[Q] Rooted, and want KitKat - Verizon Samsung Galaxy S 4

I rooted my phone to prevent KitKat from installing, because I didn't want to lose access to FoxFi. I forze the SDM file so it wouldnt look for updates. Today FoxFi has fixed the problem, so I no longer fell the need to be rooted, and I would very much like a taste of that KitKat. If I understand correctly I should not unfreeze the the SDM file and take the OTA update, because it could "brick my phone". Is that the case?
Do I need to unroot first, and is there a thread without a hundred pages that explains how to unroot. I am on Build VRUEMK2.
Thoughts?

Under the settings in the Superuser app is an option to "Full Unroot" Will this really work for unrooting the device, or do i need to do the odin thing i keep reading about? Why would odin even be necessary if this is an option. It seems to easy.

You will need to return your phone to stock, root will prevent the OTA. You can try to unfreeze SDM and take the update, it won't brick your phone, it will just fail to install because root will cause it to fail.
There are threads about using Odin and no-wipe MK2 or MJ7 files to return your phone to stock without losing data. That is the best way to roll your phone back to take the update. Alternatively, you could just do a factory reset from the stock recovery, but you'll lose all your data on the phone. Otherwise, you can just update using the Odin tars that are available now, but since it seems like you don't want to do the research on how to do that, you'd probably better not try.

Paramemetic said:
There are threads about using Odin and no-wipe MK2 or MJ7 files to return your phone to stock without losing data. That is the best way to roll your phone back to take the update. Alternatively, you could just do a factory reset from the stock recovery, but you'll lose all your data on the phone. Otherwise, you can just update using the Odin tars that are available now, but since it seems like you don't want to do the research on how to do that, you'd probably better not try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks,
So you do not recommend or know about the "Full Unroot" option in the Superuser settings.
I do not mid a factory reset, as this is phone is only a month old. If it is that easy, I will probably go that route.
I am currently downloading a file called VRUAMDK_NoWipe.tar.zip which I understand to be a stock image of my android before i rooted that is supposed to take me back to pre-root. But if factory resetting will accomplish the same goal, then that seems like an easier way to go.
I do like the openness of being rooted, but My concern about updating with the root, is that some functions may not work like they are supposed to. I haven't been involved in rooting since the days of playing with my HTC Eris, and Droid X. Maybe things a re different today, but most roms I played with were found to have issues with thinks not functioning correctly. Do the 4.4 "tars" that you are referring to have all the functions?

I'd sit tight and see what comes from the latest tar files of NC5. Maybe nothing, but can't hurt to wait.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app

Rageboardr said:
Thanks,
So you do not recommend or know about the "Full Unroot" option in the Superuser settings.
I do not mid a factory reset, as this is phone is only a month old. If it is that easy, I will probably go that route.
I am currently downloading a file called VRUAMDK_NoWipe.tar.zip which I understand to be a stock image of my android before i rooted that is supposed to take me back to pre-root. But if factory resetting will accomplish the same goal, then that seems like an easier way to go.
I do like the openness of being rooted, but My concern about updating with the root, is that some functions may not work like they are supposed to. I haven't been involved in rooting since the days of playing with my HTC Eris, and Droid X. Maybe things a re different today, but most roms I played with were found to have issues with thinks not functioning correctly. Do the 4.4 "tars" that you are referring to have all the functions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The no wipe image you are downloading is probably not the correct version for your phone unless you are still on the MDK firmware.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

jmgib said:
The no wipe image you are downloading is probably not the correct version for your phone unless you are still on the MDK firmware.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bummer, I was wondering about that after i started looking at different image names. I started seeing the common theme, and no I am not on MDK, I am on MK2. Bummer because that file took along time to download here at work.

kude87 said:
I'd sit tight and see what comes from the latest tar files of NC5. Maybe nothing, but can't hurt to wait.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the difference between a tar file, and ROMing. Are TAR files more reliable?
I am in no real hurry, but as this is my daily phone, I need everything to work correctly, and no reason to wait if its like ROMs, and there seem to always be things that are quirky in a ROM.

Rageboardr said:
What is the difference between a tar file, and ROMing. Are TAR files more reliable?
I am in no real hurry, but as this is my daily phone, I need everything to work correctly, and no reason to wait if its like ROMs, and there seem to always be things that are quirky in a ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it is your daily and you aren't in any hurry, I strongly suggest waiting it out. Read some forums and get a better feel about rooting and romming.
A tar file is flashed through Odin, and depending which one you download, could lock your bootloader (I forget which firmware you're on). I'd personally wait for/if NC5 is rooted and proceed then.
"Romming" is a broad term used to define flashing custom roms. Predominantly, this means you have an unlocked bootloader and are flashing zip files through a custom recovery.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app

Rageboardr said:
I rooted my phone to prevent KitKat from installing, because I didn't want to lose access to FoxFi. I forze the SDM file so it wouldnt look for updates. Today FoxFi has fixed the problem, so I no longer fell the need to be rooted, and I would very much like a taste of that KitKat. If I understand correctly I should not unfreeze the the SDM file and take the OTA update, because it could "brick my phone". Is that the case?
Do I need to unroot first, and is there a thread without a hundred pages that explains how to unroot. I am on Build VRUEMK2.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi I had the same issue. mk2, rooted, wanted to take the ota update and didn't mind losing root.
You won't brick trying to take the update it will just fail with error 402. I wrote out my steps below to guide you thru the process I used and were successful for me.
1. Unroot using SuperSU.
2. Use Kies to update/restore firmware on your PC.
3. Once rebooted search for system update.
4. Download and install the update. I did the whole process using only data no WiFi (not sure if it makes a difference but that's what I did).
5. Once your phone reboots you will be greeted by a lovely red Verizon splash screen.
Hope this helps you and others!
Sent from my Hp Touchpad Android 4.4.2 using Tapatalk Pro

Related

[Q] Help Wanted: revert SG4 to ME7

I had ME7 and rooted that, MODded some stuff, tweaked settings, disabled/froze bloatware... and everything was fine. Stable, fast enough.
Then I allowed (because I couldn't stand the constant Update Nag!!!) the MI1 update and DeLaVega Rooted that and things have been unstable since. Seemingly random apps are crashing and occasionally causing rebooting, sometimes it needs the battery pulled. The most critical app, and the one that leads to reboots the most, is Google Maps Nav - the one app I need most.
I am thinking I would like to revert to factory stock ME7, then re-root it, and maybe TWRP (and I have Titanium). There's nothing in MJ7 I need or want and I don't trust MI1 (it was out what... three weeks?)
I would do this myself but I can seem to find a ME7 Image that WIPES and unroots the phone.
It would probably help if someone would explain a bit more how the pieces work. I gather there's a bootloader, a kernal, the ROM and user data. Rooting deals with the boot cycle, the kernal is the main OS, the ROM contains OS layer above the kernal along with system apps and such. Obviously, those three have to get along. So my question is, if I used DeLaVega to root MI1, Can I just flash a non-wipe ME7 ROM? It seesm to me that the MI1 root tool would not get along with the ME7 ROM -- is that right?
BTW, I'm not a ROMmer. I get how ODIN works but I've never flashed anything (via Odin) to my phone(s) other than that MI1 root image (and WHY/WHAT is that 1.3gb?!? The ME7 exploit was a few KB)
Thank you VERY MUCH in advance for explanations, links and so on.
-- Bear
lordbear said:
I had ME7 and rooted that, MODded some stuff, tweaked settings, disabled/froze bloatware... and everything was fine. Stable, fast enough.
Then I allowed (because I couldn't stand the constant Update Nag!!!) the MI1 update and DeLaVega Rooted that and things have been unstable since. Seemingly random apps are crashing and occasionally causing rebooting, sometimes it needs the battery pulled. The most critical app, and the one that leads to reboots the most, is Google Maps Nav - the one app I need most.
I am thinking I would like to revert to factory stock ME7, then re-root it, and maybe TWRP (and I have Titanium). There's nothing in MJ7 I need or want and I don't trust MI1 (it was out what... three weeks?)
I would do this myself but I can seem to find a ME7 Image that WIPES and unroots the phone.
It would probably help if someone would explain a bit more how the pieces work. I gather there's a bootloader, a kernal, the ROM and user data. Rooting deals with the boot cycle, the kernal is the main OS, the ROM contains OS layer above the kernal along with system apps and such. Obviously, those three have to get along. So my question is, if I used DeLaVega to root MI1, Can I just flash a non-wipe ME7 ROM? It seesm to me that the MI1 root tool would not get along with the ME7 ROM -- is that right?
BTW, I'm not a ROMmer. I get how ODIN works but I've never flashed anything (via Odin) to my phone(s) other than that MI1 root image (and WHY/WHAT is that 1.3gb?!? The ME7 exploit was a few KB)
Thank you VERY MUCH in advance for explanations, links and so on.
-- Bear
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as for as i know there is no method to downgrade once you have taken an update, not even with ODIN. once you take an OTA or update it you are stuck with it, you cannot go backwords
th3bl3d said:
as for as i know there is no method to downgrade once you have taken an update, not even with ODIN. once you take an OTA or update it you are stuck with it, you cannot go backwords
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1.
Now the only thing I can say is backup using TI and do a FDR (factory data reset).
This should clean up your issue. You will not lose root.
After that restore your apps one at a time and by all means make sure you *DO NOT* take the MJ7 update.
You think you are stuck now????
I have MI1 and it's rock solid with no crashes.
I have all the bloat frozen or disabled.
My phone never reboots or hangs.
tech_head said:
+1.
Now the only thing I can say is backup using TI and do a FDR (factory data reset).
This should clean up your issue. You will not lose root.
After that restore your apps one at a time and by all means make sure you *DO NOT* take the MJ7 update.
You think you are stuck now????
I have MI1 and it's rock solid with no crashes.
I have all the bloat frozen or disabled.
My phone never reboots or hangs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did FDR twice. Turned off restore of Google stuff during setup wizard, turned of AutoUpdate in Store so I could control what apps loaded, too.
After first FDR it appears I still had root. I think that MAYBE something went funky because I was rooted on ME7, let MI1 come via OTA, then DeLaVega'ed that. I just don't know.
Now, I have a different phone, I am going to need to UNroot and FDR the phone I will send back. Haven't found info on UNroot for Mi1/DeLaVega yet. I've seen ROMs for ME7-nowipe and MJ7-wipe.
Thanks
Bear
lordbear said:
I did FDR twice. Turned off restore of Google stuff during setup wizard, turned of AutoUpdate in Store so I could control what apps loaded, too.
After first FDR it appears I still had root. I think that MAYBE something went funky because I was rooted on ME7, let MI1 come via OTA, then DeLaVega'ed that. I just don't know.
Now, I have a different phone, I am going to need to UNroot and FDR the phone I will send back. Haven't found info on UNroot for Mi1/DeLaVega yet. I've seen ROMs for ME7-nowipe and MJ7-wipe.
Thanks
Bear
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look at this thread. -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301259

[Q] Restoring back to 100% stock, correct me if I'm wrong

Ok so I plan on formatting back to stock. Completely lose root and any modifications I have done because I'm beginning to have a lot of serious issues with my phone. SD card keeps unexpectedly getting removed, when my signal is low for both WiFi and 3g/4g I get a new Sim card is installed! Then literally 10 seconds or less later, old Sim card restored! And it just keeps going and going.
Anyways I'm hoping a full factory reset will take care of these issues because I've messed around with a lot of stuff but nothing like flashing a new radio or stuff like that. Only installed hyperdrive rls12 on a partition with safestrap. And installed viper4fx audio mod on my stock ROM.
I read in the development thread about using the emergency repair mk2 which is what version I am on and seems like what I want to do. So, if I follow those steps using Odin which I've never used before I should be ok? Or am I having other hardware issues? And why can't I just unroot and do a factory reset? Wouldn't that be the same?
Thank you fellow xda'ers. I'm not completely noob at this stuff, I do get into it pretty good with every phone I've owned so far. Just some odd questions.
BlueForce64 said:
I read in the development thread about using the emergency repair mk2 which is what version I am on and seems like what I want to do. So, if I follow those steps using Odin which I've never used before I should be ok? Or am I having other hardware issues? And why can't I just unroot and do a factory reset? Wouldn't that be the same?
Thank you fellow xda'ers. I'm not completely noob at this stuff, I do get into it pretty good with every phone I've owned so far. Just some odd questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unrooting and a FDR are not quite the same as a No-Wipe flash.
Where they can be the same if nothing was modified, only the No-Wipe flash is guaranteed to put the system partition in a pristine state alond with all the built in apps that go with it.
If you want to get back to stock, flash the No-Wipe image of MK2.
No wipe -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301259
No Wipe MK2 -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2578209
Saferoot -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
I think your issues could be related to how you rooted or what things you modified after you rooted.
Rooting itself doesn't cause issues; it's what you do after the rooting that does.
tech_head said:
Unrooting and a FDR are not quite the same as a No-Wipe flash.
Where they can be the same if nothing was modified, only the No-Wipe flash is guaranteed to put the system partition in a pristine state alond with all the built in apps that go with it.
If you want to get back to stock, flash the No-Wipe image of MK2.
No wipe -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301259
No Wipe MK2 -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2578209
Saferoot -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
I think your issues could be related to how you rooted or what things you modified after you rooted.
Rooting itself doesn't cause issues; it's what you do after the rooting that does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. Though i was planning on doing a full-wipe just to alleviate any possible issues. I don't mind installing the few apps i have on here. Though i will definitely be rooting again because the viper4fx audio mod is amazing in combination with my headphones. I did use saferoot for 4.3 before it was officially mentioned to work on mk2 though it was still 4.3 as everyone was claiming it would work. Which it did. Must of been some of the mods or 30 apps i installed messing with stuff like frameworks and busybox and modifying that n such.
I plan on doing this once i get home later on. I'll post what happens. Think i covered everything....
So flash the no-wipe, then use saleroom. Also use the xposed installer and Wanam. I bought the pro version of ROM Toolbox. It remembers frozen apps across wipes.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Unrooting and a FDR are not quite the same as a No-Wipe flash.
Where they can be the same if nothing was modified, only the No-Wipe flash is guaranteed to put the system partition in a pristine state alond with all the built in apps that go with it.
If you want to get back to stock, flash the No-Wipe image of MK2.
No wipe -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2301259
No Wipe MK2 -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2578209
Saferoot -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2565758
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So this will unfreeze all my apps that i froze with titanium and restore them back as well? Will It remove unlocked icon and i read in other threads something about a PIT file is that necessary for this.
tech_head said:
So flash the no-wipe, then use saleroom. Also use the xposed installer and Wanam. I bought the pro version of ROM Toolbox. It remembers frozen apps across wipes.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I chose to do just the full wipe and everything seems fine. Great actually. No issued yet and phone is as smooth as a baby's bottom.
enfurnic said:
So this will unfreeze all my apps that i froze with titanium and restore them back as well? Will It remove unlocked icon and i read in other threads something about a PIT file is that necessary for this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As for you enfurnic yeah I believe that's what I read unless I read it wrong. The unlocked icon still exists however. I guess to remove that you have to install wanam and the exposed toolbox and so be somewhere in wanam it says "fake system normal" or something. I read it last night I just forget exactly what it said.
BlueForce64 said:
I chose to do just the full wipe and everything seems fine. Great actually. No issued yet and phone is as smooth as a baby's bottom.
As for you enfurnic yeah I believe that's what I read unless I read it wrong. The unlocked icon still exists however. I guess to remove that you have to install wanam and the exposed toolbox and so be somewhere in wanam it says "fake system normal" or something. I read it last night I just forget exactly what it said.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To remove the unlocked padlock / custom screen I've read that you have to manually remove busybox as the system will see that and still show unlocked.
And the Wanam fake system status doesn't always work either it seems.
Doesn't bother me though.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Mistertac said:
To remove the unlocked padlock / custom screen I've read that you have to manually remove busybox as the system will see that and still show unlocked.
And the Wanam fake system status doesn't always work either it seems.
Doesn't bother me though.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wanam did work for me...but I don't care.
safestrap enabled, Hyperdrive driven

[SUCCESS] Odin backflash to MJ9 from updated ND3 to regain root

I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Confirmed. Just ODIN'd back to MJ3 from the VRUAND3 update and regained root using Saferoot.
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Free mobile app
mrraya said:
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2024207&nocache=1
Be sure to thank @droidstyle for taking the time to make this guide
Another confirmation, Odin'd back to MJ9 from ND3 then used saferoot to root.
Can also confirm working for me and rooted also. Does anyone know how we can stop the OTA notification or do we just ignore it?
stop the ota notification note 2
Ostate24 said:
Can also confirm working for me and rooted also. Does anyone know how we can stop the OTA notification or do we just ignore it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Change
FWupgrade.apk to FWupgrade.bak
SDM.apk to SDM.bak
I am not allow to post a link at this time so do a search on "stop the ota notification note 2"
Regain root, ND3 question,Correct MJ9, ODIN7
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I have been looking for except it says to "REGAIN" root.. I have never had it (ROOT) to start with.. So will this still work?
and
where do I get the correct MJ9 since I did not get it off my phone before I lost it.?? or am I ODIN back to out of the box state which is VRALJB?
Odin 7 or Odin 9
I have read ODIN7 ? but Odin9 is newest as far as I can tell...want to double check.
thanks so much!!!!
mrraya said:
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1 said:
This is what I have been looking for except it says to "REGAIN" root.. I have never had it (ROOT) to start with.. So will this still work?
and
where do I get the correct MJ9 since I did not get it off my phone before I lost it.?? or am I ODIN back to out of the box state which is VRALJB?
Odin 7 or Odin 9
I have read ODIN7 ? but Odin9 is newest as far as I can tell...want to double check.
thanks so much!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
I am pretty sure it doesn't matter if you rooted under MJ9 or not. I was able to Odin without root and I wouldn't see why not being rooted when on MJ9 would not enable you to use Odin (since the whole point of Odin is to flash Samsung phones). I'd make a Helium backup just in case though.
You can read the thread I linked and posted by iooooooc to find out how to reflash. It's the same one I used. It has links to Odin and the MJ9 firmware (look for "VRUEMJ9 4.3" with the warning "ONLY USE THIS IF YOU TOOK THE 4.3 OTA!!") and the PIT file you'll need.
You can also read about and get links to all flavors of Odin (you need v3.07 for the VZ Note II) here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/gal...08-2013-odin-3-09-odin-1-85-versions-t2189539
Finally, to root, here's the main thread for Saferoot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
Everything I read is pretty straightforward.
I also haven't received any notification to upgrade back even though I haven't used the .bak renaming method which is interesting.
Worked great!!!! Thanks for the links guys!!!
Worked Here Too!
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I decided to bite-the-bullet after reading your post, and all I had to do was re-root as well. All said and done it took me 30 minutes tops to have my phone back. I also used Kingo last time, but after ND3, the version of Kingo I used to root MJ9 didn't recognize the phone and the latest version was so full of dire warnings I immediately aborted.
Thanks guys!
dbalman said:
I decided to bite-the-bullet after reading your post, and all I had to do was re-root as well. All said and done it took me 30 minutes tops to have my phone back. I also used Kingo last time, but after ND3, the version of Kingo I used to root MJ9 didn't recognize the phone and the latest version was so full of dire warnings I immediately aborted.
Thanks guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just received a replacement for my broken Note 2, which I previously had rooted with N3bula. To root my old phone, given it came with 4.1, I just had to Odin the MJ9 files, and then flash N3bula with TWRP . When I got my replacement, it updated to ND3 before I realized what was going on. Does anyone know what files I actually need to flash to get back to MJ9 from ND3? I found a file called I605VRUEMJ9.tar on one of the links posted recently. Since the actual ROM on the phone is the stock 4.3 rom, I assume I don't need to worry about system.img. I don't know about boot.img, cache.img, recovery.img, sboot.bin. I am confident I should flash tz.img, modem.bin, hidden.img.
Thanks!
---------- Post added at 05:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:21 PM ----------
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a particular reason you wish to use safestrap rather than continuing to use Kingo? Is Kingo not working?
Thx!!
nbock01 said:
Worked great!!!! Thanks for the links guys!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
Neither of those links are good.
Thanks!!
@Skilover
If you go to Droidstyle's guide here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=34891181 , and then go to section 1b of the guide, you can revert back to MJ9 by following the guide's instructions. You'll want to use the stock file for (VRUEMJ9 4.3) if you're wanting to revert back from ND3.
After you get back to MJ9, you can get root access with saferoot..... Here's the link to saferoot-- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...php?p=48392009
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Amazing..WTG, XDA!
New user here. Been reading a bunch of posts lately as I finally got around to trying to root my SCH-1605, which I have through VZW. For a long time, my big concern was interference on the VZW side. Finally, warranties expired and the urge peaked... just in time for the ND3 OTA update. I tried a couple of methods I found - no success. Finally stumbled on some threads that basically said - ND3 = Out of Luck.
Then I found this post.. :victory:
Truly awesome. Worked like a charm. Looking up good info on locking down the OTA pushes next.
My observations of the differences between my previous attempts and what was missing:
My first attempts:
I neglected to include the 16GB PIT file referenced in the links above (** Note: a few guides I popped across mentioned making sure that only "Auto Reboot" and "F. Reset Time" are checked. When you include the PIT file, it will auto-check "Re-Partition". I left this checked, and it worked like a charm. Can't speak as to the offset of UNchecking this, as - like I said - I left it checked)
I used a different .md5 file that would flag as a fail despite my efforts (I was using a CF autoroot md5). I'm fairly certain this failed due to the OTA update, though it may have been the lack of a PIT file. If someone could provide some more info there, I'm totally open to listen!
Bottom line - my experience was pretty painless after doing adequate research. Thanks a ton! :highfive:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I also came across some info stating that the downgrade to the MJ firmware might flag the KNOX (I believe?) or a similar issue. Anyone run across any of those issues using these methods? If someone has a quick link to how I could check this for myself, I'd be very appreciative.
@Tangescence
Glad to hear you had success with rooting . This link should help you check on your knox counter status:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48758233&highlight=odin#post48758233
If "Knox Warranty Void" is at zero, you didn't trip the counter.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Knox warranty void: 0
Confirmed. The flashback left KNOX WARRANTY VOID: 0
Lists as Samsung Official Binary with a System Status of Custom.
Looks good!
I know this is a bit of a side tangent, but safestrap should work with MJ9 and saferoot to allow custom ROMs despite the locked bootloader - right?
Again, many thanks to the community!
Right, safestrap was designed to be used for people with the locked bootloader on a rooted MJ9. Here is the safestrap thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=51616723
I don't know a lot about safestrap, but I believe the ROM slots are not working yet so you'll have to install a custom Rom over the stock ROM if you want to use it. You'll have to do more research to make sure you know how to use it if you want to give it a go.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
mattnmag said:
Right, safestrap was designed to be used for people with the locked bootloader on a rooted MJ9. Here is the safestrap thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=51616723
I don't know a lot about safestrap, but I believe the ROM slots are not working yet so you'll have to install a custom Rom over the stock ROM if you want to use it. You'll have to do more research to make sure you know how to use it if you want to give it a go.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome - I'll be researching it tonight and tomorrow. Will post to the safestrap thread with my results and probably a heads up here to redirect. Again, tons of thanks!
Confirmed working
My Verizon Note 2 broke so under warranty I got a replacement device with the latest VRUAND3 build installed. It literally drove me nuts because I was so used to having the advantage of a rooted device with the bootloader unlocked. After doing some research, I came across the information on this thread and it helped me with having at least root access which allows me to take advantage of my Titanium Backup and other apps tailored to rooted devices.
Thank you very much for this post. I hope the devs will one up on Verizon and give the community the ability to have a unlocked bootloader soon. I like the connection speed and coverage with Verizon but their method of controlling how their customers use their devices is just annoying. I paid good money for this phone Verizon! I'm going to do what I wish to do with it to make it unique and personal to me. They just don't seem to understand that. Once again... Thanks. ROOT 4TW!
gee1000 said:
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
I am pretty sure it doesn't matter if you rooted under MJ9 or not. I was able to Odin without root and I wouldn't see why not being rooted when on MJ9 would not enable you to use Odin (since the whole point of Odin is to flash Samsung phones). I'd make a Helium backup just in case though.
You can read the thread I linked and posted by iooooooc to find out how to reflash. It's the same one I used. It has links to Odin and the MJ9 firmware (look for "VRUEMJ9 4.3" with the warning "ONLY USE THIS IF YOU TOOK THE 4.3 OTA!!") and the PIT file you'll need.
You can also read about and get links to all flavors of Odin (you need v3.07 for the VZ Note II) here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/gal...08-2013-odin-3-09-odin-1-85-versions-t2189539
Finally, to root, here's the main thread for Saferoot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
Everything I read is pretty straightforward.
I also haven't received any notification to upgrade back even though I haven't used the .bak renaming method which is interesting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Need help unrooting M8

So I have read multiple articles on how to unroot and have tried 2 of them with no avail. Can anyone explain to me or point me in the right direction on to a "How to unroot for dummies" or something!? I tried getting a nandroid backup and putting in in TWRP/backups/ but for some reason when I boot into recovery and select "Internal Storage" it doesnt show anything! Then I tried to flash the stock recovery from the toolkit and I get an error. Any help would be appreciated.
CavyS said:
So I have read multiple articles on how to unroot and have tried 2 of them with no avail. Can anyone explain to me or point me in the right direction on to a "How to unroot for dummies" or something!? I tried getting a nandroid backup and putting in in TWRP/backups/ but for some reason when I boot into recovery and select "Internal Storage" it doesnt show anything! Then I tried to flash the stock recovery from the toolkit and I get an error. Any help would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a step by step guide to do this under the General section of this forum.
Here is a link...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2751011
I would ask why you want to unroot? Unless you are selling/trading the device, its my opinion that once you are rooted, there are few other valid reasons to go back.
scott500 said:
There is a step by step guide to do this under the General section of this forum.
Here is a link...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2751011
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah that might as well have been written in Arabic. I think that might be one of the methods I tried though?.. Except when I put the Nandroid backup in TWRP/backups then rebooted my phone into recovery the backup wasnt showing in there no matter what I did, and the other way just got an error.
redpoint73 said:
I would ask why you want to unroot? Unless you are selling/trading the device, its my opinion that once you are rooted, there are few other valid reasons to go back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want to unroot to get the OTA update. And I'm sure I could probably flash the new update or whatever, but I would rather just get the OTA. Just my OCD I guess?..
CavyS said:
I want to unroot to get the OTA update. And I'm sure I could probably flash the new update or whatever, but I would rather just get the OTA. Just my OCD I guess?..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can never ever understand folks that root, than want OTA. As you suggested, the ROM is already available (stock rooted) in a custom recovery-flashable form, supplied graciously just days after the OTA started rolling out. And if you are referring to an upcoming OTA, the same will probably be true; or it will be available earlier for the international version (and isn't that one of the reasons we root?).
If you want the firmware package that came with the OTA, that is available to flash on modded phones, as well.
redpoint73 said:
I can never ever understand folks that root, than want OTA. As you suggested, the ROM is already available (stock rooted) in a custom recovery-flashable form, supplied graciously just days after the OTA started rolling out. And if you are referring to an upcoming OTA, the same will probably be true; or it will be available earlier for the international version (and isn't that one of the reasons we root?).
If you want the firmware package that came with the OTA, that is available to flash on modded phones, as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol I know, idk why I have to have to OTA either. Its just an OCD thing. I think its because I know that what I'm getting from OTA is clean and is a 100% working squeaky clean release by Android. Opposed to a ROM that someones put together themselves. I'm sure there is nothing wrong with the ROM or that there is any kind of malware or viruses in it. But its just an OCD thing were I would never stop thinking about it. And first thing my phone crashes or runs into a bug regardless of the problem I would blame it on the ROM. Lol now I sound like a sociopath
CavyS said:
now I sound like a sociopath
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, not really.
If a clean, bugfree OS is what you crave, than I would actually strongly disagree with the notion that an OTA is the way to do that. OTA is often a mess, as it only updates some things, and not other (not a complete image) and also keeps user data; which if you will see from any forum thread (here or other places) about bugs after OTAs, keeping user data is often the cause of many issues.
Factory reset plus OTA is one way around this. But if you really are OCD about a "clean" stock install, I would run the RUU. Either get S-off, or relock bootloader beforehand; and backup user data as this will be wiped. RUU is a complete factory released image.
redpoint73 said:
Haha, not really.
If a clean, bugfree OS is what you crave, than I would actually strongly disagree with the notion that an OTA is the way to do that. OTA is often a mess, as it only updates some things, and not other (not a complete image) and also keeps user data; which if you will see from any forum thread (here or other places) about bugs after OTAs, keeping user data is often the cause of many issues.
Factory reset plus OTA is one way around this. But if you really are OCD about a "clean" stock install, I would run the RUU. Either get S-off, or relock bootloader beforehand; and backup user data as this will be wiped. RUU is a complete factory released image.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quick question. I put the Nandroid backup in the TWRP/backups/ folder. It doesnt show up in "Restore" but it shows up in "Install" in TWRP Recovery. When I click on it in "Install" it asks me "Swipe to Confirm Flash" Is it okay to flash Nandroid backup from the "Install" location or does it have to be done through "Restore"?
redpoint73 said:
I would ask why you want to unroot? Unless you are selling/trading the device, its my opinion that once you are rooted, there are few other valid reasons to go back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I unrooted ?. Main reason for me was to use ISIS and be able to play a game me and some buddies play. I had root and ISIS didn't like it, so grabbed rootcloak but game disliked xposed
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
twiggums said:
I unrooted ?. Main reason for me was to use ISIS and be able to play a game me and some buddies play. I had root and ISIS didn't like it, so grabbed rootcloak but game disliked xposed
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I just updated with RUU, I'll re-root again once 4.4.4 gets pushed out.

[Q] Installing TWRP on jfltevzw 4.4.2 (NC5)

I was one of the idiots that accidentally upgraded to the newest firmware when it first came out. My device is totally rooted, but I've been reading that I'm required to use things such as SafeStrap or Loki to install custom roms. I'm not sure if this is still the case as its been months since this was discovered. I've been trying to search the forums extensively for a fix, but I've been unable to find one. One thing I came across: here seems to be a very simple way to install TWRP on the Galaxy S4, however, I don't wan to run the risk of bricking my phone and being SOL because I have ****ty firmware and no way to custom recover my phone.
Point blank, would I be able to install TWRP manager via GooManager given that I've updated to NC5? Or even if not, what are my options for custom recovery/roms? End game, I want to walk away with 5.0.1 GPE or Cyanogenmod 12. Hopefully.
I'd really appreciate any and all help. Attached is a screenshot of my phone information.
zQueal said:
I was one of the idiots that accidentally upgraded to the newest firmware when it first came out. My device is totally rooted, but I've been reading that I'm required to use things such as SafeStrap or Loki to install custom roms. I'm not sure if this is still the case as its been months since this was discovered. I've been trying to search the forums extensively for a fix, but I've been unable to find one. One thing I came across: here seems to be a very simple way to install TWRP on the Galaxy S4, however, I don't wan to run the risk of bricking my phone and being SOL because I have ****ty firmware and no way to custom recover my phone.
Point blank, would I be able to install TWRP manager via GooManager given that I've updated to NC5? Or even if not, what are my options for custom recovery/roms? End game, I want to walk away with 5.0.1 GPE or Cyanogenmod 12. Hopefully.
I'd really appreciate any and all help. Attached is a screenshot of my phone information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once you updated to anything past MDK there's no going back . Safestrap is the only option to install Touchwiz ROMS.
scrillakev said:
Once you updated to anything past MDK there's no going back . Safestrap is the only option to install Touchwiz ROMS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn! That's what I figured. I followed [this guide](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLHZfPwLkPM) and installed the SafeStrap APK, but stopped at the "install recovery" step. I've been reading that this can soft brick your phone. Do you have any input? Is it safe to do? If it does brick my phone will I be able to factory reset with Odin?
Sorry for the barrage of questions, I'm a bit of a noob.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT:
Well, I decided to go ahead with it. It worked fine. I rebooted to SafeStrap and went right to do a backup. It failed. I tried to reboot into my stock rom, and it was 0MB. I really might blow up Verizon HQ.
zQueal said:
Damn! That's what I figured. I followed [this guide](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLHZfPwLkPM) and installed the SafeStrap APK, but stopped at the "install recovery" step. I've been reading that this can soft brick your phone. Do you have any input? Is it safe to do? If it does brick my phone will I be able to factory reset with Odin?
Sorry for the barrage of questions, I'm a bit of a noob.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT:
Well, I decided to go ahead with it. It worked fine. I rebooted to SafeStrap and went right to do a backup. It failed. I tried to reboot into my stock rom, and it was 0MB. I really might blow up Verizon HQ.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never used SafeStrap so I doubt I will be much help. But once you rebooted your stock ROM is no longer there? Might have to just flash a stock image via ODIN and try again. Verizon isn't going to help you either with modding your phone, XDA is the place to be.
Has there been anything new since this thread was posted or is it impossible still?
mcbeat257 said:
Has there been anything new since this thread was posted or is it impossible still?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry buddy you're SOL
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
If you are rooted use a terminal editor app and type:
getprop ro.bootloader
If it says anything other than I545VRUAMDK your only choice is SafeStrap.
That means if you bought an S4 and it came with MK1, NC5, NK1, or anything other than MDK you cannot flash a custom recovery. The same applies if you took an OTA from VZW. This has been stated 1000's of times here.
Hint:
Look on the box that your S4 came in and read the last three characters where it says what build the phone has.
mcbeat257 said:
Has there been anything new since this thread was posted or is it impossible still?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep checking up on SS they are working on the ability to also use custom kernels on top which would make it essentially as efficient as a custom recovery, with some storage loss.
safestrap version
Well, I decided to go ahead with it. It worked fine. I rebooted to SafeStrap and went right to do a backup. It failed. I tried to reboot into my stock rom, and it was 0MB. I really might blow up Verizon HQ.[/QUOTE]
***Make sure you are using the correct version of safestrap for your current baseband
another good app from the google play store to download is samsung info
I have used safestrap in the past as I was in the same scenario as you. I currently now have a MDK phone
Illogi.xbone said:
Keep checking up on SS they are working on the ability to also use custom kernels on top which would make it essentially as efficient as a custom recovery, with some storage loss.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How come they haven't been able to unlock the bootloader when only the build version is changing......
There should have been an exploit awhile ago....and why haven't they made an odin option for MDK yet?
mcbeat257 said:
How come they haven't been able to unlock the bootloader when only the build version is changing......
There should have been an exploit awhile ago....and why haven't they made an odin option for MDK yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The exploit was weeded out after MDK
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
The bootloader was never "unlocked" on MDK, there was just an exploit available that allowed the installation of a custom recovery. That exploit was closed in the first update from MDK and a new one has not been discovered. The bootloader itself has some pretty strong encryption so it may never be unlocked.

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