Root Nexus 7 from terminal, without replacing firmware or losing data - Nexus 7 General

Even if you lose data, brick your device or/and throw it against the wall after reading this post
I am absolutely not responsible for anything you do to your android !
​
This procedure works on Linux (see NOTES below before).
1 - Ensure you have the latest android SDK installed on your computer, and that USB debugging is enabled on your device
2 - Backup your data with "adb backup":
adb backup -apk -shared -all -f backup.ab
(No warranty: You should also backup your sms (and paid application or application data) with something else.
Details and latest warnings here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1420351)​
3 - Restart in bootloader:
adb reboot bootloader​
4 - Unlock the bootloader (everything will be erased, you need to confirm on your device)
fastboot oem unlock​
5 - Restart, skip configuration steps, enable USB debugging again
6 - Restore your data with adb restore:
adb restore backup.ab​
7 - Download the latest TWRP image on your computer, from the official TeamWin Recovery Project site: http://teamw.in/project/twrp2
8 - Download or push the latest CWM-superSU zipped package from eg http://download.chainfire.eu/282/SuperSU/
9 - Restart in bootloader:
adb reboot bootloader​
10 - Boot TWRP, eg;
fastboot boot openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img​
11 - Using TWRP, Install the CWM-superSU zipped package previously downloaded on your android.
12 - Reboot your device, you are set !
NOTES:
- If you need to re-root your system after a firmware update, restart at step 7 with USB debugging enabled.
- with Linux you need to:
* Run "sudo bash" first in the terminal window to enter administrator mode.
* Change to directory "android-sdk-linux/platform-tools" and prefix every command with ./
* If command "./adb devices" returns a "????? no permissions" error, restart adb server as root:
./adb kill-server
./adb start-server​

Is this not the wrong forum ?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

danishprakash said:
Is this not the wrong forum ?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditto.

Step 4 should read 'Unlock Bootloader.'

Is this not the injustice forum ?
Dispatched from my Collection Linkage using xda reward

this is good for those who have been holding out on root and don't want to lose everything. the first time i rooted i was hesistant because i lost everything. so nice post, and im sure it'll be useful to lots of people, who understand it

Um, so..
adb backup + Nexus 7 Rooting Guide
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29271179&postcount=218

on the walkthrough over in the gnex forums, users found out that you need to set a backup password in developer options, otherwise the backup would not work, does the n7 not need the password?

I just wanted to root, not problems...
My priority was to backup the stock partitions just in case - user data is a bonus i did not need..
Then I found out it was possible to start a recovery partition with "fastboot boot" while keeping every partitions untouched
Ideal to not mess up things with flashing an unsuitable or syphilitic version of a system partition downloaded I don't know where ...
I did not want to use any rootkit for the exact same reasons, plus i'm allergic to Windows...

Hi luc, don't bother he complaints - I reckon you're on the right sub-forum (Nexus 7 General : tips & tricks), and your tutorial is so clear, simple, and to the point. I got my Nexus 7 rooted pretty much straigh away.
I've sent my thanks to your posts. Much appreciated.
Just need a bit of editing - "fastboot oem unlock" should be "sudo fastboot oem unlock"
The same with "sudo fastboot boot openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img"
(without the sudo prefix, fastboot waits forever)
Now my Nexus 7 is rooted, and I can stick my 64 GB flashdisk to my Nexus 7, making its capacity 80 GB
Thanks again for sharing.

Unlocking the downloader wipes the device does it not?

sufehmi said:
Just need a bit of editing - "fastboot oem unlock" should be "sudo fastboot oem unlock"
The same with "sudo fastboot boot openrecovery-twrp-2.3.1.0-grouper.img"
(without the sudo prefix, fastboot waits forever)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not want to scare others users with linux stuff on top of page.
However linux users should read the NOTES for linux mentioned there and run "sudo bash"
Thanks for your return !

CJHolderUK said:
Unlocking the downloader wipes the device does it not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can backup before unlocking the bootloader, as described in step 2.

Would I be right in thinking this will only work using Linux? would it be possible if I ran Linux as a virtual machine in Microsoft Virtual PC? Sorry if it's a dumb question, I am rather new here.

OP - clean and nice write up, thanks.
shezzuk1 said:
Would I be right in thinking this will only work using Linux? would it be possible if I ran Linux as a virtual machine in Microsoft Virtual PC? Sorry if it's a dumb question, I am rather new here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will work from windows, just don't forget to install Android SDK. Start cmd as Admin and navigate to platform-tools
Code:
cd "c:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools"
All other commands will be the same and you don't need to care about Linux stuff at the end of OP post.

Don't forget that unlocking the bootloader wipes the internal SD card, too. That's part of the data partition. Read more here.

Related

[Newbie Guide] adb/fastboot/bootloader/android 101

The purpose of this document is to clarify a few basics about HTC Android Phones and basic commands to interface with the phones. Think of this as a beginner's guides to the Android device from a non-traditional user's point of view. I'll keep it simple and plain as much as I can for the new users. I'll also try to keep all the technical aspects true as much as I can while keeping it simple.
Before you go on, please read this and understand the basic concepts and how and why following commands are being used. Do not follow anyone's instructions/tutorials/guides without prior basic understanding of what each command do. I do want to believe it's humans visiting this forum and not lemmings. If you do not understand, feel free to ask here. I will or someone else also knowledgeable will answer your questions. DO NOT QUOTE THIS AS A WHOLE. My pet peeves and a complete waste of screen space.
Sometime, depending on your OS, command names may change (e.g: mouse / mouse.exe / mouse-linux / mouse-mac). For general purpose, we'll use mouse instead of an OS specific commands in this instructions.
So to repeat myself, if you understood the concepts of the commands, and you are on a linux system and someone's guide says touch index.php, you will automatically type touch-linux or whatever the name of your executable is on your system.
​
We shall assume you know how to install needed drivers and where to get android sdk and put the sdk binaries (executables) in the system path. If we need to expend this let me know and I'll expend this here.
Further, if I get any parts wrong, PM me and I'll get those parts corrected.
Android Partition, SPL etc.
Partitions:
Followings are a list of partitions on your android phone.
misc - misc partition -
recovery - Recovery Partition - This is where the original HTC recovery or Amon Ra's recovery or any other Recovery would go. Basically if you reboot into recovery it'll boot from here.
boot - This is your boot partition
system - This is where all your system information (ROM resides)
cache - cache (When you factory reset the phone, this area is wiped)
userdata - user data (like your login, your user settings etc) When you factory reset the phone, this area is wiped)
So, if you replace the recovery image, you are pretty much set for updates provided here at XDA. Note: By replacing your recovery image, you may not be able to have OTA updates.
ROM images will normally replace boot and system images at the same time and often time, userdata and cache too; reseting the phone completely.
SPL/Bootloader/Radio/Bricking Phones:
SPL / Bootloader is like BIOS on a computer. At least I think of it that way. SPL can be updated! SPL comes as either Security-On of Security-Off (S-ON/S-OFF).
Note: It is my understanding that radio will boot first, followed by other systems. So it is IMPORTANT that your radio image/version will work with your SPL image/version. This is the one and only reason for phones being bricked. You can not brick your phone by flashing a ROM or Boot image or recovery image. Once you flash the wrong radio for the SPL, the only known method of recovery is to send the phone back into HTC for repair.
How do I know the phone is bricked? A bricked phone can not boot into bootloader, recovery, or into normal operation modes. You can not connect to a bricked phone via adb or fastboot. You can only see one screen on the phone and it will be the first splash screen.
Commands:
adb - Android Debug Bridge - One of the two things you'll need to know if you ever want to do anything non-conventional on your android based phone.
List of commands that can be used by adb can be prompted by typing adb at the system shell (command prompt or terminal)
Notable adb commands:
adb devices - If you don't know anything, this is the ONE thing you have to know.
adb devices will give you a list of devices connected to the computer. This is also a good way to make sure that your phone is actually connected to the computer.
adb reboot (bootloader|recovery)
adb reboot - this will reboot your phone normally.
adb reboot bootloader - this will reboot your phone back into the bootloader (white screen with the android on wheels)
adb reboot recovery - this will reboot your phone back into recovery console (either default or amon_ra's recovery).
adb shell - this will shell into the phone and you can now explore the phone. Remember phone's native backend os is linux so know your linux commands.
adb remount - remounts the system partition on the phone so you can you read/write to it.
adb push xxx yyy - will push xxx file from computer into yyy location/file on phone (needs rooted access)
adb pull xxx yyy - will pull xxx file from phone into yyy location/file on computer (needs rooted access)
Fastboot is protocol used to update the flash filesystem in Android devices from a host over USB. It allows flashing of unsigned partition images.
Notable fastboot commands:
fastboot devices - If you don't know anything, this is the ONE thing you have to know.
fastboot devices will give you a list of devices connected to the computer. This is also a good way to make sure that your phone is actually connected to the computer.
fastboot reboot - this will reboot your phone normally
fastboot oem unlock - this will unlock your bootloader - NOTE THIS WILL VOID YOUR NEXUS ONE WARRANTY
fastboot erase XXX - Will erase the partition XXX (such as userdata, cache) - mainly used for resetting phone and clearing userdata / factory settings.
fastboot flash XXX YYY - This will flash XXX partitionn with YYY image.
e.g: fastboot flash system system_update.img will flash/update your system partition with an image called system_update
If anyone needs me to dig deep into using anything else, please PM me. I'll add it on here. Hopefully this will help all newbies about the basic commands and what they do.
FAQs (UPDATED Feb 09, 2010)
Q: One question about the Android SDK. Do I need it to flash my N1 or just to program new apps? Where can I get it?
A: Android SDK is not entirely needed to flash the N1. However, there are tools in there that you need. Adb / Fastboot etc. Although they can be downloaded by themselves, the windows version of the SDK also have the Drivers that are needed for android devices for USB connection. So, it is recommended to get it. You can get it from developer.android.com
Q:I have never experienced anything like this when I did a hard-spl on my winmo phone. Radio versions are included with SPL's, right?
A: Official packages from HTC did come with nbh packaging, meaning it is a all in one upgrader that will update Radio, ROM, System etc, it is very much common for active development area here at XDA to get the radio or SPL or ROM separately and independently of one another. And as such, you will most likely flash them seperately (who wants to wait 6-8 months). Also, since this phone is released by google, HTC will most likely not update any major Radios. However, it is very likely that we will be hacking in Radio updates or any other "updates" from HTC from their new device - HTC Bravo.
Q: Is there a guide for snow leopard? I'm kind of stuck.
A: I personally ran android SDK and aforementioned executable on both MAC OS 10.5 and 10.6. Like I posted, the commands and the executable names may be slightly different. I may call adb and you may find it as adb-mac. I am not going to write 3 separate documents for 3 separate OSes. You have to know that adb=adb-mac (on your mac), adb-linux (for linux) etc. And yes the above guide will work universally.
Q: Can i replace the splash image..?? (unlocking related)
A: As of the above date (next to the FAQ) no you can not. Issue is probably a few folds. One of them is that splash1.img is not going in due to security lock. Remember, you unlocked the phone. HTC will not like it. Anyhow, I like the current quad color X. If you are thinking of getting rid of the lock logo, good luck. Even if you can get rid of it, you will still have to overcome the pink text that says ***UNLOCKED*** on your bootloader.
Q: Can you run Windows Mobile on Android Phones?
A: With enough resources given, sure. Will it ever happen? No. Why? Windows mobile compiler and builder cost $. As a matter of fact, as of version 5, it was going to cost me $75 per device. That's one of the reasons why handset makers went to Android open platform. Android is free and universal so as long as you use certain chipsets and certain items, you are good to go. Can it ever be ported? Sure. With right amount of time and money anything can be done. But at this point, it's cheaper for you to go buy a windows mobile smartphone.
Q: How do I know the phone is bricked?
A: You can not brick a phone unless you are flashing Radio/SPL packages. Make sure if you are doing that, you follow directions VERY CAREFULLY. A bricked phone can not boot into bootloader, recovery, or into normal operation modes. You can not connect to a bricked phone via adb or fastboot. You can only see one screen on the phone and it will be the first splash screen.
Q: I have installed the Android SDK however, i cannot seem to get the laptop to detect the nexus. What have i left out?
A: Most common item that people forget to enable is USB Debugging. Settings => Applications => Development => USB debugging [checked]
Q: I have rooted n1. when I go to recovery to do backup, I get the triangle with the little green android guy, but phone is stuck there. I have to remove battery to reboot phone. What have I done wrong?
A: You still have the stock (shipping) recovery. If you want a different recovery (Amon RA's), download it, the from fastboot, run fastboot flash recovery downloaded_recovery.img
Q: Which step of the rooting / recovery procedure does it give root?
A: Root and Recovery are two totally different things. Recovery is a partition that contain recovery information. Stock recovery is what allows OTA updates etc. Normally it will search for update.zip in the root folder of the SD card. Amon_RA's Recovery or any other recovery images are there to enhance the traditional stock recovery. Amon Ra's Recovery for example, contains thing such as ability to update from different zip files, and backup/restore of your data/system.
Rooting is not done by recovery but is a kernel level access (simply put) that will give root or "SU". It is done by patching the boot partition of the your android device.
Q: What are the differences, advantages, disadvantages of the different ROM's?
A: They are all different. Some have some features, some are plain stock, some are made for bleeding edge kernel etc. You'll have to try them out and figure out yourself. I may make a chart of what they are (see the bottom at my signature - wiki) but with too many android devices, I will need some major help. One person alone will not have total knowledge of all the ROM releases. There are just way too many devices and ROMs.
Q: Which ROM will allow OTA updates?
A: Stock ROM WITH Stock Recovery.
Q: If the phone is SIM/carrier unlocked and you root do you have to SIM unlock again?
A: SIM/Carrier unlock has nothing to do with rooting your phone. You can still have root and still be carrier locked. Nexus One comes carrier unlocked from factory.
Q: How much space is there for apps? is using the sd card really necessary? (on Nexus One)
A: Search google? The phone has 512MB or space. That SHOULD be more than enough for you. If not, you have some serious issues. I do not believe you will not App2SD for Nexus One. Google did say during the release conference that they will update Android/N1 so that apps can be run/installed to SD but that requires some system and security changes (mainly to prevent pirated software - Yes if I write something, I deserve to get paid for it).
Q: When you do "flash zip from sdcard" or "fastboot flash image" does this merge and overwrite the files in to the partition?
A: When you update a software (via recovery), software my be merged. However, if you fastboot flash, just like the word flash says, it will flash and overwrite the partition.
Q: Which partition does "flash zip from sdcard" affect?
A: Depends on what you are flashing. It could be any or all of the partitions such as SPL, Boot, System, Recovery, Radio. You should study first before randomly flashing things.
sorry, got it!
blakestimac said:
i apologize if this is the wrong place for this but, but i have adb setup perfectly, but fastboot is not recognized at all. could i have missed something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I need your system info.
What os are you running? where did you get fastboot? what are you trying to do?
Don't forget fastboot boot for testing images. My most used command
I still have no idea how to use or setup adb i have downloaded the sdk and used fastboot and superboot to root my phone and am currently running the cm 5.0 beta 2 rom and want to learn how to use adb so i can enable the ram. Thanks, Joe
really a noob question here.....it wa easier with Hero.
i have installed the Android SDK
however, i cannot seem to get the laptop to detect the nexus.
what have i left out?
wishmaker738 said:
really a noob question here.....it wa easier with Hero.
i have installed the Android SDK
however, i cannot seem to get the laptop to detect the nexus.
what have i left out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check the FAQ.
dylanfan424 said:
I still have no idea how to use or setup adb i have downloaded the sdk and used fastboot and superboot to root my phone and am currently running the cm 5.0 beta 2 rom and want to learn how to use adb so i can enable the ram. Thanks, Joe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok. I need to know what you actually did. I am not understanding what you are trying to do.
Can't run adb commands - device not found
Thanks for the info. I am having an issue with running adb commands. My phone is rooted via superboot and I tested it with Nexus Torch which works. Now I am trying to install the new kernel so I can run the wireless tether app... but I can't get any of the adb commands to recognize the phone. I boot the phone by holding the trackball and power button. I am in USB debugging mode. When I run fastboot devices, the phone serial number shows up. When I run adb devices, it says no device detected. And when I try to run any other adb commands they do not work, even though fastboot commands work. Any ideas? Thanks.
Sorry i was pretty vague before i down loaded the sdk and also installed the adb setup file included with the superboot pack but just have no idea how to get it to work and add things through adb. I tried typing adb commands into comand line with the phone connected to the computer but nothing happend. just said not recognised command so i just basically need a rundown of how to setup adb.
dylanfan424 said:
Sorry i was pretty vague before i down loaded the sdk and also installed the adb setup file included with the superboot pack but just have no idea how to get it to work and add things through adb. I tried typing adb commands into comand line with the phone connected to the computer but nothing happend. just said not recognised command so i just basically need a rundown of how to setup adb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a noob so can't offer much help...but I would make sure the usb drivers are installed if you're using windows....this probably should have happened when you installed the sdk, but you can also install it through the device manager and point it to the folder where the usb drivers are located. Also make sure the phone is in USB debugging mode. also you may need to reboot your pc. Make sure you have setup running when you run the adb commands. you need to be in the same directory as the adb file, or in the case of the superboot pack you need to type "adb-windows" not just "adb". you may also need to put .exe, ie adb-windows.exe.
pwnvds said:
Thanks for the info. I am having an issue with running adb commands. My phone is rooted via superboot and I tested it with Nexus Torch which works. Now I am trying to install the new kernel so I can run the wireless tether app... but I can't get any of the adb commands to recognize the phone. I boot the phone by holding the trackball and power button. I am in USB debugging mode. When I run fastboot devices, the phone serial number shows up. When I run adb devices, it says no device detected. And when I try to run any other adb commands they do not work, even though fastboot commands work. Any ideas? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You run fastboot from the white screen. Android on non-white screen. It's one or the other. It's ADB or Fastboot (depending on the mode of the phone).
dylanfan424 said:
Sorry i was pretty vague before i down loaded the sdk and also installed the adb setup file included with the superboot pack but just have no idea how to get it to work and add things through adb. I tried typing adb commands into comand line with the phone connected to the computer but nothing happend. just said not recognised command so i just basically need a rundown of how to setup adb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is the directory where ADB/fastboot (SDK) is installled in your system path?
I am guessing it's not. If it was, just by typing adb alone (without commands), it'll give you a list of commands. Click here if you want to know how to change your system path to include a particular folder.
We're now in the age of nintendo pilots and point and click OS that no one knows how to use command lines and system paths anymore.
recovery
I have rooted n1. when I go to recovery to do backup, I get the triangle with the little green android guy, but phone is stuck there. I have to remove battery to reboot phone. What have I done wrong?
umplarry said:
I have rooted n1. when I go to recovery to do backup, I get the triangle with the little green android guy, but phone is stuck there. I have to remove battery to reboot phone. What have I done wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Answered in FAQ area.
seraph1024 said:
Answered in FAQ area.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried that before I posted. I searched the FAQ again. Maybe I am a complete DA, but still can't find answer. I don't mind searching, it will help me to learn, but could you point me in the right direction in FAQ?
umplarry said:
I tried that before I posted. I searched the FAQ again. Maybe I am a complete DA, but still can't find answer. I don't mind searching, it will help me to learn, but could you point me in the right direction in FAQ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Q: I have rooted n1. when I go to recovery to do backup, I get the triangle with the little green android guy, but phone is stuck there. I have to remove battery to reboot phone. What have I done wrong?
A: You still have the stock (shipping) recovery. If you want a different recovery (Amon RA's), download it, the from fastboot, run fastboot flash recovery downloaded_recovery.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There you go.
seraph1024 said:
There you go.
[/B]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your help
seraph1024 said:
There you go.
[/B]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had it downloaded, just had not flashed it
I've been looking all over, but I probably need to check the HTC Dream forum or something.
How do I install a custom ROM? I know you have to adb push update.zip somewhere, but I can't find any info about this. Please help.

[GUIDE] Complete and Thorough Guide to Rooting the Nexus S [+ No wipe] [GRH78C]

May NOT work for 2.3.3, if attempting on 2.3.3 use old part 1! - Will wipe all data though
Windows ONLY!
Hey guys, rooted my Nexus S today, and decided to write a thorough, detailed guide on how I did it, as none of the guides I had found had everything detailed. I came across a few problems, and all of this is in the guide. I successfully completed it on my Nexus S running 2.3.2, so any version below that will also work.
The original guide was made by AllGamer, and can be found here. I followed this guide, and added things when I found it was needed
The full guide with everything (including links, pictures) can be found on my site, Complete Android.
New info: Upon finding another thread over at XDA (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=931865) it has been realized that you can root your Nexus S without unlocking the bootloader, and therefore not loosing your data on the SD card. Part 1 for the new method is still the same, but choose the new Part 2!
WARNING: Rooting your device will wipe all data off it, so you will loose EVERYTHING! Make sure you backup all important data first. Only applies to old Part 2 (fastboot oem unlock method), but it is still a good idea to backup important information!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you will need:
Nexus S (obviously)
Android 2.3 SDK
USB Cable
PDAnet (for drivers)
Clockwork Recovery Image
Superuser
Part 1
Download the Android 2.3 SDK (or direct from Google here, 32MB).
Once it has finished downloading, unzip it, and run the SDK manager.
Select whatever components you wish to install, but you MUST make sure you install Google USB Driver (Available packages > Third party Add-ons > Google Inc. Add-ons > Google Usb Driver package, revision 4) otherwise this guide will not work!
We must now install the Google USB Driver, or the phone will not be recognised as a device other than a mass storage device.
Connect your Nexus S to your computer, and put it in USB storage mode.
Put it in USB Debugging Mode (Settings > Applications > Development > USB Debugging)
Windows should now recognise your Nexus S when you plug it in, and ask to install drivers. It probably won’t find anything, so we need to help it manually.
(Installing drivers manually varies between Windows versions, so please refer to http://developer.android.com/sdk/win-usb.html if you are having trouble). Launch Device Manager (you can find it in Control Panel), find Other Devices, and listed under that heading, you should find Nexus S. Right click, and select Update Driver Software. Click Browse my computer for driver software, find your SDK folder, then the google-usb_driver folder inside it, click OK, then Next. This should install the USB driver successfully. Reboot your computer.
Power off your Nexus S, connect it to your computer via USB cable, and boot it into the Bootloader Interface (you can do so by holding down the Power and Volume Up buttons at the same time).
It should say LOCK STATE – LOCKED, in white just above the green Android. You are now ready to move on!
Part 2 - Fastboot oem unlock method - WIPES ALL DATA!
We now need to install PDAnet on our PC so that Windows can see our Nexus S when we are using the Command Prompt. Install PDAnet from here, select Samsung when asked about the Manufacturer, allow the driver to be installed (because the driver is unverified, don’t worry about this!). Follow along with any other instructions. You should be set now.
With the latest SDK version, some tools have been relocated to another directory, so we need to make a copy and move them back. Navigate to the directory where you unzipped the Android SDK file in part 1. Inside it, go to the platform-tools folder, and copy both AdbWinApi.dll and AdbWinUsbApi.dll. Go back to the main Android SDK directory and find the tools folder. Paste these two files in there, and we are all ready to use ‘fastboot oem unlock’ (the rooting command) now.
Open a command prompt window (Start > Run > cmd.exe).
Change to the tools directory within your Android SDK folder by using the following command (without the quotes and replacing *YOUR SDK* with the path to your Android SDK folder) ‘cd c:\*YOUR SDK*\tools’.
Make sure your Nexus S is still in the Bootloader Interface (refer to step 9, part 1 of it isn’t).
Now in the command prompt, type in (without the quotes) ‘fastboot oem unlock’.
Now turn your attention to the phone, and read through the new information displayed on the screen. Using the Volume keys select Yes, then press the Power button. This will WIPE EVERYTHING! I bear no responsibility for any lost data on your phone!
If everything is successful, on your phone, the LOCK STATE should now read UNLOCKED, and on your computer, the command prompt window should say something like this:
Download the Clockwork Recovery image (here if you don’t already have it) to your Android SDK tools folder (*Android SDK*\tools).
Rename the newly downloaded Clockwork Recovery image to ‘recovery.img’ (no quotes).
Now we need to flash it to our Nexus S, so enter this command into the Command Prompt (make sure it is in the Androis SDK tools folder!) ‘fastboot flash recovery recovery.img’ (without the quotes).
If all is successful, the Command Prompt window should look something like this now:
Download the superuser app to the Android SDK tools folder.
Power on your Nexus S, leaving it connected to USB.
Mount the USB storage, and drag and drop the superuser .zip file you just downloaded into the root of the internal SD card (so Computer > *Device Name*, not in any other folders!). It should look something like this:
Power off the Nexus S, and return to the Bootloader Interface (step 9, part 1).
Select Recovery using the Volume buttons, then the Power button.
The phone should reboot into Clockwork Recovery, but if not don’t panic, just repeat steps 9-12, including downloading a new copy of the file (mine only worked the second time around, don’t worry!)
Using the Volume buttons and Power button, select install zip from sdcard.
Select choose zip from sdcard.
Select the su-version#-signed.zip file you downloaded earlier and apply it.
Select yes (there are lots of nos).
Confirm it says something like this: install from sdcard complete
Select Go Back.
Select Reboot. (You will now also have an unlocked padlock when you boot up)
Done! You now have to set up your phone again like when you first got it, but it will be rooted now.
New Part 2 - Does NOT wipe everything - Keeps a locked bootloader
Make sure Part 1 is completed.
Make sure you have downloaded the Clockwork Recovery file and the Superuser file.
Move the Clockwork Recovery file to your tools folder within the Android SDK folder, and rename it to recovery.img (for simplicity).
Connect your Nexus S via USB to your computer and mount it as USB storage. Copy across the Superuser file to the top level of your sdcard. (So the first window you see, not in any other folders. The sdcard is just where all the files are stored, don't worry about it too much for now).
We now need to install PDAnet on our PC so that Windows can see our Nexus S when we are using the Command Prompt. Install PDAnet from here, select Samsung when asked about the Manufacturer, allow the driver to be installed (because the driver is unverified, don't worry about this!). Follow along with any other instructions. You should be set now.
With the latest SDK version, some tools have been relocated to another directory, so we need to make a copy and move them back. Navigate to the directory where you unzipped the Android SDK file in part 1. Inside it, go to the platform-tools folder, and copy both AdbWinApi.dll and AdbWinUsbApi.dll. Go back to the main Android SDK directory and find the tools folder. Paste these two files in there, and we are all ready to use 'fastboot boot' (the boot image command) now.
Open a command prompt window (Start > Run > cmd.exe).
Change to the tools directory within your Android SDK folder by using the following command (without the quotes and replacing *YOUR SDK* with the path to your Android SDK folder) 'cd c:\*YOUR SDK*\tools'.
Make sure your Nexus S is still in the Bootloader Interface (refer to step 9, part 1 of it isn't).
We now need to use the 'fastboot boot' command to load Clockwork Recovery onto our Nexus S. In the command prompt, type in the following (but without the quotes, as always) 'fastboot boot recovery.img'
Once you are in Clockwork Recovery (it may take a couple of tries, don't panic, just redownload Clockwork Recovery, and complete steps 3 and 10, part 2) it should look something like this:
Using the Volume buttons and Power button, select install zip from sdcard.
Select choose zip from sdcard.
Select the su-version#-signed.zip file you downloaded earlier and apply it.
Select yes (there are lots of nos).
Confirm it says something like this: install from sdcard complete
Select Go Back.
Select Reboot.
Done! You should still have all your data present on your phone, and have root access!
Notes
As AllGamer said in his tutorial:
It’s normal to lose the recovery after the reboot, the steps to flash the CW recovery needs to be repeated every time you want to access the CW recovery.
This is due the build in protection in 2.3
As some one pointed it out on another topic, the good thing about this is that you’ll never lose the stock recovery of 2.3, thus minimizing the chance of a bricked phone.
If you want to the CW recovery to remain permanently, you’ll need to rename /etc/install-recovery.sh to something thing else
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep this in mind! It's not because you did something wrong
Also, some root apps require BusyBox to be installed, as I found out with Titanium Backup, so once you set up your Nexus S again, head on into the Market, and download BusyBox. It installed fine on my Nexus S this way, and now TB works fine.
I hope this is the best, most thorough guide you will find on rooting the Nexus S. Enjoy! Feedback is appreciated, and I will help out if you need any extra help.
Your guide has been wonderful however I'm stuck on part 2, step 4. I tried writing in the path to my directory and they keep giving me whatever I wrote in the command prompt "is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file"
"Change to the tools directory within your Android SDK folder by using the following command (without the quotes and replacing *YOUR SDK* with the path to your Android SDK folder) ‘cd c:\*YOUR SDK*\tools’."
This is how my command prompt looks like when I first open it. "C:\Users\Du>"
and this is what I typed in the command prompt: "Downloads\android-sdk_r09-windows\android-sdk-windows"
^^^I did exactly what you said above and nothing is happening. I don't know whether I'm writing in the directory wrong or what. Please help me out thanks
Your guide is nice, however as shown in distortedloop's stickied Root & Recovery thread, fastboot oem unlock is not required for rooting & flashing. We no longer have to lose all our sdcard data when first rooting and/or flashing a ROM.
Other than that, this seems to be a nice amendment of Allgamer's sticked root & recovery thread. I'm sure it will be useful to many.
STARSCR33M said:
This is how my command prompt looks like when I first open it. "C:\Users\Du>"
and this is what I typed in the command prompt: "Downloads\android-sdk_r09-windows\android-sdk-windows"
^^^I did exactly what you said above and nothing is happening. I don't know whether I'm writing in the directory wrong or what. Please help me out thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok so if you want to change directories in the command prompt, you need to use the command
Code:
cd
So in your case I would type in
Code:
cd c:\Users\Du\Downloads\android-sdk_r09-windows\android-sdk-windows\tools
That way is fool proof, however you could take a shortcut, because you are already in the Users/Du folder (because of how it looks when you first open it), you could just type in
Code:
cd Downloads\android-sdk_r09-windows\android-sdk-windows\tools
Hope that helps
ravidavi said:
Your guide is nice, however as shown in distortedloop's stickied Root & Recovery thread, fastboot oem unlock is not required for rooting & flashing. We no longer have to lose all our sdcard data when first rooting and/or flashing a ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think this way is a cleaner approach personally, but hey choice is good That's what Android is all about
EDIT: New approach added, now there is choice and easyness for all
Other than that, this seems to be a nice amendment of Allgamer's sticked root & recovery thread. I'm sure it will be useful to many.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks
Jonathon Grigg said:
I think this way is a cleaner approach personally, but hey choice is good That's what Android is all about
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure that wiping all your data pointlessly is "cleaner."
It's not even clear what exactly the oem unlock of the bootloader really does for us, since you can get into clockwork recovery without that step. Once you're in clockwork you pretty much own the phone. I'll be interested to see if someone can use clockwork to flash a new boot image once rooted without the unlock; if so I can't see any reason to unlock the bootloader. That said, mine is unlocked, and I like it that way, but many won't root for fear of losing data on the phone.
Even if you end up having to do the oem unlock in the long run for some activities you want to do, it seems that rooting, then installing Titanium and backing up your apps and app data fully is a better way to go than just losing all your data (any app that doesn't store its data on the sdcard) that can't be backed up without root would be a lot less painful than WIPING everything on the phone, including the sdcard.
It's not worth arguing about, but I think any method that is including the oem unlock step should at least mention that that step can be skipped. How many people will go through the pain of a wipe that they didn't need to because they didn't see that there was an option without it. I guess that's there own fault for not doing enough searching on their own...
Anyways, nice and thorough effort. I'm sure many will benefit from your additions to AllGamer's tutorial.
distortedloop said:
I'm not sure that wiping all your data pointlessly is "cleaner."
It's not even clear what exactly the oem unlock of the bootloader really does for us, since you can get into clockwork recovery without that step.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been wondering that myself. My guess is that for the average user you don't need to, but maybe it's for real power users who build their own ROM which has been fully modded or something, I'm not sure.
but many won't root for fear of losing data on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I definitely agree with that, and your guide is probably the best way for those people!
Even if you end up having to do the oem unlock in the long run for some activities you want to do, it seems that rooting, then installing Titanium and backing up your apps and app data fully is a better way to go than just losing all your data (any app that doesn't store its data on the sdcard) that can't be backed up without root would be a lot less painful than WIPING everything on the phone, including the sdcard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, this is one of the better uses for both methods. I already had to wipe my phone twice due to Samsung CS so I'm used to it Although it does give you a chance to clear out the apps you don't need. Doing that I noticed better battery life on my phone.
It's not worth arguing about, but I think any method that is including the oem unlock step should at least mention that that step can be skipped. How many people will go through the pain of a wipe that they didn't need to because they didn't see that there was an option without it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't going to argue I'm happy to adjust my tut to include something about this, after all it was aimed at more beginners.
EDIT: Added a new part to my tutorial based on your guide, just includes some more detail. Thanks again.
Thanks distortedloop
This is awesome cause i relocked my bootloader i really just needed root. Thanks!
Edit oops lost track of tabs open.
I think we can use this method to unlock oem without wiping data.
boot cw -> full backup -> unlock and flash cw (wipes data) -> restore backup (got ur data back and oem unlocked)
the only problem i can think of is that restoring backup would re-lock oem again but i am not sure of that.
i can't try this right now but if someone could, please give feedback.
Jonathon Grigg said:
I wasn't going to argue I'm happy to adjust my tut to include something about this, after all it was aimed at more beginners.
EDIT: Added a new part to my tutorial based on your guide, just includes some more detail. Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nicely done. Thanks.
sam4free said:
I think we can use this method to unlock oem without wiping data.
boot cw -> full backup -> unlock and flash cw (wipes data) -> restore backup (got ur data back and oem unlocked)
the only problem i can think of is that restoring backup would re-lock oem again but i am not sure of that.
i can't try this right now but if someone could, please give feedback.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I suggesting a couple of posts above (root without unlock to at least make a backup of user data).
Restoring a titanium backup would not re-lock the phone. A nandroid restore might, depends on what all it imaged and restores, but it's so easy to re-root, that doesn't seem like a big deal.
Jonathon Grigg said:
Download the Android 2.3 SDK (or direct from Google here, 32MB).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like you forgot to add the link in your copy pasta.
AtomicPC said:
Looks like you forgot to add the link in your copy pasta.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been working on it I just wanted to get it up here as soon as I could That's why I mentioned that the full guide is available on my website. I'm going back to school today, so I don't really have too much time for changing links now. Besides, most people on XDA should know how to look at the 'What's needed' part
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
Jonathon,
Thank you for posting this detailed guide to rooting without losing your data! I do have a question. As you've probably heard, there are a few updates coming soon and if they are like they were on the N1, they always broke root. So getting root back was tricky unless I "unrooted" before applying the update. Using your method, is it easy to "unroot"? Thanks!
No problems
As for your problem, I never actually had a N1 so I don't exactly know why that would happen. So far from the 2 updates available to NS owners it seems like the OTA update does break root but it appears to be the same to get it back again. Can someone confirm this? I haven't been through an update with my root yet.
As for unrooting, if you haven't unlocked the bootloader (so you have followed the new part 2) I think it is just a case of finding a stock image (I think there's a GRH78 one around here somewhere) and booting into Clockwork Recovery and flashing it. That should remove root and then also give you a notice to install the GRH78C OTA update so you get the latest version.
I think that is what you meant? If you did unlock the bootloader (using the original part 2) then I think you just have to follow the same steps as I mentioned just then but afterwards go back into the bootloader interface and run 'fastboot oem lock' and it should be right.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
Question on Part 2- step 1.
Code:
# We now need to install PDAnet on our PC so that Windows can see our Nexus S when we are using the Command Prompt. Install PDAnet from here, select Samsung when asked about the Manufacturer, allow the driver to be installed (because the driver is unverified, don’t worry about this!). Follow along with any other instructions. You should be set now.
Why above step is required if one already installed USB Driver for Nexus S and "ADB devices" command can find the device ?
On Allgamer thread didnt ask to repeat installing USB driver ?
What purpose for the pdanet driver ?
I dont want to put redundant drivers into my system which may interfere each other during flashing process.
hmanxx said:
Why above step is required if one already installed USB Driver for Nexus S and "ADB devices" command can find the device ?
On Allgamer thread didnt ask to repeat installing USB driver ?
What purpose for the pdanet driver ?
I dont want to put redundant drivers into my system which may interfere each other during flashing process.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I tried to use the fastboot command with my Nexus S connected, it would hang and not do anything, despite leaving it for about 5 minutes. I searched online, and found the PDAnet solution, so I don't know what the difference is exactly. All I found the Google SDK USB drivers to do is enable you to see your device in Device Manager, however you could try it without the PDAnet drivers, and let me know what happens!
Thanks
Thanks for the prompt reply.. I tried out the google driver..it doesnt work under fastboot. I eventually get the fastboot enabled driver..that could explain why the pdanet driver required.
After i installed the fastboot enabled driver, i could test the connectivity under fastboot with "fastboot devices"
thanks going to try out rooting..i just want simple root access..without wiping data is a ++ ..
I managed to run fastboot boot recovery.img...going into clockwork menu..apply the superuser.zip.(for froyo version)..till completion..no word of failure..
However after rebooting, su and SuperUser.apk are not installed.( I used adb to check the system/app and system/bin folder.
Edit- manage to root properly after system mounting .
Just a note..to properly complete the rooting, one need to apply mounting then mount system before applying the Superuser.zip install from sdcard.
Prior to step 11, you may want to add the following steps for folks having problem to get the superuser.zip to install properly.
Originally Posted by droidmage
So all you guys who are having trouble getting root inside the rom, When your in recovery before you flash the superuser.zip file select -- mounts and storage -- then --mount /system -- then flash the .zip file and reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the extra bit of info, I will attempt to add that in when I get a bit more time on my hands. when I did it it seemed to work fine so thanks for discovering that!
Enjoy your rooted phone
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App

[noob-read] adb and fastboot. What is it? How can it help you?

Contents / Thread overview
Introduction
What is Fastboot?
What is adb?
How to install adb and fastboot
How to test adb and fastboot work
OK Gimme some useful fastboot commands please!
OK Gimme some useful adb commands please!
A little more about using Windows command prompt
Myth Busters
Introduction
adb and fastboot are very useful command line tools. They can be used from Windows, Linux or Mac to carry out tasks on your android device, such as moving and backing up files, rooting and restoring your phone to it's factory state. Understanding how to use these tools could save your phone when you get yourself in trouble. This is especially true of rooted users. Particularly those of you who are "new to the scene". You definitely should read and understand this thread before you do ANYTHING root related.
This thread is not intended to be a non-exhausted reference. It is merely here to give an overview of the most basic of basics
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What is fastboot?
Fastboot comprises of 2 components.
1) Fastboot mode on the phone (The Bootloader)
2) Fastboot tool on your computer
Fastboot is a small command line tool that you can use from your computer whilst the phone is connected via USB and you are booted into the bootloader. The most common uses for fastboot are:
Unlocking the bootloader - needed as part of the rooting process
Flashing a custom recovery to the device - needed as part of the rooting process
Flashing factory images - used for saving / trestoring your device back to stock
Being able to do these 3 things are essential before rooting. Many new users skip learning these and use a toolkit to root. As a result, when they mess up and we try to explain what they need to do to fix their issues, it becomes very difficult for us to help as fastboot is not understood. It is YOUR responsibility to understand these things BEFORE you mess up.
What is adb?
adb is another small command line tool that stands for "Android Debugging Bridge". Again, it can be used from a computer connected via USB to your android device. It can be used whilst the device is booted into Android or (if you have a custom recovery), it can be used in recovery too, unlike fastboot (yes, adb and fastboot are NOT the same thing) which can only be used in the bootloader.
adb can be used to push files to (or pull files from) your phone. It can also be used to execute many of the commands available in Linux terminals (Or Android terminal emulators) on the device itself. We're not here to cover all these commands however. We just want to cover the basics.
How to install adb and fastboot
adb and fastboot are very easy to install and can be installed on Windows, Linux and MAC computers. The Windows install can be a little bit more complicated than the other 2 and may need additional drivers installing too.
Windows.
There is a very handy tool that can install adb and fastboot in 15 seconds. It is recommended that you use this to install adb and fastboot. Please see the link immediately below for that tool:
ADB, Fastboot and Drivers - 15 seconds ADB Installer - Really quick and easy way to install adb and fastboot (by @Snoop05). Downlkoad links are at the bottom of post 1.
This tool asks if you want to install adb and fastboot (to which you should answer Y) and then creates c:\adb\adb.exe and c:\adb\fastboot.exe
It then asks if you want to install it system wide (to which again, you should answer Y)... This then allows you to type adb commands in the command prompt without having to open a particular directory first. You may or may not understand what I mean when I say that, but take it from me, its much more convenient and easier to use this way.
There is actually a manual way of doing what the 15 second installer is doing, by extracting the adb.exe and fastboot.exe to your computer and using the Windows Enviroment variable PATH to make the executables work system wide, however the installer is much quicker, but for reference:
Code:
right-click computer > properties > advanced > environment variables.
under system variables click "path" and click "edit"
at the end of the line, add the below:
;c:\adb_fastboot
where c:\adb_fastboot is where you decided to extract adb and fastboot executables.
Please note, the semi-colon ; is VERY important.
You can do this if for some reason the installer becomes unavailable
It will also ask if you want to install device drivers. Actually, say N to this as we're going to cover that next, using the Universal Naked driver which has better compatibility.
Here is a link to the naked driver: DOWNLOAD THIS which has been taken from this thread:
[ADB/FB/APX Driver] Universal Naked Driver
Some of the below instructions are taken from the thread above by @1wayjonny but I have moved them here to make it easier for you guys.
Code:
To install on Windows 7:
- Ensure existing drivers are uninstalled first*
- Extract the zip to c:\adb (created earlier by the installer)
- Right-click "Computer" > Manage in windows and choose "Device Manager"
- Boot the Nexus 5 to the bootloader (Volume down + Power) and connect the USB Cable
- Watch for any new devices with exclamation marks appearing
- Right-Click the new device > Update driver software
- Choose the "browse" method and browse to c:\adb then follow the wizard to the end.
*To uninstall existing drivers, boot into Android and connect the USB cable. Monitor device manager for the device showing up. To uninstall the device, right-click it to uninstall it. At the prompt, ensure you also choose to delete the driver. Repeat this for bootloader and recovery.
Code:
To Install on Windows 8, you must additionally disable driver enforcement
- From the Metro Start Screen, open Settings (move your mouse to the bottom-right-corner of the screen and wait for the - -- pop-out bar to appear, then click the Gear icon).
- Click ‘More PC Settings’.
- Click ‘General’.
- Scroll down, and click ‘Restart now’ under ‘Advanced startup’.
- Wait a bit.
- Click ‘Troubleshoot’.
- Click ‘Advanced Options’
- Click ‘Windows Startup Settings’
- Click Restart.
Once that is done, your Windows computer is configured for adb and fastboot.
In device manager, the device should show up as below, depending whether you are booted into recovery or bootloader...
Recovery - Android Device > Google Nexus 4 ADB Interface
Bootloader - Android Device > Google Nexus 4 Bootloader Interface
If it shows as something different, either you have existing drivers in the way or something went wrong.
Linux and Mac
Here is a really simple tool to install adb and fastboot on the above OS. The only expectation is you know how to open and run a terminal command. Please see the link immediately below:
Nexus Tools 2.2 (Featured by XDA) - adb and fastboot installer for Linux and Mac (by @corbin052198)
Once you have installed adb and fastboot from the above link, you're ready to go.
How to test adb and fastboot work
As previously mentioned, adb and fastboot are both command line tools. That means you must run these tools from command prompt (cmd in Windows) or Terminal (Linux and Mac).
Remember earlier, I mentioned that fastboot can only be used in bootloader? and adb can only be used in Android (or custom recovery - lets cover that later)? We can use the command "fastboot devices" and "adb devices to see if we have adb and fastboot working correctly.
Lets try it.
Boot your phone into android
Connect it to your computer via USB
Open cmd (start > type "cmd" on Windows) or Terminal (Mac/ Linux
Type in the windows "adb devices" and press enter
Here is what we don't want to see:
Notice how there is nothing underneath where it says "List of attached devices" That means it cannot see any device
Here is what we DO want to see:
We can see that there is now a device listed.
OK lets test fastboot. Unplug the USB and turn off the phone. When it is off, hold down Volume down + power until you feel the vibrate. You will now be in the bootloader. Reconnect the USB cable.
In the same window (cmd or terminal) we're going to now type "fastboot devices".
Again, here is an example of what we don't and do want to see:
If in both modes, you can see your devices "Serial Number", then you know they are both working. If they're not working (mainly Windows users) you may want to check this additional thread about troubleshooting drivers.
[*] Diagnosing USB Driver and ADB issues in Windows - Ensure ADB and fastboot WORK before you root (by @MaxRabbit)
Please note that if you cannot get adb and fastboot to work "system wide", you can open the command prompt to the location of the adb and fastboot executables exist and try from there.
OK Gimme some useful fastboot commands please!
Here are some of the most useful fastboot commands you will come across. Fastboot is used mostly for flashing images to the devices partitions on the internal memory.
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
This unlocks your bootloader and allows you to flash a recovery to root. WARNING, this will wipe your device. If you actually want to do this, please follow this guide:
How to Unlock Bootloader, Install Custom Recovery and Root - The preferred method. Allows you to learn and understand the basics (by @Chromium)
Code:
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
This will flash a recovery.img to the recovery partition. The command is broken down into "fastboot flash" (what to do) "recovery" (where to flash to) "recovery.img" what to flash there. In the terminal or command prompt, you cannot just type "recovery.img" though. It has to be the path to where the recovery image is. For example, if my recovery image is on my desktop, I would have to type:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery c:\users\rootsu\desktop\recovery.img
It is worth noting, that it IS case sensitive, meaning if your file is called Recovery.img, you must type the capital R...
Other things you would flash:
Code:
fastboot flash system system.img
fastboot flash boot boot.img
These will flash the system image (ROM) and bot image (kernel) as you would if you were returning to stock. If you want to return to stock, please use this guide:
How to flash a factory image | Return to stock | Unroot/SAVE your Nexus 5 - Understand how to undo whatever you do before you root (by @abaaaabbbb63)
You can also boot into a recovery.img without flashing it...
Code:
fastboot boot c:\users\rootsu\desktop\recovery.img
which is "fastboot boot" (what to do) "c:\users\rootsu\desktop\recovery.img" what to do it with. As you may have noticed, we did not define the recovery partition in this command, that's because we're not flashing it....
OK Gimme some useful adb commands please!
At the moment, we are going to assume you have a custom recovery and you have booted into recovery. The reason for this is using adb in recovery can be much simpler.
Here are some useful scenarios for using adb.
Backup your sdcard to your PC
Code:
adb shell
mount data
exit
adb pull data/media/0 c:\MyBackup
**Please note, some recoveries may "mount data" automatically on boot, so don't be disheartened if you get an error stating device or resource busy. This probably just means you can't mount what is already mounted**
/data/media/0 is the real location of /sdcard for your information. Also referred to as "The mount point". What we have done here is "adb pull" (what to do) "data/media/0" (what to move) "c:\MyBackup" (where to move it to)
Push a zip file from your PC to your sdcard (useful if you wiped your sdcard and rom)
Code:
adb shell
mount data
exit
adb push c:\rom.zip data/media/0
What we have done here is "adb push" (what to do) "c:\rom.zip" (what to move) "data/media/0" (where to move it to)
You can of course also use adb to push and pull files to and from /system too. You just need to:
Code:
adb shell
mount system
exit
I mentioned earlier that using custom recovery is much easier for adb than whilst booted into Android. You need to ensure you have a kernel that allows insecure adb before you do anything with system and data partitions. You also need to ensure that USB debugging has been enabled in developer options.
For example, to mount system to pull files whilst android is running you have to:
Code:
adb root
adb shell
mount -o rw,remount /dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/system /system
...which is clearly a little bit more involved, so I recommend you use recovery for adb push and pull. You can find more detailed information on adb here: http://developer.android.com/tools/help/adb.html
A little more about using Windows command prompt
One thing to understand is that like Windows, command prompt (cmd.exe) works with directories (or folders if you like). The Linux and Mac terminals are the same, but most linux users, we expect you would already know this.
Here you will see I have downloaded a recovery image that I want to flash using fastboot.
As you can see, the recovery.img is located in C:\users\rootSU\Desktop
Usually when you open the command prompt from the start menu, or run command, the command prompt will default to your user location as seen below:
So lets try and fastboot flash recovery recovery.img...
It fails with a not-too-accurate error message. It has failed because you have not told it where the recovery image is. It assumes it is in the directory as listed in the prompt
So, how do we deal with this? Well, there are 3 ways.
1) We tell the command prompt where the recovery.img actully is in the command itself
Success! As you can see, we have told the command that the location for the file is Desktop\recovery.img
2) We can change the directory in command prompt to the directory where the file is. In this example, we change directory to "Desktop". The change directory command is "cd " or in this case "cd Desktop"
3) ...and possibly the simplest method. We hold shift whilst we right-click on the folder we want to change directory to, and directly open a command prompt there:
Another point to make with command prompt or terminals, is if you do a particular command, it is "pre-programmed" to "expect" a particular format of that command.
For example, we know that adb push as a command expects after it . This means the command is actually
Code:
adb push
BUT if you put something AFTER , for example -
Code:
adb push somethingelse
, it will assume that the "somethingelse" is a bad parameter, and the command will fail. It will probably display (or "print" which is the technical term in a terminal) a helpful guide of how the command should be used instead of trying to run the command which it does not understand.
You're probably wondering why I am telling you this. Well quite simply, it is a warning about folder names. Imagine you have c:\users\rootSU\My Documents as a folder. You assume the command is then
Code:
adb pull /data/media/0 c:\users\rootSU\My Documents
but it is not... There is a space in between My and Documents. What you have actually done is
Code:
adb pull Documents
because it uses a space to signify the end of a command or parameter. It is best to avoid using folders with spaces in them. Avoid as much as you can. In the event it is unavoidable (Although when is it ever>) then please surround the path with quotation marks,
Code:
adb pull /data/media/0 "c:\users\rootSU\My Documents"
so that way, it sees everything between the " " as a single parameter.
Myth Busters
Myth 1: You need USB debugging on to use adb and fastboot
If you cannot boot into Android, it doesn't matter. You DO NOT need USB Debugging turned on to use adb outside of android. USB Debugging is an Android ONLY setting. Fastboot obviously also does not need debugging either as this too is outside of Android
Myth 2: to adb push or fastboot flash files, they must be in the same folder as adb or fastboot executables. Sorry but this is rubbish. You can pass the full path of the image you're flashing or file you're pushing in the command and fastboot / adb can be called system wide if you've set them as an environment variable or used the 15 second installer
This should absolutely be a sticky!!
Sent from my EVO using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Evolution_Freak said:
This should absolutely be a sticky!!
Sent from my EVO using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I created it specifically to put in the general sticky in my signature. Section 1a and 4
Great work @rootSU definitely should be sticky!
psycho693 said:
Great work @rootSU definitely should be sticky!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Its in there. All in the main sticky thread
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
rootSU said:
Thanks. Its in there. All in the main sticky thread
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It helps a lot because I have been looking for a good guide to pull system files while the phone is running
psycho693 said:
It helps a lot because I have been looking for a good guide to pull system files while the phone is running
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool
The main thing for me was we had a diagnosis thread and we had a full guide for rooting or returning to stock but nothing to answer the how to set up or how to adb push basic questions... I've seen several threads today alone
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Very cool, didn't actually know the push/pull commands or that driver you reference
wonderful(really wonderful)!
but i cant find the start button on this toolkit.. :silly:
simms22 said:
wonderful(really wonderful)!
but i cant find the start button on this toolkit.. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LMAO! rootSU, this is freakin awesome. Every thread that I find complaining about issues with toolkits will be redirected here. If this isn't stickied it should be a crime.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda premium
I suggested to the mods that we have just one sticky in general that has all the threads we believe to be Stickies within it. That way we can control it ourselves but without making it messy, so we have that now ( see signature).
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Thanks for listing my Nexus Tools
corbin052198 said:
Thanks for listing my Nexus Tools
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for making them
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
simms22 said:
wonderful(really wonderful)!
but i cant find the start button on this toolkit.. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do I flash the toolkit? I think its bricked :silly:
Good thread.
Amazingly detailed thread. There's no way to mess up reading this thread, the noobs will definitely learn if they can do the reading first that is.
I will laugh when a noob asks, "fastboot? It takes about a minute for me to boot!"
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I'm not sure what this all is, but awesome guide!!!!
? I'll be frequently linking this too.
Good job my friend, i am sure it's really helpful for a lot of people
Tapatalk Team SlimRoms
Added the below section about using command prompt. Hopefully a little more detail should help.
A little more about using Windows command prompt
One thing to understand is that like Windows, command prompt (cmd.exe) works with directories (or folders if you like). The Linux and Mac terminals are the same, but most linux users, we expect you would already know this.
Here you will see I have downloaded a recovery image that I want to flash using fastboot.
As you can see, the recovery.img is located in C:\users\rootSU\Desktop
Usually when you open the command prompt from the start menu, or run command, the command prompt will default to your user location as seen below:
So lets try and fastboot flash recovery recovery.img...
It fails with a not-too-accurate error message. It has failed because you have not told it where the recovery image is. It assumes it is in the directory as listed in the prompt
So, how do we deal with this? Well, there are 3 ways.
1) We tell the command prompt where the recovery.img actully is in the command itself
Success! As you can see, we have told the command that the location for the file is Desktop\recovery.img
2) We can change the directory in command prompt to the directory where the file is. In this example, we change directory to "Desktop". The change directory command is "cd <directory>" or in this case "cd Desktop"
3) ...and possibly the simplest method. We hold shift whilst we right-click on the folder we want to change directory to, and directly open a command prompt there:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Added a bit more about using directory paths with spaces.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
After a week with my new nexus, it's time for a litlle fun... But first must say thank you for this explanation.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk 2

[how to]remove your "tampered" banner

*this thread is for desire 510 it will NOT work on m7(or anything older). search your device general forum for a specific thread
if you have recently s-off'ed using an exploit that did not remove your tampered banner from the bootloader screen,then this thread is for you.
*you must be s off.
*you must have superuser installed
read this:
this will not work if your s on
the usual disclaimers:
i have tested this my cricket desire 510 variant(a11_ul),but use this info at your own risk. if it melts your phone into a little pile of plastic goo,its not my fault.
credits
-beaups for schooling me on echo command protocol
--strace for originally discovering the location of the lock status flag(check out this thread for more info) wich started off my love for chasing such things.
IF you are an advanced user with adb/fastboot set up and some basic knowlede of the cmd window,you can skip to #2
1)set up adb(windows 7 and lower)
-download this file
-install drivers: if you have htc sync installed,you should allready have drivers. if not,you can install htc sync,or install these modified htc drivers from revolutionary (driver mirror)
-unzip your miniadb_v1031.zip file. this is native funtionality in windows 7. you otherwise may need a utility such as "7-zip" to extract,or unzip it. place the unzipped folder onto the root of your C drive on your PC. root means the top level,not inside any folders. so just copy and paste,or drag and drop the folder onto C with everything else that is there. you may want to rename it to "miniadb_m7" since youll be putting some device specific files in here.
-open a command window. on windows 7,click the start bubble in the lower left and type "command" in the search box. xp i believe is similar or the same. doing this should open a small black command window.
-change to your miniadb_m7 directory. type the following at the prompt in your cmd window:
cd c:\miniadb_m7
your command promt should change to "c:miniadb_m7>" provided you: 1)unzipped the miniadb_v1031 zip file,and 2)put the folder on your c drive,and 3)entered the name of the folder correctly ("miniadb_m7" in this case)
-now make sure usb debugging is checked in developer options(you will need to turn it on first),and plug your phone into your PC with a usb cable
-make sure your phone is being recognized- type:
adb devices
if your drivers are installed correctly,this should return your phones serial number. you should hear the "found device" noises when you plug your phone in. if it starts installing drivers,wait for it to finish before typing the adb devices command.
if you get your serial number back,then enter this command:
adb reboot bootloader
this should take your phone to the "fastboot" screen,wich is white with colored letters. this is one mode of your bootloaders interactive modes. at the top youll see fastboot devices as confirmation youre in fastboot.
now enter:
fastboot devices
again,this should return your phones serial number. you should hear the "found device" noises when you plug your phone in. if it starts installing drivers,wait for it to finish before typing the adb devices command.
if you get your serial number back,you can enter the following to boot back to the phones OS:
fastboot reboot
and now,youve installed adb/fastboot and tested youre phones drivers. if at either spot,you have trouble and dont get your serial number back,there is some sort of connection issue. use these steps to troubleshoot:
troubleshooting connectivity issues:
-try a reboot of the PC
-try different usb cables and ports
-dont use a usb hub
-dont use usb 3.0
-make sure nothing capable of comunicating with the phone is enabled and running. htc sync,pdanet,easy tether,and even itunes have all been known to cause issues.
-windows 8 has been known to have issues. try a windows 7 or older machine
failing the above,
-i use these drivers for fastboot and adb(donwload and run as admin): http://downloads.unrevoked.com/HTCDriver3.0.0.007.exe (mirror)
failing that,try manually updating the drivers in the following manner:
-put the phone in fastboot mode(select fastboot from the hboot menu)
-open device manager on the PC
-plug in phone,watch for it to pop up in device manager.
-update drivers with device manager,pointing the wizard to the extracted
driver download folder from above
note that you can check the connectivity of the phone,and make sure drivers are working by in the following manner:
-open cmd window. change to directory containing adb/fastboot utilities
-adb with the phone in the booted OS,usb debug enabled,enter:
adb devices in a cmd window
-fastboot with phone in fastboot,enter:
fastboot devices in cmd window
in either case,a properly connected phone with working drivers installed should report back the phones serial number.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this process,in your cmd window,should look something like this:
Code:
Microsoft Windows [Version 6.1.7601]
Copyright (c) 2009 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
C:\Users\Scott>[COLOR="red"]cd c:\miniadb_m7[/COLOR]
c:\miniadb_m7>adb devices
* daemon not running. starting it now on port 5037 *
* daemon started successfully *
List of devices attached
FAxxxxxxxxxx device
c:\miniadb_m7>[COLOR="red"]adb reboot bootloader[/COLOR]
c:\miniadb_m7>[COLOR="red"]fastboot devices[/COLOR]
FAxxxxxxxxxx fastboot
c:\miniadb_m7>[COLOR="red"]fastboot reboot[/COLOR]
rebooting...
finished. total time: 0.037s
c:\miniadb_m7>
2)reset your "tampered flag"
enter the following:
adb devices
adb shell
su (if needed to get a # prompt)
echo -ne '\x00' | dd of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p6 bs=1 seek=5314564
(i would very strongly recomend you copy/paste this)
exit
(exit a second time if you need to to get back to a normal > prompt)
adb reboot bootloader
verify tamered is gone
other useful threads:
lock/unlock without htcdev: http://forum.xda-developers.com/desire-510/general/how-to-lock-unlock-bootloader-htcdevs-t3179874
if this does not work for you
*first reread this thread in its entirety. make sure you have met the prerequisites,and double check your code and make sure you have not forgotten a step,or screwed something up trying to type it (especially if using a terminal emulator),and check that you have not gotten any errors.
if youre still confident you did things correctly,you need to PM me:
1)the results of: fastboot getvar all
2)a link to an uploaded p6.
you get fastboot getvar all by:
-place phone in fastboot
-enter in fastboot getvar all right click,click mark,highlight in white,hit enter or right click to copy
you dump p6 by:
adb shell
su (if needed to get a #)
dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p6 of=/sdcard/mmcblk0p6
transfer the file on internal storage to your pc and upload it
im not trying to be a ****,but its not helpful to post "didnt work" if you screwed something up,or if your not willing to help find a solution. especially if others have found it to work on their same variant.
important:
from now on,i will need a copy of your cmd window as well if we want to get to the bottom of whats happening. some folks seem to be simply writing extra bytes,wich is screwing up the flag location. please make sure this shows an entire session,not just a last part where it looks correct. we cant figure it out if you only show part of what you did.
one more
scotty1223 said:
one more
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
btw.32bit Desire 510 Cricket support WCDMA?
bl4ckluna said:
btw.32bit Desire 510 Cricket support WCDMA?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes
Sent from my HUAWEI ALE-L04 using Tapatalk
find Problem....that device only Support WCDMA USA Band....not support ASIA (
Correct me, please.
Correct me if I'm wrong, please! But isn't the only way, currently, to get S-off for our phone, is to pay $25 when using Sunshine?
JimFritzMI said:
Correct me if I'm wrong, please! But isn't the only way, currently, to get S-off for our phone, is to pay $25 when using Sunshine?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sunshine is one way to skin the cat. I am Not sure if there are others
Sent from my HUAWEI ALE-L04 using Tapatalk
That seems like an elusive answer...
scotty1223 said:
Sunshine is one way to skin the cat. I am Not sure if there are others
Sent from my HUAWEI ALE-L04 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Almost as if there were other ways...
I seriously considered paying for it to be done, when I first started. However, I can't seem to find a reason to do so.
this is great. but how do you get S-OFF on the desire 510.
also if you get S-OFF won't that void the warranty anyway?

[Guide] How to Unlock and Magisk Root on Stock OOS 9.0.7 (For Beginners)

NOTE: Since I am a semi-amateur at unlocking/rooting, this is not independent development. Instead, I noticed these forums don't seem to have a single one-stop guide that lays out the process for safely rooting the latest (9.0.7) Oxygen OS 9.0.7. This process may seem obvious to experts, but for people who are rusty or new to this, I wanted a process that didn't require lots of extra cross-referencing and research. I hope this is ok.
Big thanks to Dameon87 who supplied the patched boot rom, and deserves all the credit for the actual hard work with the patched boot image.
STEP 1: PREPARATION
Check that your phone is on 9.0.7.
On PC: Download patched_boot-9.0.7.img and MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk from Dameon87's thread ( https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6t/how-to/9-0-7-patched-magisk-boot-img-t3875498 ) . Download ADB Tools if you don't have them ( https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools#download ) and extract to a folder. Copy patched_boot-9.0.7.img to your PC’s ADB root directory (the directory with fastboot.exe and adb.exe).
On phone: Boot into OOS. Navigate to Setup->About Phone. Tap Build Number until you turn on Developer Options.
On phone: Navigate to System->Developer Options. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.
STEP 2: UNLOCKING
Connect your phone to your PC. Click ok on the OEM Debugging prompt on your phone.
On PC: Open a command prompt [Windows: Start->type "cmd.exe"], and navigate to the ADB tools directory. Run this command in the command prompt:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
The phone should reboot to the bootloader.
On PC: When phone finishes rebooting to the bootloader, run this command in the command prompt:
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
IMPORTANT: ALL DATA WILL BE ERASED WHEN YOU DO THIS, INCLUDING ANY PERSONAL DATA, TEXTS, PHOTOS, MUSIC, ETC. If the phone has been used, please move your files off your device first! The phone will take some time to factory reset.
On Phone: Repeat Preparation Steps 3-4 to turn back on OEM Debugging in OOS.
STEP 3: INSTALLING MAGISK
On PC: Copy MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk to the phone.
On PC: In the command prompt window, run this command (note this .img file should be in the adb.exe and fastboot.exe directory):
Code:
fastboot boot patched_boot-9.0.7.img
Phone will reboot.
On Phone: Use a file manager app to install MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk (I use Astro or ES, but admittedly there are probably better ones out there).
On Phone: Open the Magisk Manager App, agree to the setup popup, and click install. When prompted, choose Direct Install.
On Phone: Reboot.
On Phone: In the OS, open Magisk Manager again and add MagiskHide exceptions.
This enabled all apps that I typically need SafetyNet for, including Pokemon Go, Netflix and Google Pay, as well as of course all root apps like TItanium Backup.
Again, apologies if this seems basic, but I hope this is useful for some who don't know all of the inner workings of android unlocking and rooting by heart. If you have any improvements, feel free to suggest them.
You need to change adb oem unlock to fastboot oem unlock. Otherwise good job!
Dameon87 said:
You need to change adb oem unlock to fastboot oem unlock. Otherwise good job!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, thanks! Fixed.
Does OTA update lock bootloader?
BesoC said:
Does OTA update lock bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No it doesn't, the root will be lost though.
geminium said:
No it doesn't, the root will be lost though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also a semi amateur at unlocking/rooting so I'm the target audience of the OP.
Ready to get my hands dirty and try it out. Last time I rooted it was on my old phone before Magisk was a thing.
I ended up not updating out of laziness.
Does magisk make OTA updates / keeping the phone up to date easier?
What's the best method for doing so if you want to keep your phone rooted?
spudsrus said:
I'm also a semi amateur at unlocking/rooting so I'm the target audience of the OP.
Ready to get my hands dirty and try it out. Last time I rooted it was on my old phone before Magisk was a thing.
I ended up not updating out of laziness.
Does magisk make OTA updates / keeping the phone up to date easier?
What's the best method for doing so if you want to keep your phone rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there's quite detailed procedure explained on the forum. You'll find easily...
In general, you have to restore images in magisk, then install OOS OTA update, then install magisk to inactive slot... It's one of the easiest steps for keeping root and be up to date .
I've been rooting for almost a decade and I am grateful for this. I don't know why some of these devs always assume you know when their talking about using a PC or running shell commands. Lol. Everyone started as a noob.
Sent from my OnePlus6TSingle using XDA Labs
ScaryBugThing said:
NOTE: Since I am a semi-amateur at unlocking/rooting, this is not independent development. Instead, I noticed these forums don't seem to have a single one-stop guide that lays out the process for safely rooting the latest (9.0.7) Oxygen OS 9.0.7. This process may seem obvious to experts, but for people who are rusty or new to this, I wanted a process that didn't require lots of extra cross-referencing and research. I hope this is ok.
Big thanks to Dameon87 who supplied the patched boot rom, and deserves all the credit for the actual hard work with the patched boot image.
STEP 1: PREPARATION
Check that your phone is on 9.0.7.
On PC: Download patched_boot-9.0.7.img and MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk from Dameon87's thread ( https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6t/how-to/9-0-7-patched-magisk-boot-img-t3875498 ) . Download ADB Tools if you don't have them ( https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools#download ) and extract to a folder. Copy patched_boot-9.0.7.img to your PC’s ADB root directory (the directory with fastboot.exe and adb.exe).
On phone: Boot into OOS. Navigate to Setup->About Phone. Tap Build Number until you turn on Developer Options.
On phone: Navigate to System->Developer Options. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.
STEP 2: UNLOCKING
Connect your phone to your PC. Click ok on the OEM Debugging prompt on your phone.
On PC: Open a command prompt [Windows: Start->type "cmd.exe"], and navigate to the ADB tools directory. Run this command in the command prompt:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
The phone should reboot to the bootloader.
On PC: When phone finishes rebooting to the bootloader, run this command in the command prompt:
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
IMPORTANT: ALL DATA WILL BE ERASED WHEN YOU DO THIS, INCLUDING ANY PERSONAL DATA, TEXTS, PHOTOS, MUSIC, ETC. If the phone has been used, please move your files off your device first! The phone will take some time to factory reset.
On Phone: Repeat Preparation Steps 3-4 to turn back on OEM Debugging in OOS.
STEP 3: INSTALLING MAGISK
On PC: Copy MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk to the phone.
On PC: In the command prompt window, run this command (note this .img file should be in the adb.exe and fastboot.exe directory):
Code:
fastboot boot patched_boot-9.0.7.img
Phone will reboot.
On Phone: Use a file manager app to install MagiskManager-v6.0.1.apk (I use Astro or ES, but admittedly there are probably better ones out there).
On Phone: Open the Magisk Manager App, agree to the setup popup, and click install. When prompted, choose Direct Install.
On Phone: Reboot.
On Phone: In the OS, open Magisk Manager again and add MagiskHide exceptions.
This enabled all apps that I typically need SafetyNet for, including Pokemon Go, Netflix and Google Pay, as well as of course all root apps like TItanium Backup.
Again, apologies if this seems basic, but I hope this is useful for some who don't know all of the inner workings of android unlocking and rooting by heart. If you have any improvements, feel free to suggest them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate a bit more on how you got Pokemon Go working.
OS. 9.0.2 Magisk v18. Successfully rooted.
I'm selecting Pokemon Go under Magisk hide. But it still detects it. PoKe will sometimes run for about 30 secs then it gives me the error incompatible os.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Ok I'm new to this as well..I'm trying to understand the patched boot img part...so do u need the patched boot img for whichever oos ur currently running so to install magisk cleanly is that it...also I can't find the tutorial on how to install the ota's after ur rooted to where everything doesn't get erased etc..I need sumone to point me in the right area to look..I found a lil bit on it once but now I can't seem to find it..thx to everyone in this great community for all the time and effort all put into this. It's so easy to overlook all the hard work that gets done behind the scenes..so I just thank u personally for what u do for us...

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