I'm planning on getting this device shortly & was wondering if the stock kernel will work with most of the roms developed here? I'm just trying to do my homework so I can be ready when I have it in hand. I'm so ready to ditch the g2x.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium
TBH I haven't seen a stock kernel NOT work with a Custom ROM. The only thing is some of the features i.e. Wifi Calling may not work. So it's always best to flash the recommended to avoid boot loops or bugs.
I just looked at four of the most popular ROMs, and in less than five minutes read that only one of them said stock kernel was ok. The other three say to flash either faux's kernel, xboarder's newest kernel, or the included boot.img in the download.
But yes the stock kernel will work but like just mentioned it will have limited functionality. In my opinion, read what the dev says in their OP and throughout their thread, but a whole thread on this isn't necessary.
I don't mean to be rude, just saying it like it is. Welcome!
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Thanks for ur replys guy's. I have always used the stock kernel with every rom on every device I've used. I'm new to flashing kernels & every time I tried flashing a kernel I've always had issues. Thanks again for ur answers.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium
I wonder how this thread's topic relates to development...
Okay let me clarify the whole kernel thing.
We have three types kernels to chose from.
The stock OTA kernel. That's what your phone comes with. It is secured which means it will not allow scripts to auto-start (which means that init.d is worthless) and does not default with superuser access from adb or terminal. You can still get root access but you always need to do "su" command.
The unsecured kernel. This is the kernel that comes with your rom. This is commonly found in the zip file of the custom rom that you download. The custom rom DOES NOT (which also means DOESN'T, WON'T, WILL NOT, CAN'T and CAN NOT) update the kernel by recovery like almost all the other phones do. We believe this is because we have bootloaders with S-ON. When or IF we get s-off we may be capable of flashing a kernel by recovery.
Faux123's kernel.
Refer to [Kernel]HTC Stock[2.6.35.13](v0.0.7)OC~1.73/UV/CIFS+UTF-8[Dec-30]
Q&A
But can't we flash Faux's kernel by recovery?
Yes and no. I developed a workaround to make that work however it doesn't directly flash the kernel from the recovery. It flashes the kernel after the phone has already booted which is why a second reboot is required.
Well... why not? I don't understand.
Unfortunately since the phone MUST come to a complete boot from a kernel that initiats init.d scripts (unsecured kernel as described above), we cannot use the above method going from a pure rooted OTA rom or when going from SenseUI 3.0 to SenseUI 3.5 or ICS roms. Let me know if you're confused by this.
Alright... so can you tell me more about Faux's kernel?
Well since I'm not Faux123 I'll try to answer this.
It's a slightly modified version of the unsecured kernel (capable of executing init.d scripts) that has been tweaked to allow slight over clocking and control over the voltage going to the CPU and RAM of the phone. This can help you or hurt you. You can push your processor harder and faster to increase performance but you may lose stability and drain your battery faster. Alternatively you can reduce the voltage and preserve battery life. At this time the kernel is NOT complete due to HTC not releasing the full source of their TI drivers. It would appear that since it is not technically their drivers, they don't have to release it.
So... what's the problem making the kernel?
Faux123 tried to make the kernel from source, unfortunately without the full source attempting to do so will lose wifi and wireless tethering abilities. Again... blame HTC for that. Until they release the full source we're stuck with this limitation.
So all this talking about kernels you still haven't explain how to flash it?
This part is easy.
Use this: [Guide][Tool] Kernel Flasher 2 Step/Kernel Restore Tool||Noob Proof||V3 released || or whatever directions are included with the ROM or kernel that you're interested in flashing. If you're skilled enough you can just use the fastboot commands.
From bootloader:
fastboot flash boot c:\directorytoboot\boot.img
(replace c:\directorytoboot with actual directory)
So in conclusion... as soon as HTC releases s-off for our devices as well as the full kernel source code we can have some really kick @$$ phones! Until then... we have to [email protected]$$ everything such as fastboot flashing our half-a$$ modified kernels. It's not the rom or kernel developers fault... it's HTC's.
Felinos11 said:
I wonder how this thread's topic relates to development...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah yeah... I'll move it.
Thank you binary for your excellent explanation. I posted it here because the people with the knowledge frequent this board & hope they would see it. I apologize if I posted this in the wrong place.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium
Binary100100 said:
Yeah yeah... I'll move it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so how do I go back to stock kernel binary!!!!! i kid, i kid!!!
Stock kernel works fine.
seansk said:
so how do I go back to stock kernel binary!!!!! i kid, i kid!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go choke on some nitrous.
Binary100100 said:
Go choke on some nitrous.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love nitrous oxide, we had to try in in school, you should try it sometimes, we use it on kids, and some adults unfortunately that act like kids on the dental chair
seansk said:
I love nitrous oxide, we had to try in in school, you should try it sometimes, we use it on kids, and some adults unfortunately that act like kids on the dental chair
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll try it while at the range. The range masters should love that.
Binary100100 said:
I'll try it while at the range. The range masters should love that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm...I don't know if those two will mix well!!!
Related
I realize this sounds like a total Noob question, of which I'm not, but I'm lost.
Coming from an Omnia i910 which I flashed with a Winmo 6.5 ROM. That was it. I honestly don't remember seeing separate kernels and ROMs. Was that since it was a MSFT product?
Here I am seeing them separate. Do the ROMs posted include a kernel already, or do I have to install that first?
Please take pity on this refugee from Redmond. (if it should be in another Tbolt forum please move it)
Robert
I'm a hell of a lot closer to n00b than dev but here goes. All of these ROMs have a kernel already baked in. Most of them contain a kernel right from the forums. Basically, kernels are like ROMs in the sense that it is all about preference. Half of the fun is finding a ROM/kernel combo that works great for your phone. Some kernels don't work as well with some phones due to the overclock (which is controlable by you with SetCPU) and being undervolted (not controlable by you). My phone doesn't like to be too undervolted.
Just make sure you have a reliable backup handy and go have fun. Check for responsiveness of the phone and for me, battery life. If you get random reboots then you are either overclocked or your phone doesn't like the undervoltage.
Personally, I like to find a good ROM I like and then I will flash every kernel I can find to get a great match.
kernels are included in every rom...they are generally more conservative so they will work with most every phone. if you choose you can flash a more aggressive kernel after flashing the rom but you may have instability issues...you do not need to wipe data or cache however it is recommended to wipe dalvik cache before flashing kernels.
EDIT: someone beat me to it lol
Hey, me too in regards to the omnia the 6.5 flash alike. This is my 1st Droid and I being a noob successfully rooted it. You could just flash the ROM because the kernel is already cooked in. Just look at various kernels as enhancements to your Rom. Jump in folks who isn't a noob like me.
Sent from my BAMF ROM Thunderbolt using XDA App
Robertjm said:
I realize this sounds like a total Noob question, of which I'm not, but I'm lost.
Coming from an Omnia i910 which I flashed with a Winmo 6.5 ROM. That was it. I honestly don't remember seeing separate kernels and ROMs. Was that since it was a MSFT product?
Here I am seeing them separate. Do the ROMs posted include a kernel already, or do I have to install that first?
Please take pity on this refugee from Redmond. (if it should be in another Tbolt forum please move it)
Robert
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The kernel is the core control module if you will for any OS. Without the kernel all you have is a fancy collection of hardware. It is absolutely necessary for the operation of any operating system.
A ROM is a packaged collection of programs designed to function as a whole unit. This includes a kernel and base os along with all of the additional programs and functions that you want and use on your device (think phone functions, messaging, etc al).
With the different Kernel builds, devs are attempting to make tweaks to the basic OS parameters in an attempt to optimize the basic OS functions.
That is kinda a simplistic explanation, however I think it gets the point across.
Thanks guys! I will probably go with something Adrenalyne as I remember his work from Modaco.
This thread should be in the general section, not dev
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
sublimaze said:
This thread should be in the general section, not dev
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^^^ this...
https://opensource.samsung.com/rece...hod=reception_search&searchValue=SGH-I777_ATT
this is awesome , this means we can have a rooted kernel on launch day!!!!
AT&T Galaxy S II Sub-Forum?
Where is the love for our own forum since we now have the kernel?
Edit: Well, it just happened this morning. Cool, our own forum.
The AT&T version is close enough to the international version that maybe they should keep the same forum? Or just have a sub forum for the dev board like i9003 on the i9000 board.
anilkuj said:
https://opensource.samsung.com/rece...hod=reception_search&searchValue=SGH-I777_ATT
this is awesome , this means we can have a rooted kernel on launch day!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hope the devs can find something they may be able to use on our version of this great phone.
I uploaded the file here also in case site goes down or anything
http://www.multiupload.com/R7CG8ZR085
Wow. Samsung releases something ahead of hardware and a carrier to boot. More reason to boot atnt.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
anilkuj said:
https://opensource.samsung.com/rece...hod=reception_search&searchValue=SGH-I777_ATT
this is awesome , this means we can have a rooted kernel on launch day!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice head start for the devs
pukemon said:
Wow. Samsung releases something ahead of hardware and a carrier to boot. More reason to boot atnt.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome sig sir.
sent from my stock Infuse at Tranquility Base.
Looking forward to this... but I hear Sammy has been really good with the stock ROMs for this model. Great starting points for our amazing devs
Sure hope a custom ROM gets put up soon after launch. I'm sure the stock one will suffice for a few days. Not looking for anything fancy, just want some good 'ol root access.
bigblue95z said:
Sure hope a custom ROM gets put up soon after launch. I'm sure the stock one will suffice for a few days. Not looking for anything fancy, just want some good 'ol root access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure you will be able to root it pretty quick. A custom kernel may take a few days... a good one will take a few weeks, if someone is able to dedicate some real time to it. Sure you will get some quick ROMs that are basically stock with a custom theme and bloatware removed, but I digress.
I THINK I read that DG already has something SETUP for the ATT version and just waiting to ha e it in hand to test it. Would be awesome to get some tentative roms set up before launch day so I can flash the same day
Sent from My KickAss Captivated CM7 OC'd 1.5Ghz/Undervolted
RockRatt said:
I THINK I read that DG already has something SETUP for the ATT version and just waiting to ha e it in hand to test it. Would be awesome to get some tentative roms set up before launch day so I can flash the same day
Sent from My KickAss Captivated CM7 OC'd 1.5Ghz/Undervolted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heck yeah! Where'd you read that?
RockRatt said:
I THINK I read that DG already has something SETUP for the ATT version and just waiting to ha e it in hand to test it. Would be awesome to get some tentative roms set up before launch day so I can flash the same day
Sent from My KickAss Captivated CM7 OC'd 1.5Ghz/Undervolted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep He will be developing the same ROMs for both phones although the Kernel will have to be reoriented due to the button on the international version like the i9000 was re the Captivate. I believe ROMS will be interchangeable but not kernels.
anilkuj said:
https://opensource.samsung.com/rece...hod=reception_search&searchValue=SGH-I777_ATT
this is awesome , this means we can have a rooted kernel on launch day!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends on how different the initramfs is - fortunately it probably won't be significantly different.
Here's a recommendation I have from my experience with the Infuse community - I'm on the fence about upgrading Sunday, but since the AT&T GSII variant has a smaller screen and no Wolfson I'm likely to stick with the Infuse:
On launch day, have some people on IRC coordinating. Once a root kernel is developed, don't immediately post it here. Pick a handful of people to flash and test. Once they have root, their first order of business should be getting a clean stock system dump.
Once you have a system dump you can make an Odin/Heimdall-flashable system image with root - have someone who did NOT flash the root-injection kernel flash THAT in order to get a dump of the stock kernel. Without that you'll be flying blind as far as initramfs.
A few tips:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=17777056&postcount=42 - my initial tips for the Epic 4G Touch crew
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1081239 - You'll need this to make a Heimdall-flashable image from your system dump
https://github.com/mistadman/Extract-Kernel-Initramfs - Once you've dumped a stock kernel image, use that script to extract the initramfs. Put that up on github ASAP.
Also, I strongly recommend putting a straight unmodified source tarball up on github, and then work on getting it to a compilable state from there. That way the process of "cleaning up" the Samsung source is documented in git commits. See the early commits from LinuxBozo at https://github.com/Entropy512/linux_kernel_sgh-i997r/commits/master?page=2 as an example
If all goes well, I will have my GS2 Sunday morning, and be on IRC as well, ready to test flash the rooted kernel for you guys.
Hmm, I get bored @ SGS2.
If someone can post stock initramfs, aka "adb pull /"
Remove /data and /cache from the local files on your computer and then zip it up and post it here, you have root
netchip said:
Hmm, I get bored @ SGS2.
If someone can post stock initramfs, aka "adb pull /"
Remove /data and /cache from the local files on your computer and then zip it up and post it here, you have root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm - good point, I don't think anything in initramfs has permissions set such that a non-root ADB user can't read it.
Entropy512 said:
Hmm - good point, I don't think anything in initramfs has permissions set such that a non-root ADB user can't read it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, miss understand.
It is not required to have root, I am now testing with my SGS2.
netchip said:
Sorry, miss understand.
It is not required to have root, I am now testing with my SGS2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I meant - Previously I was assuming that to get a "good" initramfs dump, root would be required. However, after reading your post I realized that all of the relevant files in the initramfs SHOULD be readable by any user, even without root permissions.
Still it's ideal to get a direct initramfs extract from the kernel zImage as soon as possible.
Entropy512 said:
That's what I meant - Previously I was assuming that to get a "good" initramfs dump, root would be required. However, after reading your post I realized that all of the relevant files in the initramfs SHOULD be readable by any user, even without root permissions.
Still it's ideal to get a direct initramfs extract from the kernel zImage as soon as possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I know.
But I will give you root kernel if you give me: /lib, /res, all *.rc files, /vendor and /sbin.
Hi all.
I have created for users a kernel installer, to take out the hassle of typing out commands yourself.
For this to work, there are some requirements that must be met.
1-you have bootloader unlocked
2-you have fastboot drivers already installed. if you dont, please install them
This was created on windows 7, and i am yet to find out if it works on anything else. So please let me know.
I currently have 2 versions. The first is just the installer itself. Where you add your kernel (the boot.img) to the folder yourself. The second, is set up to install DooMLords latest kernel (version 3).
In the future, I am hoping to also create (with the developers permission), a one click installer for custom ROM's.
To use, just extract the folder, if necessary add your boot.img, then double click "FLASH KERNEL" and plug your phone in. The installer reboots the phone into the correct mode itself and wait
Plain installer (no kernel)
http://www.4shared.com/file/pJZy6Osc/kernel_flasher.html?
DooMLords DooMKerneL auto installer
http://www.4shared.com/file/WlrTYOxa/doomkernel-version3-autoinstal.html?
Credits:
DooMLord for his amazing work on kernels and many other releases
and many others who's names i cant think of right now, but the developers should know who they are!!
you are all amazing and a great inspiration!!
EDIT:
i am currently running androhero's ROM and dooms kernel on my phone, which were both installed via this method. if all goes well and i have no issues with the ROM, and i hear back from androhero with permission, i may soon be able to roll out easy installers for custom roms
Can this work for CM7 kernel? (if there is one)
I used the XDA App to post this, what did you use?
Cat_On_Droid said:
Can this work for CM7 kernel? (if there is one)
I used the XDA App to post this, what did you use?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's the kernel i was using when i built the code
just download the kernel from the cm7 thread, download the plain installer, add the boot.img to the extracted folder, and BOOM!!! cm7 kernel installer!!
No disrespect but is it so much easyer than type this few fastboot commands?
^ I also thought about that, but users with winxp will find it helpful
I used the XDA App to post this, what did you use?
IE-coRe said:
No disrespect but is it so much easyer than type this few fastboot commands?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
some people dont feel comfortable doing it, or get it wrong. and may mess things up. this allows people to do it in a simple way.
and also, i plan to expand this into a one click type of installer to take out the hassle (and mistakes) of installing custom roms.
in essence, the less a noob has to do, the less they can get wrong and then we might have fewer people on the forum saying "i broke my phone :'(" etc. hehe.
okay thats true
Cat_On_Droid said:
^ I also thought about that, but users with winxp will find it helpful
I used the XDA App to post this, what did you use?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just copy the address line in the folder window and 'cd' + paste (folder address) in the cmd window and you're good to go with issuing commands. Some .exe files also works when drag and drop into the cmd window on winxp. Pretty sure it works with fastboot.exe and i know that bunzip2/bzip2 works that way on winxp.
Then again i feel comfy doing things from a cmd window and think it's more fun that way. Well flashing from recovery is also a nice way to do things, comes in handy when out and about. Used it alot with my HTC Desire HD.
Anyway nice move @solitarymonkey i think it'll come in handy for some users that don't feel comfy in all this cmd/fastboot thingy
Regards Dousan...
solitarymonkey said:
some people dont feel comfortable doing it, or get it wrong. and may mess things up. this allows people to do it in a simple way.
and also, i plan to expand this into a one click type of installer to take out the hassle (and mistakes) of installing custom roms.
in essence, the less a noob has to do, the less they can get wrong and then we might have fewer people on the forum saying "i broke my phone :'(" etc. hehe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM]
I dont like the idea of real nooby noobs installing custom roms.
If they cant copy-paste a few commands i think it is a bad idea to have them run custom roms.
I would however like to see a stock rom + kernel installer, that wipes the cache and data(option), and relocks the bootloader(option).
[/CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM]
Azeazezar said:
[CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM]
I dont like the idea of real nooby noobs installing custom roms.
If they cant copy-paste a few commands i think it is a bad idea to have them run custom roms.
I would however like to see a stock rom + kernel installer, that wipes the cache and data(option), and relocks the bootloader(option).
[/CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i understand what you are saying. but in a way, shouldnt something that's open source be available to everyone?
and when i get the chance, i'll have a look into your suggestion. although flashtool can do that if you have both the ftf of the official rom that you want, and the bootloader lock file from blagus' tutorial thread ^_^
Ok so I'm one of the n00bs that this type of program will help.
I was wondering: is it 1) possible and 2) beneficial/additive to install something like doomlord's kernel while on the stock ROM?
I would really like to my phone to run faster, have better battery life, and have the ability to overclock and I think doomlords accomplishes all that.
What do you think?
btw r800x verizon unlocked bootloader by Alejandrissimo
Dyelon said:
Ok so I'm one of the n00bs that this type of program will help.
I was wondering: is it 1) possible and 2) beneficial/additive to install something like doomlord's kernel while on the stock ROM?
I would really like to my phone to run faster, have better battery life, and have the ability to overclock and I think doomlords accomplishes all that.
What do you think?
btw r800x verizon unlocked bootloader by Alejandrissimo
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, no dice. Doomlords's kernel won't work with the stock r800x Rom.
Sent from my R800x using xda premium
antEris said:
Sorry, no dice. Doomlords's kernel won't work with the stock r800x Rom.
Sent from my R800x using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm. well thanks anyway man....I'll probably wait until cyanogen doesn't have any profound deficiencies then
This is a nice tool you put together!
I understand where the other guys are coming from but i think this too will save me some time for sure!
DrROBschiz said:
This is a nice tool you put together!
I understand where the other guys are coming from but i think this too will save me some time for sure!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed. For people who regularly flash different roms and need different kernels for them, it removes the tedious and repetitive task of typing the same thing again and again. And it gave me something to do and experiment with for you guys ^_^
Sent from my R800i using xda premium
hi there,
I'm aware that the CF-root-kernel is used a thousand-times by many people but this makes this question even more important: has it been completely reviewed by other developers in fact because the source is open?
don't get me wrong, I really don't want to allege anything to chainfire, but since it's the kernel, the core of the system, this component should be fully reviewed and proofed as clean and safe. otherwise no droidwall can ever detect e.g. silent data transmissions (sent on kernel-level) or spy-attack etc....
so if the whole CF-Root-Code is released e.g. on github I think things like that could be revealed/proofed. if it's completely closed it's just a question of trust...
unfortuanately it's seems like it's kept secret... because https://github.com/Chainfire says "Chainfire doesn’t have any public repositories yet"...
does chainfire keep his CF-Root-Source closed and secret and due to that could theoretically put some secret kits in there?
so I'd like to know if the CF-Kernel (made by chainfire) is open source or alternatively chainfire released his source code, and this code could and has been reviewed by others (e.g. experienced senior members)?
btw: if it's closed sourced and due to this potentially "unsafe"... are there any other fine root-kernels with cwm which are open source and due to can be fully trusted?
Hullo.
Well some developers like to have their hard work protected from stealing so they are using closed source approach. You should not fear using a kernel or ROM when it's downloaded from the official site, even better with md5 checksum.
Sent from outer space by aliens on tapatalk using SGS2
AJ.Rockwell said:
Hullo.
Well some developers like to have their hard work protected from stealing so they are using closed source approach. You should not fear using a kernel or ROM when it's downloaded from the official site, even better with md5 checksum.
Sent from outer space by aliens on tapatalk using SGS2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it doesn't provide any security if "it's downloaded from the official site" when the source of the "official site" has never / could never been reviewed. neither does a md5 checksum... if CF-Root is really closed source it's like blind faith and I think when in comes to kernels, the core of your phone... blind faith isn't a good idea...
CF-Root has no patches to the actual kernel, it's "only" the initramfs that is edited to give you everything you ask from his kernel.
Open a terminal, type "cd /" and off you go inspecting everything.
OpenSource would give you not a single bit of more "secure feeling" - what if the backdoor is simply not included in the source, but built into the binary release?
May I ask what exactely you are afraid of?
And on a sidenote:
Yes, I did a rather deep "walk through" the files of CF's kernel and you have no reason to believe and trust me more than CF himself, but let me state it anyways:
It's totally cool, save, no backdoors, everything is A-OK!
Hope that helped a bit
A thought about why would well known kernel/ROM devs place backdoors in their products is way beyond me. There surely is a botnet full of siyahkernel users haha jk... Just take it easy, CIQ is more of an issue lately..
Sent from outer space by aliens on tapatalk using SGS2
AJ.Rockwell said:
There surely is a botnet full of siyahkernel users haha jk...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*LOL*
That one really made me laugh XD
at first, thank you for your reply!
HellcatDroid said:
CF-Root has no patches to the actual kernel, it's "only" the initramfs that is edited to give you everything you ask from his kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, but how can this be checked? how can it be proofed, that is the original kernel? can I proof it in anyway for my self? and maked shure that there is no backdoor in it?
HellcatDroid said:
initramfs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because I want to learn more... what is "initramfs" in particular?
HellcatDroid said:
Open a terminal, type "cd /" and off you go inspecting everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry that I ask so silly, but what will this command reveal, other than the content of the actual folder? how does this help to inspect the kernel in detail?
HellcatDroid said:
OpenSource would give you not a single bit of more "secure feeling" - what if the backdoor is simply not included in the source, but built into the binary release?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, there you're right, what brings me to the question (see above) how the compiled files can be checked/verified/proofed?
HellcatDroid said:
May I ask what exactely you are afraid of?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just like you mentioned... something like backdoors, secret data transmissions which can be revealed because they happen on kernel-level...
HellcatDroid said:
And on a sidenote: Yes, I did a rather deep "walk through" the files of CF's kernel and you have no reason to believe and trust me more than CF himself, but let me state it anyways:
It's totally cool, save, no backdoors, everything is A-OK! Hope that helped a bit
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hehe, thats right, I don't know neither you nor chainfire... although I appreciate you posting.
AJ.Rockwell said:
A thought about why would well known kernel/ROM devs place backdoors in their products is way beyond me. There surely is a botnet full of siyahkernel users haha jk... Just take it easy, CIQ is more of an issue lately..
Sent from outer space by aliens on tapatalk using SGS2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so I think it's no so odd to ask about the trustworthiness of CF-Kernel as well, isn't it? especially if it's kept secret by cf... no one should blind faith, when it comes to kernels...
In loose order of your questions above:
*
You can grab one of the kernel initramfs (see answer to what that is below) dumpers, most of them split the zImage into the actual kernel (code) and said initramfs.
The kernel (code) image should be almost 100% identical (almost due to some headers and those things that might be different due to the edited initramfs).
*
When the kernel is started, there is nothing - like on god's first day during creation (don't laugh, I kinda mean it like that! )
There is no system (that's still sitting somehwere on the flash or HDD or wherever) and nothing.
But the kernel needs a place to start booting up the system and to load additional kernel (driver) modules from that are not statically compiled into the kernelcode itself.
So the zImage has an image of a small, base filesystem that is placed into a RAM disc just before the kernel code is started (usually done by the bootloader).
This filesystem is the "initramfs" (short for "initial RAM-disk filesystem").
In the SGS2 case (or Android in general) /system and /data (and some others) are mounted into this so the system can finally be booted up by the kernel.
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with "cd /" you change to the uppermost, "root" directory of the system, it's where everything starts in Unix/Linux world and where the mentioned initramfs is.
So by browsing the folders in there (except for additionally mounted in one's like /syste, /data, /efs, /tmp and some more) you are exploring the contents of the initramfs - it's not really secret.
Though, it can be made more secret, of course.
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there is about one bazillion tools and apps that can compare files
CF Root is the most vanilla out of all the Kernels. It is just the Samsung stock Kernel + root. It has been tried by thousands of people without a problem and is 100% clean, safe and open source.
if in doubt
chainfire specifically mentioned that his kernel is taken from the stock samsung firmware, modified to get "root", CWM and busybox. he didn't mention of any specific tweaks (to make it better than stock).
so when in doubt, after rooting (and used up all the goodies of CF-root kernel), flash back to stock kernel. he included in his post how to do it.
have you reviewed the stock kernel's source? is it safe?
Paranoid much ? I'd be more worried about crap (Carrier IQ, etc) your telco has put on their particularly branded phone (particularly if you have a US variant of the SGS2) than anything Chainfire might do.
if youre so afraid, stay stock
oh and on a side note, theres this website called Google (go to www.google.com)
and search for answers.
Any app you download from the Market may have backdoors in them. Any app with network access may potentially connect back to the developer and send all sorts of information, or even files, back.
So, if you want to be "safe", you have no choice but to stick to the base stock software. But then ... maybe Samsung could have placed stuff in your phone doing stuff you may not be happy with.
And we can't forget Windows OS either, how many time may that connect and send info and files back, and have various backdooes we don't know about ?
As it has been pointed out, simply having "open source" doesn't guarantee you anything, unless you compile that yourself as well as.
Break out the tin-foil hats
Once u hear its chainfire... its safe. Good dev.
looks like an iphone but powered by android baby!!!!
It's a legitimate question. We are flashing modified software to our phones made by others. It can be a security risk, anyone could modify a rom and let it send privacy information to his server. It is someting we should consider everytime we flash a rom. That we always presume that the roms on XDA are safe, does not rule out the possibility that it will happen in the future. Smartphones are getting more interesting for people with bad intentions.
As mentioned above, it's the same with installing apps from unknown sources and even the Android Market.
But if there is any developer I would trust, it is Chainfire. He has done more for XDA then most of us ever will.
Thanks for all the replies!
postfatal said:
CF Root is the most vanilla out of all the Kernels. It is just the Samsung stock Kernel + root. It has been tried by thousands of people without a problem and is 100% clean, safe and open source.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I'd agreed that thousands of people use it without even think about it. I know / read that it's a very common and known root-kernel. but I think precisely because the latest scandals with spysoftware... it's important to look into these CF-Kernels. unfortunately I'm not able to review it myself, because I'm not that into Unix-Coding. What makes you so shure about it's really "Samsung stock Kernel + root"?
ngokula said:
chainfire specifically mentioned that his kernel is taken from the stock samsung firmware, modified to get "root", CWM and busybox. he didn't mention of any specific tweaks (to make it better than stock).
so when in doubt, after rooting (and used up all the goodies of CF-root kernel), flash back to stock kernel. he included in his post how to do it.
have you reviewed the stock kernel's source? is it safe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, anyone can say anything he wants, like "chainfire specifically mentioned that...". yeah he might have mentioned it, but if his kernels aren't reviewed before they're used by thousands of people... hmm... as I mentioned I really don't want to allege anything to chainfire. I think he's doing a great job. I just wanted to ask, if there could be something in it, or if there are reviewd and proofed, not only used with blind faith...
Touché! The stock kernel could be unsafe as well. but the included "stock" kernel is not from samsung directly, but from chainfire as well... so it's the same source... that doesn't make it any better...
MistahBungle said:
Paranoid much ? I'd be more worried about crap (Carrier IQ, etc) your telco has put on their particularly branded phone (particularly if you have a US variant of the SGS2) than anything Chainfire might do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, you're right there. but wouldn't it be better if there's at least nothing added even more?
androidkid311 said:
Once u hear its chainfire... its safe. Good dev.
looks like an iphone but powered by android baby!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah I have the same "feeling" about this, but this is just blind faith on my side. is is blind faith on your side, too, or do you have any hard proofs about this?
Lennyz1988 said:
It's a legitimate question. We are flashing modified software to our phones made by others. It can be a security risk, anyone could modify a rom and let it send privacy information to his server. It is someting we should consider everytime we flash a rom. That we always presume that the roms on XDA are safe, does not rule out the possibility that it will happen in the future. Smartphones are getting more interesting for people with bad intentions.
As mentioned above, it's the same with installing apps from unknown sources and even the Android Market.
But if there is any developer I would trust, it is Chainfire. He has done more for XDA then most of us ever will.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for your approval. and I agree on you, too. I think only a few people even have a slight thought about what they flash there on their phone... I think this should always be peer-reviewed by professional devs, before its possible to download such files...
I personally would rather see people question things like this. People should NOT download crap from nobodies...
So to answer your question about CF-Root, here's why it's safe...
1) CF-Root is NOT a recompiled kernel. It's the 100% totally stock kernel. You can split the zImage into ramdisk and kernel image, and compare the kernel image SHA1 with that of the split stock zImage. If it's the KL1 CF-Root, compare to the KL1 stock. You'll find the two match identically.
2) CF-Root is a modified initramfs, to give functionality such as auto rooting, and much more. If you take your stock initramfs, and compare it to the CF-Root one, you can see the changes for yourself. It's shell scripts (bash), so it's plaintext.
You'll see binaries added to the initramfs - busybox for example... So go compare that to the generally available busybox and you'll see it's fine
In short? Yeah it's fine. In long? It's fine for the reasons above
pulser_g2 said:
I personally would rather see people question things like this. People should NOT download crap from nobodies...
So to answer your question about CF-Root, here's why it's safe...
1) CF-Root is NOT a recompiled kernel. It's the 100% totally stock kernel. You can split the zImage into ramdisk and kernel image, and compare the kernel image SHA1 with that of the split stock zImage. If it's the KL1 CF-Root, compare to the KL1 stock. You'll find the two match identically.
2) CF-Root is a modified initramfs, to give functionality such as auto rooting, and much more. If you take your stock initramfs, and compare it to the CF-Root one, you can see the changes for yourself. It's shell scripts (bash), so it's plaintext.
You'll see binaries added to the initramfs - busybox for example... So go compare that to the generally available busybox and you'll see it's fine
In short? Yeah it's fine. In long? It's fine for the reasons above
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you very much! this is a well formulated and consistent answer! so chainfaire doesn't have to release his source, cause it's completely plain text... If that's true, it could be reviewed (and was I think), and that's fine.
This is a thread for USEFUL discussion about the logistics involved in reverting the Razr back to GB (please keep the discussion on topic). I know there are those out there that want it.
I am throwing 50 bucks into a pot to the Dev that first finds a way.
What I have gathered. With the release of kexec, we now have the ability to flash custom kernels to our Razrs. From what I understand, the thing preventing the reversion to GB is the change from the GB kernel to ICS kernel...
So in theory, we should be able to fllash the gingerbread kernel, then the stock GB rom and we should be good?
Thinkin out loud, is any of this sound feasible?
EDIT: Bounty withdrawn, seems impossible due to locked bootloader as well...
asuhoops8628 said:
This is a thread for USEFUL discussion about the logistics involved in reverting the Razr back to GB (please keep the discussion on topic). I know there are those out there that want it.
I am throwing 50 bucks into a pot to the Dev that first finds a way.
What I have gathered. With the release of kexec, we now have the ability to flash custom kernels to our Razrs. From what I understand, the thing preventing the reversion to GB is the change from the GB kernel to ICS kernel...
So in theory, we should be able to fllash the gingerbread kernel, then the stock GB rom and we should be good?
Thinkin out loud, is any of this sound feasible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
This is a feature request. There's no development involved. You should post questions in QA section. Or make the same question in kexec thread.
Thank you!
sorry for the wrong spot.. i didnt want to hijack the kexec thread and move it off topic. I thought there would be development involved in getting a GB kernel ported to work with kexec.
maybe someone else with more knowledge can chime in. My bad if i am mistaken
Sorry, but for what i understand,
Kexec able us to load a custom kernel after boot and not flash a custom kernel.
so i think dev have to find an other way. But they have more stuff to do than finding a way to downgrad i guess
sevenup30 said:
Sorry, but for what i understand,
Kexec able us to load a custom kernel after boot and not flash a custom kernel.
so i think dev have to find an other way. But they have more stuff to do than finding a way to downgrad i guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. Many devs are focusing on stabilizing CM9 and working to bring us CM10, I dont think GB is on their agenda but maybe some dev is willing to do it.
sevenup30 said:
Sorry, but for what i understand,
Kexec able us to load a custom kernel after boot and not flash a custom kernel.
so i think dev have to find an other way. But they have more stuff to do than finding a way to downgrad i guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is anyone able to confirm this is actually how Kexec works? and along these lines, i mean why couldnt we just load the GB kernel like any other custom kernel?
romdroid. said:
I agree. Many devs are focusing on stabilizing CM9 and working to bring us CM10, I dont think GB is on their agenda but maybe some dev is willing to do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i realize most are, thats why i was putting my money where my mouth was. ICS has been a disaster for me on 3 razrs i am currently back on my bionic. I was hoping it would be a fairly simple project since all i was thinking needed to be done was to update the existing moto GB kernel for Kexec, and make a flashable zip of the stock moto GB rom
but i :dunno: im not a dev by any means
asuhoops8628 said:
This is a thread for USEFUL discussion
Thinkin out loud, is any of this sound feasible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not Development. Moved to General
asuhoops8628 said:
Is anyone able to confirm this is actually how Kexec works? and along these lines, i mean why couldnt we just load the GB kernel like any other custom kernel?
Yes i realize most are, thats why i was putting my money where my mouth was. ICS has been a disaster for me on 3 razrs i am currently back on my bionic. I was hoping it would be a fairly simple project since all i was thinking needed to be done was to update the existing moto GB kernel for Kexec, and make a flashable zip of the stock moto GB rom
but i :dunno: im not a dev by any means
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it will verify the signature of your stock kernel then at just the right time hijak the boot process and load the custom kernel. I'm not a dev so i can't say if it can be done or not, but i would imagine not.
Edit: meant to add i think the biggest problem is that the bootloader changed between gb and ics. So without am unlocked bootloader don't think its happening.
Sent from my DROID RAZR using xda app-developers app
kintwofan said:
Yes, it will verify the signature of your stock kernel then at just the right time hijak the boot process and load the custom kernel. I'm not a dev so i can't say if it can be done or not, but i would imagine not.
Edit: meant to add i think the biggest problem is that the bootloader changed between gb and ics. So without am unlocked bootloader don't think its happening.
Sent from my DROID RAZR using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So basically, without being able to also revert my bootloader version, i am up the creek as they say.
Thanks for the info, definately an educational experience...
I ended up buying a new Razr Maxx off ebay that still has GB, now i just need to root and freeze the updater and im golden