your phone plugged in type:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
(Hit Enter)
And wait for your phone to boot into the android again.
Now type:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery IMAGENAME.img
(Change the file name to the correct file name and Hit Enter)
Once that is finished: select the "Recovery Mode" option again on your phone.
You should get a new recovery menu here. Select "install zip from sd card" and "choose zip from sd card."
Find the SuperSU.zip that you transferred earlier and select "Yes" to installing.
Navigate back to "Reboot" and reboot your phone.
You're now rooted!
However, ClockworkMod Recovery won't continue to load after this.
To fix this, find "Rom Manager" from the market. (The free version is fine.) Use the "Flash ClockworkMod Recovery" option.
If your recovery still doesn't stick around after a reboot, you have another couple options. Find a file explorer that allows root access, such as Root Explorer. Use this program to rename /system/etc/install-recovery.sh to /system/etc/install-recovery.bak. You'll need to mount the system as r/w to do this. Root Explorer provides a button at the top to do so.
Or, you can do this completely manually by firing up ADB again and running a few commands:
Code:
adb shell
(Hit Enter)
Code:
su
(Hit Enter)
Code:
mount -o remount,rw -t ext4 /dev/block/mmcblk0p1 /system
(Hit Enter)
Code:
mv /system/etc/install-recovery.sh /system/etc/install-recovery.bak
(Hit Enter)
Congratulations!
Your phone is now unlocked, rooted, and has a custom recovery!
Continue reading the next posts for info on getting custom roms, kernels, tweaks, and more!
***I take no responsibility for what happens to your phone due to following this guide! That being said, not only am I sure you'll be fine...but there are an endless amount of users who would be glad to help if you need it.***
Thanks:
Google, for making Android a reality.
VanillaTbone, for the ADB AIO app.
Efrant, for posting about a bootloader locking utility without USB.
ClockworkMod team, for being a part of making our phones as awesome as they are.
The assorted developers, who continue to push out amazing material for us to use.
The awesome community, for endlessly supporting both Android itself and its users.

Installing Custom Roms Kernels and Tweaks
All of the instructions below require your bootloader to be unlocked. Please follow the guide above and return here when you're done.
Backing Your Files Up:
Time required:
15-25 minutes.
Making a Nandroid
The first thing you're going to want to do is back up your phone's entire system. This is done by making a "nandroid."
To do this, boot into ClockworkMod Recovery. To accomplish this: Turn your phone off. Once it is completely off: hold both volume buttons and the power button until the Android with his chest exposed is displayed. Navigate to the "Recovery Mode" option and select "backup."
This will take some time. Be patient and let it finish. This process is important! You should always have a recent nandroid available on your device.
Backing Your Data Up
Install Titanium Backup from the market.
Open Titanium Backup. A Superuser request should pop up. Allow it. Note: if Titanium Backup then says it failed to obtain root access; press the menu button and select more>reload application.
Press menu>batch. Select "Backup all User Apps." Select all and "Run the Batch Operation."
Let the process complete. This may take quite some time: depending on how many applications you have installed.
You can now backup your Text Messages, Bookmarks, and WiFi addresses with Titanium Backup as well.
Press Menu>Backup Data To XML to do so.
Backing Your Contacts Up
Note: This process may or not be useful to you. The Google servers should automatically import any contacts you have stored back whenever you install a new rom. Also note that Facebook/Google+/etc contacts will need to be synced again through their respective applications.
Open the Contacts application.
Press the Menu button.
Select import/export.
Export to storage.
Installing A Rom (Or Kernel/Radios/Tweaks/Themes/etc.)
Time Required:
5-10 minutes.
Note:
Follow the guide above about backing your phone up before attempting!
This guide will also work for flashing kernels/radios/themes/tweaks/etc. Simply ignore the part about wiping data and wipe whatever the thread says you should. You only need to restore data after a rom install.
Find a Rom You'd Like To Try:
Nexus 4 Original Development
Nexus 4 Development
Download the rom you'd like to try on your device.
Most roms also require you to install "gapps" as well.
You can find the correct ones for the rom you're using in the rom thread.
Make sure the Rom and Gapps are on your SD card.
Now, open Google Wallet (if you have it installed) and press Options>Settings>Reset Google Wallet. This will prevent the "Secure Element" errors some users have experienced.
Boot into ClockworkMod Recovery by turning your device completely off. Hold volume up, volume down, and power until the green Android with the open chest is displayed. Navigate to "Recovery Mode" with the volume buttons and select using the power button.
Remember to have a recent nandroid before continuing!
Navigate to "wipe data/factory reset" and select it. Select "yes."
Wait for the process to complete. This may take some time. Be patient!
Once complete: Navigate to "Install Zip from SD card" and "Choose zip from SD card."
Find the rom's .zip and install it. Once that completes install any applicable gapps' .zip.
Select the "Reboot" option.
Congratulations! Your phone should now boot into the custom rom!
Follow the prompts to re-activate your phone.
Restoring Your Applications / Contacts / Nandroid
Time Required:
5-15 minutes.
Restoring Your Applicaions
Install Titanium Backup. Note: you may want the pro key. If you have it, you won't have to manually click "install" on each application. The process is completely automated. Open Titanium Backup (grant root access. If titanium says it failed to obtain root access, press menu>more>reload application). Press menu>batch>restore missing apps with data. Now, here you have a choice to make. Do you want a completely clean install? Select "app only" and run the batch operation (Deselect Google Wallet first. We don't want to risk restoring wallet in any way. Install it manually through the Play Store.). Do you want all of your application data (saved games/settings/etc)? Select "app+data" and run the batch operation (Deselect Google Wallet first. We don't want to risk restoring wallet in any way. Install it manually through the Play Store.). This MAY cause you problems or it may not. Personally, I often restore application data and seldom run into any trouble. If you do find that restoring data caused problems, follow the guide above to re-install your rom and restore without data. This process will take some time. Be patient (I'd suggest turning your screen off so the screen doesn't burn, but that's just me.) It will vibrate upon completion.
You can now restore your Text Messages, Bookmarks, and WiFi addresses if you backed them up by pressing Menu>Restore Data From XML.
Note:
Overclocking/CPU tweaking applications should never be restored with data. Simply deselect it from the list.
Facebook/Haxsync/Google+ may have problems restoring your contacts when installed through Titanium Backup. Simply uninstall and reinstall through the market (and be sure to log in and select to sync your contacts again).
Also, if you have NFC Task Launcher successfully launching Tasker tasks with your stickers: they may not immediately work.
Through my testing, it's as simple to fix as uninstalling NFC Task Launcher and Tasker. Restore Tasker first. Then restore NFC task launcher.
Restoring Your Contacts
If google fails to restore your contacts (not facebook/haxsync/google+/etc) you may import them manually if you backed them up.
Open the contacts application and press menu>import/export>import from storage.
Restoring A Nandroid
If your phone is acting funny or won't boot...restore a nandroid from a previous rom or working set-up.
You may also use a Nandroid to switch back to a previous rom if you decide you don't like the one you're on.
Do this by booting into ClockworkMod Recovery (hold volume up, volume down, and power while your phone is off and navigate to "Recovery Mode").
Simply select "restore" and find the most recent (or relevant) backup.
This process will take some time. Be patient and let it complete! Once done, select "Reboot."
Note:
Nandroids are stored in the "clockworkmod" folder on your SD card. They take up quite a bit of space. ALWAYS have at least one recent one on your SD card. However, since these are huge files: you may like to delete old ones to save space. You must delete backups by booting into CWM and navigating to Backup and Restore>Delete.
Important Notes About Restoration
I outline the method of using Titanium Backup above for a reason. Restoring system applications and data is the most common cause of problems on custom roms. For this reason, always ONLY restore "missing applications" from "user applications" that were backed up when restoring onto a new rom. Every time you restore system data or applications a narwhal sodomizes your favorite childhood cartoon. This is FACT.
Installing Alternate Custom Recoveries
If you find a custom recovery (such as the touch-recovery options) that came as a .img file:
Use these instructions to flash. Plug your phone into the computer. Open up ADB. Move the .img to the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder.
Type the following:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
(Hit Enter)
You can also manually boot to the bootloader by powering off and holding volume down, volume up, power buttons until the green Android with his chest exposed is displayed.
Then type:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery FILENAME.img
(Replace the file name with whatever the .img is called and Hit Enter).
Wait for the process to complete and reboot.
***I take no responsibility for what happens to your phone due to following this guide! That being said, not only am I sure you'll be fine...but there are an endless amount of users who would be glad to help if you need it.***

Panic Section! (Something is Wrong)
Q: My phone won't boot!
A: The easiest option is to get into recovery and restore a nandroid using the above guide (pull battery to put phone in an off-state if needed).
However, more advanced options are available if you don't have a nandroid available (You're naughty).
Do you have another rom .zip available on your SD card? If so, simply use the above guide for installing a rom to get you booting again.
If not, you can download one on your PC. Boot into fastboot (the green Android with open chest menu). Navigate to recovery and select it with the power button.
Move the .zip to the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder.
Open ADB.
Change the NAMEOFZIP.zip below to the correct file name...and perform the action.
Code:
adb push NAMEOFZIP.zip /sdcard/NAMEOFZIP.zip
(Hit enter)
You may have to reboot recovery to get the file to show up. Now follow the guide above for flashing a rom to get you booting again.
Did you install a tweak that modified only a file or two on your phone? (Find this out by opening the .zip and looking in the folders (ignore META-INF). Good news! We MAY be able to recover you completely. If this doesn't work...you'll have to follow another method.
Get your phone into fastboot (the boot-menu that allows you to select recovery/reboot/etc). Navigate to Recovery. Start up ADB. Pull the files that were modified out of the stock rom's .zip (using whatever tweak you were installing as reference to find what was changed) that you're on into the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder. Now we're going to push these files onto your phone...replacing the tweaked ones and hopefully getting you booted again. Use this code, but change the values of the file name and where it should reside. This is only an example!
Code:
adb shell
(Hit Enter)
Code:
su
(Hit Enter)
Code:
mount -o remount,rw -t ext4 /dev/block/mmcblk0p1 /system
(Hit Enter)
This will mount your system so you can write to it.
Code:
exit
(Hit Enter)
This should exit shell and allow the use of adb commands again. You may need to type it a couple of times (until the #_ changes back to the platform_tools> prompt).
Code:
adb push framework-res.apk /system/framework/framework-res.apk
(Press enter after each file that you need to replace).
Note: This last option probably won't work. I'd just skip over it unless you're absolutely adamant about restoring your current setup and want to try everything possible.
Q: I want my SDcard files from my phone...but I'm in a situation where I need to flash stock images! This will erase my SD content. What can I do to save it?
A: Do you have a custom recovery installed? If not, download a custom recovery from post one in this guide and flash it using those instructions. You'll need to be in a custom recovery in order to obtain ADB access without booting your phone. Boot into recovery (With phone turned off: hold Power and Volume+ and Volume- until the bootloader pops up and navigate to "Recovery"). Run the command:
Code:
adb pull /sdcard/ /SDCARD/
(Hit Enter)
This will put all of your files into a folder called "SDCARD" in your C:\ drive. Keep in mind that this will take a LONG time. Maybe a couple of hours.
To restore once you're booting again:
Move the "SDCARD" folder you created from your C:\ drive to the platform-tools folder. *Then input:
Code:
adb push SDCARD /sdcard/
(Hit Enter)
Q: How do I make an "ADB Backup?"
A: An ADB Backup will backup your phones data (applications and their settings). Follow the guide HERE about ADB Backups.
Q: My phone gets really sluggish and often turns off or reboots on its own.
A: Without knowing anything about your situation...I'd say you either have severely bad data somewhere or some bad kernel tweaks. Use the rom install guide above, paying close attention to the part about backing up and restoring if you haven't already. In the case of a kernel problem, you're likely undervolting too low. Restore the stock kernel values and see if your problems subside.
Q: My phone screen won't turn on! This requires a battery pull to fix.
A: This is called a "Black Screen of Death" or BSOD. This is generally due to using a hotplug governor (one that turns cores off with the screen off) or possibly undervolting your device too low. Change governors or up your slots a bit.
Q: My phone is doing really weird things. Regardless of kernel/rom and even if I don't restore any data at all! Either that or I simply cannot boot up! My phone is possessed no matter what I do!
Download the stock IMAGES for your device and extract the files using 7-zip. Move all of the extracted files to your platform-tools folder. Open the flash-all.sh file with a text editor. Copy and paste the commands (one by one) and wait for each process to complete for continuing.
FAQ
Roms/Kernels
Q: What is the best rom?
A: The "best" rom is a matter of opinion. Do you like a certain customization and can't live without it? Use a rom that has that option.
Q: What is the best rom for battery life?
A: Roms themselves really shouldn't impact your battery all that much. They can have an impact, but if you're really looking for better battery I'd suggest swapping kernels or tweaking yours.
Q: What is the best rom for stability?
A: All of the roms out are "stable." They may have options that don't work correctly, but generally: this is user error. If you follow my advice on installing a rom, you'll end up with MUCH fewer bugs.
Q: What is the best kernel?
A: The best kernel is a matter of opinion. Some users may love one, while others swear by another. Find one you like and tweak it accordingly.
Q: How do I tweak a kernel for better battery?
A: Generally, you'll want to either change your governor and or undervolt and or underclock your kernel. This is done either by using SetCPU or similar apps, or with an option in your rom (usually labeled "performance" or something similar). Take note: extremely high/low voltages may cause instability. Never "set at boot" until you've thoroughly tested the options you've set. Testing includes low strain (like turning your screen off for an hour) and high strain (like playing a game for an hour) scenarios. To be extra safe: run the values for a couple days before setting them at boot. Follow the users ideas in the kernel's threads for some guidelines. However, remember that not all values will play nicely with all phones.
Miscellaneous
Q: Why isn't Google Wallet working at [store]?
A: I'm not sure if it's a Google Wallet problem, or a problem with the terminal. But I personally struggle to find a terminal that consistently works in my area. Something that has generally worked for me is to open wallet and go to Options>Reset Google Wallet. You must then re-add any cards you had.
Q: Does my ass look good in these shorts?
A: Yes.
Neat Ideas / How to Show Off the Nexus 4
-Get some NFC stickers. Tagstand has them available.
You can use these to make your phone perform certain tasks when you touch the sticker. Use NFC Task Launcher to define the tasks. These are capable of doing simple things like muting your volume to the more complex like turning on Tasker tasks that do things like auto-reply to text messages while you're at work.
-Do you have any suggestions? Submit them below!
***I take no responsibility for what happens to your phone due to following this guide! That being said, not only am I sure you'll be fine...but there are an endless amount of users who would be glad to help if you need it.***

ADB Backups:
SDcard backup:
Code:
adb pull /sdcard/ /sdcard/
(This will pull all of your sdcard contents to an "sdcard" folder in your C:\ directory)
Applications and their data:
Take note, that you'll need to be using CyanogenMod's method for setting up ADB to do this. The ADB AIO application installs an older SDK without this functionality. First, get your drivers installed (detailed in post one). Once you get ADB installed (post one), navigate to the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder on your computer. Hold shift and right click. Select "Open Command Window Here."
Input this while your phone is turned on and USB Debugging is Enabled:
To do so; you must first go to Settings>About>Build Number and click seven times.
The actual setting can then be found in Settings>Developer Options>USB Debugging
Type this:
Code:
adb backup -apk -noshared -all -nosystem
(Hit Enter)
Your phone will ask for a password. Input one and remember it.
Once the process completes: continue with unlocking and rooting your phone.
Restoration:
Upon unlocking and rooting your phone: open up ADB again.
Enter this code:
Code:
adb restore backup.ab
(Hit Enter)
Input the password you saved to this file earlier, and wait for the restore to complete.
To restore your SDcard backup, first move the "sdcard" folder that was made in the backup process to your platform-tools folder.
Then run:
Code:
adb push sdcard /sdcard/

Do you have to install "ADB" ?

As far as like...clicking it and letting the windows installer install...no.
The exe file will read the commands in cmd without "installation."

Nice Work!

I've just added this guide to the Nexus 4 Complete Index
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium

Great work!!! nice and clean reading!

Can this guide include information on how to re-lock bootloader and unroot the device? Does this informaiton exist?
I need to RMA my phone due to dead pixels and I want to make sure I dont have any issues with the warranty.

jayluke said:
Can this guide include information on how to re-lock bootloader and unroot the device? Does this informaiton exist?
I need to RMA my phone due to dead pixels and I want to make sure I dont have any issues with the warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Post 3.
fastboot oem lock
Locks the device.

How long is the first boot, after unlocking the bootloader, supposed to take? Mine's sitting there for quite a while already. (I had a lot of stuff installed, but still, this is really long.)
EDIT: When rebooting the custom recovery, you have to say "yes" to the message it gives you, something about keeping some recovery. I had originally said no because I didn't flash it, I just booted it once.

I just got my nexus yesterday, and this isnt the first phone that I have rooted.... however... my settings on the thing are extremely basic..
How do I enable usb debugging if I dont have the option in the settings?
Thanks
Chris
---------- Post added at 03:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:14 PM ----------
I just got my nexus yesterday, and this isnt the first phone that I have rooted.... however... my settings on the thing are extremely basic..
How do I enable usb debugging if I dont have the option in the settings?
Thanks
Chris
Edit: Got an app to enable it... still not in the menu though.

wizshaw said:
I just got my nexus yesterday, and this isnt the first phone that I have rooted.... however... my settings on the thing are extremely basic..
How do I enable usb debugging if I dont have the option in the settings?
Thanks
Chris
---------- Post added at 03:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:14 PM ----------
I just got my nexus yesterday, and this isnt the first phone that I have rooted.... however... my settings on the thing are extremely basic..
How do I enable usb debugging if I dont have the option in the settings?
Thanks
Chris
Edit: Got an app to enable it... still not in the menu though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh geeze!
I forgot.
Settings>about>version number I think...
Click 7 times to enable developer options.
Will update op soon.

Quick question: is there a reason the first post links to SuperSU version 0.98, when version 0.99 is the most recent? If version 0.99 has known issues with the Nexus 4, I don't want to use it on my device.

The 0.99 version came out after this guide was posted. I was offered to upgrade to the new version of supersu from 0.98 and so far no problem at all.

Does this work on the latest version of JB (4.2.1)?

When installing a new ROM it says to perform a factory reset through CWM, which will remove all apps and data but should keep all your pictures, videos, songs etc.
It doesn't mention to wipe the System partition as well. Is this not necessary when flashing ROMs on a Nexus?
Prior to owning the N4 I had the Galaxy S 2 and it was always stated in the OP instructions to wipe data/factory reset, wipe system, clear cache, clear dalvik and then flash ROM and Gapps.
However, I don't notice in any guides or instructions for N4 ROMS to wipe the system partition, just the data partition. Is there a reason for this or is it not necessary to wipe the system partition? Thanks. Great guide by the way.
Peace

thank u for ur effort

Chochiwpg said:
When installing a new ROM it says to perform a factory reset through CWM, which will remove all apps and data but should keep all your pictures, videos, songs etc.
It doesn't mention to wipe the System partition as well. Is this not necessary when flashing ROMs on a Nexus?
Prior to owning the N4 I had the Galaxy S 2 and it was always stated in the OP instructions to wipe data/factory reset, wipe system, clear cache, clear dalvik and then flash ROM and Gapps.
However, I don't notice in any guides or instructions for N4 ROMS to wipe the system partition, just the data partition. Is there a reason for this or is it not necessary to wipe the system partition? Thanks. Great guide by the way.
Peace
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually have a question along these lines.
I just came from a LG G2X so things were different for me whenever I flashed ROM's/kernels. For one thing, I had an external sd card so whenever CWM made it's backups, they went to that automatically and I didn't have to worry about wiping since everything was on the external. This phone doesn't have an external so where do the backups go? From the looks of the new CWM 6.0.2.0, the backups (and blobs now apparently) go to /data/media/clockworkmod. Well I guess my question here is if you have to wipe /data for installing new ROM's, how would I restore a backup because they would have been deleted off the /data partition. I tried adb pulling /data/media/clockworkmod to my computer but it won't go. Don't know if it's because that partition is mounted while the phone is in use or what. I tried the mount/umount command that OP listed but it won't work for me. Don't want to flash ANYTHING on this phone until I know for a fact I can get to the backups that I'm creating.

Quick question on the guides to root the N7

I just got an N7 32GB tablet, very nice. I plan on rooting this device. Mine still on 4.2.1. What guide you guys recommend, both seem good so I'm undecided.
Thanks

Aut0botK1lla said:
I just got an N7 32GB tablet, very nice. I plan on rooting this device. Mine still on 4.2.1. What guide you guys recommend, both seem good so I'm undecided.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know how to use adb/fastboot ? if you know you can use that to easily root the N7.
Here's the link on how to use adb/fastboot to unlock and root the Nexus 7.
If not, then use this toolkit by following the link below:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766475
Download the program and install it.
After that, watch this tutorial first once and then start rooting with the toolkit.
http://www.youtube.com/results?sear...0.219.737.0j3j1.4.0...0.0...1ac.1.NbcxhPx0ZLs
IMPORTANT NOTE: You must unlock your Nexus 7's bootloader in order to proceed with the rooting process. As a result, everything in your tablet will be erased. So backup what you can and put it back later.

I would recommend using adb fast boot method, it is very simple if you follows it correctly, I will give you full instructions on how to unlock boot loader and root
ALL DATA WILL BE LOST , BACKUP EVERYTHING
I RECOMMEND USING TWRP CUSTOM RECOVERY
Getting started
In order to root Android 4.2 the following three requirements must be satisfied beforehand:
The Android SDK, which you can download from Google Developers
A custom recovery like ClockworkMod (CWM) or Team Win Recovery Project (TWRP)
SuperSU, which you can download from CF-Root
There are no major differences between the two, but TWRP is more touch-oriented thanks to larger buttons. CWM is also available in a touch-compatible variant, but it has much smaller buttons. It's a matter of personal preference between the two though, but you have to choose one.
Before starting the process I urge you to perform a backup, as all data might be lost afterwards. You can copy the contents of the SD card to a safe external location such as cloud storage service or computer hard drive.
Setting the Stage
The first step that needs to be performed after all the files are downloaded is to install the Android SDK. Afterwards open the Android SDK Manager and select the following two items:
Android SDK Platform-tools -- it contains the required programs to install Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
Google USB Driver -- it contains the necessary drivers for the Nexus device
Then you should create a folder in an easily accessible location within the command line. In this example I will use a folder named "Root" in my C:\ drive in Windows. The path name will therefore be: "C:\Root".
From the folder where Android SDK Platform-tools is installed (in my case it is "C:\Program Files x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools") copy the following files to the previously created "Root" folder:
adb.exe
AdbWinApi.dll
AdbWinUsbApi.dll
fastboot.exe
The following files must also be copied to the "Root" folder:
CWM-SuperSU-v0.97.zip -- SuperSU file
The custom recovery that you previously downloaded for your specific device (please see below)
For my 8 GB nexus 7 wifi(codename "grouper") I will use TWRP with the name "openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img".
You can easily find the codename for your devoice by looking into Google
The custom recovery file differs for each device, please make sure you download the correct file
In order to make the process smoother for instance the SuperSU file can be renamed to "root.zip" and the custom recovery to "customrecovery.zip". It's a matter of convenience, but for accuracy I will stick to the original naming for this guide.
If the previous steps are completed you must have the following six files in your "Root" folder:
adb.exe
AdbWinApi.dll
AdbWinUsbApi.dll
fastboot.exe
CWM-SuperSU-v0.97.zip -- SuperSU file
The custom recovery. In my case it is "openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img"
From there, you can proceed to install the drivers for "fastboot mode". To install them, follow these steps:
Power off your Nexus device.
Press and hold Volume Up and Volume Down then press and hold the Power button; the device will now enter "fastboot mode".
Go to Device Manager (Computer -> Properties -> Device Manager in Windows 7/8) and identify the device; for me it shows up as Android 1.0.
Right click Android 1.0 and select "Update Driver Software," then select "Browse my computer for driver software".
Select "Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer," then click "Next".
From "Have Disk..." option go to the folder where you have Google USB Driver installed (for me it's "C:\Program Files .(x86)\Android\android-sdk\extras\google\usb_driver") and select "android_winusb.inf".
Out of the three options select "Android ADB Interface" and validate any future warning window to install the driver.
Final preparations
Everything is prepared in order to start the installation process, but in order to do so a command window must be opened. Windows Key + R opens "Run"; type in "cmd" and the command window appears. Typing "cd C:\Root" and pressing Enter sets the "Root" folder as the working directory. Pressing the Shift key and right clicking inside the "Root" folder will also deliver the same result.
The device must be turned on in "fastboot mode" which I have explained at step no.2 during the driver installation process, and obviously plugged-in to the computer. You then have to type in the following commands while in "fastboot mode":
fastboot devices -- this is just for verification purposes; if there is no listed device then the drivers have been improperly installed and steps 1 through 7 must be redone.
fastboot oem unlock -> you have to accept the prompt in order to continue -- this command will unlock the bootloader, but it will also erase the data on the device which is why a backup is necessary.
fastboot reboot-bootloader -- this will reboot the bootloader.
fastboot flash recovery openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img -- this will flash the custom recovery --please use the specific file and name for your particular Nexus device!
fastboot erase cache -- this will erase the cache -- might not be necessary but it's just as a precaution.
fastboot reboot -- this will reboot the device.
After Android 4.2 is loaded and running the SuperSU file must be copied from the "Root" folder to the internal storage (shows up in Windows Explorer as a Nexus device). A simple copy and paste will do the trick here.
Then you have to power off the Nexus device and enter "fastboot mode" again. Use the Volume Up and Volume Down keys to navigate until you can select "Recovery Mode". After the power button is pressed the device will reboot in the new custom recovery.
Rooting your Nexus device
If you have ClockworkMod installed, you have to perform the following steps:
Select "install zip from sdcard"
Select "choose zip from sdcard"
Select "0" (zero) folder
Select "CWM-SuperSU-v0.97.zip"
Select "Yes - Install CWM-SuperSU-v0.97.zip"
Select "Go Back"
Select "reboot system now"
If you have Team Win Recovery Project installed, you have to perform the following steps:
Press "Install".\
Select "CWM-SuperSU-v0.97.zip" -- for me it's in the "0" (zero) folder
Swipe to confirm flash
Press "Wipe cache/dalvik" (just as a precaution)
Swipe to wipe
Press "Reboot System"
After Android 4.2 loads your device can run apps with elevated privileges (meaning it's rooted). A SuperSU app is installed in order to allow root requests, so please use your judgement on which apps you grant access.
If you experiences any problem, please reply and I will look into it.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

+ Above.
Way to wordy and not easy to follow
Basically:
Boot into recovery (yes i know you don't properly have one)
Get Android SDK from HERE
Once downloaded/installed.
Navigate to the "Platform-tools" folder, where you should see ADB/FASTBOOT
Hold shift, right click and "open command prompt here"
type fastboot devices
(if your device is listed, move on)
Unlock your bootloader
type fastboot oem unlock
Download THIS(supersu)
Download TWRP from HERE
Place the SuperSU download file on your SD CARD (Nexus has a virtual SD, place it there)
Place the recovery in the "Platform-tools" folder with your ADB/FASTBOOT files.
Reboot to fastboot again (Power and volume down)
fastboot devices
if listed continue:
fastboot flash recovery openrecovery-twrp-2.4.1.0-grouper.img
Reboot back into recovery (which should now be twrp) (POWER AND VOLUME DOWN)
Then from TWRP menu choose "Install"
Find the 2 files you downloaded and placed on SD card
Install them using TWRP.
Reboot
Profit.

Wilks3y said:
+ Above.
Way to wordy and not easy to follow
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well... I liked it... for a guy with only 2 posts to his/her name to explain (perhaps in TOO much detail) how to root takes b**ls:!
Keep it up, naman14... but be a little more judicious in what you include (and choose to exclude) in your walkthrou's.
Writing instructions is art in itself... and requires practice. Succinct and pithy is the way to go.
Rgrds,
Ged.

Thank you all, the last thing i ever rooted was my sprint htc hero a yr or so ago

[GUIDE] Port firefox OS to Nexus 4 + Galaxy 2 Dual Boot

How To Install Firefox OS on a nexus 4 and dual boot. ​
XDA-Developers member pureexe has created an Image that will help you to port Firefox OS to your Google Nexus 4. Here is the list of what works and what doesn’t works:
What Works:
– Wi-Fi
– Data
– Phone Calls
– Contact Import
– GPS
– SMS/MMS
-Some Sensors (Light+Gyroscope+Acceleration)
-ADB
Does NOT Work:
– Camera
-MTP/PTP
– A lot of other things
How To Flash
Step 1: First connect your device to PC (desktop/laptop) via USB and make sure that USB debugging enabled on your device.
Step 2: Now to be on safe side create a Nandroid backup from recovery its because if something goes wrong then you can easily backup all your data.
Step 3: After creating backup, now download the ROM (FFOS_mako_********.zip) file and place these files on the SD card of the phone.
Step 4: Now switch off the phone and boot the phone into Recovery mode.
Step 5: Assuming you are in the Recovery mode and now you have to wipe the full data on your device. To do this, you have to click on “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” option. As soon as you click on “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” option a new screen pop-up where you have to click on “Yes” option.
Step 6: After wiping out all the data on your device you have to wipe the cache & the dalvik cache also.
Step 7: Now go to “install zip from SD card” option and click on “select zip from SD card”. After selecting the option “select zip from SD card” you have to choose the ROM file.
Step 8: After performing all the correctly in step 7 you have to clear the cache and & dalvik cache again.
Step 9: Now, go to “Install zip from SD card” option and click on “Select zip from SD card”. After selecting the option “Select zip from SD card”, you have to choose the optional file like home app or server module
Step 10 : Assuming you have performed all the steps correctly, now simply reboot your device and it will boot into Firefox OS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How to dual boot: ONLY FOR GALAXY S2
Warning: This procedure doesn't really work anymore. It only works with Android 4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and Siyah Kernel v 5.0.1. Later versions of either won't work. Consider this guide archived, and use it at your own risk.
If you want to test B2G from time to time but continue using Android as your main OS and you have a Samsung Galaxy S2, you can choose to install B2G in a separate partition (which is already present on the phone) and choose where to boot into when your device starts.
Prerequisites
In order to dual boot Android and B2G, you have to meet these prerequisites:
You have to have built B2G for the Galaxy S2
You have to download the Siyah kernel v. 5.0.1 for the Galaxy S2
You need the tool simg2img, that you get automatically if you build B2G following the guide on MDN
You need the heimdall tool, best if version 1.3.1 as you may encounter problems with version 1.3.2
One-time operations
There are several operations to do in order to get a working dual boot. The following ones need to be done the first time only.
In order to use heimdall without requiring root access, you should create a file called android.rules (the portion of the name before the .rules extension is arbitrary) and place it in /etc/udev/rules.d. The file should contain a line line the following:
Code:
SUBSYSTEM=="usb", ATTRS{idVendor}=="04e8", MODE="0666"
In order to activate this rule, you should restart udev:
Code:
sudo service udev restart
and then unplug and replug in the phone. The above rule will also allow adb to access the SGS2 without requiring root privlidges.
Flashing the Siyah kernel
The Siyah kernel is mandatory for the dual boot, because it is this kernel that manages it. Once you have downloaded and decompressed the tar file, you'll be left with a file named zImage. In order to flash it on your phone you have to follow these steps:
Switch off your phone
Reboot in download mode (press together volume down + home + power buttons and then, when asked, volume up button)
Use heimdall to flash the kernel with the following command (your phone needs to be connected to your PC):
heimdall flash --kernel /path/to/zImage
Once the kernel is flashed the phone will reboot.
Preparing the B2G rom environment
Once you've installed the Siyah kernel, it's time to use its functions to prepare the environment to install your B2G image in the secondary partition. Follow these steps:
Switch off your phone
Reboot in recovery mode (press together volume up + home + power buttons)
In the CWMR Touch interface, go to dual-boot options -> Wipe 2ndROM data/cache -> Yes - Wipe. This operation will take some time
Once the operation is finished, select Go Back and then reboot system now to reboot your phone. If you check, inside the internal SD card of your phone you'll now have a .secondrom directory with inside two files named cache.img and data.img.
B2G update operations
The following operations need to be done every time you build a new version of B2G.
In order to simplify command line instructions, it's advised to copy all needed files in a same folder of your choice. These are the files that need to be copied inside the folder:
Code:
simg2img, found in B2G/out/target/product/galaxys2/system/bin/
system.img, found in B2G/out/target/product/galaxys2/
userdata.img, found in B2G/out/target/product/galaxys2/
Once you have all the files in one place, do the following:
Create a data.img file out of the sparse file userdata.img. You can do it with the following command:
Code:
simg2img userdata.img data.img
Put the data.img file on your phone's .secondrom folder. You can do this either by enabling file storage mode on your phone and connecting it to your PC or, if you have USB Debug active, you can use adb:
adb push /path/to/data.img /sdcard/.secondrom/data.img
Switch off your phone
Reboot in download mode (press together volume down + home + power buttons and then, when asked, volume up button)
Use heimdall to flash B2G firmware inside the second partition:
heimdall flash --hidden system.img
Once the flash is finished, your phone will reboot and at boot time you can boot into your second rom (the B2G one) by pressing the home button during the bootloader countdown. If everything has gone right, once you've finished booting B2G you'll have a black screen on your phone. You now have to install Gaia.
Note: Depending on how you want to test B2G, you may not want to put a new data.img file on the phone every time you update B2G, as it will wipe all of your preferences, installed applications and in general pretty much everything you've done while using B2G.
Boot operations
The following operations need to be done every time you boot inside B2G.
Unfortunately, there's no simple way to put Gaia inside the system.img B2G image, and it get lost when you switch off your phone, so you'll need to install Gaia again every time you boot inside B2G. To install Gaia, type the following on a console after you've booted your phone inside B2G (so you have a black screen) and have connected your phone to your PC:
cd B2G/gaia
GAIA_DOMAIN=foo.org make install-gaia
After the upload of Gaia is completed, on your phone's screen the B2G interface will appear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dual Boot With Nexus 4 :
Original Link Here
Text Steps :
-Download FFOS.zip file
-Go to TWRP recovery
-Go to advanced, MultiROM, add ROM
-Select android, and don't share kernel
-Select next, then select zip file
-Select the FFOS.zip file
-After that go to list ROMs, pick FFOS, select flash zip, and flash the addons you want
-Reboot to multiboot
-Select FFOS and boot it
-Wait about 2 minutes
-You're now booted to FFOS
BTW FFOS stands for firefox OS
Downloads :
FFOS image Here
Contributors + Complier
pureexefor image and steps
Mozilla (for Dual Boot 1)
Riro Zizo for dual boot 2
Me, for putting all this stuff together!

@Apph3x
I have two version of porting
- Base Jellybean 4.3
- Base Kitkat
i know Base Kitkat is bad but working fine on base Jellybean 4.3
on jellybean everything working except MTP
Please read this post http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=44451567&postcount=2

Thanks
@pureexe I know but I'm sparse on time will update soon. The image is your latest 1 tho ;D thanks for original guide

Updated
Removed by owner
vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv

Updated
UPDATE BASE LAYER 4.3
What Works:
- Wi-Fi
- Data
- Phone Calls
- Bluetooth
- Camera (Rear Camera & Front Camera)
- Video Record
- GPS
- SMS/MMS
- MUSIC (Mp3 & ogg decoder working)
- USB tethering
- WIFI tethering
- Video HQ decoder
- Sensor (Light+Gyroscope+Acceleration)
- ADB
- A lot of thing
Does NOT Work:
-MTP/PTP
Download
http://forum.xda-developers.com/devd...ct/dl/?id=3793

[NOOBIEST GUIDE]INSTALL ALL REQUIRED DRIVERS AND FULL STOCK ROM+Little tip

So this is a guide for quick full stock installation which is fully compatible with your device
Warning:All of your data will be gone
REQUIREMENTS:A PC A MICRO SD CARD AND A WORKING DATA CABLE
Step One: Download and install Lenovo Moto Smart Assistant
Step 2: go under "Flash" option and then rescue and select the product you are using now choose the model and also select your hw code which i found under battery i dont know yours, and then wait for download.
Step 3:Enable usb debugging and then open cmd and use this command "adb reboot edl" without double quotation marks ofc
Step 4roceed and press ok to all of em
Additional process (follow steps with "a.") OTA installation (i will guide on windows)
a.1Open your explorer and then ur hard drive C: at the top you will see file etc. come to view which is 4th from left and then tick show hidden files (i am using windows Turkish so trying to translate)
a.2:Go ProgramData/LMSA/Download/CountryCodeFiles/a6020xxx____yyy/now choose the file with Country.ota.zip
a.3:Now you can sideload the file (go recovery and then select apply update from ADB)or you can copy it to your sd card and use "Apply update from Sd" using stock recovery and apply it.
AND CONGRATULATIONS! you are now on stock rom with all compatible drivers installed on your drive!
Also this is to everyone, a quick tip:if you cant reboot to download mode which you can do on cmd, you can go to fastboot mode first (Voldown+power)and then keep pressing on VolUp+VolDown+Power (keep doing until you see a whole black or a glowing screen)

ME176C/CX detailed guide on dual-booting linux

Greetings,
i did go through dual-booting linux on our device kind of process and spend a bit of time, trying to figure out the correct steps.
Was not easy, for a newbie like me, i dont know much about linux itself, most of the inscrutions are written in "foreing language" for me, so here is more of a detailed guide.
This guide is only for installation on the SDCARD, i did not try out internal storage
!!! Im not responsible for anything that happens during/using these steps, you and only you are responsible to what happens, use with caution !!!
Requirements:
Unlocked bootloader: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...6c-boot-for-asus-memo-pad-7-me176c-x.3780225/
Installed TWRP: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...p-3-3-1-for-asus-memo-pad-7-me176c-x.3745190/
Both of these guides are made step by step, so there should be no questions about this
First of all, go to https://images.postmarketos.org/bpo/v22.12/asus-me176c/ , there are 3 different types of UI, the kernel itself should be the same, but i dont know for sure myself
Phosh - very well working on our device, missing a bit of RAM to launch firefox stable for example
Plasma-mobile - i found this one was very hardware heavy, it takes quite alot of more storage aswell, i do not recommend this for our device
Sxmo - this one did boot up just fine, but i wasnt able to get more testing as my hardware inputs were not recognized by the software, i do not recommend this one
There are multiple software version, i did try only the latest one
Possible to try out the lower (outdated) versions yourself
After downloading these files, you should have 2 of the .xz archives, unpack them somewhere, i did put them into the same folder, but thats just my own preference
After unpacking them, you should have
XXX-asus-me176c-bootpart.img
XXX-asus-me176c.img
XXX are reference to date of the build
To have ourself things easier, we will rename both of these build and leave only the "asus-me176c.img/asus-me176c-bootpart.img", you can leave them named as theyre, but it will take you a bit more time in the terminal
After that, we will move one of our images (the non-bootpart one) to the internal storage of the device.
Make sure, to have enough space available. I have the 8GB version and it was kind of struggle for me to install the plasma-mobile version.
I did also try moving that file to USB-OTG and SDCARD, but i had some problems with USB-OTG in TWRP and SDCARD gets wiped when you install the OS.
So, please, use internal storage for the file, the OS IS NOT GOING TO GET INSTALLED ON YOUR INTERNAL STORAGE IN THIS WAY, WE ARE GOING TO INSTALL IT ON A SDCARD.
After moving our file to the internal memory, we will go and reboot our tablet to fastboot mode
when powered off, press volume down + power on, release power when screen lights up
in the custom bootloader menu, using volume keys (power one does not work), we select Fastboot (power down to move and power up to select)
Our phone should boot into fastboot mode, we go and connect our phone to the computer
after connecting the phone, we go to the folder where our xxx asus-bootpart.img is located, go ahead and SHIFT+RIGHTCLICK on empy space in the folder, select Open a terminal/powershell window here
in the terminal/powershell we type in command " fastboot flash APD asus-me176c.img "
let the command process, after its done, go and type in " fastboot reboot-bootloader "
our phone gets rebooted into the bootloader, with volume keys once again, select RECOVERY
when our device gets booted to TWRP, go to Mount -> Tick ESP
anywhere on your PC, open up the default text editor, paste in:
title postmarketOS
volume 80868086-8086-8086-8086-000000000007
linux /vmlinuz-edge
initrd /intel-ucode.img
initrd /initramfs
# Comment this out to get more output on screen while booting
options console=null
this text is only used for the latest version of the OS, for lower versions, please follow https://wiki.postmarketos.org/wiki/ASUS_MeMO_Pad_7_(asus-me176c)
select the file type as "every files" instead of text document
name it pmos.conf and save it anywhere you like
at your computer, download MiniDiskPartition tool, or other partition tool
partition your sdcard using the selected tool
i have 32GB sdcard, i did partition my sdcard roughly 8GB with FAT32 for file sharing between android/linux/windows and the rest with EXT4 for the Linux itself
i believe the partition size for Linux doesnt matter aslong as its over 4GB, the installation itself should resize the partition on sdcard itself, depending on how it needs, BUT im still not 100% how this works
connect your phone to the computer
in TWRP go to MOUNT and tick ESP
in the folder where you saved the pmos.conf, open up a terminal (once again SHIFT+RIGHTLICK and open terminal/powershell here)
type in " adb push pmos.conf /esp/loader/entries/ " , press enter
in TWRP go to Advanced and go to Terminal
type in " df "
then you should see your partitions, we are looking for one that belongs to /external_sd/ , usually dev/block/mmcblkX0Y (X and Y are not specified), it should have it written at the end
mine was " /dev/block/mmcblk0p1 " YOURS CAN BE DIFFERENT! in the original guide, they specify, it can be also SDXY (XY belongs to any number)
after we find our partition that belongs to /external_sd/ , we go into the terminal in TWRP and type in:
dd if=/PATHTOYOURIMGFILE/ of=/PATHTOYOUREXTERNALSDCARDPARTITION/ bs=4m
i did have the IMG file in my internal storage, therefore my command was:
dd if=/sdcard/asus-me176c.img of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p1 bs=4m
make sure to use the bs=4m instead of bs=4M (as specified in the original guide), otherwise you will get "illegal number" error
after this, you should wait! The file is 1,6 - 2,4 GB, it takes time
your result should appear in the terminal
if your installation was succesfull, you can go in TWRP to REBOOT and select BOOTLOADER
you should have postmarketOS option available in the bootloader boot options, select it
you should boot your postmarketOS now
if you didnt, you probably didnt follow the guide correctly, read the steps once again
if you couldnt install the postmarketOS and youre sure you did follow the steps correctly, contact me on XDA (preferably make a comment under this thread)
Original thread:
ASUS MeMO Pad 7 (asus-me176c) - postmarketOS
wiki.postmarketos.org