Hi all,
After deeply snorkeling in the whole forum I ended up realizing that (perhaps) there's no answer for my question. So, I think now I'm able to post it here (since I'm so new in this forum that I'm not able to post in Development thread).
Ok, here is my issue:
I recently got my brand new N716G (JB 4.2.1), so far so good it has everything I need, except by game playing experience in some games: using a touch screen for playing some games is really anoying... The good news is that my gamming experience could be improved a little bit if I use my PS3 joystick, but again I got frustrated by the (again) anoying USB cable... I didn't give up and continued my journey to joy, by doing some extra research. I ended up finding a really nice tool on google play: "sixaxis controller" but it is required to root my device in order to run this software in my N7.
Since I just want to root my N7 in order to allow "sixaxis controller" to work, I need something really simple.
I've found that "Asus google Nexus 7 Toolkit" from mskip could help me on this but I've to be honest: I've never rooted an android device before.
Of course, I read almost the whole thread (link) in order to learn what I'm going to do and now I'm pretty sure that I really need to root my tablet but I'm not interested (at least now) on putting a custom ROM nor tweak any configuration. Also, I want to keep my tablet stil able to keep updating by itself whenever a new android version is coming (OTA) after rooting it (I know I'd need to re root after OTA but I might avoid that by installing another tool from google play that avoids that).
So, by using that tool I guess I would need to perform the following steps:
a) 1. Install Google Nexus drivers on your PC
b) 2. Back up your device
c) 3. Unlock your loader
d) 4. Root your device
e) 4.2. Root device + Install busybox
f) 2. Restore backup
Steps a) and b) are done. I didn't continue because I don't know if there's something else I've to do... Do I really need to flash a recovery? How should I continue? In my specific case, what sequence should I have to follow in order to succeed? Just a,b,c,d,e,f and that's all?
I know there's a "1-click for all" option but I don't know if that will fit my needs...
By the way, thanks for reading up to here and many thanks in advance... For sure, any help or tip will be highly appreciated.
Nico.
easiest way to gain root, and without a toolkit.. fastboot oem unlock(unlocks the bootloader), fastboot flash a custom recovery, flash the su binaries in that custom recovery, reboot.
simms22 said:
easiest way to gain root, and without a toolkit.. fastboot oem unlock(unlocks the bootloader), fastboot flash a custom recovery, flash the su binaries in that custom recovery, reboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi simms22,
thank you for your reply!
Sorry but I don't understand. Do you mean that I can root my N7 manually by fastboot it and then flash a custom recovery? How?
I'd rather let an application (or script) to perform such actions for me since I'm really new on this and I just want to avoid any brick
Thanks again!
Nico.
IlNiCoLiNo said:
Hi simms22,
thank you for your reply!
Sorry but I don't understand. Do you mean that I can root my N7 manually by fastboot it and then flash a custom recovery? How?
I'd rather let an application (or script) to perform such actions for me since I'm really new on this and I just want to avoid any brick
Thanks again!
Nico.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats the problem, since youre new. by letting something else do it for you, you learn nothing. so when it comes time for simple maintenance, you get stuck, possibly ruining your device. rooting any nexus is easy, it was designed to be easily "rooted". all you need is to install fastboot onto your computer, and make sure the drivers are installed. there are a few threads here that explain how to do it. then, with one line(three words), you unlock the bootloader. with another four word line you flash the recovery. then all youndo is flash the su binaries zip imnthat custom recovery and reboot. anyways, it still comes down to it being your choice how you want to root your device
Agree with simms. I used a toolkit when I first got my Nexus because I thought there's no way I'll be able to figure it out and I'll probably brick the thing. Then when I had to figure out how to use adb for something else I had no idea and was starting from scratch.
Basically, go ahead, it's easy.
+1 for no toolkit. My first rooting experience was on my HTC IncS which involved downgrading HBOOT, doing everything manually, and the like. I'm glad that was the case as it certainly provided me a challenge at the time but it forced me to learn at least the basics of adb and fastboot. (although I certainly know more now) You should try to gain root manually as it is actually very easy on the Nexus 7 and the basic knowledge you will gain will stand you in good stead if you ever have any problems or want to delve into custom ROMs or kernels in the future.
simms22 said:
thats the problem, since youre new. by letting something else do it for you, you learn nothing. so when it comes time for simple maintenance, you get stuck, possibly ruining your device. rooting any nexus is easy, it was designed to be easily "rooted". all you need is to install fastboot onto your computer, and make sure the drivers are installed. there are a few threads here that explain how to do it. then, with one line(three words), you unlock the bootloader. with another four word line you flash the recovery. then all youndo is flash the su binaries zip imnthat custom recovery and reboot. anyways, it still comes down to it being your choice how you want to root your device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right. I guess I'll give that tool a try and see what happens.
Thank you for your patience!
Nico
I'm going to throw one thing out there. If you install super user and busy box THEN restore a backup, all you have done is unlocked your boot loader and flashed custom recovery. Install super user/busy box after you restore your backup. Also, you posted in the right section. If you had posted this in development you would have been flamed. Big time.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
I think there are some basics that I must learn before even rise an opinion here
Is there any tutorial or something you'd recommend to start with?
I don't know, may be "android rooting for noobs" or "teach yourself android basics in 21 days"
Thanks!
Nico.
As a fellow noob, I thought you'd appreciate a simpler answer. I'd like to learn more but it can be confusing having all these different methods to consider. I've just unlocked the bootloader and rooted the device using the toolkit. You can go ahead with steps c, d, e & f Nico. You don't need to install a custom recovery unless you plan on flashing a custom rom. I'm sticking with the official OTA updates for now so I've stuck with the stock recovery.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
For future reference read all these links
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2070419
Used wugfresh toolkit with not one single problem and its simple...in fact I even rooted my galaxy nexus with the same toolkit.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
FlexiPack said:
As a fellow noob, I thought you'd appreciate a simpler answer. I'd like to learn more but it can be confusing having all these different methods to consider. I've just unlocked the bootloader and rooted the device using the toolkit. You can go ahead with steps c, d, e & f Nico. You don't need to install a custom recovery unless you plan on flashing a custom rom. I'm sticking with the official OTA updates for now so I've stuck with the stock recovery.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, FlexiPack! You really made my day with your reply.
Regarding the back up, I was not able to back up the virtual SD from the back up menu (0 files were backed up) but I did a complete applications backup (including system files and SD card). I don't know what was the difference but at the end, the .bak file was noticeably bigger. Hence I assumed that in fact all SD contents were backed up.
How was your experience with the backup option and after restoring your data? Did you lost something?
Again, thank you!
Nico.
Hello there guys, I too am a utter android noob and this my my first android device. I'm basicly in the same boat as the poster, all I want to do is root. No custom ROM and flashing of any sort. All I want to accomplish is root to enable USB OTG.
I know there are apps that enable reading such as Nexus media importer but I want to be able to read and write data to external storage via USB (Flas drives, external hard drives and cameras and the sort)
What I've discovered the first big step (after installing drivers and the lot - which is all rather simple) is to unlock the bootloader if I'm correct? But in this process the device will format? I honestly dont want to format my device. I'm totally confused and put off by the whole process.
Another question, what is a good backup program to use - of course for unrooted devices.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
smartass145 said:
Hello there guys, I too am a utter android noob and this my my first android device. I'm basicly in the same boat as the poster, all I want to do is root. No custom ROM and flashing of any sort. All I want to accomplish is root to enable USB OTG.
I know there are apps that enable reading such as Nexus media importer but I want to be able to read and write data to external storage via USB (Flas drives, external hard drives and cameras and the sort)
What I've discovered the first big step (after installing drivers and the lot - which is all rather simple) is to unlock the bootloader if I'm correct? But in this process the device will format? I honestly dont want to format my device. I'm totally confused and put off by the whole process.
Another question, what is a good backup program to use - of course for unrooted devices.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Toolkit you can backup the whole thing to your comp
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
VonEsch said:
Toolkit you can backup the whole thing to your comp
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, and formatting to unlock the bootloader?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
This is kind of a rant but applies here: Don't be afraid to unlock, install custom recoveries, and root.
I hear so many people say, "I just want to be stock... but I want all these features". I can't understand why people hold on to this "stock" state so dearly. It's like device virginity (and it is since you "can't" [mentally] really ever go back). There are so many features and updates that are worth enjoying today. At least, a custom recovery is critical for backups.
I understand this stuff isn't for everybody... but if you are reading this, you aren't grouped with everybody.
player911 said:
This is kind of a rant but applies here: Don't be afraid to unlock, install custom recoveries, and root.
I hear so many people say, "I just want to be stock... but I want all these features". I can't understand why people hold on to this "stock" state so dearly. It's like device virginity (and it is since you "can't" [mentally] really ever go back). There are so many features and updates that are worth enjoying today. At least, a custom recovery is critical for backups.
I understand this stuff isn't for everybody... but if you are reading this, you aren't grouped with everybody.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me vanilla android offers me everything I need at the moment. All I want more from it at the moment is USB OTG functionality - which it has its just been locked by Google for this device.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
For all people who call themselves noobs, you really aren't cuz you now know certain things better than the average user.
Trust me, I saw a Customer buying Note 2 today, and when the sales guy told him that it's jelly bean, the retort was "what's that!!!"
And yes, all nexus devices are the easiest lot to root, unroot, unlock and then relock.
Trust me, Google and xda are your best friends.
Just remember one thing, backup before anything, you can always revert then!!!
You guys (noobs as you yourself call) have already jumped, now swim...
One most important thing, search, read, and take the plunge...
All forums have at the least one tutorial stickied!!!
As regards adb, fastboot, google, read, and trust me, you'll not be stuck for more than an hour!!!
Just my 2 cents, actually more!!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
It really is like that. But once you start you can't stop. I started by rooting my original android phone ( there were no toolkits and no problems) and ended up with two nexus devices compiling unofficial nightlies for them. I didn't even boot stock on my 7 before I flashed twrp. There's a whole world of fun if you're willing to get your feet wet. If you can stop with just root you're a stronger person than I.
Related
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?
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.
Ordered my Nexus 4, being shipped, will be here tomorrow night..
Okay, so I am coming from a SGH-T999... S3. With the S3, I root the phone with Odin, flash CWM, and then I can flash custom roms, kernels,mods and modems...
But reading on all of the Nexus 4 procedures.. From my understanding, to flash kernels/custom roms, you DO NOT need to Root, but only unlock the bootloader??
Now if I do not root, but unlock the bootloader, would I be able to use apps such as Titanium Back Up? (My Guess is no since it requires root and SuperSu)
Sorry don't flame me... I'm just trying to get everything clear before my phone comes so I can know what to do right away... TY
Your ticket to unleashing the full potential through custom ROMs and kernels starts with unlocking the bootloader. Best to do that first since it wipes your device.
Custom ROMs typically come rooted.
You do not need root to flash a custom recovery image, only an unlocked bootloader to flash the recovery image through fastboot.
You can also flash a custom kernel (boot.img) through fastboot, but flashing through recovery is the SOP.
If you want a stock rooted ROM, simply flash the recovery image through fastboot and flash the SuperSU package through your custom recovery.
Welcome to the Nexus side of Android!
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda premium
Crisisx1 said:
Ordered my Nexus 4, being shipped, will be here tomorrow night..
Okay, so I am coming from a SGH-T999... S3. With the S3, I root the phone with Odin, flash CWM, and then I can flash custom roms, kernels,mods and modems...
But reading on all of the Nexus 4 procedures.. From my understanding, to flash kernels/custom roms, you DO NOT need to Root, but only unlock the bootloader??
Now if I do not root, but unlock the bootloader, would I be able to use apps such as Titanium Back Up? (My Guess is no since it requires root and SuperSu)
Sorry don't flame me... I'm just trying to get everything clear before my phone comes so I can know what to do right away... TY
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And with the toolkit its all easy as pie. I own an LGOG which is the Nexus brother is the phone it was based on. You ordered top of the line baby the Snapdragon s4 pro in the adreno 320 graphics processing unit are tops, 1 of the fastest phones in America. Have fun. Development has started for my optimus but I would trade in this 550 dollar phone for a 300 dollar Nexus in a second in fact when I have the money I will be ordering 1 and selling my LGOG. I am a flash a holic even know this phone stock is a little faster it's only because of the kernel and Franco has made a awesome kernel for the N4. Have fun
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
lwfb said:
Your ticket to unleashing the full potential through custom ROMs and kernels starts with unlocking the bootloader. Best to do that first since it wipes your device.
Custom ROMs typically come rooted.
You do not need root to flash a custom recovery image, only an unlocked bootloader to flash the recovery image through fastboot.
You can also flash a custom kernel (boot.img) through fastboot, but flashing through recovery is the SOP.
If you want a stock rooted ROM, simply flash the recovery image through fastboot and flash the SuperSU package through your custom recovery.
Welcome to the Nexus side of Android!
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome thanks. So just to clarify.
1. Unlock Bootloader
2. Flash CWM
3.Flash SuperSu
4. Then Flash away...
No need to flash supersu if you're going to flash a rooted ROM.
That's what you would do to unlock and root the stock ROM.
It won't hurt but its a waste. By flashing the su.zip you add files to /system. When you flash a ROM you're going to wipe /system prior to flashing the new ROM. Therefore deleting what you just did and the rest of the ROM.
You got it.
I'd discourage using the toolkit if you're new to the process of unlocking and rooting a nexus though.
It's so easy and rewarding to learn the manual way, plus having that knowledge can get you out of a bind should something ever happen.
Nexus devices are incredibly easy to unlock, it's only one command through ADB: Fastboot OEM unlock
Download TWRP recovery, rename the image to recovery.IMG and put it in your ADB folder. Then: Fastboot flash recovery recovery.IMG
Reboot system.
Download SuperSU from chainfire's website, move the file to your internal storage, then power off.
Press power on and volume down to get into bootloader, volume up to toggle recovery, power to select recovery. When you're in recovery, find that file and flash it. Reboot system. Update your Superuser binary from the SuperSU app.
Download busy box from the play store, install busy box and you're officially good to go!
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda premium
So your suggesting to unlock it this way instead of using the toolkits posted on xda
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REidXYQ9_c8&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
For the first time, definitely.
Learning the manual way on a nexus is invaluable. Google makes it easy for us to unlock and root these devices, the process hasn't changed since the G1 days.
I take the "teach a man to fish" approach versus the "give a man a fish" approach.
If you just take your time, read, and ask questions if you're stuck you'll get the hang of it.
I'm no developer or expert, but I've had multiple android devices since 2009 and every nexus device with the exception of the nexus s. Feel free to ask questions and if I can help I will.
lwfb said:
For the first time, definitely.
Learning the manual way on a nexus is invaluable. Google makes it easy for us to unlock and root these devices, the process hasn't changed since the G1 days.
I take the "teach a man to fish" approach versus the "give a man a fish" approach.
If you just take your time, read, and ask questions if you're stuck you'll get the hang of it.
I'm no developer or expert, but I've had multiple android devices since 2009 and every nexus device with the exception of the nexus s. Feel free to ask questions and if I can help I will.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! Yeah I'll do it the manual way.. I've seen other users say not to use the toolkit either.
Personally I love the toolkit. It has all the goodies in one easy-to-use place. It makes no sense to tell someone new to the process to go the hard way. Since you, OP, have unlocked and flashed a phone before with your S3 it looks to me like it's kind of a moot point. I go for convenience.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2018179
juicyjones said:
Personally I love the toolkit. It has all the goodies in one easy-to-use place. It makes no sense to tell someone new to the process to go the hard way. Since you, OP, have unlocked and flashed a phone before with your S3 it looks to me like it's kind of a moot point. I go for convenience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I rooted my S3, but it's different then the N4.. No bootloader to unlock with the s3, that i am aware of.
Can the tool kit possibly damage something?
Hi guys,
Just installed the 4.2.2 update on my Nexus 7, but I decided I wanted to go further. I have had plenty of android devices in the past, but I was always cautious about rooting them in fear of messing up. Well, after reading up about the benefits of rooting I think it's worth a try. I have read up on the basics of what rooting is and how to do it, but there are so many roms and kernels out there I have no idea where to begin!
So I saw an article on a website I frequent that has a guide on how to root the Nexus 7 with the newest update.
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/4...7-official-android422-jdq39-jellybean-ota.htm
What do you think about using this guide?
Also some side questions:
1.) Is there a way to backup my Nexus 7's unrooted state before I begin, so if I decide to go back to unrooted I can easily do so?
2.) Should I root my Nexus 7 on the 4.2.2 ota, or downloading it here on the forums? ( I assume they are slightly different)
3.) I don't want to ask what is your favorite rom, but what would you say is the most popular one around here? My biggest needs are stability, as well as better battery and performance.
Please excuse me if my questions seem strange or obvious. I've tried reading up more on this subject but quite frankly I don't understand it. I probably will get the hang of it. I was once a beginner to PC building but eventually I made myself a monster rig and overclocked the hell out of it. But since I'm thinking of rooting tonight, I would really appreciate it if someone would be kind enough to help me out! Thanks
Apav said:
What do you think about using this guide?
Also some side questions:
1.) Is there a way to backup my Nexus 7's unrooted state before I begin, so if I decide to go back to unrooted I can easily do so?
2.) Should I root my Nexus 7 on the 4.2.2 ota, or downloading it here on the forums? ( I assume they are slightly different)
3.) I don't want to ask what is your favorite rom, but what would you say is the most popular one around here? My biggest needs are stability, as well as better battery and performance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The guide looks fine from what I skimmed, I would follow the toolkit found here though. It does everything for you basically.
1) Unlock your bootloader, install CWM, then nandroid backup from there. Transfer your backup to your PC.
2) No point in rooting your current rom if you are switching out.
3) I don't know which roms are the most popular but I switch between these two:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1800268
-best customizing options and on the fly phone/phablet/tablet UI changing
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2098139
-stable, smooth and fast. Performance rom here.
Now you should hold off flashing these until the devs have integrated 4.2.2 into them, shouldn't take long...they are both working on them!
coolloser said:
The guide looks fine from what I skimmed, I would follow the toolkit found here though. It does everything for you basically.
1) Unlock your bootloader, install CWM, then nandroid backup from there. Transfer your backup to your PC.
2) No point in rooting your current rom if you are switching out.
3) I don't know which roms are the most popular but I switch between these two:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1800268
-best customizing options and on the fly phone/phablet/tablet UI changing
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2098139
-stable, smooth and fast. Performance rom here.
Now you should hold off flashing these until the devs have integrated 4.2.2 into them, shouldn't take long...they are both working on them!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! So the tutorial I linked is just to unlock the bootloader but not to install a ROM correct? Then why is SuperSU included in this guide?
Apav said:
Thanks! So the tutorial I linked is just to unlock the bootloader but not to install a ROM correct? Then why is SuperSU included in this guide?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because some people just want Root on stock?
rooting =/= rom
Thanks guys! Last question. Should I have restored my Nexus 7 to factory settings before I updated to 4.2.2, or before I root? I know with the 4.2 update a lot of people recommended doing it since it increased performance. That was a bigger update though, so probably not, but I just want to be sure before I root that it would or wouldn't make a difference.
From what I've seen the easiest way to root the Nexus is 'Nexus Root Toolkit' which does the whole job with a couple of clicks of the mouse (you run it from Windows).
(Note: at the time of writing NRT v.1.6.2 doesn't support 4.2.2 so wait a couple of days before trying it and it will be updated.)
1) Do a full backup (MyBackup Pro is excellent for unrooted devices) as the process wipes your Nexus back to factory settings.
2) Connect your Nexus to the PC and copy the backup (the 'rerware' folder) to your PC (I'd copy everything, just to be safe).
3) Install and run Nexus Root Toolkit on the PC, enter the details for 'Your model type' and run the 'Full Driver Installation'.
4) Click 'Unlock', let it do its thing, then click 'Root' and after a while you'll have a fully rooted device.
5) Install MyBackup Pro on the Nexus, copy the 'rerware' folder back to the Nexus and restore it.
It really couldn't be easier and it works a treat.
Once you're rooted you'll find Titanium Backup is a better app as it can backup more stuff but it only works on rooted devices.
Or you could spend the 15 minutes to learn the right way and you would understand the process that takes place with the click of that 'magical button'.....then you wouldnt have to wait for a toolkit to update...
KNOWLEDGE REALLY DOESNT HURT.
Alright guys. I have been doing a lot of reading as of late about rooting my wonderful N4. Its prob the best phone I have ever had.
Reason I am scared is I am a little confused on the whole unlock bootloader and what not.
I had a S2 which was easy to root plug in Odin and away we went. I was hoping this would be much the same. I read the guide you have up and its very helpful. My problem is I am new to it really.
The reason I want to root is I want to try the custom ROM PIE as it looks sexy. So any good tips on the rooting process. How safe is rooting.
Sent From The Future.
Download the toolkit for the mako aka nexus 4.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1995688
Watch the video first, install the drivers, and then follow the instructions in the video/thread. It can't get as easy as the dev who created the toolkit.
Don't a pansy about rooting, be confident; You're not going to break it. Soft-Brick maybe, but one can easily fix that.
ismethajametovic said:
Download the toolkit for the mako aka nexus 4.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1995688
Watch the video first, install the drivers, and then follow the instructions in the video/thread. It can't get as easy as the dev who created the toolkit.
Don't a pansy about rooting, be confident; You're not going to break it. Soft-Brick maybe, but one can easily fix that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you dude. I'll look into it. I shall man up. Have you used pie custom ROM.
Sent From The Future.
Do. Not. Use. Toolkits.
Go through http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2010312. All of it. Learn something that you can always use.
(click on the thanks button instead of saying thanks. People luv that in here. You will too, eventually. )
What the difference between what you posted and tool kits.
Sent From The Future.
JknRich said:
What the difference between what you posted and tool kits.
Sent From The Future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Learn how to use fastboot. Learn how to practically "hack" your phone so you can go back and correct things when they go wrong.
Toolkits are fine until you get stuck. But then you have no clue why & more importantly how to fix it.
Trust me, follow efrant's guide. :thumbup:
(you have to experience the joy of "fastboot oem unlock". That's why you got a nexus device mate!! )
Vangelis13 said:
Learn how to use fastboot. Learn how to practically "hack" your phone so you can go back and correct things when they go wrong.
Toolkits are fine until you get stuck. But then you have no clue why & more importantly how to fix it.
Trust me, follow efrant's guide. :thumbup:
(you have to experience the joy of "fastboot oem unlock". That's why you got a nexus device mate!! )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is fastboot OEM unlock. Sounds like a STD Lol. I have to admit its the best android phone I have had.
So rooting is my next step. Feel like its a massive jump.
Sent From The Future.
JknRich said:
What the difference between what you posted and tool kits.
Sent From The Future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
difference is that you you dont learn anything from using a toolkit. so when it comes down to an easy fix for something, or some easy maintenance, you wont soft brick your device and wont start one of the "i bricked my device" threads. plus root toolkits can come with their own issues. it comes down to root toolkits are fine, if you already know what you are doing. but for someone new they should never be recommended. learning fastboot is easy, itll just take a little extra reading. in reality, using fastboot is faster then a root toolkit too, once you learn. this is all thats needed to do to unlock/root via fastboot.. type fastboot oem unlock, fastboot flash a custom recovery, flash either the su binaries or a custom rom in your new recovery, then reboot and profit.
lol I used toolkit and had no probs.
At least till I tried to reset it but then I learnt how to fastboot. So I'd recommend that you set up toolkit and fastboot. You might use the toolkit, but if you "break" something you can easily fix it with fastboot.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
simms22 said:
difference is that you you dont learn anything from using a toolkit. so when it comes down to an easy fix for something, or some easy maintenance, you wont soft brick your device and wont start one of the "i bricked my device" threads. plus root toolkits can come with their own issues. it comes down to root toolkits are fine, if you already know what you are doing. but for someone new they should never be recommended. learning fastboot is easy, itll just take a little extra reading. in reality, using fastboot is faster then a root toolkit too, once you learn. this is all thats needed to do to unlock/root via fastboot.. type fastboot oem unlock, fastboot flash a custom recovery, flash either the su binaries or a custom rom in your new recovery, then reboot and profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I best get reading.
I have always loved playing about with my phone so a bit more reading won't hurt.
Has rooting your device benefited you.
Sent From The Future.
JknRich said:
Ok I best get reading.
I have always loved playing about with my phone so a bit more reading won't hurt.
Has rooting your device benefited you.
Sent From The Future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it absolutely has, i have full control of my device.
the scariest things about rooting/modifying words used, the terminology. once you pass that stage, everything gets much easier.
I tried the fast boot way but could never get cmd to function. So I gave up because I couldn't find a solution anywhere. You guys just inspired me to try again. Gonna return my phone to stock and start over. Thank you.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
simms22 said:
difference is that you you dont learn anything from using a toolkit. so when it comes down to an easy fix for something, or some easy maintenance, you wont soft brick your device and wont start one of the "i bricked my device" threads. plus root toolkits can come with their own issues. it comes down to root toolkits are fine, if you already know what you are doing. but for someone new they should never be recommended. learning fastboot is easy, itll just take a little extra reading. in reality, using fastboot is faster then a root toolkit too, once you learn. this is all thats needed to do to unlock/root via fastboot.. type fastboot oem unlock, fastboot flash a custom recovery, flash either the su binaries or a custom rom in your new recovery, then reboot and profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Explained by a Meister.
---------- Post added at 12:59 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:57 AM ----------
Jammol said:
I tried the fast boot way but could never get cmd to function. So I gave up because I couldn't find a solution anywhere. You guys just inspired me to try again. Gonna return my phone to stock and start over. Thank you.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure you start in the same folder as your fastboot files. :thumbup:
Follow efrant's guide, it's gold.
i would avoid toolkits as you dont know what commands are being sent to your phone, im not saying they are not safe but you want to know what you are doing.i got stuck at selecting device version and build (step 1 lol) fast boot is easier.
i followed this link
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1993331
just learn about fast boot and cmd commands if you need to.
you gotta root at xda, underclocking and changing the dpi to make full use of the resolution, battery life increased having it maxed at a lower clock, i wouldn't of brought the nexus to stay on stock
i cant wait to travel next month with my phone, i remember my S2 could only last 1 day but this nexus is 3 times more efficient
ismethajametovic said:
Download the toolkit for the mako aka nexus 4.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1995688
Watch the video first, install the drivers, and then follow the instructions in the video/thread. It can't get as easy as the dev who created the toolkit.
Don't a pansy about rooting, be confident; You're not going to break it. Soft-Brick maybe, but one can easily fix that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is such bad advice. How should he expect to be confident when he doesn't know what the toolkit is even doing?
Read up on how to use fastboot and ADB and do it manually, because if you just use the toolkit and something happens, how do you expect to fix it?
JknRich said:
What is fastboot OEM unlock. Sounds like a STD Lol. I have to admit its the best android phone I have had.
So rooting is my next step. Feel like its a massive jump.
Sent From The Future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You see!? You have a Nexus, marvel of technology, and you don't know the mother of all fastboot commands..!!
I hope you are reading that guide I linked you up with already..
joshnichols189 said:
This is such bad advice. How should he expect to be confident when he doesn't know what the toolkit is even doing?
Read up on how to use fastboot and ADB and do it manually, because if you just use the toolkit and something happens, how do you expect to fix it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
QFT
estallings15 said:
QFT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quite Fckng True..?
"fastboot oem unlock" was a gift from google to the moding community. it gave us the choice of unlocking our bootloaders without any potentially dangerous hacking. its a simple three word line that you type into the command window(fastboot) which then prompts us on the device with a simple yes/no question.. do you want to unlock tge bootloader. it started on the nexus one and continues with every nexus that followed. this separates nexus devices from all others.
simms22 said:
"fastboot oem unlock" was a gift from google to the moding community. it gave us the choice of unlocking our bootloaders without any potentially dangerous hacking. its a simple three word line that you type into the command window(fastboot) which then prompts us on the device with a simple yes/no question.. do you want to unlock tge bootloader. it started on the nexus one and continues with every nexus that followed. this separates nexus devices from all others.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're taking away the magic. He was meant to be awed when he came to that point in efrant's guide. Ts ts, Dr Dr.. :banghead: