[Q] Information Overload! - Verizon LG G2

OK, I've read so much that things are just getting jumbled in my brain now. There's so much information in these threads that I don't know where to start. The world of Android apparently moves too fast for me to keep up. I've got a Verizon LG G2 that is stuck on 4.4.2, software version 24A. Right after I took the OTA KK upgrade I rooted with IORoot25. I don't think I've done anything other than root, however I have somehow can create the mobile hot spot without permissions. Not sure if there was an .apk that was put on when I rooted or how I did it because it was over a year ago.
Ever since I rooted, my phone tries to push OTA updates but they are always unsuccessful. Every morning I have to hit "Install Later" becasue it tried over night and failed. Besides this being a bit annoying, I haven't been concerned becasue the only OTAs since I got 4.4.2 was supposedly some small patch that didn't really do much (from what I read). But, the other day it notified me that it wanted to push Lollipop and needless to say, I want it.
My problem: I don't know what the hell to do! Besides rooting, I'm pretty sure the only thing I've done is download Flashify and backup my stock recovery. Flashify doesn't show that I have a custom recovery, nor do I ever remember installing one. Just whatever came with the IORoot25. Oh, and it looks like I Quarantined LGSetupWizard using App Quarentine. Pretty sure that's it. So, where do I go from here?? I'm wanting to move to Lollipop, then possibly de-bloat it, and would like a custom recovery so that I can create nandroid backups and possibly start trying out other custom ROMs.
I had an OG Droid for years and would flash ROMs frequently until I upgraded to a RAZR MAXX. Once I got the MAXX, and now the LG, all I've really done is root and hack the wifi, so I'm REALLY out of the loop now! Everything seems so complicated becasue there's just too much info out there. Could somebody please guide me in the right direction to make this as smooth as possible??
Thanks for reading and helping a NooB out. Ugh...can't believe I have to start calling myself that again!!

You could 'freeze' the update so it doesn't pop up every morning. IF you want to update- you can unroot it and then take the update and re-root it and fix the hotspot thing. I'm in the same boat, I'm about to do the same myself.

caecusscius said:
You could 'freeze' the update so it doesn't pop up every morning. IF you want to update- you can unroot it and then take the update and re-root it and fix the hotspot thing. I'm in the same boat, I'm about to do the same myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response. Hoe do I "freeze" the update? If I do decide to take the update and re-root, and especially if I start loading custom ROMs, I know I'm going to want to do this in the future. I've been getting theses OTA update notifications everyday for months now!!
Also, what's the easiest way to unroot?

AS long as you are running stock I believe you can accept the OTA without unrooting: I haven't done it yet as I haven't had a few free hours, but I'm going to try it tonight.
there are plenty of apps that allow you to freeze apps- titanium Backup Pro is one that comes to mind.

Related

OTA 139.15.1 keep root

All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
First item, this is a question so it should belong in the question and answer threads! Secondly look here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
Sent on my Moto X
Sorry, and thanks! I'll probably give this a shot, make that camera work a little better...
You can always install the SafeStrap ROM here. That's what I did.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2484908
[Rom] [VZW] SafeStrap 139.12.57
Sent from my Moto X
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method makes it so SafeStrap is no longer available though, right? If that's not the case then... Don't know what I've been waiting for!
Sent from my Moto X
mercado79 said:
This method makes it so SafeStrap is no longer available though, right? If that's not the case then... Don't know what I've been waiting for!
Sent from my Moto X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I searched around and can't really find an answer to that. I don't use SafeStrap so I have no idea. I'd assume you can try the method I posted and try using SafeStrap after. If that doesn't work then just RSD back to pre-update and hang on to SafeStrap until it's figured out. No guarantees if it'd work / break stuff, though. You'd be the guinea pig for that one.
dymmeh said:
I searched around and can't really find an answer to that. I don't use SafeStrap so I have no idea. I'd assume you can try the method I posted and try using SafeStrap after. If that doesn't work then just RSD back to pre-update and hang on to SafeStrap until it's figured out. No guarantees if it'd work / break stuff, though. You'd be the guinea pig for that one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@jcase Any chance you can answer this for us? Just cause someone was able to keep root (the one shot kind you mentioned), does that mean that using RSD is still on the table?
Sent from my Moto X
mercado79 said:
@jcase Any chance you can answer this for us? Just cause someone was able to keep root (the one shot kind you mentioned), does that mean that using RSD is still on the table?
Sent from my Moto X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you take the OTA you dont have wY to revert to old stock Motorola block the reverts already and @jcase already said that he will be back for root in this device till 4.3 is out
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
juancaperez2000 said:
If you take the OTA you dont have wY to revert to old stock Motorola block the reverts already and @jcase already said that he will be back for root in this device till 4.3 is out
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I thought too. Thanks.
MikeyNick said:
All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For sure have I just updated my Moto X the other day on VZW and kept root. Here is a link to the process on how to do it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
will2live said:
For sure have I just updated my Moto X the other day on VZW and kept root. Here is a link to the process on how to do it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that's not up for debate. The issue is that even though you kept root, you're now blocked from using safestrap or ever gaining root again in the future (once another ota comes through). The update has now patched root going forward and it sounds like you won't be able to keep it after this update.
MikeyNick said:
All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mercado79 said:
I think that's not up for debate. The issue is that even though you kept root, you're now blocked from using safestrap or ever gaining root again in the future (once another ota comes through). The update has now patched root going forward and it sounds like you won't be able to keep it after this update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Safestrap i know about and dont care about as i dont use it. As for moving forward with root I'll be surprised if that is the case but I wont disagree either. It is very possible they patch something to actually block root down the road. From my understanding tho currently the patch is blocking ppl to root the update not keeping root if the process is followed correctly. My guess is odds are it will be the same on the next OTA just like we had to do on the original Razr line to keep root until the bootloader was unlocked. However if the next OTA is 4.3 tha tcould all change for sure as anything is possible. Even so when that time comes I'll just unlock mine. I do have a Dev edition i just haven't unlocked with it being brand new and not wanting to void warranty yet to make sure hardware is cool but i do want root so i went the long route for now is all.
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I installed PwnMyMoto, SuperSU and OTA Root Keeper, then decided not to root. I installed the Verizon update and boom, I'm rooted. Is that what you're saying is needed? I was surprised that root apps all work fine for me, I really didn't do anything but install those apks before I installed the camera update!
boardrx182 said:
So I installed PwnMyMoto, SuperSU and OTA Root Keeper, then decided not to root. I installed the Verizon update and boom, I'm rooted. Is that what you're saying is needed? I was surprised that root apps all work fine for me, I really didn't do anything but install those apks before I installed the camera update!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you had PwnMyMoto and never ran it / not rooted you were good to go. SuperSU could be installed before or after. I dont think OTA Root Keeper was needed at all. PwnMyMoto runs after a reboot so once you installed the OTA and rebooted it did its rooting magic automatically for you. Glad it all worked out for you
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dymmeh said:
As long as you had PwnMyMoto and never ran it / not rooted you were good to go. SuperSU could be installed before or after. I dont think OTA Root Keeper was needed at all. PwnMyMoto runs after a reboot so once you installed the OTA and rebooted it did its rooting magic automatically for you. Glad it all worked out for you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's awesome, didn't realize that would happen automatically. I completely expected that I'd have to complete the entire root process steps that were outlined in an earlier post if I wanted root. Thanks for the reply.
will2live said:
Safestrap i know about and dont care about as i dont use it. As for moving forward with root I'll be surprised if that is the case but I wont disagree either. It is very possible they patch something to actually block root down the road. From my understanding tho currently the patch is blocking ppl to root the update not keeping root if the process is followed correctly. My guess is odds are it will be the same on the next OTA just like we had to do on the original Razr line to keep root until the bootloader was unlocked. However if the next OTA is 4.3 tha tcould all change for sure as anything is possible. Even so when that time comes I'll just unlock mine. I do have a Dev edition i just haven't unlocked with it being brand new and not wanting to void warranty yet to make sure hardware is cool but i do want root so i went the long route for now is all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
people who have moto employee friends say they are moving to 4.3 next. Also, there may be a work around for you to keep root with the next release, but because people who aren't on dev phones that must be sure they can retain root would not have used this method (as it is a one chance type of method). so it is more likely that any new workarounds that people come up with will be for those that still have the ability to downgrade to original stock firmware. Also, SS is nice because it gives you the ability to run the phone just like you normally would but you can create complete backups of the device so you don't have to set everything up all over again if you screw something up with your phone. Even if you don't use SS for flashing roms it is still useful for back ups.
jayboyyyy said:
people who have moto employee friends say they are moving to 4.3 next. Also, there may be a work around for you to keep root with the next release, but because people who aren't on dev phones that must be sure they can retain root would not have used this method (as it is a one chance type of method). so it is more likely that any new workarounds that people come up with will be for those that still have the ability to downgrade to original stock firmware. Also, SS is nice because it gives you the ability to run the phone just like you normally would but you can create complete backups of the device so you don't have to set everything up all over again if you screw something up with your phone. Even if you don't use SS for flashing roms it is still useful for back ups.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have my Moto contacts and yes they are moving to 4.3 next last i was told when I asked. As for downgrading stock software that isn't going to happen once updated as you can't go backwards. Moto devices have been that way going back to the original Droid Razr. Its few and far between where you could actually go backwards after an OTA. So unless you mean stock of the current build installed then ppl will have issues for sure. That said if ppl OTA and have root now but for whatever reason need to use the new fastboot file that was just posted they will in fact be SOL for gaining root. This is exactly why I refuse to buy consumer units from the carrier besides a few other reason I wont go into. My theory is simple we want to mess with device buy an unlockable one or be ready to suffer/wait for an exploit after an OTA hits.
As far as root moving forward what process you talking about tho? There is 2 ways to do it. The one posted right above your post in this thread, or the link I posted above. If the info in this thread was used yes there may be an issue because of the patch. However I will be very surprised to see ppl not be able to keep root if they updated using the process in the link I posted above. Besides having to fastboot the boot.img to recovery in that process its the same way original Droid Razr owners had to update to be able to keep root if there was no root process for the OTA being pushed. Moving forward my guess is there will be an issue once 4.3 hits tho. I'm not sure you will be able to use the old kernel from 4.2.2 to overwrite recovery and boot the 4.3 /system so you can restore root and pull the actual 4.3 boot.img so that can be used for the recovery highjack. Bottom line is only time will tell at this point as you never know what Moto/Google will do with the next update.
Agreed on SS for backups even if not flashing ROMs, but personally i just dont mess with my device enough to worry about a full back i guess. For apps/settings I just use MyBackup PRO. I've also have an app a buddy made that creates a full XML if i wanted to use it. In the old days I use to make alot of backups for ROM flashing when I used SS. Guess in my old age I've just got lazy and dont worry about it that much anymore. I really hose the device I'll just swap to one of my others til i get back to fixing the messed up one.
will2live said:
I have my Moto contacts and yes they are moving to 4.3 next last i was told when I asked. As for downgrading stock software that isn't going to happen once updated as you can't go backwards. Moto devices have been that way going back to the original Droid Razr. Its few and far between where you could actually go backwards after an OTA. So unless you mean stock of the current build installed then ppl will have issues for sure. That said if ppl OTA and have root now but for whatever reason need to use the new fastboot file that was just posted they will in fact be SOL for gaining root. This is exactly why I refuse to buy consumer units from the carrier besides a few other reason I wont go into. My theory is simple we want to mess with device buy an unlockable one or be ready to suffer/wait for an exploit after an OTA hits.
As far as root moving forward what process you talking about tho? There is 2 ways to do it. The one posted right above your post in this thread, or the link I posted above. If the info in this thread was used yes there may be an issue because of the patch. However I will be very surprised to see ppl not be able to keep root if they updated using the process in the link I posted above. Besides having to fastboot the boot.img to recovery in that process its the same way original Droid Razr owners had to update to be able to keep root if there was no root process for the OTA being pushed. Moving forward my guess is there will be an issue once 4.3 hits tho. I'm not sure you will be able to use the old kernel from 4.2.2 to overwrite recovery and boot the 4.3 /system so you can restore root and pull the actual 4.3 boot.img so that can be used for the recovery highjack. Bottom line is only time will tell at this point as you never know what Moto/Google will do with the next update.
Agreed on SS for backups even if not flashing ROMs, but personally i just dont mess with my device enough to worry about a full back i guess. For apps/settings I just use MyBackup PRO. I've also have an app a buddy made that creates a full XML if i wanted to use it. In the old days I use to make alot of backups for ROM flashing when I used SS. Guess in my old age I've just got lazy and dont worry about it that much anymore. I really hose the device I'll just swap to one of my others til i get back to fixing the messed up one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3 ways to maintain root are the one in the thread, SS, and the one you posted. The one you posted actually allows you to flash the original stock firmware on the phone because the BL was never touched thus the security (keeping you from downgrading) was never installed. That was what I was referring to when I said those that must make sure they will retain root in the future would not have done the install pwnmymmoto without running then take ota then run pwnmymoto. As you said those people will be screwed if the next root requires you to flash back to original stock or use part of the pwnmymoto exploit that will only be accessible to those that got the OTA with SS or the link you posted. I don't toy with my phone as much as I used to especially this one, but bypasing exchange security is pretty essential for me. I don't want an encrypted device with mandatory pin. I never lose my phone and I would know within minutes of losing it if i ever did so I could shut it down remotely.
And I'm not sure about the new kernel situation either. This is why I wanted to make sure I could go back to original firmware as I see that being our best bet to retain root through 4.3, assuming jcase doesn't release another exploit for it to get some cash.
jayboyyyy said:
3 ways to maintain root are the one in the thread, SS, and the one you posted. The one you posted actually allows you to flash the original stock firmware on the phone because the BL was never touched thus the security (keeping you from downgrading) was never installed. That was what I was referring to when I said those that must make sure they will retain root in the future would not have done the install pwnmymmoto without running then take ota then run pwnmymoto. As you said those people will be screwed if the next root requires you to flash back to original stock or use part of the pwnmymoto exploit that will only be accessible to those that got the OTA with SS or the link you posted. I don't toy with my phone as much as I used to especially this one, but bypasing exchange security is pretty essential for me. I don't want an encrypted device with mandatory pin. I never lose my phone and I would know within minutes of losing it if i ever did so I could shut it down remotely.
And I'm not sure about the new kernel situation either. This is why I wanted to make sure I could go back to original firmware as I see that being our best bet to retain root through 4.3, assuming jcase doesn't release another exploit for it to get some cash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gotchya, makes total sense now what you are saying. I think there is just confusion at times when talking about root & OTA because of different ways to do it in a case like this device. Being a Moto guy for so long tho i'm use to all the BS they throw at us.....lol. That said that is why i posted the link I did. Imho it's a bad plan to update using the other method of installing pwnmymoto and not running it first before taking the OTA. Doing the process to protect root before updating is a much safer bet atm imo. Sure its a little more work but at the end of the day you dont have to be worried as much moving forward. Only concern I have still for doing it the longer way is if that process will work when they push out 4.3. It had alot of changes in it so lord only knows what will be up for keeping root. And really in my case its no concern but for all the folks with consumer version it is still a concern i think for the time being

[Q] Can I update? Confused by so many unclear posts.

Background information:
Bought the AT&T version when it came out right away
Got root the first time it was released
Updated root when next update came out ( Didn't know if I need to )
OTA has been Frozen since I got the phone
Is it safe for me? Should I go back to the first version and then update?
Trust me I've read the posts and since I know there have been some issues on the Verizon side I wasn't sure if that was something that was effecting AT&T too. If some one could please give me an explain of that to it would be extremely helpful as I like to know my **** so I can help others.
Thanks
Icon000 said:
Background information:
Bought the AT&T version when it came out right away
Got root the first time it was released
Updated root when next update came out ( Didn't know if I need to )
OTA has been Frozen since I got the phone
Is it safe for me? Should I go back to the first version and then update?
Trust me I've read the posts and since I know there have been some issues on the Verizon side I wasn't sure if that was something that was effecting AT&T too. If some one could please give me an explain of that to it would be extremely helpful as I like to know my **** so I can help others.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash back to stock via RSDLite. Let it boot up. Get your gmail setup.
When the prompt comes up, DL the .54 update. Install.
Root with jcase's new root method.
Or you could just install safestrap. Install a ROM with the camera update and not worry about it until kitkat comes around.
Sent from non rooted motoX :'(
I'm not really interested in updating to another Rom unless it has the touchless controls or something really interesting. Touchless Controls is one of the main reasons I got this phone next to battery life.
Is Safestrap finally settled down? I feel like last time I check there were still messages about bugs and other issues?
matt99017d said:
Flash back to stock via RSDLite. Let it boot up. Get your gmail setup.
When the prompt comes up, DL the .54 update. Install.
Root with jcase's new root method.
Or you could just install safestrap. Install a ROM with the camera update and not worry about it until kitkat comes around.
Sent from non rooted motoX :'(
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Icon000 said:
I'm not really interested in updating to another Rom unless it has the touchless controls or something really interesting. Touchless Controls is one of the main reasons I got this phone next to battery life.
Is Safestrap finally settled down? I feel like last time I check there were still messages about bugs and other issues?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the only rom out for SS that i am aware of is just a ported tmobile rom for vzw phones that has the update built in. Basically it is just the OTA stock rom running on SS. This is what I am using currently. Not sure if it flashable for ATT phones, but I'm sure there is some workaround there. Or maybe the OP on that thread can make a ATT one if you asked him. SS is stable as of now. Haven't had any new updates to it because no one is having any problems currently (at least with moto x devices).
For your question pertaining to options for taking the OTA. There are 4 methods now.
1. SS method described above
2. use the thread called something like "keep root through the OTA." It basically takes the ota without updating the BL so you can still downgrade to your stock original FW that you are on now. It's the same thing as the SS method because SS also does not udpate the BL, but you won't be using SS for this method obviously.
3. you can flash recovery.img (and system.img if you need to) or just RSD, then install pwnmymoto without running it, then take the ota and pwnmymoto will root the phone automatically after the ota is taken. you won't be able to downgrade your FW anymore with this method.
4. you can just take the ota (also must flash or use rsd to take it obviously) and then use jcase's rockmymoto root exploit. This uses adb commands and telnet stuff. Not too difficult but if you are unfamiliar with all of that then it will take at least some reading. There is also a thread out there for windows users that simplifies it pretty well.
For future Kit kat root. it is still up in the air what will happen with that. I chose to use SS because it was easy. quick. and allows me to make nandroids. I also like knowing that I can still flash to original stock FW in case that might be necessarry for getting root on kit kat. This seems less likely now that jcase created a root method for the OTA that is out, but I'm still just playing it safe personally, even if it might be pointless now.

OTA updates with rooted att GN3?

So I've been rooted on my ATT GN3 for awhile now and I have a custom ROM(UrDroid stock 4.3) installed using Safestrap.
For the last several weeks, periodically when I'm on wifi, I get a prompt that there is an OTA update. I can't decline it and it reboots the phone into recovery mode. I just choose to reboot again and it says the update did not complete.
I'm worried about loosing my root or worse. What do I need to do?
You can freeze the system app called "at&t software update".
Yeah, I could do that. But I would like to keep my phone updated if possible. Maybe it's better to wait for the official release of KitKat?
I would still like to get familiar with the process of updating while rooted though.
The irony in this is killing me...
If you update, you will lose root, but can just as easily get it back. And that is if the update even Installs with you rooted. It will normally fail. And since it is a custom ROM you should not even be getting a notification.
What bothers me is that you say you want to keep the phone updated, but continue to cancel the update.
I suggest you use a custom KK ROM. It is the most up to date.
Be it KnoxRaid based off of the leak for our device, or one of the few ported ROMs we have available.
Sent from my SM-N9005A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
graydiggy said:
The irony in this is killing me...
If you update, you will lose root, but can just as easily get it back. And that is if the update even Installs with you rooted. It will normally fail. And since it is a custom ROM you should not even be getting a notification.
What bothers me is that you say you want to keep the phone updated, but continue to cancel the update.
I suggest you use a custom KK ROM. It is the most up to date.
Be it KnoxRaid based off of the leak for our device, or one of the few ported ROMs we have available.
Sent from my SM-N9005A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I should explain that I'm still very new to the Android platform, having been a long time iPhone user. I've managed to figured out how to get my GN3 rooted and even install a custom ROM, but there are many things I still am unclear about on this platform.
Jailbreaking the iOS was relatively simple and straightforward. New iOS version comes out, wait for jailbreak, backup phone in iTunes and other apps like PKGBackup. Run jailbreak utility and restore everything the way it was.
Maybe I'm not quite understanding the process, but it seems hard to find direct step-by-step instructions for what I want to do. Maybe it's because there are so many different devices and ROMs, etc.
I don't want to lose all the apps/settings for my phone if I don't have to. I just don't know the best course of action to take in order to ensure that I am able to keep my phone updated and then rooted without losing everything.
I would also recommend the Knoxraid ROM. It's a great ROM and Drakey is constantly updating it. As of version 5.5 released today it's based on the latest OTA update. There is a step by step guide in the Knoxraid post that explains how to do everything. Take a look. It is pretty easy really.
As for backing up, you can backup all your apps/app data pretty easily with Titanium Backup. If you haven't already give it a look. There are tons of guides and how-to's available for how to use it. I know how overwhelming switching from iOS to android can be at first, but once you get the hang of things you will be so glad you switched. Good luck!

[q] [may 29]sgs5 at&t is rooting possible? Answer i am about to explode.

It is about time I get some straight-forward answers. I'm tired of Googling everything I can and it not being what I think it is.
It is about time I get some straight-forward answers. I'm tired of Googling everything I can and it not being what I think it is.
What I have come to you for, XDA, is some light in the cave.
WILL THERE BE A WAY TO ROOT THE AT&T SAMSUNG GALAXY S5 VARIANT?!
Towelroot doesn't work. And if quite frankly tired ****less of all the posts that still exist talking about it.
Is there anything in development? All I can see now is SafeStrap and Multi-Tool but if you aren't rooted these do nothing. I just want some information for God's sake. Will ANYONE tell me what is being done about the development of the device's rooting? Is anyone even trying anymore? And if so, tell me! More importantly, if there are people, why aren't they being talked about? With as many S5's as there are out there (at least to me since I know about 10 people who use them regularly) why wouldn't anyone be trying?
PLEASE people get it together!
I have come from only 3 devices, but I was able to root and mod all of them. Rooting and Modding is love and life to me and is pretty much all I sincerely love about Android. The fact that I can't afford a new phone at this stage is sad, and I have grown tired of the bloating of TouchWiz, especially with the Lollipop update. I know that a rooted S5 would be extremely awesome, but since there is nothing about it being worked on I suppose I'll just have to live with the rubbish they call TouchWiz.
And if by some chance someone who can develop something like this reads this thread, please, respond, PM me, do SOMETHING. TELL THE XDA WORLD, because I GUARANTEE there are more of me out there who have longed for this but have just lived with it. BE A GAME CHANGER A DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
Don't give me the, "Knox and bootloaders are hard to pass by, especially with the new more secure versions." Because guess what, geohot did it once. Not like it lasted, but the fact is is that it worked at one point. It may be harder now, but it's still possible. PLEASE DO SOMETHING. PLEASE TRY.
Anyway, best of luck to all of the users. And anyone who has read this please leave a comment and tell me what you know. Many days I'm left alone, commentless with my threads. This is one I truly need to be acknowledged.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME
Well that's a big thread revealing nothing about your device other than its an s5. There are ways to root with towel root unless you have the 5.0 ota.
dirtydodge said:
Well that's a big thread revealing nothing about your device other than its an s5. There are ways to root with towel root unless you have the 5.0 ota.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it's pretty obvious that it's AT&T. 5.0 L and Towelroot has never worked before.
ElectricBiskitz said:
Well it's pretty obvious that it's AT&T. 5.0 L and Towelroot has never worked before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Towel root has worked and still does on nce. If you were on OA1 towel root wouldn't work unless you downgraded to use it then go back to OA1. And no it don't work on 5.0. There are multiple kernels and builds that att has put out that it didn't work on without downgrading. But just for future reference is always helpful if you include your build, version, etc. Like i said there are multiple builds that it didn't work on unless you downgraded is only the 5.0 that you can't downgrade.
dirtydodge said:
Towel root has worked and still does on nce. If you were on OA1 towel root wouldn't work unless you downgraded to use it then go back to OA1. And no it don't work on 5.0. There are multiple kernels and builds that att has put out that it didn't work on without downgrading. But just for future reference is always helpful if you include your build, version, etc. Like i said there are multiple builds that it didn't work on unless you downgraded is only the 5.0 that you can't downgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I said that I have Lollipop so everything you're saying won't help. Plus I know you wouldn't have known anyway but I have tried all of this way before Lollipop. I tried downgrading from OA1 at the time to NCE and I ended up in a bootloop. The kernel was faulty. I had to reset my phone in a very long, aggravating process to get it back. I NEVER want to go down that road again. And like I said in the entire post, I'm just looking for a pioneer to try again and make a geohot move on Lollipop. And no offense to you, you wouldn't have known this about me anyway, but your kind of information was exactly what I was trying to steer away from. And here it comes, right back at me. I'm just tired and sick of all the people who just do, essentially, a copy/paste of common information. When in my circumstance, am looking for something difference. Again, no harm to you, but anyone and everyone that has ever responded to my threads because it's all the same.
As someone who used to reverse engineer software, updates to said software usually patch those exploits. It's not usually easy to regain a new exploit and can take massive amounts of time. I can't speak for other devs but (at the time I did this stuff and still currently) I have a demanding full time job and a family, which come first over a hobby. I can guarantee I will never buy another Samsung phone again because of this. I know it's not always feasible, but maybe look into getting an HTC phone with developer options that is unlocked from the factory. Venting on here will get your cause nowhere.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Forum is trying to help you!
ElectricBiskitz said:
Well it's pretty obvious that it's AT&T. 5.0 L and Towelroot has never worked before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, first things first. Calm down and please stop being so rude and angry when other members who are trying to help you. It's not their fault you are not able to root your phone. It is possible and I'm testament to this.
You need to understand the process of how to do it and you need patients. I live in the UK with an AT&T handset and my handset was never going to ever get to 5.0 because of that fact. I am now on 5.0 and it's rooted and I found out how to do it all on this forum. Further more if you search for my one and only post (yes I'm making you do some work - it's how to teach people to learn new things) I have information in there that shows you how to get to 100% rooted 5.0. What I'm prepared to do is write for you a line by line process in a Word document that will get you from your stock unrooted 5.0 handset to 5.0 rooted. You need the right files and ODIN - that's all you need to complete this. No matter what state you end up getting you handset into bootloop, failed starts..etc as long as you are able to get into download mode you are able to recover the handset. Yes, it can be annoying and yes it can take hours to get back to square one (sometimes) but you have to be prepared for that when you do something like this. It took me two whole evenings and 5 failed attempts before I got it working.
So after reading all this, if you are prepared to accept my help let me know and I will write the document for you.
Besides the fact there are already a metric ass ton of threads in this phone's forum discussing rooting the 900A.
I've been reading them for weeks now after I was overzealous and took the OTA to OC4 figuring there was a root solution already..... There wasn't, and oh well... My fault for not researching first, but it's making me keep my Note 2 until something comes up.
Hell something may already be out, but with rants like yours..... Feel free to enjoy the great advice in the links in my signature.
wwit said:
Right, first things first. Calm down and please stop being so rude and angry when other members who are trying to help you. It's not their fault you are not able to root your phone. It is possible and I'm testament to this.
You need to understand the process of how to do it and you need patients. I live in the UK with an AT&T handset and my handset was never going to ever get to 5.0 because of that fact. I am now on 5.0 and it's rooted and I found out how to do it all on this forum. Further more if you search for my one and only post (yes I'm making you do some work - it's how to teach people to learn new things) I have information in there that shows you how to get to 100% rooted 5.0. What I'm prepared to do is write for you a line by line process in a Word document that will get you from your stock unrooted 5.0 handset to 5.0 rooted. You need the right files and ODIN - that's all you need to complete this. No matter what state you end up getting you handset into bootloop, failed starts..etc as long as you are able to get into download mode you are able to recover the handset. Yes, it can be annoying and yes it can take hours to get back to square one (sometimes) but you have to be prepared for that when you do something like this. It took me two whole evenings and 5 failed attempts before I got it working.
So after reading all this, if you are prepared to accept my help let me know and I will write the document for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So wait... You have a method to get him from ota 5.0 to a muniz method 5.0? I was under the impression that was not possible once you took the ota ( i didn't, but I'm still curious)
ota 5.0 root?
wwit said:
Right, first things first. Calm down and please stop being so rude and angry when other members who are trying to help you. It's not their fault you are not able to root your phone. It is possible and I'm testament to this.
You need to understand the process of how to do it and you need patients. I live in the UK with an AT&T handset and my handset was never going to ever get to 5.0 because of that fact. I am now on 5.0 and it's rooted and I found out how to do it all on this forum. Further more if you search for my one and only post (yes I'm making you do some work - it's how to teach people to learn new things) I have information in there that shows you how to get to 100% rooted 5.0. What I'm prepared to do is write for you a line by line process in a Word document that will get you from your stock unrooted 5.0 handset to 5.0 rooted. You need the right files and ODIN - that's all you need to complete this. No matter what state you end up getting you handset into bootloop, failed starts..etc as long as you are able to get into download mode you are able to recover the handset. Yes, it can be annoying and yes it can take hours to get back to square one (sometimes) but you have to be prepared for that when you do something like this. It took me two whole evenings and 5 failed attempts before I got it working.
So after reading all this, if you are prepared to accept my help let me know and I will write the document for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so I'm sorry if i've got this wrong, but as the user above stated, I too have been scouring the web and FDA searching for a way to root an at&t galaxy s5 with an OTA u5.0 lollipop update. From all the research i have done, I have found no resolution to the locked bootloader. Are you saying that you can root the stock, unrooted, locked bootloader, sm-g900a running lollipop 5.0? If so, I will gladly donate to your Paypal for detailed instructions on how to do this! I am no noob at rooting, having rooted every galaxy since the skyrocket,. But this lollipop crap is driving me crazy. Any help is greatly appreciate!!
wwit said:
Right, first things first. Calm down and please stop being so rude and angry when other members who are trying to help you. It's not their fault you are not able to root your phone. It is possible and I'm testament to this.
You need to understand the process of how to do it and you need patients. I live in the UK with an AT&T handset and my handset was never going to ever get to 5.0 because of that fact. I am now on 5.0 and it's rooted and I found out how to do it all on this forum. Further more if you search for my one and only post (yes I'm making you do some work - it's how to teach people to learn new things) I have information in there that shows you how to get to 100% rooted 5.0. What I'm prepared to do is write for you a line by line process in a Word document that will get you from your stock unrooted 5.0 handset to 5.0 rooted. You need the right files and ODIN - that's all you need to complete this. No matter what state you end up getting you handset into bootloop, failed starts..etc as long as you are able to get into download mode you are able to recover the handset. Yes, it can be annoying and yes it can take hours to get back to square one (sometimes) but you have to be prepared for that when you do something like this. It took me two whole evenings and 5 failed attempts before I got it working.
So after reading all this, if you are prepared to accept my help let me know and I will write the document for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I need this please! I have an at&t Samsung S5 lollipop 5.0 please guide me
I have not seen any solutions for people who took Ota update. Did you make the exploit yourself? If not can you point out the source?
Thanks!
lowspeed said:
I have not seen any solutions for people who took Ota update. Did you make the exploit yourself? If not can you point out the source?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone just automatically downloaded the 5.0 update a few weeks ago. I attached a screenshot of my phones specs
I replied to the person who said he has instructions. ..
wwit said:
You need to understand the process of how to do it and you need patients. I live in the UK with an AT&T handset and my handset was never going to ever get to 5.0 because of that fact. I am now on 5.0 and it's rooted and I found out how to do it all on this forum. Further more if you search for my one and only post (yes I'm making you do some work - it's how to teach people to learn new things) I have information in there that shows you how to get to 100% rooted 5.0. What I'm prepared to do is write for you a line by line process in a Word document that will get you from your stock unrooted 5.0 handset to 5.0 rooted. You need the right files and ODIN - that's all you need to complete this. No matter what state you end up getting you handset into bootloop, failed starts..etc as long as you are able to get into download mode you are able to recover the handset. Yes, it can be annoying and yes it can take hours to get back to square one (sometimes) but you have to be prepared for that when you do something like this. It took me two whole evenings and 5 failed attempts before I got it working.
So after reading all this, if you are prepared to accept my help let me know and I will write the document for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you're able to root OC4 on a G900A, i'm all ears.
so far i'm unable to install TWRP (fail auth) using odin and it seems it only works for 900F or other models, not 900A specifically that has never been previously rooted. all posts on the topic suggests you cannot downgrade from OC4 and any attempt is futile at the moment.
Rooted 5.0
tmac200913 said:
My phone just automatically downloaded the 5.0 update a few weeks ago. I attached a screenshot of my phones specs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, I'm trying to make time to create the document to show how I did it. I intend to recreate the process again on my handset and include screenshots as I go through.
Basically the only way I could get my handset to 5.0 root was to take the handset back to NCE stock firmware (by the way I have all the files on my laptop to do this) using ODIN v3.09. This took my back to G900AUCU1ANCE (4.4.2) April 2014 release. I installed Towelroot, busybox and Safestrap. Did a backup of the device (when I went back to 4.4.2 I then configured my device to look and feel how I wanted it to be because I wanted to restore the data partition once on Lollipop - but this is a required part of the upgrade). You need to use Safestrap to create a backup folder structure on the SD card so you can dump the 5.0 (OC4) rooted backup on to restore later in the upgrade process. I then installed G900AUCU2ANG3 (4.4.2) September 2014 release using Safestrap. I then installed the G900AUCU2AOA1 (4.4.4) February 2015 release and then used Safestrap to take another backup. Then I did an advanced wipe in Safestrap (excluding the SD card) and restored the OC4 rooted backup (I found online I also have this file). Once that restored I then within Safestrap selected the reboot > download mode (don't restart the handset into Lollipop before doing this process - the whole process will fail). Once the handset rebooted into Download mode I connected the handset to ODIN v.3.10.6 and installed the G900A_OC4_Stock_Partitions_wOA1_BL.tar.md5 (using the AP option in ODIN). Once that completed the handset rebooted and after 5-10 mins started to upgrade files. Once that finished the handset was on 5.0 - the same as the screenshot you've posted and it's rooted. I have SuperSU installed working fine and I used Root Checker Basic to confirm the device is rooted. More so I then went on to sideload the G900A_OC4_TetherAddOn so I could get native wifi tethering because AT&T still had this locked down in the root 5.0 I installed above.
anyone verify this?
Not sure they started out on 5.0...I don't know of anyone who has successfully downgraded once on OC4.
wwit said:
Hi, I'm trying to make time to create the document to show how I did it. I intend to recreate the process again on my handset and include screenshots as I go through.
Basically the only way I could get my handset to 5.0 root was to take the handset back to NCE stock firmware (by the way I have all the files on my laptop to do this) using ODIN v3.09. This took my back to G900AUCU1ANCE (4.4.2) April 2014 release. I installed Towelroot, busybox and Safestrap. Did a backup of the device (when I went back to 4.4.2 I then configured my device to look and feel how I wanted it to be because I wanted to restore the data partition once on Lollipop - but this is a required part of the upgrade). You need to use Safestrap to create a backup folder structure on the SD card so you can dump the 5.0 (OC4) rooted backup on to restore later in the upgrade process. I then installed G900AUCU2ANG3 (4.4.2) September 2014 release using Safestrap. I then installed the G900AUCU2AOA1 (4.4.4) February 2015 release and then used Safestrap to take another backup. Then I did an advanced wipe in Safestrap (excluding the SD card) and restored the OC4 rooted backup (I found online I also have this file). Once that restored I then within Safestrap selected the reboot > download mode (don't restart the handset into Lollipop before doing this process - the whole process will fail). Once the handset rebooted into Download mode I connected the handset to ODIN v.3.10.6 and installed the G900A_OC4_Stock_Partitions_wOA1_BL.tar.md5 (using the AP option in ODIN). Once that completed the handset rebooted and after 5-10 mins started to upgrade files. Once that finished the handset was on 5.0 - the same as the screenshot you've posted and it's rooted. I have SuperSU installed working fine and I used Root Checker Basic to confirm the device is rooted. More so I then went on to sideload the G900A_OC4_TetherAddOn so I could get native wifi tethering because AT&T still had this locked down in the root 5.0 I installed above.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is funny.......there seems to be a huge disconnect between this and the actual issue in the OP which is someone that took the 5.0 OTA and wants root access. There currently is no way for him to gain root access. Instead you quoted, almost verbatim, my origina KeepRoot method and files: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=59996087&postcount=4
muniz_ri said:
This is funny.......there seems to be a huge disconnect between this and the actual issue in the OP which is someone that took the 5.0 OTA and wants root access. There currently is no way for him to gain root access. Instead you quoted, almost verbatim, my origina KeepRoot method and files: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=59996087&postcount=4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Morning, first of all if you take a look at my first post you will see I have clearly stated your name and I have not tried to take credit for your process. Secondly I have only been replying to questions from members who have read my results and have then from my post asked how I did it. I have then simply explained again in the post you have replied to how I got to a rooted version of Lollipop.
Are ypu saying that if a handset takes the ota it is not possible to go back to NCE and then forward right through to rooted Lollipop or are just annoyed thinking I am trying to take credit for your work. I'm happy to guide a member step by step through a process if they want me to but I have already said it's not my discovery.

Root 5.1.1 or 6.0.1?

I have a TMobile Note 4 SM-N910T. It's currently on 5.1.1 stock and I just got the OTA Marshmallow update notification. I'd like to try Marshmallow out, but if I allow the OTA update, will I be able to root it later? Or is 6.0.1 unrootable (for now)? If I root it now (before updating to MM) will I still get the OTA update? And will it still be rooted after the update? So many questions!
ota then root
I OTA'ed, now the phone randomly reboots several times a day, and some apps don't work correctly. Great.
factory reset.
*sigh* I was afraid you were going to say that. Now the problem is backing it up. I have a Titanium Backup Pro license, but I only use it on my old rooted GS2. The Note 4 is not rooted so TB won't run on it. All the rooting tutorials say "back up your phone before you root" but you need root to run TB. Chicken or egg? I guess I could try Samsung Kies, don't know if it will back up everything. My photos are backed up to Google Photos, I guess everything else is replaceable, but I would really rather not have to reinstall all my apps one by one after a factory reset.
That brings up another question: when you to go Settings/Backup and Reset, I have "Backup my data" set to On and linked to my Google account, but nowhere can I find documentation of exactly WHAT gets backed up or to WHERE (it says to "Google servers" but what the heck does that mean? I can't find it on my Google Drive or anywhere else on my Google account dashboard.)
I do greatly appreciate your help, by the way.
You could try reinstalling through kies or smart switch. Make sure to clear caches before and after. And see if that works. If it doesnt help, you could flash recovery, root, try to backup as much as you can between reboots and then factory reset. Your apps should automatically download from play store. But without the titbackup files you'll lose settings and data in a lot of apps that Google doesn't backup.
I unlocked your mum's bootloader.
kydar said:
I have a TMobile Note 4 SM-N910T. It's currently on 5.1.1 stock and I just got the OTA Marshmallow update notification. I'd like to try Marshmallow out, but if I allow the OTA update, will I be able to root it later? Or is 6.0.1 unrootable (for now)? If I root it now (before updating to MM) will I still get the OTA update? And will it still be rooted after the update? So many questions!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you able to downgrade back to 5.1.1? My phone also download the MM ota but I haven't installed it. I rooted 5.1.1 first and am trying to locate where exactly the MM ota downloaded to.
Been hearing too much about problems with MM.
Shad0wsabr3 said:
Were you able to downgrade back to 5.1.1? My phone also download the MM ota but I haven't installed it. I rooted 5.1.1 first and am trying to locate where exactly the MM ota downloaded to.
Been hearing too much about problems with MM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There aren't that many problems with MM. Just superficial stuff like not having mobile data toggle. The problems you are hearing about a factory reset will fix. Like lag, jankyness, apps loading, phone freezing temporarily. You won't be able to do OTA. It will fail because of root. You need to titanium backup or whatever method you prefer of backing up data and flash through kies, odin or smart switch. Probably easier to go that route unless you only did minor things with root like just block ads, then you can probably get away with flashing stock recovery and then OTA. You still might have to factory reset like I had to even though I flashed whole rom through smart switch. If you have xposed or modified something like swapping recent apps and back key like me, then you'll need to flash marshmallow whole and start over after backing up.
Afaik, you can't downgrade to 5.1.1 unless somebody figured out a workaround or you only flashed everything except bootloader.
I unlocked your mum's bootloader.
@Shad0wsabr3, my phone gave me the choice to delay the upgrade for a while, but eventually just did it without my consent. I suppose you could download stock 5.1.1 from sammobile if you really wanted to downgrade. I just wish I could figure out how to back up my (unrooted) phone so I could then do a factory reset and see if it helps the problems I'm having.
kydar said:
@Shad0wsabr3, my phone gave me the choice to delay the upgrade for a while, but eventually just did it without my consent. I suppose you could download stock 5.1.1 from sammobile if you really wanted to downgrade. I just wish I could figure out how to back up my (unrooted) phone so I could then do a factory reset and see if it helps the problems I'm having.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Iv never backed up an unrooted device so I wouldn't know. Glad you nrought that up as Iv been meaning to look into that.
Would you happen to know where the downloaded ota file location is? My phone downloaded it and I keep postponing it.
Sorry, idk exactly where in the file system it is. All I can caution you again is, I kept postponing it and postponing it, and then one day the phone just popped up a message saying it was going to reboot and update, whether I liked it or not. Well, it didn't actually SAY whether I liked it or not but it did decide that I had postponed the update long enough and it was going to apply the update, giving me no option to postpone it any longer. That sort of pissed me off.
Please let me know if you come up with a backup solution. I've tried SimpleADB or whatever it is called these days, and another app that claimed to be able to back up an unrooted phone. Neither of them worked as advertised.
Where are the root instructions for completely stock 910T with MM update?
vernj123 said:
Where are the root instructions for completely stock 910T with MM update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/not...overy-n910t-t3-marshmallow-pe3-guide-t3406870
kydar said:
Sorry, idk exactly where in the file system it is. All I can caution you again is, I kept postponing it and postponing it, and then one day the phone just popped up a message saying it was going to reboot and update, whether I liked it or not. Well, it didn't actually SAY whether I liked it or not but it did decide that I had postponed the update long enough and it was going to apply the update, giving me no option to postpone it any longer. That sort of pissed me off.
Please let me know if you come up with a backup solution. I've tried SimpleADB or whatever it is called these days, and another app that claimed to be able to back up an unrooted phone. Neither of them worked as advertised.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm still researching what your dealing with. As for me I found the ota file. For those looking for it this is how and where I found it....
With RomToolbox I went to root browser. Then to data folder and a folder named fota. Within the fota folder is the ota update named update.zip. I erased that and then went into Titanium Backup and chose to freeze both software update files. So far no constant reminders that I have an update ready to be installed.
Hope this may help.

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