Downgrade from LP to KK and back, root needed, warranty kept - Galaxy S 5 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hello all.
I know some (maybe all) questions of mine have been answered somewhere, but I just couldn't find them in a concise list, so to say...so please be gentle if I am asking something that's already been answered somewhere.
Here goes:
I bought a second hand Samsung S5, G900F, with SEE firmware G900FXXU1BOH5, still one year in warranty (it was bought from Telenor Serbia, but I can see it is actually with SEE firmware, no operator bloatware, logos etc and sha256sums are equal for SEE and MSR LP firmwares, both taken from Sammobile).
Since it is a rather fresh LP build, as we all know there is no way to root it and keep warranty (knox will trip), unless you go way back to KK with ANE2 firmware (or earlier).
Now, there are 2 versions of instructions for doing that:
- just flash SEE firmware build ANE2, reboot, wipe, install towelroot
- flash SEE firmware build ANE2, use PIT file, reboot, wipe, install towelroot
First confusion is here: do I need to use PIT file? Did partition layout change and will official KK firmware do it on it's own or not?
If PIT file is required, at what moment I should use it? First PIT, then firmware or the other way around?
Also, are bootloader, kernel and CP files required for anything (I do have full official KK image for SEE, so I guess I don't need these files separately, but...)?
Do I need to flash bootloader at some point because KK has different bootloader than LP, or the full firmware will take care of that too?
Next set of questions regards going back to LP, which does not seem to be answered precisely:
if I downgrade to KK (using one of the procedures mentioned), and successfully install root and SuperSU, how do I upgrade back to LP?
- do I install latest LP firmware for SEE through Odin?
- or, do I activate OTA upgrade and let the phone upgrade/update itself back from KK to LP?
I am pretty sure that the first method will again destroy root access, but is the second method even viable now? Will OTA work or I'd need to go through KIES?
Finally, since I'm dealing with stock firmwares all along, knox should stay at 0x0, but what about status? Will it change at some point from official to custom (shouldn't, but than again...)?
If it is not possible to do what I need, the solution seems to be to go to custom LP rom that has been rooted already, and has knox deactivated etc etc. - is it really the only way?
If so, can you propose which ones will not change the status of the phone (knox, official/custom)? How about Galaxy project, that one seems pretty stock-ish to me...
Sorry again if asking wrong/already answered questions and thank you.
Cheers, Andrea

I'm not sure how/if the partition layout changes between KK and LP, so I can't say for certain that a pit file *is* needed.....
My advice would be to try to roll back to KK without using one.......
If the roll back doesn't work, then try with the pit file.......
Plan A......Odin flash KK firmware then recovery wipe, reboot and towelroot.....In that order.
Plan B......Odin flash pit, odin flash KK firmware then recovery wipe, reboot and towelroot.....again in that order.
The bootloader, kernel etc files are all contained in the firmware that you will have downloaded from Samsung-updates.com or sammobile.com so no need to source and flash them separately.
As for upgrading again and keeping root....
Odin won't do that with a regular firmware, OTA will probably fail and Kies....well, I've always tried to avoid using it.
Realistically, the only options you have for upgrading and keeping root, are one of two apps from Chainfire.......
Either Mobile Odin or Flashfire......Both of which inject root while flashing firmwares......as Flashfire is the 'successor' to Mobile Odin, the chances are that it'll have a better chance of success than the older Mobile Odin.
One last thing......The pit file......
If you *do* find that you need one, make sure you get the CORRECT one......
It's not going to do your device ANY good if you try to flash a 32gb pit onto a 16gb device.....There may be other differences with the available pit files too, so research them before flashing one......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

keithross39 said:
I'm not sure how/if the partition layout changes between KK and LP, so I can't say for certain that a pit file *is* needed.....
My advice would be to try to roll back to KK without using one.......
If the roll back doesn't work, then try with the pit file.......
Plan A......Odin flash KK firmware then recovery wipe, reboot and towelroot.....In that order.
Plan B......Odin flash pit, odin flash KK firmware then recovery wipe, reboot and towelroot.....again in that order.
The bootloader, kernel etc files are all contained in the firmware that you will have downloaded from Samsung-updates.com or sammobile.com so no need to source and flash them separately.
As for upgrading again and keeping root....
Odin won't do that with a regular firmware, OTA will probably fail and Kies....well, I've always tried to avoid using it.
Realistically, the only options you have for upgrading and keeping root, are one of two apps from Chainfire.......
Either Mobile Odin or Flashfire......Both of which inject root while flashing firmwares......as Flashfire is the 'successor' to Mobile Odin, the chances are that it'll have a better chance of success than the older Mobile Odin.
One last thing......The pit file......
If you *do* find that you need one, make sure you get the CORRECT one......
It's not going to do your device ANY good if you try to flash a 32gb pit onto a 16gb device.....There may be other differences with the available pit files too, so research them before flashing one......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, your plans A and B for downgrade are more or less like I thought they should be...
But, on the subject of returning to LP after the rooting of KK with towelroot...regular firmware with Odin will erase everything and ofcourse kill su, like I said in my original post - but, why do you think OTA won't work?
If the downgrade does not change knox (stays 0x0) and status (stays Official) why would OTA upgrade fail? It changes some components, removes some and adds some new, why would it touch /xbin/su if OTA process does not know about its existance in the first place?
Kies should do the same like OTA (at least so they say) but I don't like it also, so I'd use it as a final resort.
Then we have Flashfire - I'm not quite clear how that works...would I be able to install latest LP over downgraded KK, and at the same time install supersu (from where?) during the installation of the original LP firmware? Because that's what I'm understanding from your post, that the process goes like that...
If not, what kind of firmware does Flashfire use? Custom ROM with su, disabled knox etc, simply allowing you to install it from the phone, or original firmware as well? What would be the procedure with it and would it change knox (shouldn't) or status from Official to Custom if I use it with original LP firmware to return from rooted KK to LP?
At last, the pit file - I could obtain only one for 16GB version that is not specifically marked as for some region or country, and I don't know if there is a pit file for 16GB SEE (South East Europe) G900F to be found. I tried searching but the best I could find was for BTU, which is for UK but seems to be usable for all of North Europe, everything else was much more specific.
Does somebody have/know where to find pit file that would be suitable for my device?
Again, thanks

I need to quantify anything i write by saying that the info i share, is (for me at least) untested.....i've done the research and reading so that i am familiar with the processes if i decide to put them to practical use in the future....right now, I'm happy to stay with my rooted, debloated, modified, stock KitKat setup......
That being said.......
You need to find a way to retain root through the *whole* downgrade/upgrade process......many people are finding it damn near impossible to root the latest LP firmwares.....so keeping root would be an advantage.......
I used towelroot on my phone, and it set the system status on my phone to custom, which is enough to potentially cause issues with OTA (I can't say for certain as I rooted my phone on 4.4.2 and disabled the OTA function so I don't have first hand experience with this).
Flashfire will flash regular firmwares as I said in my previous reply......part of this process is to install superSU, so you don't have to worry about that......
Here's the Chainfire Flashfire thread...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=59959596
The pit file........
If your device is the F variant with a 16gb user storage partition, then the BTU 16gb pit you mentioned should be ok.....
As I'm sure you know, the pit file doesn't install any part of the firmware or OS, all it does is to set the 'memory blocks' to their default sizes/quantities/ratios ready for an OS flash......so if your device is 16gb then a 16gb pit should work.....
If you are still unsure about it, there is a way to extract a pit file from your existing setup using commands in terminal emulator.....I read about it here on XDA so a quick search should lead you to the thread......
Edit......here's the link.....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=52329647
the title of the thread mentions efs and other stuff (no mention of pit) but the second or third post down explains how to backup your pit.......
Edit 2.....forget about that method.....
You need root access to do it.....and you won't have root access until after the point when you will (potentially) need the pit......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

keithross39 said:
I need to quantify anything i write by saying that the info i share, is (for me at least) untested.....i've done the research and reading so that i am familiar with the processes if i decide to put them to practical use in the future....right now, I'm happy to stay with my rooted, debloated, modified, stock KitKat setup......
That being said.......
You need to find a way to retain root through the *whole* downgrade/upgrade process......many people are finding it damn near impossible to root the latest LP firmwares.....so keeping root would be an advantage.......
I used towelroot on my phone, and it set the system status on my phone to custom, which is enough to potentially cause issues with OTA (I can't say for certain as I rooted my phone on 4.4.2 and disabled the OTA function so I don't have first hand experience with this).
Flashfire will flash regular firmwares as I said in my previous reply......part of this process is to install superSU, so you don't have to worry about that......
Here's the Chainfire Flashfire thread...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=59959596
The pit file........
If your device is the F variant with a 16gb user storage partition, then the BTU 16gb pit you mentioned should be ok.....
As I'm sure you know, the pit file doesn't install any part of the firmware or OS, all it does is to set the 'memory blocks' to their default sizes/quantities/ratios ready for an OS flash......so if your device is 16gb then a 16gb pit should work.....
If you are still unsure about it, there is a way to extract a pit file from your existing setup using commands in terminal emulator.....I read about it here on XDA so a quick search should lead you to the thread......
Edit......here's the link.....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=52329647
the title of the thread mentions efs and other stuff (no mention of pit) but the second or third post down explains how to backup your pit.......
Edit 2.....forget about that method.....
You need root access to do it.....and you won't have root access until after the point when you will (potentially) need the pit......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, Flashfire part now confuses me...if I use that (already downloaded) only with LP firmware tarball, do I need to go back to KK to obtain root with towelroot or not?
I mean, if Flashfire will install SuperSU (which I already have installed, but not working obviously) during the flashing of full firmware tarball, why would I need to root before using Flashfire? Or it won't even work if you don't already have root...? Flashfire thread does not give specific requirements, although it makes sense that you need to have root before being able to use Flashfire...
Secondly, I thought that using towelroot will not change the status of the device in any way - no custom status, no knox=0x1? Now, you say that it did change your status to custom...do you think that if that happened to me, flashing original LP firmware tarball through Flashfire would return status to official?
Ah, so many questing that link to each other...and just when you think you've got one answer, it generates another question...

You are correct, you can't use Flashfire unless you already have root.
And Flashfire will only return the device status to official if you don't get it to root the firmware as it flashes it.....
Basically, any modifications made to the original firmware have the potential to set the status to custom.......and in some cases, trip knox.....
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

keithross39 said:
You are correct, you can't use Flashfire unless you already have root.
And Flashfire will only return the device status to official if you don't get it to root the firmware as it flashes it.....
Basically, any modifications made to the original firmware have the potential to set the status to custom.......and in some cases, trip knox.....
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm, I've seen couple of solutions to that official/custom problem, although for Note3...basically, it's cache/dalvik clean, and deinstalling and reinstalling some app that uses root therefore triggering something that changes status to custom.
Which app that would be - it's a guessing game. Sometimes it's Titanium backup, might be Root explorer, Battery Monitor Widget...usually, reinstalling it fixes the problem.
But, now there is a second problem here - it seems that you need to have customized LP firmware to keep root using Flashfire...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s5/general/how-to-root-triggering-knox-2nd-method-t2843044
and
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s5/development/rom-ane4-kitkat-4-4-2-multi-csc-t2813628
Do you think this is true and stock LP rom can't be flashed with Flashfire, getting rooted along the way?

There is an xposed module which will trick the phone into displaying 'official' rather than 'custom' though how deep into the OS this mod goes, I don't know.....
It *may* be enough to restore OTA functionality, but OTA isn't your 'best solution' anyway.......
It was always (and still is) my understanding, that Flashfire was/is able to flash regular 5.0 firmwares and 'inject' them with root......
But as I said, having not actually used it, I'm the first to admit, I'm probably not the best (most informed) person to answer your questions......My advice would be to visit the Flashfire thread and ask there.....You'll get answers from people who have actually used it
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

I guess you've got your answer then.....
1) Download the lollipop firmware and extract the bootloader and modem....
2) Rollback the device (with or without pit depending on what works) to KitKat.
3) Do the necessary wipes.
4) Reboot and towelroot.
5) Install Flashfire and use to flash and root Lollipop firmware.
6) Do not attempt to boot phone normally as the flash won't be complete.
Instead, 7) boot to download mode and Odin flash the previously extracted bootloader and modem....
8) (Might be necessary at this point to perform recovery wipes of cache and data)
9) Finally, reboot as normal.
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

keithross39 said:
I guess you've got your answer then.....
1) Download the lollipop firmware and extract the bootloader and modem....
2) Rollback the device (with or without pit depending on what works) to KitKat.
3) Do the necessary wipes.
4) Reboot and towelroot.
5) Install Flashfire and use to flash and root Lollipop firmware.
6) Do not attempt to boot phone normally as the flash won't be complete.
Instead, 7) boot to download mode and Odin flash the previously extracted bootloader and modem....
8) (Might be necessary at this point to perform recovery wipes of cache and data)
9) Finally, reboot as normal.
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I've seen your other post in Flashfire section and already replied to the one you refer to, but just to be sure, let's ask here too:
how to extract BL and modem from original LP tar.md5 file, because that's all I have?
Cheers.

This thread explains how to do it.....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2864264
It's been written with the S3 in mind but I should think the procedure is exactly the same for the S5.
The thread mentions winRAR or similar as the extraction tool and goes on to say that it's 'paid' software.......as a free alternative, I've always used 7 zip and have never had any problems with it......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

Winrar has a 30 day trial, and still works fine once that has expired, but gives a nag screen popup when you use it
I use both Winrar & 7zip

Yep, just seen it, reading now...actually, it was also mentioned in a reply to my post in Flashfire thread, so I have to try what's written in this howto and see how it goes...

Related

VZW Update Failed / How to Update Super SU when I have safestrap

Hey guys, basically trying to follow this guide, since I need to wipe - clean and load the new VZW update. Reason being:
3 problems: KNOX Detected in SUPERSU, Can't update, random crashes
SUPERSU has an error Samsung KNOX has been detected. This might limit root capabilities and cause annoying popups. Try to disable KNOX?
edit:I went and downloaded v1.8 and still get the knox error above.
I then went to update and it said "The update was unsuccessful" does this due to me having safe strap installed?
Help info:
My Baseband Version is: N900VVRUBMJ7
Android Version: 4.3
Kernel Version: 3.4.0 [email protected] #1 wed oct 16 18:45:50 KST 2013
Hardware Version N900V.07
On the step by step guide here is what I understand:
1. Download Odin v3.09
2. Question Which download below should I download for my phone????
Official VRUBMJE 4.3- http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23252070760975512(Retail locked N3 only)
Official VRUBMJ7 4.3- http://d-h.st/IEW(Retail Locked N3 ONLY)
Official VRUBMI9 4.3- https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B26p...LWs/edit?pli=1(Retail Locked N3 ONLY)
VZW_32gb.pit- http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23159073880936457
3. Before I install, I went to Titanium Backup and I ran a backup of my apps and SMS data, is there anything else that I should backup?
4. Is it better to wipe my phone first? Right now I experience A LOT of Lag when I open my contacts (10,000) and try to type messages in my sms folder.
Edit:Basically, should I wipe the phone, is there a way to roll it back pre-root so its as if I am intalling root on a fresh device? I have more lag on this phone now than I had when I first had De La Vega (i.e typing lag, sms lag, contact lag)
really appreciate the help!
Best thing is to use Odin. There are many many threads all over on how to use it, so I won't repeat how to. But once you have odin installed, use it to flash an official firmware. Then check for updates in settings on the phone, once booted back up. Make sure it says it is up to date (mje). If not, allow it to update. Then use kingo (check Google) to root. Then install safestrap. If you followed all that, you should be good. If SuperSU gives that Knox message, allow it to disable knox.
My personal opinion, once you've rooted successfully, install a custom rom with safestrap. That way you won't have any knox messages.
♢NoteIII♢
LeftyGR said:
Best thing is to use Odin. There are many many threads all over on how to use it, so I won't repeat how to. But once you have odin installed, use it to flash an official firmware. Then check for updates in settings on the phone, once booted back up. Make sure it says it is up to date (mje). If not, allow it to update. Then use kingo (check Google) to root. Then install safestrap. If you followed all that, you should be good. If SuperSU gives that Knox message, allow it to disable knox.
My personal opinion, once you've rooted successfully, install a custom rom with safestrap. That way you won't have any knox messages.
♢NoteIII♢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I need to do this today, really appreciate the help.
I looked around for the threads, it seems there are a lot of threads discussing how people brick their phones after moving to Odin.
Anyway you or someone else could be a good friend and send me a quick how to? I first did:
1. Rooted with De La Vega,
2. OTA updated last month
3. Kingo Root fix
4. Safestrap to put in SuperSU and get rid of Kingo.
I take it with Odin the process is:
1. Kies / Odin??? Not sure
2. OTA update 1
3. OTA update 2
4. Kingo Root
5. Safe Strap 3.65
6. Look up how to remove Kingo
7. Super SU
Actually the best thing to do is to download the latest .tar file. It's on a thread in the dev section. I'm not sure if it has the matching .pit file with it. But if not, grab that as well. That way there is no worries about being on the current rev.
Then root with kingo, install safestrap, and update SuperSU.
Then you should be golden.
♢NoteIII♢
LeftyGR said:
Actually the best thing to do is to download the latest .tar file. It's on a thread in the dev section. I'm not sure if it has the matching .pit file with it. But if not, grab that as well. That way there is no worries about being on the current rev.
Then root with kingo, install safestrap, and update SuperSU.
Then you should be golden.
♢NoteIII♢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went to the odin step by step thread and they had these from November. I take it I should take the MJ7 file?
N900VVRUBMJ7_N900VVZWMJ7_N900VVRUBMJ7_HOME.tar
From the odin thread.
Official VRUBMJE 4.3- http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23252070760975512(Retail locked N3 only)
Official VRUBMJ7 4.3- http://d-h.st/IEW(Retail Locked N3 ONLY)
Official VRUBMI9 4.3- https://d
Get mje from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2524572
Up to you how comfy you are with this... but what I did was boot to recovery, deleted all slots, wiped system, data, and cache from stock slot. Then while still in recovery, booted to download mode and and used odin to install the current build.
Booted up as a stock rom with no issues for me, used kingo to root, and installed ss. But like I said, only do this if you feel like you are comfortable doing so. Because you are effectively booting out of recovery to download with no way back but odin.
♢NoteIII♢
---------- Post added at 02:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:45 PM ----------
And you can actually skip the pit file, because the one that we have is from the original build. Just make sure that when you use Odin the repartition check box does not have a check in it.
♢NoteIII♢
LeftyGR said:
Get mje from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2524572
Up to you how comfy you are with this... but what I did was boot to recovery, deleted all slots, wiped system, data, and cache from stock slot. Then while still in recovery, booted to download mode and and used odin to install the current build.
Booted up as a stock rom with no issues for me, used kingo to root, and installed ss. But like I said, only do this if you feel like you are comfortable doing so. Because you are effectively booting out of recovery to download with no way back but odin.
♢NoteIII♢
---------- Post added at 02:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:45 PM ----------
And you can actually skip the pit file, because the one that we have is from the original build. Just make sure that when you use Odin the repartition check box does not have a check in it.
♢NoteIII♢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! Whats the difference between MJ7 MJE and all of those? Since I know my phone currently says N900VVRUBMJ7 would I still use MJE?
dpoverlord said:
Thanks! Whats the difference between MJ7 MJE and all of those? Since I know my phone currently says N900VVRUBMJ7 would I still use MJE?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know there is a list somewhere of the changes, but it's pretty short except for bug fixes. There is also an update kernel.
♢NoteIII♢
LeftyGR said:
I know there is a list somewhere of the changes, but it's pretty short except for bug fixes. There is also an update kernel.
♢NoteIII♢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
K Thanks, the only reason I was asking was since the MJ7 download was 2.2GB(N900VVRUBMJ7_N900VVZWMJ7_N900VVRUBMJ7_HOME.tar)
and
MJE was 1.4GB was a big difference in size so I dont want to install and mess it up
So I will install this one which is almost 1.4GB
ALL_N900VVRUBMJE_N900VVZWMJE_2106277_REV03_user_low_ship_MULTI_CERT.tar.md5
Thats correct right?
Would love your input.
Knox is Samsung's new fancy security software. Don't know much about it except it can get a bit wonky.
If all you use is the original ROM with root and safestrap, you got knox, bloatware, and Verizon crap. If you know how to get it "all" out, then that's fine. But a custom ROM will have all that weeded out with other tweaks and mods. This is usually the best way to go. Custom ROM's are in the development thread.
As far as you're phone running slow, I got a few things for you. First reboot to recovery and under wipe/advanced wipe, wipe dalvik cache and cache then reboot. If that doesn't help, you may need factory reset. You will not loose root by doing that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks,
Any specific Roms you recommend? Is the process that much different for the install? I hate the verizon crap, Just need to figure the right way to run everything.
LeftyGR said:
Get mje from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2524572
Up to you how comfy you are with this... but what I did was boot to recovery, deleted all slots, wiped system, data, and cache from stock slot. Then while still in recovery, booted to download mode and and used odin to install the current build.
Booted up as a stock rom with no issues for me, used kingo to root, and installed ss. But like I said, only do this if you feel like you are comfortable doing so. Because you are effectively booting out of recovery to download with no way back but odin.
♢NoteIII♢
---------- Post added at 02:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:45 PM ----------
And you can actually skip the pit file, because the one that we have is from the original build. Just make sure that when you use Odin the repartition check box does not have a check in it.
♢NoteIII♢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason the Re-Partition checkmark was checked. Am I screwed now? Or should I do something else before anything else?
dpoverlord said:
For some reason the Re-Partition checkmark was checked. Am I screwed now? Or should I do something else before anything else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent pm. But if your phone booted back up, you're fine. If you didn't use a .pit file I may be mistaken on that.
♢NoteIII♢
Awesome, I actually used the .pit file.... Now I am trying to get Kingo to Root... 3 tries so far no luck..
Edit: it worked it installed kingo going to go into Safestrap. need to look up now how to disable Kingo I forgot how.

T320XAR1ANK1 Extracted Stock Firmware

I usually do this for the Note 3 I have, and it comes in really useful for devs, those running other roms, etc, that just want to upgrade the modem/wifi, bootloader, and CSC without messing with everything else. It's also handy to replace the stock kernel if you need it for whatever reason (towelroot anyone? ). Since I recently picked up a Tab Pro 8.4 from swappa, I did this for mine to do the upgrade, and thought I'd be nice and go ahead and share the extracted parts for everyone else to enjoy.
Here's the MODEM+NON-HLOS (both together and as separate files), Bootloader, Kernel, CSC, and Recovery I extracted from the new T320 1NK1 Firmware. In desktop Odin 3.09, Kernel and recovery would go in AP. Modem + NON-HLOS goes in CP, Bootloader in BL. If you flash the bootloader separately, make sure to tick the box that says bootloader update.
Bootloader:
CSC: http://www.mediafire.com/download/dje1u61d8pk8dou
Kernel: http://www.mediafire.com/download/bi2jsdcub9c9k82
Modem + NON-HLOS (Combined): http://www.mediafire.com/download/3x5bela3la8mllh
modem.bin: http://www.mediafire.com/download/oatak8vgg5vdlu5
NON-HLOS.bin: http://www.mediafire.com/download/xuaar11efato1j7
Recovery: http://www.mediafire.com/download/206e1b2g1uact6s
Full Stock Image T320UEU1ANK1-T320XAR1ANK1: http://www.mediafire.com/download/ul9d01zlrq3dl72/T320UEU1ANK1_T320XAR1ANK1_HOME.tar.md5
If you have trouble getting the bootloader and/or Modem to stick, install "Triangle Away" by @Chainfire and follow the directions to reset your counter (even if it says zero), then boot into download mode, and re-flash them with Odin and they should stick (WARNING: Triangle Away WILL TRIP KNOX).
NOTE: It has also been noted by several people that booting directly into download mode from a powered-off device and flashing the BL/Modems will make them stick as well.
To verify, you can download "Phone Info - Samsung" and make sure that all applicable items say either T320UEU1ANK1 or T320XAR1ANK1 (Bootloader,, PDA and CSC). NOTE: Not all functions of this app work for our tablets, but most do.
Triangle Away by @Chainfire: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.chainfire.triangleaway
Phone INFO ★Samsung★ by @vndnguyen: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.vndnguyen.phoneinfo
Mobile Odin Pro: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.chainfire.mobileodin.pro
Enjoy, and as always, slap that Thanks button!
I'm planning on rooting and going back to an old Kernal. After rooting, I am going back to the NK1 kernal but I'm on T320UEU1ANK1. Can I go back to NK1 kernal using the T320XAR1ANK1 kernal you your post or do I have to find the T320UEU1ANK1? I know you have the full T320UEU1ANK1 image but I just to ODIN T320UEU1ANK1 kernal.
Thanks in advance.
Deca4 said:
I'm planning on rooting and going back to an old Kernal. After rooting, I am going back to the NK1 kernal but I'm on T320UEU1ANK1. Can I go back to NK1 kernal using the T320XAR1ANK1 kernal you your post or do I have to find the T320UEU1ANK1? I know you have the full T320UEU1ANK1 image but I just to ODIN T320UEU1ANK1 kernal.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use the kernel in my post.
Sent from my leanKernel 3.16 powered stock 4.4.2 SM-N900T
Thank you!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Free mobile app
Just a question but I believe it does not affect root, if I were to install the modem/firmware I would not lose root correct? Also, if you were to flash the whole package, does towel root or manual root (think I used Hashcode script vs towel root) does the new firmware allow root access? I don't believe these devices are as locked down as a carrier device, but just wondering! When people refer to firmware and modem, what part is the firmware on this actually? I see the modem, but is firmware part of the NON-HLOS or what ?Thanks!
Edit: Seeing another thread, seems CF Auto-Root will still work, answering my above questions, thanks and sorry for not fully researching first!
bigmike35 said:
Just a question but I believe it does not affect root, if I were to install the modem/firmware I would not lose root correct? Also, if you were to flash the whole package, does towel root or manual root (think I used Hashcode script vs towel root) does the new firmware allow root access? I don't believe these devices are as locked down as a carrier device, but just wondering! When people refer to firmware and modem, what part is the firmware on this actually? I see the modem, but is firmware part of the NON-HLOS or what ?Thanks!
Edit: Seeing another thread, seems CF Auto-Root will still work, answering my above questions, thanks and sorry for not fully researching first!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Tab Pro 8.4 (Wifi) shipped with the latest firmware already installed. I didn't want to use CF Auto-Root because it trips the Knox flag, so I flashed this kernel (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2786800) and then was able to use TowelRoot, which doesn't trip Knox.
Nice job. I upgraded using the full image, downgraded the kernel, rooted my T320, restored your kernel. Very simple and all worked great. Thanks for this.
@toastido Could you give me a link to Kernel BNI1 (Portuguese version) plz?
Thanks in advance.

How to flash prerooted ROM to new android 5 device without root and keep knox 0x0?

Hi all,
I want to install ROM by _alexndr on a new G900F. I want to keep KNOX 0x0, so I need root to flash this ROM using flashfire.
However, the device came with android 5 when I bought it, so towelroot does not work. If I understood correctly, I have to flash stock 4.4.2 firmware (where do I get it? which tool to use for flashing? Just flash, or other things to take care of?), then I can use towelroot and flash ROM by _alexndr with flashfire. Did I miss anything important?
Get the ROM and ODIN the flashing tool from sammobile .com firmware section
Instructions under the download (Free account might be needed to download the ROM)
Can I just flash the old 4.4.2 firmware over the current 5.0 firmware, or do I have to consider something else?
I've flashed KK over LP before, and first boot didn't boot, flashed it again the same way, and it booted fine
Might need to factory reset before/after flashing if you have problems

Root process for SM-A300FU

I just got an A300FU, and would like to know a few details about how to root it, basically: do I have to root it first, and then update it to Lollipop?
I take it, while on 4.4.4, CF Auto-Root should work just fine, but what after that? Can I use Samsung's software update app to download Lollipop? If not, does it have to be flashed with Odin?
There are numerous ways. If you are rooted, and lose know fuse warranty, then you might as well do a proper job.
The way i prefer to root is through a Customer Recovery. Flashing preferably TWRP, will allow you to flash the latest SuperSU package, or it will ask you to root with any older version from it's ability to detect root access.
I am not aware nor informed of any root method keeping knox 0x0 as i never bothered with it.
PlutoDelic said:
There are numerous ways. If you are rooted, and lose know fuse warranty, then you might as well do a proper job.
The way i prefer to root is through a Customer Recovery. Flashing preferably TWRP, will allow you to flash the latest SuperSU package, or it will ask you to root with any older version from it's ability to detect root access.
I am not aware nor informed of any root method keeping knox 0x0 as i never bothered with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I know that, but what I'm asking is, whether to root first, while I'm on KitKat, and then update to Lollipop (and if that's possible after rooting), or root it after updating to Lollipop.
King-V said:
Yeah, I know that, but what I'm asking is, whether to root first, while I'm on KitKat, and then update to Lollipop (and if that's possible after rooting), or root it after updating to Lollipop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suppose you dont give a damn about Knox? Good.
You should flash Lollipop first, as it features a newer Modem and Bootloader, unfortunately we dont know the changes, but they can add to things like better battery life, better signal.
so, download any latest Stock ROM, if you are branded (Carrier) then choose a branded rom as it has a hidden partition which doesnt match with the Unbranded ones. You can tell if it's branded as sites that keep firmware information put the Carrier on brackets, look here i.e for A300FU, just hover over the Region value.
The latest Unbranded firmware is A300FUXXU1BOL3 CYV (Cyprus), there are loads of Branded OL3 as well.
After you do all this, flash TWRP, flash SuperSU. and your set.
PlutoDelic said:
I suppose you dont give a damn about Knox? Good.
You should flash Lollipop first, as it features a newer Modem and Bootloader, unfortunately we dont know the changes, but they can add to things like better battery life, better signal.
so, download any latest Stock ROM, if you are branded (Carrier) then choose a branded rom as it has a hidden partition which doesnt match with the Unbranded ones. You can tell if it's branded as sites that keep firmware information put the Carrier on brackets, look here i.e for A300FU, just hover over the Region value.
The latest Unbranded firmware is A300FUXXU1BOL3 CYV (Cyprus), there are loads of Branded OL3 as well.
After you do all this, flash TWRP, flash SuperSU. and your set.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, Knox doesn't really matter all that much.
So, I have my A3, currently on 4.4.4. I go download the firmware you linked, flash it using Odin, and then flash TWRP, through Odin as well.
I don't know. I feel like there's something I'm missing... don't I have to flash CF Auto-root before SuperSU?
Also, sorry for bothering, but are there any other place to download the firmwares? The one in the link originally said it would take ~5 hours, but then failed twice already.
King-V said:
Nah, Knox doesn't really matter all that much.
So, I have my A3, currently on 4.4.4. I go download the firmware you linked, flash it using Odin, and then flash TWRP, through Odin as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, the Stock ROM will update the overall stuff, the TWRP will replace the Recovery. The TWRP is actually optional, it's up to you if you want a custom recovery, personally it makes things easier.
King-V said:
I don't know. I feel like there's something I'm missing... don't I have to flash CF Auto-root before SuperSU?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CF Auto-Root, it's the only (easy) way to have root without touching the Recovery. If you have TWRP, no need to go for CF Auto-Root, instead you just flash the SuperSU.
Just so you know, CF Auto-Root and SuperSU are made by the same person, and CF Auto-Root includes SuperSU, thats why you dont need it if you have a custom recovery.
King-V said:
Also, sorry for bothering, but are there any other place to download the firmwares? The one in the link originally said it would take ~5 hours, but then failed twice already.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can use sammobile, it offers a bit extra speed if you register.
Kingroot works on lolipop (5.02) without triggering knox. I successfully rooted my phone (simple: I downloaded apk, install, root).
Personally, i'd trust rooting only what contains SuperSU.
Kingo has its own manager and desktop software which make it very uncomfortable to use.
Fairly though, it's the only non-knox flipping root method
PlutoDelic said:
There are numerous ways. If you are rooted, and lose know fuse warranty, then you might as well do a proper job.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know thread is old, but I am trying to find a walkthrough to help a buddy with his A300FU...
Where do I find an updated guide to root, TWRP and find a basic slim rom?
phaleg said:
I know thread is old, but I am trying to find a walkthrough to help a buddy with his A300FU...
Where do I find an updated guide to root, TWRP and find a basic slim rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The roms are on the Original Dev and Developer boards. That's exactly where you'll find TWRP too (just search A300FU and A3FU on these boards and you'll have a view of your options).
And flash SuperSU in twrp for root.
PlutoDelic said:
The roms are on the Original Dev and Developer boards. That's exactly where you'll find TWRP too (just search A300FU and A3FU on these boards and you'll have a view of your options).
And flash SuperSU in twrp for root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
Would you link me these please?
I find only an older version of these recovery 2.8.x
phaleg said:
Hi!
Would you link me these please?
I find only an older version of these recovery 2.8.x
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/sa...overy-samsung-galaxy-a72015-sm-a700f-t3362283
PlutoDelic said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/sa...overy-samsung-galaxy-a72015-sm-a700f-t3362283
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!
So I understand I have to flash that *.tar recovery file using Odin, after rooting, correct?
Would you use Odin to root or Kingo PC version?
phaleg said:
Thanks!
So I understand I have to flash that *.tar recovery file using Odin, after rooting, correct?
Would you use Odin to root or Kingo PC version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont like/trust any other rooting method except SuperSU.
1. Flash TWRP.tar with odin, make sure you untick auto-reboot on odin, as it will reflash the stock recovery.
2. Flash SuperSU.zip in TWRP.
DONE.
PlutoDelic said:
I dont like/trust any other rooting method except SuperSU.
1. Flash TWRP.tar with odin, make sure you untick auto-reboot on odin, as it will reflash the stock recovery.
2. Flash SuperSU.zip in TWRP.
DONE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I reboot to system after that?
How can I reboot to recovery with buttons?
When should I flash a basic ROM and gapps?
Which one would you suggest, considering that she does not expect additional weird functions but just a rom (at least 5.1) without bloatware and other heavy stuff to load
ROM and gapps are up to you, there are a few of AOSP options you can choose.
To flash TWRP through odin, use vol down + home + power
To boot to recovery (twrp), vol up + home + power.

What ROMs can I install using SafeStrap on a locked Verizon bootloader?

I have a Galaxy S5 (Verizon) SM-G900V that's running stock rooted Lollipop. Safestrap is on here, but yes, the bootloader is locked. Other than going to Marshmallow (and losing root), are there any custom ROMs (I'm looking for speed and stability) that this phone can take? Or am I stuck with stock, which means I'm stuck with Lollipop if I want to stay rooted?
My choice is this one without root for CID11 or full-featured systemless devbase for CID15.
Thank you. I assume I use safestrap to install on my rooted stock CID 11, but on this new one without root won't be able to restore apps from Titanium. Are there any other alternatives an 11 can use and keep root, and if I try one can but change my mind can I restore a backup in safestrap to get back to rooted stock?
bbsc said:
My choice is this one without root for CID11 or full-featured systemless devbase for CID15.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
androidman807 said:
1) is that right that it's possible to safestrap a different ROM with my locked bootloader?
2) If yes, how can I tell which ROMs are stock I can use in safestrap (like Phoenixrom) and which are custom I can't use (like LineageOS)?
3) if I have a SS backup of my stock lollipop and don't like phoenix (which seems to be MM) can I restore from safestrap back to my stock LL? Or could I just re-install the stock LL image?
4) can I/should I update the modem in this process, or does the locked bootloader prevent that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'd better use a single thread for similar questions. There's a nice SM-G900V section too.
1. Yes.
2. You're limited to a stock signed Verizon-Samsung kernel, not to a stock ROM. You can (in theory) install any ROM that can use a stock signed Verizon-Samsung kernel but even a kernel from SM-G900F will not work.
LOS uses it's own kernel.
TWRP uses it's own kernel.
RR uses it's own kernel.
Root on 6.0.1 and above needs kernel modification.
These won't work.
If Phoenix can use a stock kernel (I don't know), it will work.
3. You may want to have a look at this thread: https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/help/getting-safestrap-loop-t3601977
I don't usually do it myself but it should be possible.
It's not an easy way and there are some logical traps on it.
So think it over before the action.
4. Locked bootloader does not prevent modem updating. It's definitely possible. You can simply flash a modem part of stock firmware in Odin.
Thanks. I've tried casting a broader net, unsure if my problem was Verizon-specific or not. Turns out, it's even more specific than that, as at least some 900Vs have unlocked bootloaders and some (mine) don't.
As I look back over my journey, you were there from the beginning when I was trying to upgrade from 4.4.2 to my current Lollipop and keeping root. Following the steps of the amazing @jrkruse led to different problems, which still persist. There seems no way to fix that, from which I conclude the jrkruse stock ROM and this phone don't get along. Hence, the idea to try a different ROM other than this LL. It seems that my locked bootloader has me on stuck on this particular stock ROM if I want to keep root. There is no list of other ROMs I can put on this CID11, and I'm not sophisticated enough to know which I can try and Safestrap back safely if things aren't wonderful. This has me doing a hot reboot every day or two when I see wifi can't get DNS, but I don't see any other option other than buying a newer Galaxy with a microSD card and an unlocked bootloader (maybe the S8?). Regardless, this sums up my journey, I've learned a lot along the way, and both you and @KazuDante were extremely helpful and earned my Thanks button many many times. Thanks again.
bbsc said:
You'd better use a single thread for similar questions. There's a nice SM-G900V section too.
1. Yes.
2. You're limited to a stock signed Verizon-Samsung kernel, not to a stock ROM. You can (in theory) install any ROM that can use a stock signed Verizon-Samsung kernel but even a kernel from SM-G900F will not work.
LOS uses it's own kernel.
TWRP uses it's own kernel.
RR uses it's own kernel.
Root on 6.0.1 and above needs kernel modification.
These won't work.
If Phoenix can use a stock kernel (I don't know), it will work.
3. You may want to have a look at this thread: https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/help/getting-safestrap-loop-t3601977
I don't usually do it myself but it should be possible.
It's not an easy way and there are some logical traps on it.
So think it over before the action.
4. Locked bootloader does not prevent modem updating. It's definitely possible. You can simply flash a modem part of stock firmware in Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bbsc said:
4. Locked bootloader does not prevent modem updating. It's definitely possible. You can simply flash a modem part of stock firmware in Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ps: I read the first ten pages of this thread about modems, but the first post strongly implies that they're not flashable with all the crossouts, which leaves with Odin, but if I'm reading it right one needs TWRP, which I don't have, only safestrap. If there's a different modem thread I should look at, or if should try the Odin ones, thanks for pointing me in the right direction. It seems I'm terrible at finding what I'm searching for in this info-rich site.
androidman807, which firmware (modem, kernel, bootloader) do you have and which do you want to have?
P.S. "Odin: (necessary for those with TWRP recovery)" means that a phone with TWRP has "Binary status: Custom" and there's no other way to update modem except Odin.
Baseband : PB1
Build : PB1
Kernel : 3.4.0
At this point I'll take any rooted firmware that is stable and not sluggish with this phone, with ability to at least get back to this if it's a step backwards.
bbsc said:
androidman807, which firmware (modem, kernel, bootloader) do you have and which do you want to have?
P.S. "Odin: (necessary for those with TWRP recovery)" means that a phone with TWRP has "Binary status: Custom" and there's no other way to update modem except Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
androidman807 said:
Baseband : PB1
Build : PB1
Kernel : 3.4.0
At this point I'll take any rooted firmware that is stable and not sluggish with this phone, with ability to at least get back to this if it's a step backwards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think, if you have network problems with this phone, it will be the best to backup your data and try a factory firmware with full factory reset.
If you're currently on BPB1 you can try any firmware above (and including) BOK3 and return back to BPB1 if you don't like it.
Firmwares BOK3 and BPB1 (your current) can be rooted after installation.
If I remember correctly, you need root to use Titanium backup app.
But you may want first try if the network problems persist on different stock firmwares.
I'd begin with the latest - DQI2.
Titanium is a big reason why I want to keep root. So BOK3 and DQI2 are ones I can root and still return to PB1. Thanks, I'll start looking for them and their rooting procedures.
bbsc said:
I think, if you have network problems with this phone, it will be the best to backup your data and try a factory firmware with full factory reset.
If you're currently on BPB1 you can try any firmware above (and including) BOK3 and return back to BPB1 if you don't like it.
Firmwares BOK3 and BPB1 (your current) can be rooted after installation.
If I remember correctly, you need root to use Titanium backup app.
But you may want first try if the network problems persist on different stock firmwares.
I'd begin with the latest - DQI2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
androidman807 said:
So BOK3 and DQI2 are ones I can root and still return to PB1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. I've written something different above.
You can flash BOK3 - DQI2 and return back after this. There're 14 firmwares.
But you can root only BOK3 and BPB1 from those 14 firmwares.
I advice you to flash DQI2 just to see if it solves network problems.
androidman807 said:
ps: I read the first ten pages of this thread about modems, but the first post strongly implies that they're not flashable with all the crossouts, which leaves with Odin, but if I'm reading it right one needs TWRP, which I don't have, only safestrap. If there's a different modem thread I should look at, or if should try the Odin ones, thanks for pointing me in the right direction. It seems I'm terrible at finding what I'm searching for in this info-rich site.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash modems using odin even if you dont have twrp , they made it that way for those who are not on stock firmwareand that have twrp for example those who are on nougat , instead of flashing back stock and redoo the whole thing all over again , so in the vzw section there is a thread that has all the latest modems ( i think qh2) , just download qh2 ( i used the non-hlos for 4g) and in odin use ap and select the downloaded tar(modem) and flash , phone has to be in download mode.
Thank you. I was hot on the modem idea when I was going to switch to Lineage or something else as a natural step. But since it's tied to 4G and cell service and not my sporadic DNS-on-wifi issue, I'm not sure I see the benefit, but then I could be wrong. I figure a different ROM will have different drivers for the wifi radio and solve things. At least that's been my hope all along.
KazuDante said:
You can flash modems using odin even if you dont have twrp , they made it that way for those who are not on stock firmwareand that have twrp for example those who are on nougat , instead of flashing back stock and redoo the whole thing all over again , so in the vzw section there is a thread that has all the latest modems ( i think qh2) , just download qh2 ( i used the non-hlos for 4g) and in odin use ap and select the downloaded tar(modem) and flash , phone has to be in download mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! I will likely flash this with Odin over the weekend (or with SafeStrap?). I've found QI2 here, the first of the two links. Just to be prepared, what steps will I take to rooting this new ROM?
bbsc said:
I advice you to flash DQI2 just to see if it solves network problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can I find BOK3, and how do I root it after installation if I don't have TWRP (but only safestrap)?
Edit: here's OK3 with steps on how to root it, but they're quite scary and possibly outdated.
bbsc said:
I think, if you have network problems with this phone, it will be the best to backup your data and try a factory firmware with full factory reset.
If you're currently on BPB1 you can try any firmware above (and including) BOK3 and return back to BPB1 if you don't like it.
Firmwares BOK3 and BPB1 (your current) can be rooted after installation.
If I remember correctly, you need root to use Titanium backup app.
But you may want first try if the network problems persist on different stock firmwares.
I'd begin with the latest - DQI2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again - I flashed with Odin the DQI2 I found but didn't know how to root it (Safestrap erased and no TWRP). Maybe the answer is the same as the other post I just replied to. That's obviously a blind spot I have that has me stuck on PB1 - I don't know how to root anything else on this CID 11.
bbsc said:
No. I've written something different above.
You can flash BOK3 - DQI2 and return back after this. There're 14 firmwares.
But you can root only BOK3 and BPB1 from those 14 firmwares.
I advice you to flash DQI2 just to see if it solves network problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Categories

Resources