Does it present any security issues to unlock a bootloader without rooting? I don't mean if you lose your phone, I mean is there a security issue with any apps you install?
That's always a risk. Read playstore comments before installing anything.
Has nothing to do with being rooted or not...or boot loader state.
Sent from my Moto X cellular telephone...
Cozume said:
Does it present any security issues to unlock a bootloader without rooting? I don't mean if you lose your phone, I mean is there a security issue with any apps you install?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could have asked at AC and I would answer it over there.
Unlocking bootloader and/or running custom recovery is a big risk. When you unlocked bootloader, all the partitions in your phone can be accessed and modified. I can flash custom recovery to your phone. Custom recovery give full root access to the phone. It is then easily possible to copy all your data from the phone and also disable the lock for your phone. Although if you encrypt your phone, then custom recovery will require the password to give access to the /data partition, which is where all the user datas are. I guess if someone is determine enough, then they can make an image copy of your phone and try to decrypt it.
If you want to keep your data safe, disable USB Debugging (because exploits can be used with ADB to gain access to the phone), use stock recovery and lock bootloader. However, if the phone brick then you can't get back your data in the phone.
eksasol said:
Unlocking bootloader and/or running custom recovery is a big risk. When you unlocked bootloader, all the partitions in your phone can be accessed and modified.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but can an app do this? And if so, what permissions would the app need to do this. Also, I am not talking about flashing a custom recovery; just an unlocked bootloader.
eksasol said:
If you want to keep your data safe, disable USB Debugging (because exploits can be used with ADB to gain access to the phone), use stock recovery and lock bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but can an app do harm to your phone if you have USB debugging enabled? I know a person who finds your phone can. I am asking about apps.
Cozume said:
but can an app do this? And if so, what permissions would the app need to do this. Also, I am not talking about flashing a custom recovery; just an unlocked bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the phone isn't root, then probably not, unless there is some security holes it can exploit. With root it is possible to modify the whole system. Motorola and HTC have an extra layer to prevent simple root to modify the system partition, but as you can see, just visit dev section if you want to remove it.
but can an app do harm to your phone if you have USB debugging enabled? I know a person who finds your phone can. I am asking about apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is possible for apps to get access to sensitive data and change system settings with USB Debugging enabled. Helium required it turned on to make backup of your contacts, sms and apps data for example.
If you have an older Android phone, you don't need to do anything except to enable USB Debugging and run a program to install root. But we're trusting apps like SuperUser and SuperSU to control apps access to root, so that's a layer of protection. But KitKat is much safer now.
You don't need root to install malware and virus to your phone. Just download an infected app or use unreliable app stores like Aptoide. Also if you have the option "Unknown sources" enabled, which almost all of us do, the app can utilize it to automatically install other apps in the background.
Point I'm trying to make is, if the phone have unlocked bootloader, or even locked bootloader with custom recovery, and someone else have a hold of it, then all bets are off.
eksasol said:
If the phone isn't root, then probably not, unless there is some security holes it can exploit. With root it is possible to modify the whole system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
great, that is what I want to know. I knew a human being in possession of your phone could do more damage if it were unlocked, which is why I got rid of the bootloader unlocked warning message.
BTW - do you know if flashing the original kit kat boot logo to replace the bootloader warning message presents a problem for accepting the OTA update to 4.4.2?
eksasol said:
Motorola and HTC have an extra layer to prevent simple root to modify the system partition, but as you can see, just visit dev section if you want to remove it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok so then on my Moto X, since flashing a new logo doesn't even require root, it shouldn't have affected any system files and then it would be safe to take the OTA after removing the bootloader unlocked warning?
eksasol said:
It is possible for apps to get access to sensitive data and change system settings with USB Debugging enabled. Helium required it turned on to make backup of your contacts, sms and apps data for example.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good to know!
eksasol said:
But we're trusting apps like SuperUser and SuperSU to control apps access to root, so that's a layer of protection.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, that is how I understand it. Unless I give the app access to root through SuperSU, it can't.
eksasol said:
But KitKat is much safer now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
why is this?
eksasol said:
Also if you have the option "Unknown sources" enabled, which almost all of us do, the app can utilize it to automatically install other apps in the background.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, Amazon app store required that to be enabled to load apps from their app store.
Cozume said:
great, that is what I want to know. I knew a human being in possession of your phone could do more damage if it were unlocked, which is why I got rid of the bootloader unlocked warning message.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BTW - do you know if flashing the original kit kat boot logo to replace the bootloader warning message presents a problem for accepting the OTA update to 4.4.2?
Ok so then on my Moto X, since flashing a new logo doesn't even require root, it shouldn't have affected any system files and then it would be safe to take the OTA after removing the bootloader unlocked warning?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That depend on the checking that the dev put in the OTA package. On the Nexus device, if you are missing any original system APK, modify the radio partition, modify GPS setting file, or modify the build.prop, etc, the OTA will fail. So I assume the same with Moto X OTA. The safest bet is to make sure all the partition are original first (except the /data partition where your data resides) before receiving an OTA.
ok, that is how I understand it. Unless I give the app access to root through SuperSU, it can't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. The actual component of root isn't the SuperSU app, but a 'su' binary. Without the SuperSU app, anything can have full fledged root access. You need SuperSU to control that access.
why is this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For many reason, I'm not a developer so I can only talk about what I know and seen from a user perspective. It used to be that you can flash an exploited update.zip to modify the stock recovery of Android, in order to make it ignore the package signatures, so the recovery could flash any package without the correct signature. Now there are no such exploits for latest stock recovery. With USB Debugging enabled in Android 4.3 or newer, it would not even allow access when connected to a PC unless you accept to trust that PC in a pop up dialog in the phone, I'm not sure if it's mean the phone is totally invulnerable to exploits (like memory overflow), you'll have to ask someone smarter. Also apps like Framaroot that I just linked won't work anymore.
eksasol said:
That depend on the checking that the dev put in the OTA package. On the Nexus device, if you are missing any original system APK, modify the radio partition, modify GPS setting file, or modify the build.prop, etc, the OTA will fail. So I assume the same with Moto X OTA. The safest bet is to make sure all the partition are original first (except the /data partition where your data resides) before receiving an OTA. My guess is if you tried it with modified logo it will either fail or overwrite it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, I think I am going to unroot and flash back to stock just to be sure.
Thanks again! I would hit the thanks button but I used up all my thanks today and it won't let me.
Cozume said:
OK, I think I am going to unroot and flash back to stock just to be sure.
Thanks again! I would hit the thanks button but I used up all my thanks today and it won't let me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You already gave me enough thanks at AC.
eksasol said:
You already gave me enough thanks at AC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what is your user name there?
Cozume said:
what is your user name there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
someguy
Why so paranoid? Have you read any posts on xda of such things....I haven't.
If you are sideloading apps the risk increases for sure. But apps on the play store would have tonnes of comments about it if the app was screwing up the system.
Sent from my Moto X cellular telephone...
eksasol said:
someguy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok great!
kj2112 said:
Why so paranoid? Have you read any posts on xda of such things....I haven't.
If you are sideloading apps the risk increases for sure. But apps on the play store would have tonnes of comments about it if the app was screwing up the system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am just trying to understand how all of this works.
Okay one thing why are you trying to unlock the bootloader without rooting?? Or did I read everything wrong? And yes unlocking the bootloader allows you to write to every partition of the phone. Except when HTC and you're s-on you have to manually flash the boot.img via fastboot. But with moto. There is no point in unlocking the bootloader if you're not doing anything. Two it voids your warranty. Three it can disable functions on your phone like features, camera options I think and yeah etc. But if you follow instructions you won't have any problems ever rooting or shouldn't if you semi have a brain and know how to follow instructions if not well you can somewhat brick :$ I don't mess with moto much but I have. Sorry this thread was in my latest and scrolling through xda. Lol. You can unlock you're phone straight from the moto website. But if you're not rooting. Eh no point.
Sent from my Rezound using xda-developers app. CyanogenMod 11. S-off
I just read this thread, particularly page 2 why we can't relock the Motorola bootloader (yet it seems), unlike Nexus devices, I think it's really bad for security.
edit: link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2575586&page=2
pball52998 said:
Okay one thing why are you trying to unlock the bootloader without rooting??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I rooted but a friend of mine is unlocked but not rooted. She wanted to be unlocked because it wipes your device so wanted to do it before she got the phone all set up. She is afraid of rooting. Anyhow, maybe she shouldn't have unlocked but she did.
pball52998 said:
There is no point in unlocking the bootloader if you're not doing anything. Two it voids your warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
She has the dev ed so it doesn't void her warranty. And she may want to Wifi tether in the future so I told her she needs to unlock and root for that so get the dev ed. She did and unlocked but is afraid to go any further.
pball52998 said:
You can unlock you're phone straight from the moto website. But if you're not rooting. Eh no point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It increases the phone's resale value to unlock it.
eksasol said:
I just read this thread, particularly page 2 why we can't relock the Motorola bootloader (yet it seems), unlike Nexus devices, I think it's really bad for security.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought I saw a thread where someone could relock the Moto X bootloader.
And what about this?
Re-Lock Your Bootloader
It should just be a command like fastboot_oem_lock or something but idk. And two if she has the dev edition. Root that thing!!! XD that's what it's for!! Just install twrp via goo manager. Wipe factory reset all that good stuff. After making a back up. Notice after backing up. Then flashing rom and gapps In that order. I mean its a lot easier than htc rezound or htc one, htc in general and such lol.
Sent from my crappy apple iPad.....
pball52998 said:
Wipe factory reset all that good stuff. After making a back up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, I didn't wipe and do a factory reset when I rooted so I guess I did it wrong, lol! That is what she is afraid of - not doing it right and messing up her phone.
And I don't have a backup, but do I really need one if I can flash the factory images?
Related
I was just Google searching hoping for some good news... And came across this posted yesterday...
http://www.youmobile.org/blogs/entry/Root-Moto-X-KitKat
... Any truth to that? And is it for any carrier, i.e att?
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
Links to a thread on here.
Yea I saw that, but they are not the same...
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
They want you to dl this http://www.cydiaimpactor.com/
Anyone know what it is?
Maybe it works for root....but write protection will be enabled. So all root changes will be lost on reboot or power down.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
Maybe it works for root....but write protection will be enabled. So all root changes will be lost on reboot or power down.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So here's my "dumb" question? Would apps like Greenify and Ti backup still possibly work since they just need root permissions, where as Xposed and other apps that need a reboot would be basically worthless?
jbaumert said:
So here's my "dumb" question? Would apps like Greenify and Ti backup still possibly work since they just need root permissions, where as Xposed and other apps that need a reboot would be basically worthless?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's other threads where this stuff gets talked about, but im pretty sure for things like that it would probably work. But any actual changes to anything would get reversed.
I've always been unlocked....so I don't have firsthand experience though.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
I'm not too sure about that root method.
Step 11 tells you to downgrade the Bootloader (MOTOBOOT.IMG) and GPT.BIN which is part of the security stuff. Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't those the main components involved with bricking when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 and lower?
But again, with a locked bootloader, as @kj2112 said, Write Protection will still be enabled.
KidJoe said:
I'm not too sure about that root method.
Step 11 tells you to downgrade the Bootloader (MOTOBOOT.IMG) and GPT.BIN which is part of the security stuff. Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't those the main components involved with bricking when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 and lower?
But again, with a locked bootloader, as @kj2112 said, Write Protection will still be enabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been a bit confused by allusions to rooting without write protection. Everyone says similar stuff to what you guys have said--well, without write protection disabled you'll lose root on reboot. I'd be okay with that, just avoid rebooting my phone and using stuff that requires a reboot to take effect. The only thing I really want root for is to see my partial wakelocks to be able to properly troubleshoot battery issues. I really like the stock Moto X ux. If I could, I'd probably use some Xposed modules too, but all I really really want is to get better insight into my wakelock situation. Elsewhere, though, I read that root is totally impossible on 4.4.2, unless you have an unlocked bootloader (which I obviously don't). So, is it possible to get root, even if it doesn't survive a soft reset?
Jumnhy said:
I've been a bit confused by allusions to rooting without write protection. Everyone says similar stuff to what you guys have said--well, without write protection disabled you'll lose root on reboot. I'd be okay with that, just avoid rebooting my phone and using stuff that requires a reboot to take effect. The only thing I really want root for is to see my partial wakelocks to be able to properly troubleshoot battery issues. I really like the stock Moto X ux. If I could, I'd probably use some Xposed modules too, but all I really really want is to get better insight into my wakelock situation. Elsewhere, though, I read that root is totally impossible on 4.4.2, unless you have an unlocked bootloader (which I obviously don't). So, is it possible to get root, even if it doesn't survive a soft reset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please see my response to you in the 4.2.2 to 4.4.2 thread.
kj2112 said:
Please see my response to you in the 4.2.2 to 4.4.2 thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, didn't realize until afterward it was the same voice in both threads.
Jumnhy said:
I've been a bit confused by allusions to rooting without write protection. Everyone says similar stuff to what you guys have said--well, without write protection disabled you'll lose root on reboot. I'd be okay with that, just avoid rebooting my phone and using stuff that requires a reboot to take effect. The only thing I really want root for is to see my partial wakelocks to be able to properly troubleshoot battery issues. I really like the stock Moto X ux. If I could, I'd probably use some Xposed modules too, but all I really really want is to get better insight into my wakelock situation. Elsewhere, though, I read that root is totally impossible on 4.4.2, unless you have an unlocked bootloader (which I obviously don't). So, is it possible to get root, even if it doesn't survive a soft reset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
take a read of -> http://mark.cdmaforums.com/MotoX-LockedRoot.html
Root itself is not lost on reboot, only changes done to the /system folder and other protected places.
But yes, if you already have 4.4.2 on your phone, and can't unlock your bootloader, you won't be able to root.
Jumnhy said:
Thanks, didn't realize until afterward it was the same voice in both threads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where you found another same threads ?
DANIEL AMBRUSO said:
Where you found another same threads ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was just kj2112 explaining a similar issue to me. Check it out, but essentially my understanding is that there's no root for 4.4.2 if the phone never had root previously (ie, if you naively took the OTA like me without thnking about implications for root.
---------- Post added at 10:01 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:56 PM ----------
KidJoe said:
take a read of -> http://mark.cdmaforums.com/MotoX-LockedRoot.html
Root itself is not lost on reboot, only changes done to the /system folder and other protected places.
But yes, if you already have 4.4.2 on your phone, and can't unlock your bootloader, you won't be able to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Solid, thanks for the concise summary. I'd read jcase's posts a while back about a potential exploit--something about using it in a teaching session at BlackHat? He even says though, that the exploit he has will probably never be useful for the average user insofar as it would be too hard to implement and n00bz like myself would end up bricking our phones. So I'm not holding my breath on that one. Ugh. Sad I missed the window for the Chinese connection. Should have jumped on it.
The Tallest said:
Links to a thread on here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Works with 4.4 and post-camera 4.2.2, but if you take the OTA to 4.-4-.2 it upgrades your bootloader and you lose the ability to turn write protection off ; root is pretty much useless at that point.
I have the Republic Wireless XT1049 and did the upgrade shown here and have 4.4.2 with write protect off.
Do not attempt this if you are already running 4.4.2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your bootloader is already changed and you run a big risk of bricking if you try to downgrade to the 4.2.2 bootloader!!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...ireless-moto-x-kitkat-4-t2738233/post52348028
As usual, read the instructions carefully.
Then read through the posts! Different rooters had different issues!
AFAIK no one bricked though.
glarepate said:
Works with 4.4 and post-camera 4.2.2, but if you take the OTA to 4.-4-.2 it upgrades your bootloader and you lose the ability to turn write protection off ; root is pretty much useless at that point.
I have the Republic Wireless XT1049 and did the upgrade shown here and have 4.4.2 with write protect off.
Do not attempt this if you are already running 4.4.2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your bootloader is already changed and you run a big risk of bricking if you try to downgrade to the 4.2.2 bootloader!!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...ireless-moto-x-kitkat-4-t2738233/post52348028
As usual, read the instructions carefully.
Then read through the posts! Different rooters had different issues!
AFAIK no one bricked though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The steps in the thread you link to are how to use use 4.4.2 via Safestrap, which does add a layer of complexity. It is the only option to take 4.4.2 IF you have a locked bootloader and are rooted and write protection disabled. And many do have good luck with it, so it is an option IF your phone is still on 4.4.
If I understand correctly, each safestrap rom is unique for the carrier.. in other words, you can't use the Republic Wireless SS rom if you are on Verizon. You can't use the Verizon SS rom if you are on ATT, etc. (for example, they were waiting on the ATT 4.4.2 SBF to create a SS Rom for the ATT X).
KidJoe said:
The steps in the thread you link to are how to use use 4.4.2 via Safestrap, which does add a layer of complexity. It is the only option to take 4.4.2 IF you have a locked bootloader and are rooted and write protection disabled. And many do have good luck with it, so it is an option IF your phone is still on 4.4.
If I understand correctly, each safestrap rom is unique for the carrier.. in other words, you can't use the Republic Wireless SS rom if you are on Verizon. You can't use the Verizon SS rom if you are on ATT, etc. (for example, they were waiting on the ATT 4.4.2 SBF to create a SS Rom for the ATT X).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you have already gone to 4.4.2 you are out of luck.
I'm using the T-Mobile SafeStrap Recovery with my RW Moto X. This was done by a Franken-ROM process that uses the 4.4.2 ROM without using the 4.4.2 bootloader and using the SS recovery to flash a zip file with some components of the 4.4.2 ROM and then flashing SuperSU. Whether or not it should be working, it is. Nothing I can, or want to, do about that.
But I am sure you are right that this resultant ROM would not work on phones from other carriers. Versions for other carriers are being developed though. It may simply be a matter of time and interest by motivated individuals until this is available for just about everyone.
I've unlocked the bootloader and rooted the phone with the help of the Nexus Root Toolkit by WugFresh.
I now have it setup just how I want it and I don't want an OTA to kill root or change anything so something stops working (phone isn't for me, but I've set it up just right for someone with special needs).
I've read conflicting information on whether or not an OTA will actually install on a rooted phone or not. Some things say that it won't if you've changed anything at all while others say it might be possible.
Is there some system file I can rename or something to ensure the phone doesn't get a system update unless I do it manually?
LaTropa64 said:
I've unlocked the bootloader and rooted the phone with the help of the Nexus Root Toolkit by WugFresh.
I now have it setup just how I want it and I don't want an OTA to kill root or change anything so something stops working (phone isn't for me, but I've set it up just right for someone with special needs).
I've read conflicting information on whether or not an OTA will actually install on a rooted phone or not. Some things say that it won't if you've changed anything at all while others say it might be possible.
Is there some system file I can rename or something to ensure the phone doesn't get a system update unless I do it manually?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no matter how many times you will try to update via ota, you will not be able to. if any files change from stock, any at all, you wont be able to install an ota. especially with root.
LaTropa64 said:
I've unlocked the bootloader and rooted the phone with the help of the Nexus Root Toolkit by WugFresh.
I now have it setup just how I want it and I don't want an OTA to kill root or change anything so something stops working (phone isn't for me, but I've set it up just right for someone with special needs).
I've read conflicting information on whether or not an OTA will actually install on a rooted phone or not. Some things say that it won't if you've changed anything at all while others say it might be possible.
Is there some system file I can rename or something to ensure the phone doesn't get a system update unless I do it manually?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root solved your problem ha ha
simms22 said:
no matter how many times you will try to update via ota, you will not be able to. if any files change from stock, any at all, you wont be able to install an ota. especially with root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And sometimes, even if one is 100% stock, those pesky OTAs won't install.
cam30era said:
And sometimes, even if one is 100% stock, those pesky OTAs won't install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
right. any system file changes prevent install.
Awesome. Thanks.
Will it even attempt to install an update, and if so, does it only attempt once and then give up so you don't get stuck in a loop?
Install a custom recovery. Done. OTAs require the stock recovery in order to flash files.
LaTropa64 said:
Awesome. Thanks.
Will it even attempt to install an update, and if so, does it only attempt once and then give up so you don't get stuck in a loop?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
itll only attemp if you let it(it needs your approval to update), otherwise itll only tell you that an update is available. if you let it, itll try, but fail. if you boot up, youll be where you were before.
Apparently I rooted it incorrectly because it was able to update. I just got a call and the phone had rebooted and went through optimizing X of X apps and now many of the tasker profiles I had set are no longer working.
It wouldn't have optimized a bunch of apps if it hadn't updated the OS, or no?
LaTropa64 said:
Apparently I rooted it incorrectly because it was able to update. I just got a call and the phone had rebooted and went through optimizing X of X apps and now many of the tasker profiles I had set are no longer working.
It wouldn't have optimized a bunch of apps if it hadn't updated the OS, or no?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can always look at your android version in aboy phone, to see if it updated or not.
LaTropa64 said:
Apparently I rooted it incorrectly because it was able to update. I just got a call and the phone had rebooted and went through optimizing X of X apps and now many of the tasker profiles I had set are no longer working.
It wouldn't have optimized a bunch of apps if it hadn't updated the OS, or no?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll find update or not optimizing apps happens a lot especially if you clear cache etc...
Your fine otas can't install with root
Just flash twrp it will cone in handy incase you brick it one day you'll have twrp to fastboot fix or sideload a rom to recover from.
ONE NOTE: Never ever ever relock your bootloader with the toolkit you'll be screwed. Always leave bootlaoder unlocked. I just had to rma manufacturer phone replacement I relock mine with toolkit and couldn't flash stock firmware or oem unlock again.
Sent from my LGMS769 using XDA Free mobile app
simms22 said:
you can always look at your android version in aboy phone, to see if it updated or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll take a look the next time I get over there. It's not my phone, I just set it up for someone with accessibility issues and wanted it to stay the same as the day I set it up but apparently it's not done that.
Hi there, I've been unsuccessfully trying to root my Moto X since I got it. I know its possible but for the sake of my life, I can't figure it out. I'm hoping XDA members can help out since they probably know more.
Here are my system specs:
Carrier: AT&T
Android Version: 4.4.4
Baseband Version: MSM8960PRO_BP_2323.038.123.00R
Kernel Version: [email protected] ca88lnxdroid14 #1
System Version: 2.12.44.46.ghost_att.ATT.en.US
Build Number: KXA21.12-L1.26
Guess you missed the STICKED threads in the General section.. for example...
[One Stop Shop] How to root the Moto X - Let's end the confusion.
In the OP of that thread...
KidJoe said:
Locked bootloaders on Android 4.4.4
Unfortunately, there is no root method for you guys as of today. And again....no....you can't downgrade. Not without significant risk.
Update: There is a VERY RISKY method to root for Verizon and ATT 4.4.4 users that have a LOCKED bootloader. See -> Moto X Root AT&T/VZW [KXA21.12-L1.26] You are required to be on a particular firmware level, it does NOT disable write protection, it only roots. It is risky because it intentionally soft bricks the phone back to the Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As for why Write Protection is enabled... well.. its important.
When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on.
Even if you have root, if Write Protection is enabled, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that you try to install to /system when WP is enabled will either fail or be lost at power off/on.
KidJoe said:
Guess you missed the STICKED threads in the General section.. for example...
[One Stop Shop] How to root the Moto X - Let's end the confusion.
In the OP of that thread...
As for why Write Protection is enabled... well.. its important.
When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on.
Even if you have root, if Write Protection is enabled, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that you try to install to /system when WP is enabled will either fail or be lost at power off/on.
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I know that, I wasn't going for the "disable write protection". Obviously, there are still ways to gain root without disabling the WP or unlocking boot loader.
AndroidOkie said:
I know that, I wasn't going for the "disable write protection". Obviously, there are still ways to gain root without disabling the WP or unlocking boot loader.
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It can likely be done with MoFo (see the XDA paid software forum) but someone has to build the ext4 images with root and other features like Xposed baked in.
JulesJam said:
It can likely be done with MoFo (see the XDA paid software forum) but someone has to build the ext4 images with root and other features like Xposed baked in.
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Could you link me to that? Also, I'd probably pay to see it happen personally.
AndroidOkie said:
Could you link me to that? Also, I'd probably pay to see it happen personally.
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just search xda paid software mofo in google and you will hit it. The ATT XT1097 MX14 has been rooted but the dev hasn't opened it up for the XT1097 yet.
JulesJam said:
just search xda paid software mofo in google and you will hit it. The ATT XT1097 MX14 has been rooted but the dev hasn't opened it up for the XT1097 yet.
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Thank you for your help, I'll probably pay for it while assuring myself I know what to do haha.
AndroidOkie said:
Thank you for your help, I'll probably pay for it while assuring myself I know what to do haha.
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you can't yet. Someone has to make the image first and test it before the dev would open it up to your device. I am trying to make one for the XT1060 but I have to get the 4.4.4 system in ext4 format first.
I used this method after I unlocked with sunshine to remove king-root and replace it with SuperSU. It worked great for me. Kingroot is gone and i have a permanent root and SuperSU installed. I was wondering if there is someone else who has unlocked their boot-loader and not yet installed TWRP who can give it a shot to see if my expereince was a fluke or the norm. It would be a nice addition for people who want root but don't want TWRP installed for one reason or another.
I used the second link in his post.
Replace_Kinguser_with_SuperSU-v2.4.zip
http://www.w0lfdroid.com/2015/05/How-to-Remove-Replace-KingUser-KingRoot-with-SuperSU.html
Thank you
HT123 said:
I used this method after I unlocked with sunshine to remove king-root and replace it with SuperSU. It worked great for me. Kingroot is gone and i have a permanent root and SuperSU installed. I was wondering if there is someone else who has unlocked their boot-loader and not yet installed TWRP who can give it a shot to see if my expereince was a fluke or the norm. It would be a nice addition for people who want root but don't want TWRP installed for one reason or another.
I used the second link in his post.
Replace_Kinguser_with_SuperSU-v2.4.zip
http://www.w0lfdroid.com/2015/05/How-to-Remove-Replace-KingUser-KingRoot-with-SuperSU.html
Thank you
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I previously used the above method you posted to permanent root an LG Transpyre on 5.1.1 that did not have the bootloader unlocked. Glad to see someone else knows about it. :good:
Maybe it will work on a locked bootloader Turbo for those who don't want to unlock their phones but just want root.
classic757 said:
I previously used the above method you posted to permanent root an LG Transpyre on 5.1.1 that did not have the bootloader unlocked. Glad to see someone else knows about it. :good:
Maybe it will work on a locked bootloader Turbo for those who don't want to unlock their phones but just want root.
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Can not unlock booloader root? I do not have a visa. $ 25 is a huge amount to me
Thà nh67890 said:
Can not unlock booloader root? I do not have a visa. $ 25 is a huge amount to me
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I don't think that is the case.
What I said was you don't need to install a custom recovery.
Give it a shot report back though. Worst that can happen is it does not work.
HT123 said:
I don't think that is the case.
What I said was you don't need to install a custom recovery.
Give it a shot report back though. Worst that can happen is it does not work.
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Agreed. I was just pointing out that I was able to use kingroot and wolfdroid's method to permanent root a phone (albeit an lg phone) that had a locked bootloader. Other people also had success doing that as well on other brands of phones. Will it work on a Turbo with a locked bootloader? IDK. However I would not be surprised if it does. I had a Turbo with a locked bootloader but sold mine else I would try it myself.
classic757 said:
Agreed. I was just pointing out that I was able to use kingroot and wolfdroid's method to permanent root a phone (albeit an lg phone) that had a locked bootloader. Other people also had success doing that as well on other brands of phones. Will it work on a Turbo with a locked bootloader? IDK. However I would not be surprised if it does. I had a Turbo with a locked bootloader but sold mine else I would try it myself.
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I agree, i apologize if it it came off otherwise. I think the question is if the sunshine process removes the protection and allow writing to the system partition. I unlocked prior to making my root permanent so i cant test again but am very interested to see if it works with a locked boot loader
HT123 said:
I agree, i apologize if it it came off otherwise. I think the question is if the sunshine process removes the protection and allow writing to the system partition. I unlocked prior to making my root permanent so i cant test again but am very interested to see if it works with a locked boot loader
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My thinking it that it probably will work because temp root can be obtained on a locked bootloader Turbo with kingroot. It's just that kingroot is unstable and often times does not survive reboot. However, wolfdroid's method is similar to using SuperSu Me(or SuperSume). It removes kingroot and replaces it with SuperSu, which of course is more stable and survives reboot.
classic757 said:
My thinking it that it probably will work because temp root can be obtained on a locked bootloader Turbo with kingroot. It's just that kingroot is unstable and often times does not survive reboot. However, wolfdroid's method is similar to using SuperSu Me(or SuperSume). It removes kingroot and replaces it with SuperSu, which of course is more stable and survives reboot.
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If security is disabled and the system can write to the system partition it will work, if not, then I assume Sunshine disables it in the process of unlocking the boot-loader. Hopefully someone with a stock Turbo who was going to unlock anyway can verify.
Not sure why you wouldn't want a custom recovery. With custom recovery you can make backups of your entire phone image in case you screw something up. Many times in the past I've flashed something that didn't work as I expected. And with ROOT, if you flash something you can screw up something system-related. Very easy to boot back into TWRP recovery and restore the previous day's backup I had made. Like a time machine to erase your mistake.
And it's FREE. Doesn't cost anything.
Yes, with Titanium Backup (a powerful app) you can restore previous versions of an another app. (I choose to save 3 days worth of apps in Titanium Backup.) But with a TWRP custom recovery backup (also called a "nandroid"), you can save and restore the ENTIRE phone, including all system apps, all settings, everything. Very powerful, useful tool.
I wouldn't have a rooted phone without custom recovery. That's one of the main reasons I always buy phones where I can unlock the bootloader -- to install custom recovery (like TWRP or CW) and root.
If you screw something up and come asking for help, the first thing someone is going to ask is, "Did you make a backup?" And they are talking about a custom recovery backup.
ChazzMatt said:
Not sure why you wouldn't want a custom recovery. With custom recovery you can make backups of your entire phone image in case you screw something up. Many times in the past I've flashed something that didn't work as I expected. And with ROOT, if you flash something you can screw up something system-related. Very easy to boot back into TWRP recovery and restore the previous day's backup I had made. Like a time machine to erase your mistake.
And it's FREE. Doesn't cost anything.
Yes, with Titanium Backup (a powerful app) you can restore previous versions of an another app. (I choose to save 3 days worth of apps in Titanium Backup.) But with a TWRP custom recovery backup (also called a "nandroid"), you can save and restore the ENTIRE phone, including all system apps, all settings, everything. Very powerful, useful tool.
I wouldn't have a rooted phone without custom recovery. That's one of the main reasons I always buy phones where I can unlock the bootloader -- to install custom recovery (like TWRP or CW) and root.
If you screw something up and come asking for help, the first thing someone is going to ask is, "Did you make a backup?" And they are talking about a custom recovery backup.
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As far as why... some people like chocolate... some people like vanilla. The question is not the merits of a custom recovery, it is if one is required to have persistent root on the phone.
I personally don't care about a custom recovery. I prefer the stock rom at this point because without fail most custom roms have some minor bug that inevitably annoys the sh*t out of me. I want root because i want an ad blocker. I want an ad blocker because I use my phone as a proxy for web traffic on a computer with network monitoring software and i would prefer my internet traffic not be visible to my employer. There is zero reason for a custom recovery to do what i want to do.
I'm currently considering unrooting my turbo and relocking the bootloader but am not completely sure how. Looking for confirmation that I'll be doing it right.
1. Flash the fix to remove the unlocked bootloader warning
2. Uninstall all root apps (xposed and superSU)
3. Flash stock recovery
4. Fastboot oem lock
I'm already on the stock mm rom and I think I might have to flash a stock bootloader before the stock recovery, but not sure.
Thanks for any help.
Any reason why? Will be very hard -- almost impossible to unlock it again. OK, very hard.
subprime said:
1. Flash the fix to remove the unlocked bootloader warning
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THAT should have already been done, when you first unlocked the bootloader.
ChazzMatt said:
Any reason why? Will be very hard -- almost impossible to unlock it again. OK, very hard.
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I'm getting tired of carrying this phone and another for work. I need mobile iron for my emails and haven't found any solution to get it to work while rooted.
And you answered my next question too. Would I be able to unlock it again. If i don't take any updates can't I just follow the same process to unlock and root again?
subprime said:
I'm getting tired of carrying this phone and another for work. I need mobile iron for my emails and haven't found any solution to get it to work while rooted.
And you answered my next question too. Would I be able to unlock it again. If i don't take any updates can't I just follow the same process to unlock and root again?
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In the beginning you could only use Sunshine one time per phone. I think some others have locked and unlocked, but I'm not sure the process. I think you have to contact Sunshine team? Others can answer if they remember how to do it.
Can you use Magisk to hide root? It seems to work with Android Pay and other stuff.
I'll take a look and give it a shot. Phone has to be encrypted too and from what I read I'm pretty sure I have to unroot for that.
Thanks
My phone is encrypted, rooted with Magisk, and I use Outlook for work
Bootloader logos to replace unlocked warning:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=72047829
Choices of TWRP or ADB.
I'm currently using the Dark Google ATAP.
TheSt33v said:
My phone is encrypted, rooted with Magisk, and I use Outlook for work
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We used to be able to just use outlook, but they switched to touchdown with mobile iron. They don't control it to the fullest, but the permissions it has are ridiculous. They just recently completely disabled smart lock.
I have it set up on a 2nd gen moto x right now and would just swap the numbers but that thing can't do voice and data simultaneously, which I need regularly (gps and phone calls).
subprime said:
We used to be able to just use outlook, but they switched to touchdown with mobile iron. They don't control it to the fullest, but the permissions it has are ridiculous. They just recently completely disabled smart lock.
I have it set up on a 2nd gen moto x right now and would just swap the numbers but that thing can't do voice and data simultaneously, which I need regularly (gps and phone calls).
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Lame. Well hopefully Magisk can work its magic...sk.