[GUIDE] Simple, Non-Destructive Root for Nexus S i9023, i9020A and 4G Gingerbread - Nexus S General

Disclaimer
This may work on other versions - I can't see any reason why not - but the only ones it is confirmed working for is the i9023 and the i9020A running 2.3.6 and the Nexus S 4G running 2.3.7. If you use this to root other handsets then reply in the thread and I'll update this. This assumes you are starting with a completely stock Nexus S.
About
This works with Windows only by using DooMLoRD's excellent Easy Rooting Toolkit to root without deleting your data in under a minute.
Credits
This is a noob-friendly mashup of various tutorials and sources to provide you with root access on the stock Gingerbread ROM, and nothing else. Credits to DooMLoRD, for his amazing toolkit and kursk for the original i9023 tutorial that made me think Consider donating to DooMLoRD if you find this helpful.
Steps to Root your handset
Preparation
1)Update your Nexus S to 2.3.6 if it isn't already, getting the update file from here.
2)Rename the file you downloaded to "update.zip". Place it in the root of your SD card.
3)Reboot your phone into Recovery Mode by powering it off, then on again while holding the Vol + button.
4)Now you’ll see a triangle with exclamation mark, now repeatedly press Vol+ and power button to enter Recovery Mode.
5)Select "apply sdcard update.zip" and if necessary, follow on screen instructions to slect the update.zip file.
6)Reboot the device and you will be updated to 2.3.6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Connecting to your Computer
1)Download and install the Android SDK. This may not be necessary for the rooting process but is certainly handy for future hacking or mods that you will likely want to do once you've rooted.
2)Install the Nexus S drivers as detailed here.
3)Make sure USB debugging is still enabled on your device and you are ready to proceed to rooting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting your Nexus S
1)Download DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit here.
2)Extract the zip to your desktop.
3)Connect your phone by USB and confirm USB Debugging is still enabled.
4)Double click the runme.bat file located in DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit
5)Read the command prompt and press any key to root.
6)Your handset will be rooted and then reboot. The process should take around 1 minute.
7) Congratulations! You now have the stock ROM rooted and Superuser installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Further Steps
Now that your phone is rooted, you can use apps that require superuser access such as Root Explorer to modify system files.
You can install ROM Manager and use that to flash custom ROMs.
You may wish to unroot your device. This can be done as detailed by DooMLoRD here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope that some people find this useful.

But what's wrong with just flashing the signed superuser zip from stock recovery or any other superuser zip from cwm?

marcelnn said:
But what's wrong with just flashing the signed superuser zip from stock recovery or any other superuser zip from cwm?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the boot-loader erases the phone. Hence the "Non-Destructive" part of the title.

Yes, this method does it in under a minute and doesn't wipe your phone, making it easier for people who are new to modding or just want an easy and quick root.

Rooted an 9020a stock 2.3.6. Great work, thanks.

TheManicGibbon said:
or just want an easy and quick root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
. zing!

Can someone please confirm if this works for i9020T OTA 4.0.3?

I don't *think* it will work on ICS...but you could give it a try, or wait for someone else to if you don't want to

Couple quick noob questions...
Does this unlock the bootloader?
Is this considered the old fashion way of rooting the NS4G?
I've tried the One Click Root by ShabbyPenguin with no luck
So I'm lookin to get this NS4G runnin 2.3.7 Gingerbread rooted..
Hoping someone can answer these questions for me thanks.
FWIW I'm not a complete noob I'm coming from a rooted EVO4G so I'm a noob in the NS4G area completely lol thanks in advanced

I've just checked my Nexus S i9023 and it appears the boot loader is still locked, in answer to your question. It is not possible to unlock the boot loader without wiping all your personal data.
Hope this helps.

TheManicGibbon said:
I've just checked my Nexus S i9023 and it appears the boot loader is still locked, in answer to your question. It is not possible to unlock the boot loader without wiping all your personal data.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really....
I'm not really worried about the phone being wiped clean I could careless its not my phone Im just confused about rooting this NS4G..and what actions need to be taken to do so...
I ran the One Click Root by Shabby but I keep getting
"error: device not found"
And I've installed every single driver that I've found and I still get the same error running the one click root
I guess my question should've been
What's another way to root the ns4g without the one click root?
Tell Siri I said SUCK IT!

Sorry, I forgot to answer your other questions
This method can be used to root a Nexus S 4G: I can't confirm it personally because I'm in the UK and don't have access to any kind of 4G tech, but "Samsung Nexus S 4G 2.3.7" is listed in the supported devices post here in DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit Thread

TheManicGibbon said:
Sorry, I forgot to answer your other questions
This method can be used to root a Nexus S 4G: I can't confirm it personally because I'm in the UK and don't have access to any kind of 4G tech, but "Samsung Nexus S 4G 2.3.7" is listed in the supported devices post here in DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit Thread
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome I'll give it go this evening thanks for answering the other threads Ive posted are dead nobody answers questions so I'm gonna proceed in hitting your thanks button. Lol
Tell Siri I said SUCK IT!

Yeah it can occasionally seem a bit like no one answers
Glad I helped.

Worked on my Rogers Nexus S I9020A, Thanks!

TheManicGibbon said:
Yeah it can occasionally seem a bit like no one answers
Glad I helped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't work what windows should I be running to do this?
Tell Siri I said SUCK IT!

question
I run the runme file and every step gets a
"the system cannot find the path specified"
error
then it says all done and the phone never reboots and nothing changes
I have installed the samsung drivers and tried again and still nothing changes
so . . .
now what?

TheManicGibbon said:
Yes, this method does it in under a minute and doesn't wipe your phone, making it easier for people who are new to modding or just want an easy and quick root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I don't understand. How you can install custom ROM as mentioned in OP if bootloader stays closed? Does it give only root access, doesn't it?
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium

I'm getting a nexus s i9020T soon and was wondering if this root method might work for it? When it comes to computers I'm a complete idiot. If something does go wrong I'll be clueless how to fix it. The reason I want to root is to remove some apps I can't uninstall and also so I can do a full backup including app data. If this method is not suitable what is the best way to do it? A super easy one click method would be preferable. Thanks!

Yes! This Method Works! If you follow this step by step! It will Unlock the bootloader and give root access! I just rooted this morning ladies and gents!

Related

Help! New Nexus S user

Hi there,
I picked up my Nexus S a couple of days ago and i'm totally loving the device. My only problem is connecting to T-Mobile's 3G network, I can only connect for 4-5 mins before it switches back to Edge, which is terribly slow. I've read that this has been an issue for some people and I tried to remove the sim card, change the APN Settings but nothing seems to help.
I read something about updating to newer radio but I'm not sure how to do that, any help would be appreciated !
All the best,
Gianpy
Ploone said:
Hi there,
I picked up my Nexus S a couple of days ago and i'm totally loving the device. My only problem is connecting to T-Mobile's 3G network, I can only connect for 4-5 mins before it switches back to Edge, which is terribly slow. I've read that this has been an issue for some people and I tried to remove the sim card, change the APN Settings but nothing seems to help.
I read something about updating to newer radio but I'm not sure how to do that, any help would be appreciated !
All the best,
Gianpy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go into your settings menu>About Phone and tell us your baseband version please.
I should note that I've not really heard of this happening before and to me it sounds like you're just not in a 3G area.
kenvan19 said:
Go into your settings menu>About Phone and tell us your baseband version please.
I should note that I've not really heard of this happening before and to me it sounds like you're just not in a 3G area.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might not have 3g in your area. Other than that it sounds weird
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
I am on the Strip in Las Vegas, NV - I doubt there is no 3G here since there is even 4G here!
Baseband version- I9020XXJK8
You are right now on 2.3.2 Stock without root right?
-So, first step is rooting your phone. You can do it without oem unlock and not losing all your archives. But I did this and I just copied all files again(Yes, it's boring to wait all the time transfering archives but it's better).
- Now you have to flash Clockworkmod (It's the same topic, showing how to do it).
- Then flash through CWM (ClockWorkMod) the update. GRH78 is 2.3.1, GRH78C is 2.3.2, GRI40 is 2.3.3. Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=967953
Any douts?
This should solve a lot of issues that you have now.
liquelt said:
You are right now on 2.3.2 Stock without root right?
-So, first step is rooting your phone. You can do it without oem unlock and not losing all your archives. But I did this and I just copied all files again(Yes, it's boring to wait all the time transfering archives but it's better).
- Now you have to flash Clockworkmod (It's the same topic, showing how to do it).
- Then flash through CWM (ClockWorkMod) the update. GRH78 is 2.3.1, GRH78C is 2.3.2, GRI40 is 2.3.3. Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=967953
Any douts?
This should solve a lot of issues that you have now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on 2.3.1 Stock without root, should I still follow the same steps?
Ploone said:
I am on the Strip in Las Vegas, NV - I doubt there is no 3G here since there is even 4G here!
Baseband version- I9020XXJK8
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I just pulled a coverage map of the strip and it seems that there are spots of worse coverage so it all depends on where you are. Nonetheless, I will help you update your radio or even update to 2.3.3 altogether as long as you're willing to root your phone and flash a rom (you can use download and use the update that Google pushes out but a lot of people have problems with it so I think its just easier to root, flash the rom, then just not root again once you have the new ROM). If you want me to help you do this, just say so and tell me if you have a mac or a PC.
kenvan19 said:
Well, I just pulled a coverage map of the strip and it seems that there are spots of worse coverage so it all depends on where you are. Nonetheless, I will help you update your radio or even update to 2.3.3 altogether as long as you're willing to root your phone and flash a rom (you can use download and use the update that Google pushes out but a lot of people have problems with it so I think its just easier to root, flash the rom, then just not root again once you have the new ROM). If you want me to help you do this, just say so and tell me if you have a mac or a PC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, I'd love some help doing that, I appreciate your help!
I am on a Mac.
You should follow the same steps but the update file is different!
Here is the link for you to root: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=931865
There are a lot of Custom ROMs, you should choose one and flash it.
I put the wrong link, I didn't known that you had a Mac.
Sorry, here is the right one! http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=931865
Enjoy this beautiful phone!
liquelt said:
You should follow the same steps but the update file is different!
Here is the link for you to root: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=931865
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
****, I'm completely lost..
Kenvan is your method the same as this or something different?
Ploone said:
****, I'm completely lost..
Kenvan is your method the same as this or something different?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The method he linked only works for builds prior to 2.3.3 which is a category you fall into. That guide is quite nice and works very well but it will not unlock your bootloader, which means your SDcard partition for your files and music and pictures etc won't be wiped. If you intend to stay rooted, I don't suggest using that guide but instead using the one I wrote here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=970237
Now before you do either, tell me if you want to unlock your bootloader (if you plan to stay rooted after doing the updated) or want to leave it locked (if you plan to remove root after updating).
kenvan19 said:
The method he linked only works for builds prior to 2.3.3 which is a category you fall into. That guide is quite nice and works very well but it will not unlock your bootloader, which means your SDcard partition for your files and music and pictures etc won't be wiped. If you intend to stay rooted, I don't suggest using that guide but instead using the one I wrote here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=970237
Now before you do either, tell me if you want to unlock your bootloader (if you plan to stay rooted after doing the updated) or want to leave it locked (if you plan to remove root after updating).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whichever is easier to be honest and requires less steps, you tell me haha. I don't mind either option.
Or you could just wait for the official 2.3.3 OTA if you don't want to root. Might get it quicker if you do a checkin request. Simply dial *#*#checkin#*#*
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
Ploone said:
Whichever is easier to be honest and requires less steps, you tell me haha. I don't mind either option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol the difference between the two is literally two command. if you unlock the bootloader you add one command (fastboot oem unlock) and you use the command "fastboot boot" for the locked method where as you use fastboot flash for the unlocked. After that the two are exactly the same so if you want to stay rooted after updating (so you can use apps like AdFree, Titanium Backup, Root Explorer, etc or want to install custom roms) you should unlock your bootloader.
To be completely frank, if you don't mind unlocking the bootloader I've had some people have trouble with the command "fastboot boot" which is why I changed my guide to use "fastboot flash". What I'm saying is I recommend using my guide, which again you can find at the link below. Remember though, before you go through any of the steps copy the contents of your SD card to your computer. Actually that is a step I should really add lol
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=970237
I'm going to go find the link to the 2.3.3 ROM so I can give you that but just take a look at my guide while I'm looking.
kenvan19 said:
lol the difference between the two is literally two command. if you unlock the bootloader you add one command (fastboot oem unlock) and you use the command "fastboot boot" for the locked method where as you use fastboot flash for the unlocked. After that the two are exactly the same so if you want to stay rooted after updating (so you can use apps like AdFree, Titanium Backup, Root Explorer, etc or want to install custom roms) you should unlock your bootloader.
To be completely frank, if you don't mind unlocking the bootloader I've had some people have trouble with the command "fastboot boot" which is why I changed my guide to use "fastboot flash". What I'm saying is I recommend using my guide, which again you can find at the link below. Remember though, before you go through any of the steps copy the contents of your SD card to your computer. Actually that is a step I should really add lol
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=970237
I'm going to go find the link to the 2.3.3 ROM so I can give you that but just take a look at my guide while I'm looking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, I'll check out your guide. Thank you so much for all your help! I hope my problem is fixed !
Ploone said:
Ok, I'll check out your guide. Thank you so much for all your help! I hope my problem is fixed !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem man, if you have any questions at all let me know.
Also, here is the link to the full ROM for 2.3.3:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=967953
Now I'm not 100% sure if this will update your radio but it will give you the newest update. I'm currently trying to check on that so you can get everything done at once (if it doesn't do the radio there is another file you can install right after installing the ROM that will update your radio. That way you'll be 100% up to date)
EDIT: Yes, it does contain the radio, so that will put you 100% on 2.3.3 with the updated radio.
Do you have any questions?
kenvan19 said:
Do you have any questions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All is well and my problem is fixed, thank you very much!

[XOOM2/XYBOARD][HOW TO] Motorola Xoom 2/Xyboard Everything Root and more!

XOOM2/Xyboard Everything root and more!
From 26/03/2014, I will no longer be updating this post as I no longer have the device and Motorola won't be upgrading the device further. Please instead of sending me PMs, go to the Q&A board or post your comment on this thread.
Note: This method will not work on Windows 8. Only Windows XP, Vista, 7, Linux and Mac OS X is supported.
Root Method - Honeycomb
1. Download the Windows version here, or the Linux/OSX version here.
2. Your Computer must have Motorola Drivers installed before rooting and connect your device with debugging on to your computer via USB. (Mac Users don't need drivers)
3. Extract the zip file from the download link, and run “run.bat” (on Windows) or “run.sh” from a terminal (on Linux/OSX)
4. Your device should reboot a few times during the process, don't worry.
5. Then you should see a finished message on the Root Method Window. At this point your device is safe to be removed from the computer.
7. As you are running Honeycomb if you are reading this then you should be receiving the ICS OTA soon. So lets backup your root so you can restore everything root after the upgrade (saves time). Download OTA Rootkeeper and backup root.
6. Well Done! You have root. Enjoy root and be safe.
Blog Post: Here
Root Method - Ice Cream Sandwich
1. Connect your Xoom2/Xyboard via USB to your Windows PC. Install Motorola Drivers from here.
2. Under Settings > Developer Options > Hit the "Enable USB Debugging" selection.
3. Download the Root Installer from here. (Says for Droid RAZR but also works on Xyboard and Xoom 2]
4. Unzip the download.
Bootstrap/Safestrap[Custom Recovery]
Waring: DO NOT proceed if you are inexperienced. bootstrap is messy and is only needed once we have ROMs cooking. All questions about the recovery ask in the developer thread.
1. Install the Bootstrap APK file.
2. Allow Superuser Powers.
3. Read the instructions which is displayed on the user interface.
5. You will now see a splashscreen after you reboot (before boot animation), here you can decide if you want to enter recovery or continue with boot.
-Method Under Constuction-
Unroot or temporary unroot
Temp Unroot - If you need to unroot for any reason and come back at any time, then install OTA Rootkeeper and then select the option "temp unroot). This will remove root without restarting and you can restore by a touch of a button.
Full remove of Root - If you want to complety remove root all together, if you need to send in your device for repair or trading your device. Install Ginger Unroot and continue with the onscreen instructions. This application has confirmed to work on the Xoom2/Xyboard.​
Doing it right now
Linux version has a wrong link or not uploaded yet
mdcykkk9 said:
Linux version has a wrong link or not uploaded yet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should be working now.
Thx is working now . i just made a donation to his paypal account. i hope for future support for the tablet .
Thanks, is good news. Now we just need that we have updates to fix bugs, and if it can be ics ...
This is worth a donation to continue the work.
édit : error, sorry, it's ok
Working well ! Thank you.
I rooted my Xoom 2 ME bought in France.
But I cannot update to 3.2.2 ???
My build 1.6.0_218.3-MZ607 ,current version 3.2
Would this work for Xoom 1 wi-fi version ?
ouatitw said:
Would this work for Xoom 1 wi-fi version ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This root method should work on all Motorola Devices running honeycomb or gingerbread. Try it out and see if it does
Sent from my Motorola Xoom 2
I did the US ICS update on My UK Xoom so im on 4.03 at the moment - i believe Motorola added some file which prevents me so far from rooting with the current one click programs ? so would it be safe to try this ?
ouatitw said:
I did the US ICS update on My UK Xoom so im on 4.03 at the moment - i believe Motorola added some file which prevents me so far from rooting with the current one click programs ? so would it be safe to try this ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The method is safe to try but Email Dan if you have any issues when rooting.
Thanks a lot Dan Rosenberg,
Suppose i root my device and if i need to use my warranty at later point of time.
Is there is anyway that i can hide Motorola that i have rooted my device.
luke.arran said:
The method is safe to try but Email Dan if you have any issues when rooting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't email Dan, I'd post it here... Dan probably has more than enough things going on than to answer all rooting questions on here...
This root method very well may work on the Xoom with ICS, never hurts to try it. I don't see how you can't root with an existing method though, with the Xoom being fully unlockable and all...
Elysian893 said:
I don't see how you can't root with an existing method though, with the Xoom being fully unlockable and all...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the thing is that maybe you can, but you might not want to Unlocking wipes all your data, apps, etc and also permanently sets a variable stating that your warranty is gone.
It might, for example, be desireable to create a backup of all your apps and data using titanium backup, which requires root, before unlocking your xoom.
Does this mean that more knowledgeable folks can create custom ROMs now, or does that still require an unlocked bootloader?
Trackz said:
Does this mean that more knowledgeable folks can create custom ROMs now, or does that still require an unlocked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, we need to figure out a bootstrap for custom roms. No custom kernels.
Also, the method to fix adb remount is reset every other boot by the kernel, init.rc rebuilds local.prop on reboot as a failsafe and can't be changed without a custom kernel...
Response to luke.arran
luke.arran said:
This root method should work on all Motorola Devices running honeycomb or gingerbread. Try it out and see if it does
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to let you know this does not work on all Xoom models like you say. Here is my thread with my specs in it. I have tried it three times following the directions to a T and it never gets past;
"[*] Initiating Phase 1...
[*] This may take a few minutes, don't mind the buzzing."
I have now let it run for over an hour each time and it never goes any further and my Xoom is still not rooted. It did not even ever reboot on its own. Does anyone have any suggestions? If not I'll just use some threads 1 & 2, I got from a friend.
Thanks, InfiniteImmortal
llama-power said:
Unlocking wipes all your data, apps, etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not this method. It is supposed to unlock and root motorola devices in 10 minutes without deleting any files. When I read about this on android police I was very excited as I never rooted because I only needed Superuser for my Xoom (never was interested in ROMs) and could never justify scraping everything just for this.
I tested the files here on a windows 7 machine... if I run from command at step 2. I get su permission denied. If I run the batch file I get "failed backup" loop after the device has been detected
tried the portable one click .exe found in "Motofail: Universal Motorola Android Root Tool (Portable)" works perfect on my bionic
obviously fails to remount as it does not include local.prop from step 5. so it's not working on xoom
This is the most awesome root utility I ever came along. It took something like 6 mins to root my phone without losing any files, if I can get it to run on my Xoom this will be just a dream come true!
Update: This root method does not support the Original Xoom. Confirmed by Dan.

New to rooting - What is easiest?

Hi everyone,
I'm new to "rooting" android devices, although I have jailbroken all my iPhones and "rooted" my palm pre.
As a newbie, it seems the "root toolkit" is the best way to do this? Is this Windows only, or is there a Mac version?
anything else I should read up on / know before rooting? I basically want to root, initially at least, to get sixaxis support and stickmount working.
Thank you all for your help in advance.
First of all, this is the wrong section. You should post inquiries in the q/a section.
In terms of rooting, I personally find the easiest way is to unlock the bootloader, flash a custom recovery such as cwm/twrp, and then install the supersu zip via recovery. You should be able to unlock the bootloader and install recovery via fastboot. After that the rest is just copying a file to the device, booting into recovery and installing a zip file.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Take a peek at the nexus root toolkit thread in this forum...quick and easy.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
The tool kit is windows only, correct?
Any reason to NOT use the tool kit and go with other more manual methods?
An iphone is virtually impossible to "brick" - Is the same true for the N7?
Foxman2k said:
Any reason to NOT use the tool kit and go with other more manual methods?
An iphone is virtually impossible to "brick" - Is the same true for the N7?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would agree with:
evonc said:
In terms of rooting, I personally find the easiest way is to unlock the bootloader, flash a custom recovery such as cwm/twrp, and then install the supersu zip via recovery. You should be able to unlock the bootloader and install recovery via fastboot. After that the rest is just copying a file to the device, booting into recovery and installing a zip file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then you know what is happening, and how it works... so if you run into troubles later, you know what to do.
Hard to brick this device.
Foxman2k said:
Any reason to NOT use the tool kit and go with other more manual methods?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For practice, and maybe the one-click solution is not flexible enough for your means. It's usually dependent on the developer to update it, so do check if it has any limitations.
Also, the ones I've seen are Windows only.
Foxman2k said:
An iphone is virtually impossible to "brick" - Is the same true for the N7?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you don't mess up the bootloader, it should be possible to reflash stuff via recovery or fastboot. Bear in mind there have been exceptions (though that came about because of a serious kernel bug, rather than due to user error) so this can't be a guarantee.
I was new to rooting too, using the nexus toolkit helped me learn a lot about rooting and all the android stuff I wasn't used too!
I really recommend it
spdecoste said:
I was new to rooting too, using the nexus toolkit helped me learn a lot about rooting and all the android stuff I wasn't used too!
I really recommend it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another recommendation for WUGS rootkit - literally very easy foolproof step by step menus/instructions - only prob I had were the drivers - just manually pointing to driver directory sorted this out.
I made a guide that could help you. http://exzacklyright.blogspot.com/2012/07/nexus-7-guide-for-adbunlocking-rooting.html There's really only 3 commands. I don't recommend toolkits.
exzacklyright said:
I made a guide that could help you. http://exzacklyright.blogspot.com/2012/07/nexus-7-guide-for-adbunlocking-rooting.html There's really only 3 commands. I don't recommend toolkits.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great, will check that out!
Can someone explain to me, in layman's terms, what "unlocking the bootloader" does?
I'm familiar with what "root" technically means as I've been using Linux since back when it had to be loaded on floppys and manualy configuring X LOL. So basically "root" means you have access to super user privileges.
Why is the bootloader locked in the first place? Once it's unlocked can it be locked again?
exzacklyright said:
I made a guide that could help you. http://exzacklyright.blogspot.com/2012/07/nexus-7-guide-for-adbunlocking-rooting.html There's really only 3 commands. I don't recommend toolkits.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This seems to rely on Windows. Any Mac tools available?
Foxman2k said:
Great, will check that out!
Can someone explain to me, in layman's terms, what "unlocking the bootloader" does?
I'm familiar with what "root" technically means as I've been using Linux since back when it had to be loaded on floppys and manualy configuring X LOL. So basically "root" means you have access to super user privileges.
Why is the bootloader locked in the first place? Once it's unlocked can it be locked again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the bootloader allows you to mess with the bootloaders progression at startup, which gives you the ability to install a custom recovery and gives us the method to gain root access. The bootloader can be unlocked by many different methods - some manual and some "one-click". I'd suggest doing it the manual way first, so you understand the process, and are able to fix it manually if anything goes wrong.
To my understanding, it's locked so that people who don't know what they're doing can't mess the device up. It's a safety procedure basically.
To relock the bootloader, you just type (I only know how to do this in windows - Linux and Mac work as well al beit differently)
Code:
fastboot oem lock
and you're all set.
Foxman2k said:
This seems to rely on Windows. Any Mac tools available?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Android SDK and ADB tools are equally available on Linux and Mac. You won't have to do the "Adding to Path" thing. All of the ADB commands will be the same, though.
I didn't know anything about rooting at all too, despite having an android phone for more than 2 years.
I went with the one-click root process.
Download this file, plug your Nexus 7, follow the instructions- which means typing Y, N, Y etc
Done in 5 minutes. There's a youtube video on it too. Go check it out.
I still dont know much about the process.. except I'm unlocked and rooted =)
I have a few naive questions
Do I have to do the OEM unlock to root the device? I would prefer not to wipe it.
Assuming I don't hard brick the device, can I go back to stock for warranty work?
Does rooting the device mean I can't get OTA updates from Google? For now I just want to run the stock kernel/rom and get updates. I just want root to run titanium and certain other apps that require root.
I've seen a thread that suggest that the play store (market) doesn't work on rooted devices. Is that true?

[Q] Question about rooting

Hey everyone. I was wondering if you could root without unlocking the bootloader first. I know i wouldn't be able to flash roms and such, but I just want the Superuser app so I can use apps like Titanium backup and sixaxis controller. Thanks in advance!
timour79 said:
Hey everyone. I was wondering if you could root without unlocking the bootloader first. I know i wouldn't be able to flash roms and such, but I just want the Superuser app so I can use apps like Titanium backup and sixaxis controller. Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry to tell you, but there is no way of rooting without unlocking the bootloader, since its secured and you won't be able to flash the necessary super user scripts. i could be wrong, but i think its necessary to unlock the bootloader.
Billchen0014 said:
sorry to tell you, but there is no way of rooting without unlocking the bootloader, since its secured and you won't be able to flash the necessary super user scripts. i could be wrong, but i think its necessary to unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?
timour79 said:
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well
Billchen0014 said:
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, thanks
Billchen0014 said:
if you choose the relock bootloader option in the toolbox, it removes superuser as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a good example of where using a toolkit fails.
You can re-lock the bootloader without affecting root. Boot the phone in fastboot mode, connect to computer and run the following command:
Code:
> fastboot oem lock
timour79 said:
Can I unlock the bootloader, root, then relock the bootloader and keep the root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's your reason for wanting it relocked?
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda app-developers app
noneabove said:
What's your reason for wanting it relocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not the OP, but I don't like the open padlock icon that shows that the device's bootloader is unlocked.
Any disadvantage to re-locking the bootloader?
Nate2 said:
I'm not the OP, but I don't like the open padlock icon that shows that the device's bootloader is unlocked.
Any disadvantage to re-locking the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I dont want to completely void the warranty, unless rooting already does that. If it was mine then i would've unlocked and rooted. I'd probably already have a rom and kernel on it. But it's actually my dad's, and he said I can root it if I don't do anything too serious(like I said, I just want Superuser so I can use things like the sixaxis controller app.)
comminus said:
This is a good example of where using a toolkit fails.
You can re-lock the bootloader without affecting root. Boot the phone in fastboot mode, connect to computer and run the following command:
Code:
> fastboot oem lock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would that be manual rooting?
NRT questions
hey there
have some newb questions about rooting along the same lines of the OP. hope you can help me
1. what are the chances of bricking the nexus by rooting if all i am going to do is the same as the OP. use sixasis and the usb stick apps. has anyone completely bricked their device or is there always a way back. i have seen a lot of info and guides to suggest you can always get the factory image restored.
2. does the superuser app already need to be installed on the nexus or does the toolkit install it for me?
3. if i am only rooting for basic stuff like sixasis is there any point installing clockword mod?
4. i have downloaded the toolkit and tried the driver installation. my experience was different from the screenshots in the toolkit and guides i have seen but when i run the driver check/step 3 it comes back with success and i have managed to make a backup. so does this imply i can safely unlock and root.
5. if i have to get my device repaired and relock the device and un-root it will my warranty be ok or can google still detect rooting has been done?
sorry for the newb questions but there are so many different guides out there and some of them refer to older versions of the NRT so just want to clarify these points.
timour79 said:
Would that be manual rooting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. All you are doing there is unlocking the bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader is the equivalent of pre-heating your oven. You haven't messed with any ingredients or cooked anything yet.
---------- Post added at 01:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:53 PM ----------
Lemegeton300 said:
1. what are the chances of bricking the nexus by rooting if all i am going to do is the same as the OP. use sixasis and the usb stick apps. has anyone completely bricked their device or is there always a way back. i have seen a lot of info and guides to suggest you can always get the factory image restored.
2. does the superuser app already need to be installed on the nexus or does the toolkit install it for me?
3. if i am only rooting for basic stuff like sixasis is there any point installing clockword mod?
4. i have downloaded the toolkit and tried the driver installation. my experience was different from the screenshots in the toolkit and guides i have seen but when i run the driver check/step 3 it comes back with success and i have managed to make a backup. so does this imply i can safely unlock and root.
5. if i have to get my device repaired and relock the device and un-root it will my warranty be ok or can google still detect rooting has been done?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The chances are pretty slim for permanently bricking. That is the beauty of Nexus devices - the entire factory image is available to be flashed back on if you screw things up. That is the equivalent of reformatting your harddrive & reinstalling your OS on your desktop.
2. mkskip's toolkit will install it for you. I am sure wug's will too.
3. You don't have to install CWM, especially if you are thinking that you will pretty much always stay stock. But, the bug might hit you in a month or two to start playing around, and then CWM or TWRP is your friend. I installed CWM & made a backup pretty quickly in case I do something I shouldn't, such as accidentally deleting a vital system app. That way you do not have to do the factory reinstall route. Every few weeks you can make yourself a fresh backup just for fun.
4. You should be fine - the drivers must be working if the toolkit is doing backups for you. I am assuming you are using mkskips toolkit based on this question - his instructions say that sometimes in 1 step it says drivers didn't install correctly when they actually do - Windows is...Windows. If you want to be sure, ask away on mkskip's thread. He is quite helpful.
5. If you reflash the factory image & the bootloader is relocked, there is nothing for them to see...not that they'd really care since the point of a Nexus is to develop on it. You would only be returning it for a hardware issue, and the software unlocking has no impact on the hardware problem, since your hardware issue would've happened no matter what software you had on it. The only way a software thing could cause a hardware issue would be if you over-overclocked it & cooked some parts. You'd really have to work at doing that since these things usually shut down when the temperature gets too high.
In short: root it & enjoy it!
Thanks for the info. Its wugs tool I am using so not sure what happened with drivers but like you said its good to go. So will the clockwork mod essentially create a restore point for me ?
Going to go ahead and root the device now. Thanks for the help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Lemegeton300 said:
Thanks for the info. Its wugs tool I am using so not sure what happened with drivers but like you said its good to go. So will the clockwork mod essentially create a restore point for me ?
Going to go ahead and root the device now. Thanks for the help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. When you restore a backup it will be just as it was when you made it. Have fun!

Rooting and unlocking N7

So I am going to be getting a N7 for Christmas, and I was wondering, should I root and unlock the tab before even setting it up? And should I accept the 4.2.1 update before or after doing all this?
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
I just did mine today on nexus 4 and 7. I had to read everything carefully to find out this was the method that I find it was easy. Make sure you read everything first. Look at the video for 4 and it should be similar to 7 and instructions are provided in link as well. btw I rooted it on 4.2.1.
As rooting will factory reset your device, it will delete all your data. Make sure you backup first.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766475
Do yourself a favor and learn to do it manually first before using toolkits. There is a lot of tutorials on doing so.http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1741395 Use fastboot to unlock device:
Command= fastboot OEM unlock
Select yes on your device to unlock boooader.
Install a custom recovery( I would reccomend twrp) and flash supersu zip and you are now rooted.
Need to go back to stock then this is great http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1907796
Yes toolkits do work but if things go wrong its good to know what to do.
Travisdroidx2 said:
Do yourself a favor and learn to do it manually first before using toolkits. There is a lot of tutorials on doing so. Use adb to unlock device:
Command= adb OEM unlock
Select yes on your device to unlock boooader.
Install a custom recovery and flash supersu zip and you are now rooted.
Need to go back to stock then this is great http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1907796
Yes toolkits do work but if things go wrong its good to know what to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had no intention of using a toolkit lol. Link to the best method to root/unlock?
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
Lol good deal added another link that you are looking for.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1741395
Travisdroidx2 said:
Lol good deal added another link that you are looking for.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1741395
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Answered my edit before I could post it. You read my mind!
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
Nexus 7 root and unlock.
Slender Troll said:
So I am going to be getting a N7 for Christmas, and I was wondering, should I root and unlock the tab before even setting it up? And should I accept the 4.2.1 update before or after doing all this?
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought my Nexus 7 about 2 weeks ago. I set it up then downloaded the jb 4.2.1 update. You will have to unlock before you root. I then downloaded Wugfresh Nexus 7 Tool kit to my computer. Very easy to follow instructions. The kit will take you through the steps on unlocking and rooting. There are videos on this procedure. I did not flash CWM and opted to flash TWRP. Excellent recovery system. I downloaded Goo manager app and you can install TWRP within the app. Very easy. You can then make nandroid backups and install custom roms. I am currently on Cyanogenmod 10.1 nightly.Cyanogenmod now has an updater within and it will search for new nightlys and also install them. Very easy. Hope this helps.
I do prefer twrp over cwm. And I was a long time cwm user before. You can fastboot the twrp.IMG file. And if you Fastboot twrp you will not have to rename .bak the stock recovery.
And yes you will want to unlock it and root it first thing since the unlock wipes the entire device.
What's the difference between CWM and TWRP?
Edit: Swipe was acting up.
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
In my opinion twrp gets more support and updates. Is way faster than cwm and you will never look back. Twrp is a great recovery.
Ok. So if/when I root the 7, I will be using a computer running windows xp, and I don't know how to install the correct files and where.
Outdated yet young Motorola Photon 4G
Hey, I'd like you to help me decide whether I should root my Nexus 7 or not. This is my first android device and I'm a complete 'noob.' Since then I've been reading about rooting continuously and I would've done it already but I'm a bit concerned. I don't want to lose my warranty and I'm aware that I can unroot the device to get my warranty back but what if something happens to the screen or the power button, or what if it bricks after losing battery power? (I read somewhere that this happened to him during night, the device ran out of juice and he couldn't turn it on ever again) Would I still be able to unroot it so I could return it for repair?
My other concern is about the rooting process itself. I've read that it's 99% safe with a toolkit but anything can go wrong. Is this 1% a big risk? Would I be able to unbrick it if something happened? Since I'm a noob my only reason to root my device is to be able to run memory editors like gamecih or something like that. Are the risks worth it?
Thank you for your answers.
BenFuF said:
Hey, I'd like you to help me decide whether I should root my Nexus 7 or not. This is my first android device and I'm a complete 'noob.' Since then I've been reading about rooting continuously and I would've done it already but I'm a bit concerned. I don't want to lose my warranty and I'm aware that I can unroot the device to get my warranty back but what if something happens to the screen or the power button, or what if it bricks after losing battery power? (I read somewhere that this happened to him during night, the device ran out of juice and he couldn't turn it on ever again) Would I still be able to unroot it so I could return it for repair?
My other concern is about the rooting process itself. I've read that it's 99% safe with a toolkit but anything can go wrong. Is this 1% a big risk? Would I be able to unbrick it if something happened? Since I'm a noob my only reason to root my device is to be able to run memory editors like gamecih or something like that. Are the risks worth it?
Thank you for your answers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In all honesty, a toolkit is almost completely unnecessary for the Nexus 7. You can do everything yourself in about 5 minutes. The thing about the Nexus 7 is that Google knew that people would try and do things with it, so they made it easy (How it should be with every device). One thing you should take into consideration when unlocking/rooting any device is "Why am I doing this?" If the answer is "Cuz I can!", you probably shouldn't. If you want to be able to use advanced apps that require root, go right ahead. Even if you are having performance problems, and just want to fix them by installing a new ROM after you unlock, go for it. If not, don't worry about it.

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