[SUCCESS] Odin backflash to MJ9 from updated ND3 to regain root - Verizon Samsung Galaxy Note II

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

Related

[Q] Newest VZW Update VRAMC3

OK so here is the story and I was debating if this is the right place to post but I do feel it is more on the developing side. I originally rooted and unlocked my bootloader following Casuals method and everything was just fine. I had an option to sell the phone in preparation for buying the GS4 so I used the return to stock method posted in the forums to return my device completely to stock. After doing so everything was also fine. I received an update to LL4 and that went OK straight from Verizon but last night when the VRAMC3 update was pushed to my phone it soft bricked it. It ultimately was stock on the splash screen stating Samsung Note 2. After trying to ODIN back to stock with multiple FAILS I was able to get it back to the Root66 MR Robinson by using the pit file but every time I try to update and or root/unlock bootloader it soft bricks again. I am assuming that the update that was pushed updated my bootloader and as of now I am stuck till there is a new bootloader Jailbreak. If not I would love some instruction on how to get my phone rooted with an unlocked bootloader or a flashable ODIN file that will at least get me to the latest VRAMC3 fully stock ROM. Thank you for the HELP.
Next time read the stickies...when they say NOT to accept OTA updates, usually there is some meaning behind it.
Shawnkanan said:
OK so here is the story and I was debating if this is the right place to post but I do feel it is more on the developing side. I originally rooted and unlocked my bootloader following Casuals method and everything was just fine. I had an option to sell the phone in preparation for buying the GS4 so I used the return to stock method posted in the forums to return my device completely to stock. After doing so everything was also fine. I received an update to LL4 and that went OK straight from Verizon but last night when the VRAMC3 update was pushed to my phone it soft bricked it. It ultimately was stock on the splash screen stating Samsung Note 2. After trying to ODIN back to stock with multiple FAILS I was able to get it back to the Root66 MR Robinson by using the pit file but every time I try to update and or root/unlock bootloader it soft bricks again. I am assuming that the update that was pushed updated my bootloader and as of now I am stuck till there is a new bootloader Jailbreak. If not I would love some instruction on how to get my phone rooted with an unlocked bootloader or a flashable ODIN file that will at least get me to the latest VRAMC3 fully stock ROM. Thank you for the HELP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the same problem. Flash the pit file with odin and wait for the phone to turn on. the problem is fixed to get the phone working. Then you can flash other stuff.
Thank you for the replies even though one was not helpful at all. I have flashed the root66 file with the pit and it does work but if I try to run the casual jailbreak or flash any other odin files it fails. My assumption is my bootloader got updated and has locked me out and I will just have to wait for a new boot loader exploit. Thanks
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda premium
droidstyle said:
Next time read the stickies...when they say NOT to accept OTA updates, usually there is some meaning behind it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is best advice u can get to avoid unwanted situations
XT912 CDMA
1droidmod said:
Is best advice u can get to avoid unwanted situations
XT912 CDMA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I can give more, but I get tired of repeating myself all the time...especially when its posted in every section of this sub forum.
Read Read, Search Search... U will figure it out..
XT912 CDMA Pac Man 4.2.2
1droidmod said:
Read Read, Search Search... U will figure it out..
XT912 CDMA Pac Man 4.2.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a sticky or something definitive on the subject of rooted (via Casual) Verizon Note 2 users getting the OTA update and retaining root? I'm currently VRALL4, rooted via Casual, with SDM frozen to avoid the OTA update. But I'd rather not stay in this state indefinitely.
madtowner11 said:
Is there a sticky or something definitive on the subject of rooted (via Casual) Verizon Note 2 users getting the OTA update and retaining root? I'm currently VRALL4, rooted via Casual, with SDM frozen to avoid the OTA update. But I'd rather not stay in this state indefinitely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once you are rooted via Casual there is no such thing as accepting Verizon's OTA if you want your phone to keep working. (This info can be found in 1 or 2 basic searches, which everyone should do first.)
If you want to get the 4.1.2 features there are 3 options that I know of: 1) flash a zip of the 4.1.2 update, 2) flash a full 4.1.2 stock rom, or 3) flash a custom rom that has 4.1.2 features in it. You can find all 3 options in the Original Development section of xda. Imnuts has implemented #1 but read the forum on the ins and outs. Beanstown106 has created #2. And Beanstown106's latest Jellybeans 16 is a custom rom that incorporates 4.1.2.

[Q] [ROOT HELP] Rooted MJ7 to MK2 - Upgrade

Hey everyone,
So I'm having a bit of an issue. I currently own (and love) a Verizon Galaxy S4 (model number: SCH-I545). I rooted my phone back at the end of November, right after the MJ7 framework release and it's been splendid. I've gotten rid of all the bloatware using Titanium Backup and my phone absolutely soars through every program I run on it as well as works as a great business device.
I'm currently encountering two problems:
1. I can't seem to find a ClockwordMod or any type of recovery software that'll actually work and install correctly. I've tried the GooManager one and the ClockworkMod app one, and nearly bricked my phone in the process of doing so. As I'm sure you all know, not being able to have a recovery program makes it a pain in the butt to deal with. I was gonna flash CyanogenMod (like I once had on my Galaxy Tab) and go with it; however, standard rooted S4 seems to do the trick and is fast and some of the Samsung stuff isn't half bad, to be fair.
2. I need to find a MK2 zip that once I do get a recovery pushed, I can update the root for stability fixes. I've searched up and down and just can't find an MK2 pushable zip that won't be like the OTA one and make me lose my root.
So XDA, can you all point me in the right direction to get both of these fixed?
No
JacobNWolf said:
Hey everyone,
So I'm having a bit of an issue. I currently own (and love) a Verizon Galaxy S4 (model number: SCH-I545). I rooted my phone back at the end of November, right after the MJ7 framework release and it's been splendid. I've gotten rid of all the bloatware using Titanium Backup and my phone absolutely soars through every program I run on it as well as works as a great business device.
I'm currently encountering two problems:
1. I can't seem to find a ClockwordMod or any type of recovery software that'll actually work and install correctly. I've tried the GooManager one and the ClockworkMod app one, and nearly bricked my phone in the process of doing so. As I'm sure you all know, not being able to have a recovery program makes it a pain in the butt to deal with. I was gonna flash CyanogenMod (like I once had on my Galaxy Tab) and go with it; however, standard rooted S4 seems to do the trick and is fast and some of the Samsung stuff isn't half bad, to be fair.
2. I need to find a MK2 zip that once I do get a recovery pushed, I can update the root for stability fixes. I've searched up and down and just can't find an MK2 pushable zip that won't be like the OTA one and make me lose my root.
So XDA, can you all point me in the right direction to get both of these fixed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no custom recovery available for your build. Only Safestrap. There's a few stickies you might want to read in the General section.
As far as MK2, I think your only option would be to use Odin and re-root using Saferoot.
Sent from my NCC 1701 using Tapatalk 4
JacobNWolf said:
Hey everyone,
So I'm having a bit of an issue. I currently own (and love) a Verizon Galaxy S4 (model number: SCH-I545). I rooted my phone back at the end of November, right after the MJ7 framework release and it's been splendid. I've gotten rid of all the bloatware using Titanium Backup and my phone absolutely soars through every program I run on it as well as works as a great business device.
I'm currently encountering two problems:
1. I can't seem to find a ClockwordMod or any type of recovery software that'll actually work and install correctly. I've tried the GooManager one and the ClockworkMod app one, and nearly bricked my phone in the process of doing so. As I'm sure you all know, not being able to have a recovery program makes it a pain in the butt to deal with. I was gonna flash CyanogenMod (like I once had on my Galaxy Tab) and go with it; however, standard rooted S4 seems to do the trick and is fast and some of the Samsung stuff isn't half bad, to be fair.
2. I need to find a MK2 zip that once I do get a recovery pushed, I can update the root for stability fixes. I've searched up and down and just can't find an MK2 pushable zip that won't be like the OTA one and make me lose my root.
So XDA, can you all point me in the right direction to get both of these fixed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't find a custom recovery for your phone because there isn't one.
Please, before you brick your phone - disconnect the USB cable, walk away, then go read this sticky thread in the general forum.
Then read this thread.
The only thing available for post-MDK Verizon GS4s is Safestrap.
k1mu said:
You can't find a custom recovery for your phone because there isn't one.
Please, before you brick your phone - disconnect the USB cable, walk away, then go read this sticky thread in the general forum.
Then read this thread.
The only thing available for post-MDK Verizon GS4s is Safestrap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was reading the Safestrap recovery link that you linked and I noticed it was for locked bootloaders. How do you identify what bootloader you have? When I turn on the phone, it has the "Unlocked" sign, so it may be that I'm on the old bootloader. Any idea?
JacobNWolf said:
I was reading the Safestrap recovery link that you linked and I noticed it was for locked bootloaders. How do you identify what bootloader you have? When I turn on the phone, it has the "Unlocked" sign, so it may be that I'm on the old bootloader. Any idea?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have a locked bootloader. You will have to use safestrap. Be sure to read. Lots of helpful links and tips in the general section. Yesterday I upgraded to mk2. Used saferoot. Installed safestrap. Loaded up hyperdrive. Runs great.
Pmmac said:
You have a locked bootloader. You will have to use safestrap. Be sure to read. Lots of helpful links and tips in the general section. Yesterday I upgraded to mk2. Used saferoot. Installed safestrap. Loaded up hyperdrive. Runs great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the zip/update package for mk2? Can't seem to find it myself
JacobNWolf said:
Hey everyone,
So I'm having a bit of an issue. I currently own (and love) a Verizon Galaxy S4 (model number: SCH-I545). I rooted my phone back at the end of November, right after the MJ7 framework release and it's been splendid. I've gotten rid of all the bloatware using Titanium Backup and my phone absolutely soars through every program I run on it as well as works as a great business device.
I'm currently encountering two problems:
1. I can't seem to find a ClockwordMod or any type of recovery software that'll actually work and install correctly. I've tried the GooManager one and the ClockworkMod app one, and nearly bricked my phone in the process of doing so. As I'm sure you all know, not being able to have a recovery program makes it a pain in the butt to deal with. I was gonna flash CyanogenMod (like I once had on my Galaxy Tab) and go with it; however, standard rooted S4 seems to do the trick and is fast and some of the Samsung stuff isn't half bad, to be fair.
2. I need to find a MK2 zip that once I do get a recovery pushed, I can update the root for stability fixes. I've searched up and down and just can't find an MK2 pushable zip that won't be like the OTA one and make me lose my root.
So XDA, can you all point me in the right direction to get both of these fixed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
take some time to read...this is a stickie
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2606501
decaturbob said:
take some time to read...this is a stickie
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2606501
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not a n00b to this at all. I now have Safestrap, it runs fine. I rooted it by myself and have done a lot to it since (November 2013). I get how these things work, but I can't for the life of me find an update zip for MK2. That's all I'm looking for at this point.
JacobNWolf said:
I'm not a n00b to this at all. I now have Safestrap, it runs fine. I rooted it by myself and have done a lot to it since (November 2013). I get how these things work, but I can't for the life of me find an update zip for MK2. That's all I'm looking for at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you have to search for an MK2 tar file to use with Odin.
Sent from my NCC 1701 using Tapatalk 4
The success is real!
riker147 said:
I think you have to search for an MK2 tar file to use with Odin.
Sent from my NCC 1701 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FOUND IT! WOOP, thanks for the help guys; for anyone else trying to find one, use the "No-Wipe" in this thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2578209 and flash with ODIN 3.09, located here: http://rootjunkysdl.com/getdownload.php?file=Galaxy S4/Firmware Odin MK2/Odin3-v3.09.zip

SCH-I545L Upgrade MK4 to NC5 and Keep Root

Disclaimer: You own the responsibility for choosing to take this route versus the Factory OTA. If it breaks, you own both pieces.
This process uses an unsupported Safestrap. Issues with that program should NOT be reported to Hashcode.
If something goes wrong, you need to be sure that you have a way to recover. Back up first.
The SCH-I545L is a variant of the Verizon Galaxy S4 that's used for several carriers - for example, Bluegrass Cellular, Cellcom, Appalachian Wireless, and others. The "L" variant isn't compatible with kernels and bootloaders designed for the stock SCH-I545 so it needs different treatment.
This method allows you to upgrade from MK4 to the official NC5 root and retain root in the process. It's exactly the same process as the one introduced by @muniz_ri for the I545, found here.
Without his work, this would not have been possible.
Thanks also to @evilryry for his help with pulling the files together and with testing this upgrade.
This is a copy of the MK4-to-NC5 OTA hammered into shape to not flash the NC5 bootloader, and install SuperSU. When you're done, it's a stock, rooted NC5.
This will not upgrade the bootloader to NC5, which means that if anything goes wrong you can flash back to stock MK4 to recover.
However, back up your phone in Safestrap before you begin so you have something to revert to.
Steps to do this:
You must first ensure that your MK4 system is in factory stock condition, with no files modified, no Xposed framework, etc. You must have SuperSU and Safestrap 3.72 installed before starting. See post #2 in this thread for a script that you can run on your phone to ensure that it's pristine.
If your phone is not clean, flashing a no-wipe MK4 ROM image will repair it. Just make sure that you flash Safestrap 3.72 as well. ( Safestrap-JFLTE-3.72-kk-B01.apk)
Download Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip from here,
MD5: c2e6673da0b235d9a3258c0ab46c8a65
Download I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5 from here,
MD5: 693274326ad9d9209be0f0680bcb125e
Put the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file onto the root of your external SDcard.
Reboot and open Recovery from the Safestrap screen. Do not wipe anything!
Flash the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file into the stock slot.
When the flash is complete, Press "Home" and reboot into Downloader mode.
Using ODIN, flash " I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5" by putting it into the PDA or AP slot.
The first boot will take a long time as the phone optimizes apps. Be patient.
Before trying this, there's a way to verify that your phone is "stock enough" for the flash to work.
Download the attached script file and push it to the root of your SDcard.
Then, open terminal emulator and type at the prompt:
su -c /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
or
su
sh /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
You MUST have busybox installed for this to work; otherwise, you'll get a bunch of "/system/bin/sh: cut: not found" errors.
If everything is right, you'll get no output. Otherwise, any tampered files will be listed.
If you choose to install a non-stock ROM image after your NC5 upgrade, you'll need a set of kernel modules to flash. @evilryry has built a ZIP containing those, available from here.
You flash these in recovery after flashing the ROM but before rebooting.
Also note that you should flash SuperSU at the same time
Reserved #3.
Rock on. Thanks k1mu. Hell of a help. I'll be happy to help if anyone has any issues, as I have the phone and have gone through your upgrade process.
Fellow 545L'ers, Just a note to addon if you choose to install a custom rom, on 3.72 safestrap, backup your stock slot, and install over stock slot. remember, flash rom, then flash modules, and very important flash supersu zip. or else you wont have root/safestrap on custom rom and you will have to odin back to 4.3 and start the upgrade process all over again!
@k1mu Nice job!
And please let me know if you have better luck than I have had trying to resolve the safestrap apk force close issue after the upgrade.
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Ampz55 said:
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
I've found threads on downgrading, including Surge's here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
but I figured downgrading using this method for the regular I545 would not work correctly.
Well first of all I'm not a developer but I consider myself decently knowledgeable. So, Not 100% sure but I believe that was to downgrade kitkat to jb with the jb bootloader intact in case you don't like kitkat or need to restart the whole process. I don't think you can get back to the jb bootloader once you upgrade it to kitkat. The way this process works is by updating the system and stuff but not the bootloader, leaving it at mk2 or mk4 in the 545L. So you can go back to the 4.3 and start again if you mess up. But the bootloader no, I think it's the same principle as not being able to Odin back to mdk because the bootloader updates. You can't downgrade it.
Have a screenshot showing my bootloader version (4.3) with kitkat baseband running hyperdrive 16.1
So forgive me if I'm wrong, but I believe if you take the ota or whatever to kitkat you're SOL for this posts process for root atm.
Edit, as with other phones, if anyone with this has upgraded via ota to kitkat you should be able to use @geohot "towelroot" method. Be sure to thank him too!
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Free mobile app
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Rom? No. Odin flash yes. It's a few pages back in the other 545L thread, also on sammobile site. You'll see me linking it to someone else and the other guy who caught the download. You download it and extract the file, put in odin ap slot and flash. You are better off though if you backup and factory reset beforehand. Also, you could just use kies 3 to update with then use towelroot then install supersu from play store.
Remember at some point on stock rom backup your apn using apn backup and restore.
If custom rom is desired: From then if you choose to use safestrap download "selinux mode changer" app in play store change to permissive. Then download the 3.72 safestrap linked in op, and flash supersu *zip* and then desired rom. Also you will find somewhere in other thread our modules I Dropboxed but if you can't find it (will be 2 or 3 pgs back) I will link again. Feel free to post here or pm if you need any help. FYI, 4.3 mk4 flash we have and kies are no wipe.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 03:11 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:04 AM ----------
kmg90 said:
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk8oNokcStYZ6GR6l13t1oAa9bQsOHxjEMj1A2U +extract = 4.3 MK4 Odin flash. if you want root, easier option is to just use kies imo. or use this and do an ota. then use towelroot+supersu. you basically follow this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784138 steps 5-7 use ss method heading.
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
blackbeard10 said:
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try harvesting from this or the info Dallas posted in other 545L thread.
Sent from my SM-G900V using XDA Free mobile app
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
XRSTOY1 said:
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you on 4.3? You probably have modified system files or something. For this to work you need stock minus supersu and safestrap. Though the easy way to do this now is just to upgrade with kies and use towelroot. Just plug phone up and use kies. or if you must do it the harder way..
download https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk...bQsOHxjEMj1A2U Should be a zip so extract and flash(4.3 is only flash i know is publicly available, 4.4.2 nc5 might be too tho) then with odin and upgrade with ota or try this process again.
Sent from my Supercharged KT Powered S5
worked for me
decaturbob said:
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had good luck with this one.
GSM/CDMA Unlock for SCH-I545L
Hi,
I just bought a SCH-I545L over ebay and the seller said its Verizon but it turned out to be Other local carrier phone probably Cell Com. Verizon Phones are GSM Factory unlocked and hence I wanted to buy the same but this is not working with International GSM Service providers.
I basically want to use the phone outside of the USA on GSM and CDMA network.
I would like to know anyone here can guide me to a post or thread where there is a GSM/CDMA unlock available for SCH-I545L.
The other problem which I am facing is that I am not able to enable hidden menu. Dont know how to enable the hidden menu. Have already checked out various posts saying to take a backup followed by changing /efs/carrier/HiddenMenu. Change OFF to ON. Did the same but thats not working for me. *#06# doesn't work.
I was however able to root the phone through Towelroot. I am currently on 4.4.2 NC5.
Any guidance in the matter would be highly appreciated.
Thanks

[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.

Any way to ROOT or Downgrade 5.0.1 OC1

I don't mean to beat a dead horse, as I'm sure it's been brought up. But every search I've done just brings up how to update to OC1 without losing root. All the way back to the original Motorola Droid, I've always rooted and added a custom recovery and ROM to every phone I've had. I was running Hyperdrive RLS20 and loved it. I've been using Hyperdrive since my Galaxy S3. Then I saw Hyperdrive RLS21 came out and decided I wanted to give it a shot. And although I've flashed over a few hundred ROMs no problem, this time really screwed my phone. I could only get into DL mode. I tried about 25 different ways until I had Kies fix it, which put it on 5.0.1. Can I revert down with Odin? Or is there anything I can do to get root and SU back. Any help would be much, MUCH appreciated
Nope, by taking the latest OTA (or in this case Kies) you've locked yourself into the latest version, for which there is currently no Root
That sucks. No way to use Odin in order to downgrade or anything? This is the first time since I've ever owned an android phone that I've been stuck without root
52brandon said:
That sucks. No way to use Odin in order to downgrade or anything? This is the first time since I've ever owned an android phone that I've been stuck without root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Locked Bootloader sucks.
Every single time there is an update these individuals always end up in this situation! !! No matter how many times they're told to wait and just not update!!!
Charlie115 said:
Every single time there is an update these individuals always end up in this situation! !! No matter how many times they're told to wait and just not update!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't lump me In with that crowd. I had no intention on going to 5.0.1. If you read my original post, I was upgrading to Hyperdrive KK21 from KK20 (and yes, I followed every single instruction to the T. My only guess is that the USB connection got messed up and only flashed a portion causing the problems) and it **** the bed mid-update. I couldn't get into SS recovery or even stock recovery, only DL mode. I spent 2 days without a working phone trying to flash every single Odin file that retained root and they all failed. So I used Kies to try to repair it and ended up ****ed on 5.0.1. The one solution I didn't want. I've NEVER had an android since the D1 that wasn't rooted running a custom ROM. Which is why I'm so desperately trying to get back to rooted. While 5.0.1 is actually a very nice OS, not having all the root options is killing me. And since its now 2 generations old, my hopes that a root exploit will be found, or that people even care enough to try to find one are extremely low. But, I sure hope I'm wrong, and that an exploit for one of the newer generations Galaxies will work on this one too. I'm OCD about having root and this is killing me
52brandon said:
I couldn't get into SS recovery or even stock recovery, only DL mode. I spent 2 days without a working phone trying to flash every single Odin file that retained root and they all failed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're ever in this situation again, give up on retaining your current root, flash back to true stock (with a re-partition .pit file as well), and re-root. If you had flashed the nc5 full-wipe with the .pit file and just restored root from a clean system, you would have been fine.
52brandon said:
Don't lump me In with that crowd. I had no intention on going to 5.0.1. If you read my original post, I was upgrading to Hyperdrive KK21 from KK20 (and yes, I followed every single instruction to the T. My only guess is that the USB connection got messed up and only flashed a portion causing the problems) and it **** the bed mid-update. I couldn't get into SS recovery or even stock recovery, only DL mode. I spent 2 days without a working phone trying to flash every single Odin file that retained root and they all failed. So I used Kies to try to repair it and ended up ****ed on 5.0.1. The one solution I didn't want. I've NEVER had an android since the D1 that wasn't rooted running a custom ROM. Which is why I'm so desperately trying to get back to rooted. While 5.0.1 is actually a very nice OS, not having all the root options is killing me. And since its now 2 generations old, my hopes that a root exploit will be found, or that people even care enough to try to find one are extremely low. But, I sure hope I'm wrong, and that an exploit for one of the newer generations Galaxies will work on this one too. I'm OCD about having root and this is killing me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you should have known better than to use kies...
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
Honestly I don't even think that devlopers will make much effort to even find out how to root this version as its says that this is one of two updates before getting lollypop.
Development Forums are for developers to share their work and post their Roms and Mods.
Questions belong in the Q&A section.
Thread has been moved to correct section, please pay attention to XDA rules.
Root
52brandon said:
I don't mean to beat a dead horse, as I'm sure it's been brought up. But every search I've done just brings up how to update to OC1 without losing root. All the way back to the original Motorola Droid, I've always rooted and added a custom recovery and ROM to every phone I've had. I was running Hyperdrive RLS20 and loved it. I've been using Hyperdrive since my Galaxy S3. Then I saw Hyperdrive RLS21 came out and decided I wanted to give it a shot. And although I've flashed over a few hundred ROMs no problem, this time really screwed my phone. I could only get into DL mode. I tried about 25 different ways until I had Kies fix it, which put it on 5.0.1. Can I revert down with Odin? Or is there anything I can do to get root and SU back. Any help would be much, MUCH appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KingRoot 4.1 rooted my galaxy s4 on oc1....and try flashing an nc5 tar in flashfire
You cannot flash anything with flashfire. If you flash that tar, you WILL brick.
Question
Just wondering, i have rooted my OC1 with Kingroot 4.1, now, can someone make a guide showing how to downgrade from OC1?
PD:. Sorry for my horrible english.
Epiphany^ said:
Just wondering, i have rooted my OC1 with Kingroot 4.1, now, can someone make a guide showing how to downgrade from OC1?
PD:. Sorry for my horrible english.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't downgrade from OC1.
Downgrade isn't a root issue, it is a bootloader issue. Unless the bootloader gets unlocked, we're stuck on OC1
kingroot does work
I had done the dumb thing and was impatient and did the oc1 update to later find out you can not downgrade and im on Verizon Samsung galaxy s4 (sch-i545) which even on kit kat is very limited to rooting it.. but on a whim I seen a post about king root and it mentioned that and I did see this myself but it will say not supported like it did on mine. but I figured what the hell.. whats the worst that could happen... well im rooted now and only tried because I had seen others make that comment.. well kingroot works for s4 Verizon with locked bootloader.. no need to downgrade from oc1.. just get the app and click... took less than 10 mins if I rememner right.. and I have had no pronlems in 3 days.. it oddly even fixed some of the bugs I was having with oc1 like incoming calls not ringing
Munk3ybones said:
I had done the dumb thing and was impatient and did the oc1 update to later find out you can not downgrade and im on Verizon Samsung galaxy s4 (sch-i545) which even on kit kat is very limited to rooting it.. but on a whim I seen a post about king root and it mentioned that and I did see this myself but it will say not supported like it did on mine. but I figured what the hell.. whats the worst that could happen... well im rooted now and only tried because I had seen others make that comment.. well kingroot works for s4 Verizon with locked bootloader.. no need to downgrade from oc1.. just get the app and click... took less than 10 mins if I rememner right.. and I have had no pronlems in 3 days.. it oddly even fixed some of the bugs I was having with oc1 like incoming calls not ringing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have root. But you have a much lower chance of getting an unlocked Bootloader than anyone on NC5/NK1/NK4. They have root, module loading, and a potential for kexec to run custom kernels.
Don't upgrade to OC1 via OTA if you haven't already everyone! Use Muniz_ri's keeproot upgrade method!
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 12:53 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:53 AM ----------
bigg6987 said:
Downgrade isn't a root issue, it is a bootloader issue. Unless the bootloader gets unlocked, we're stuck on OC1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even then you're stuck. Rollback has little to do with the BL. Rollback is set at a much lower level (physically).
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

Categories

Resources