Develop Bugs

[Q] Scared to root. Justified?

My GSII is running stock 2.3.6. I lost root after the update , so the old root method wont work. I want root but I HATE! HATE! HATE! ODIN. (can't even count how many times iv'e bricked my vibrant and GS4G.) I know what i'm doing ive been rooting since my cliq! I have never had any issues with htc devices. (I think rooting and such is easy as long as you read instructions, ask questions if your not sure, and NEVER do anything that can't be found under your device on xda. )
Reading around XDA Iv'e seen threads where people say clockwork doesn't work right or normal reboots caused hard brick. and it's freaking me out! I don't event want to risk soft brick. Should i just get it over with and root now or wait for development to pick up and get the bugs worked out?.....Because I don't know what i would do if i lost my (second) favorite device of all time.

Root using odin. Takes 2 seconds. I never had a samsung before or used odin before, so I went to android monsters in austin and had my buddy do it. But, the info in the sticky is what he used and it worked great.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA Premium App

I forgot how I did it but is easier than rooting and unlocking the bootloader on a Nexus One that's for sure.

its easier than newer htc phones. just use a the updated superuser apk wit root

Maybe it's just me, but how can you dislike a simple program so much that you refuse to use it to root a phone? From my own experience, it's quick, easy and painless. It's as simple as flashing ClockworkMod Recovery and Superuser with Odin. I've yet to have any issues with Odin and even if you did mess something up, you have all the resources here to get back up and going again with stock - that's what backups are for. There is no reason not to root your phone if you're at least somewhat tech savvy and have a reason to do so.

I think ODIN would be the best tool in the android world if it were more stable. For example something as simple as flashing back to stock on a custom rom-ed vibrant took me 3 tries with all the right files and I know its not my computer, used mine then a friends. I think I have a phobia of the phone to computer screen or yellow triangle lol
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

But my main question is, Are the dangers worth the benefits with this phone? Im just scared because I got it for Christmas and Im in high school. If i brick Im pretty much S.O.L, I could never afford one and don't wanna go back to an HD2 haha
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

I couldn't own a phone without root. Too many apps that need it, and too much bloat. Stock vs. how my phone is now, rooting and flashing a custom ROM is 100% worth it.

I rooted with superoneclick on 2.3.5. Does superoneclick work with 2.3.6?
IMHO there's no point in flashing superuser via cwm..... just flash a custom rom instead. Mr x has a 2.3.6 rom you can flash.
Sent from my Hercules using XDA App

jordanishere said:
I rooted with superoneclick on 2.3.5. Does superoneclick work with 2.3.6?
IMHO there's no point in flashing superuser via cwm..... just flash a custom rom instead. Mr x has a 2.3.6 rom you can flash.
Sent from my Hercules using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Flash recovery. Once recovery is good to go, its near impossible to break the phone just make a nandroid of your stock ROM and store it safley somewhere. Have fun flashing :-D
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

nandroid
found my answer

Rooting a sph-d710 already updated to ICS via OTA

I have an unrooted Samsung Galaxy S2 Sprint version that I never rooted, and I just updated to ICS stock (over the air update). While I had rooted another, this is my wife's phone and I want to root it to get better control over the battery issues. I read the wiki, but it all was dated to before the update.
Do any of the rooting methods work once you have already upgraded to the latest ICS update that came from Sprint?

johnpent said:
I have an unrooted Samsung Galaxy S2 Sprint version that I never rooted, and I just updated to ICS stock (over the air update). While I had rooted another, this is my wife's phone and I want to root it to get better control over the battery issues. I read the wiki, but it all was dated to before the update.
Do any of the rooting methods work once you have already upgraded to the latest ICS update that came from Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am unsure of the rooting methods at this point. Did you check the one click rooting sticky? I would put the phone in download mode and odin a rom of your choosing (like el29 from sfhub) then one click root, recovery and flash a rom of your choosing. This process is of course only if the existing methods don't work with the OTA.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium

Disregard the previous.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1721229
Do this
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium

EmperorX said:
Disregard the previous.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1721229
Do this
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for this. Will give it a shot tonight. While I am new at posting here, I have used this forum many times. I appreciate everyone doing all of this hard work!

Root
Use the preserve data version and you won't lose anything like contacts, files etc.

Will this work on a Sprint Samsung S2 running...
All,
I'm a total noob to rooting etc. A few questions to those who have done this. I have a Sprint Galaxy SII (model SPH-D710) running 4.0.4 w/Kernel ver. 3.0.15-SPH-D710.FH13-CL663858 [email protected] #3 - First can this be rooted? Are there any drawbacks or issues doing so (things not working etc.)? What is the best process and can anyone direct me to the best method to date?
Thanks,

First:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28507701
Second:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=31961585
Read the stickies. You'll gain allot from them.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Xparent SkyBlue Tapatalk 2

Thanks for the info... Still looking to see if anyone can answer my other questions about rooting the ver, I have and if it's worth doing or if it's going to create more problems. Really just need to be able to use WiFi hotspot without getting jacked by Sprint.
Thanks..

gohuge said:
Thanks for the info... Still looking to see if anyone can answer my other questions about rooting the ver, I have and if it's worth doing or if it's going to create more problems. Really just need to be able to use WiFi hotspot without getting jacked by Sprint.
Thanks..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The second link in the post above yours answers the question.
Once rooted you can use wifi tether from play store.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda app-developers app

You can also take a look in my signature. I have a guide to manually rooting if not all, most ICS powered devices on the sgs2 epic 4g touch.
Here is my little guide: http://tinyurl.com/icsroot

gohuge said:
Thanks for the info... Still looking to see if anyone can answer my other questions about rooting the ver, I have and if it's worth doing or if it's going to create more problems. Really just need to be able to use WiFi hotspot without getting jacked by Sprint.
Thanks..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to remember that even though you are saying you are a noob it does not mean that you should not read, read, read and then read some more. Honestly I have no problem with your questions but if you took some time to read stickies and info in the forum you would have found the answers to your questions. Also a Google search referencing Wifi Hotspot and not being rooted would of taken you to FoxFi. I suggest you give that a try prior to rooting if thats all you really need.
Remember either xda or Google is there to help you but they can not if you do not ever use them properly.My last piece of advice if you are not one to do reading or not one to really want to take risk. DONT ROOT try FoxFi or the host of other tether options that dont require root

I second using Febby's method - that's how I would do it. Its the scalpel vs. ax analogy - Febby uses a scalpel, those who re-flash an entire rom use an ax. Both work if you follow directions.

Only down side to febby's method is yellow triangle. It is easy to get rid of any way.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda app-developers app

Alternatively if you want Superuser, busybox and su instead of Supersu I have this .ZIP file here:
http://garwynn.rainmotorsports.net/subusybox.zip
It's the same one that I use for the rooted packages.

How about JB?
My question is similar, only my phone (a Sprint Galaxy S2 [SPH-D710]) is already updated OTA to Jelly Bean. I'm looking to root only (keeping the stock ROM). Can someone point me to the correct guide for this?
Do I just use the GB27 One-Click from here?: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=31961585
With that One-Click, are these the correct instructions?: http://www.rwilco12.com/Files/Devic...Sprint) (SPH-D710)/Tutorials/SPHD710-Root.php
In the above instructions is mentions flashing a stock kernel to remove the Yellow Triangle and reset the Odin count, but if a stock kernel is what I am going for in the first place, is there a way to save a step?
Are these instructions a better way to go?: http://www.android.gs/root-galaxy-s2-official-jelly-bean-4-1-2-xwlsn/
Or how about these instructions?: http://www.sxtpdevelopers.com/showthread.php?t=166
This is my first android phone, so I am completely new to this. Can someone please set me straight? You guys are awesome!

Ace_7 said:
My question is similar, only my phone (a Sprint Galaxy S2 [SPH-D710]) is already updated OTA to Jelly Bean. I'm looking to root only (keeping the stock ROM). Can someone point me to the correct guide for this?
Do I just use the GB27 One-Click from here?: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=31961585
With that One-Click, are these the correct instructions?: http://www.rwilco12.com/Files/Devic...Sprint) (SPH-D710)/Tutorials/SPHD710-Root.php
In the above instructions is mentions flashing a stock kernel to remove the Yellow Triangle and reset the Odin count, but if a stock kernel is what I am going for in the first place, is there a way to save a step?
Are these instructions a better way to go?: http://www.android.gs/root-galaxy-s2-official-jelly-bean-4-1-2-xwlsn/
Or how about these instructions?: http://www.sxtpdevelopers.com/showthread.php?t=166
This is my first android phone, so I am completely new to this. Can someone please set me straight? You guys are awesome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK,
You are another admited nooby, and that is OK.
However please, please take some time and read throught the stickies, how tos and follow up posts to the Original Posts.
You WILL save yourself a whole lot of time, frustration and possible flaming.
If you want the latest JellyBean Stock follow the insturctions here. They are detailed and precise.
It is the one-click root method that will give you the ernel, ROM and Modem in one shot.
You will NOT have a custom recovery (with CWM) and will NOT have the yellow triangle.
Not that you must run the one-click 'as administrator' first AND put your phone into download mode before before plugging it into the PC.
If you want a custom recovery (Garwynn's or Agat's) then you can keep the yellow triangle away by using Mobile Odin Pro. BUY it in the Play Store. Download the custome recovery of your choice and open Mobile Odin, Select Kernel, navigate to the .tar file you've transfered to your SD card and 'flash firmware'.
Really though please take some time, don't be impatient. It can save you making an expensive paperweight and have a taste of sh%t in your mouth.
Good luck.

Thanks!
leaderbuilder said:
OK,
You are another admited nooby, and that is OK.
However please, please take some time and read throught the stickies, how tos and follow up posts to the Original Posts.
You WILL save yourself a whole lot of time, frustration and possible flaming.
If you want the latest JellyBean Stock follow the insturctions here. They are detailed and precise.
It is the one-click root method that will give you the ernel, ROM and Modem in one shot.
You will NOT have a custom recovery (with CWM) and will NOT have the yellow triangle.
Not that you must run the one-click 'as administrator' first AND put your phone into download mode before before plugging it into the PC.
If you want a custom recovery (Garwynn's or Agat's) then you can keep the yellow triangle away by using Mobile Odin Pro. BUY it in the Play Store. Download the custome recovery of your choice and open Mobile Odin, Select Kernel, navigate to the .tar file you've transfered to your SD card and 'flash firmware'.
Really though please take some time, don't be impatient. It can save you making an expensive paperweight and have a taste of sh%t in your mouth.
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Your link is the link that I list at #5, above. I took the time to read through many many threads on this, but with so many unfamiliar terms and procedures, I wanted to make sure that I was following the method that will get me the results that I am after. Thanks so much for the confirmation!

Rooting?

Hello guys
Im new to Samsung, bought my phone a month ago and love it to be honest. The problem is dont know most of things on android and samsung. been looking at the forum hours and hours and learnt most of it from you.
I want to know if rooting is any good? why would you root your device or why wouldnt you? advantages and disadvantages?
Is it easy to do it? (as Im new dont wanna brick my phone) I have seen that if you root your phone your warranty will be avoid. If you unroot will it be still avoided?
Hope my questions are clear.

Hi and welxome to xda. Rooting basically gives you full rights over your phone and breaks most barriers put in place. Hands down the best thing about rooting your phone is that it gives you the ability to install a custom rom which improves on the current rom (the systen you are interacting with)
It is really easy to root a note2, i suggest you read the stickys-they have a guide for it.
Lastly the only downside is that you can brick ur phone if anything is DONE without reading the instructions. Or flashing something that is not in a N7100 forum.
And it voids warantee, but there is a workaround (traingleaway, search it )
Hope i answered your question
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app

hamzahqaisar1995 said:
Hi and welxome to xda. Rooting basically gives you full rights over your phone and breaks most barriers put in place. Hands down the best thing about rooting your phone is that it gives you the ability to install a custom rom which improves on the current rom (the systen you are interacting with)
It is really easy to root a note2, i suggest you read the stickys-they have a guide for it.
Lastly the only downside is that you can brick ur phone if anything is DONE without reading the instructions. Or flashing something that is not in a N7100 forum.
And it voids warantee, but there is a workaround (traingleaway, search it )
Hope i answered your question
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for you response mate. Whats the quickest and easiest and safest root ? Like iphone jailbreaks are so easy all you need to do is plug your phone in and press the jailbreak button and after 2 3 minutes all done. Is there any program or software like that?

I suggest you before rooting do a bit of research on why you need to root rather than root it "because you can" as you read rooting has it drawbacks specially for noobs.
If you can live without some specific feature only available through rooting, don't root avoid a headache.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda premium

PiskopatYazar said:
Thanks for you response mate. Whats the quickest and easiest and safest root ? Like iphone jailbreaks are so easy all you need to do is plug your phone in and press the jailbreak button and after 2 3 minutes all done. Is there any program or software like that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CF auto root
it will take 10 sec

True, bought Note II yesterday and rooted today in like 2 minutes!

yahyoh said:
CF auto root
it will take 10 sec
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks
dalanik said:
True, bought Note II yesterday and rooted today in like 2 minutes!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what files do I need? where did you download them?

Where can you find instructions to unroot a note 2 which has been rooted using CF-auto-root.
Sent from my GT-N7100

HypoDest said:
Where can you find instructions to unroot a note 2 which has been rooted using CF-auto-root.
Sent from my GT-N7100
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
why do you want to unroot?

PiskopatYazar said:
why do you want to unroot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't rooted yet. Found many instructions for the easy cf-auto-root but not much on unrooting, which may be needed for OTA updates or warranty checks.
Anyways you may wanna look into rooting after finding some uses for it. Otherwise it may be an unnecessary risk. There is a lot of customisation and functionality available using the stock rom and market apps alone.
Sent from my GT-N7100

you can unroot (rooted with cf autoroot) by supeSU (you will get it by rooting)setting menu
OR
by simply flashing stock ROM with odin will unroot device
(In both case you should have to reset counter while you are having root, to claim warranty)
Read post#2 &3 of this thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1896696

dr.ketan said:
you can unroot (rooted with cf autoroot) by supeSU (you will get it by rooting)setting menu
OR
by simply flashing stock ROM with odin will unroot device
(In both case you should have to reset counter while you are having root, to claim warranty)
Read post#2 &3 of this thread
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1896696
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does unrooting using superSU require restoring factory settings or anything? Or does it do it cleanly?
I want to be able to update through OTA.
Sent from my GT-N7100

factory reset won't need, cosmetically you won't see any rooting sign.
But regarding OTA, really its weired
you never can say surely, i have seen who have unrooted + factory reset, even they fails to install update (though even getting update)
so be prepare to flash using odin, if you don't get OTA.

You need to factory flash via Odin and then use triangle away to reset the flash counter that should allow you to update OTA.
Sent from my Galaxy Note II using xda app-developers app

How to: Root 4.3 & Install CWM SGH-T889

Keep in mind that if you follow this method, you are tripping the knox flag to a 0x1. This completed voids your warranty and until this moment there's no possible way to research back to a 0x0.
I used Oden to apply the Chainfire root. After rebooting, Knox told me it prevented an unauthorized app from accessing secure area of the phone. Then SuperSU FC'ed. I went to play, updated it SuperSU, and opened it. After a brief pause, it asked "Do you want to disable Knox?". I pondered that question intently, and in about 10ms, answered OF COURSE! It the successfully disabled knox.
After, go into the play store, and download "Rom Manager". Open it up, and click on the first tab. "Recovery Setup" (Even if it says that you already have CWM recovery installed, still do these steps) After clicking on that tab, on the list "Install or Update recovery" Click on ClockwordMod Recovery. Then click on our device name. A box will pop up suggesting you have Wi-Fi (If you're not already on it), just click OK. And then it'll automatically download it and flash it. There you go.
Sorry if this has already been posted. People might think that there is a different way to root 4.3, just here to help.
Took part of this from erkme73​

Thanks .. worked like a charm

Thanks a lot. This method worked for me and very quickly! Thanks!

Thnaks for testing this out. This method worked for me. I had the old CFautoroot before and it didn't work for me, so after downloading the CFautoroot that's specifically for t-mo version, this worked for me.
I didn't even have to go and download a custom recovery. I managed to have the stock recovery on.

Previous to 4.3 I flashed Robinson's stock root-injected 4.1.2 rom. Would this method work for me? And can I skip the CWM recovery part?

ungraph said:
Previous to 4.3 I flashed Robinson's stock root-injected 4.1.2 rom. Would this method work for me? And can I skip the CWM recovery part?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you use ODIN to flash the 4.3 stock, then you'll lose root, and then you'll have to do this method to get root back. You already have root. Wait until Mr. R puts out the root injected 4.3 so you won't lose your root.

nmw407 said:
If you use ODIN to flash the 4.3 stock, then you'll lose root, and then you'll have to do this method to get root back. You already have root. Wait until Mr. R puts out the root injected 4.3 so you won't lose your root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flashed Robinson's stock root-injected 4.1.2 via Odin and I installed the 4.3 update via Kies yesterday so I lost root. I was wondering if this method would work for me.

It worked for me through ODIN. My mistake was using the old CFautoroot that was for the note 2 international. Once I used the one for t-mo, it all worked exactly as the OP stated - I stopped before the recovery installation since I didn't need TWRP or CWM

is it possible to be rooted and still use knox?

nmw407 said:
It worked for me through ODIN. My mistake was using the old CFautoroot that was for the note 2 international. Once I used the one for t-mo, it all worked exactly as the OP stated - I stopped before the recovery installation since I didn't need TWRP or CWM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just did exactly what you said and it works! I gained root on stock 4.3.

bones718 said:
is it possible to be rooted and still use knox?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I have seen with my phone NO... But hey still very early. The root method here is great. I found that I had to also uninstall Knox completly with TiBu and seems to hold. I found booting back into recovery even with Knox on Freeze it still would interfere ... Just my limited experience speaking here also.
Thanks again for the root method. Seems 4.3 is pretty smooth, I installed exposed and Wanam and all is good, Also flashed Devil Kernel and good good so far.:victory:

youStolemylaptop said:
There you go.
Sorry if this has already been posted. People might think that there is a different way to root 4.3, just here to help.
Took part of this from erkme73​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worked like a charm. Thanks for posting the steps!

This method works but i did a master reset to start "fresh" after rooting and i got on the Tmobile 4g lte screen loop.
Any ideas?
lmarranzino said:
From what I have seen with my phone NO... But hey still very early. The root method here is great. I found that I had to also uninstall Knox completly with TiBu and seems to hold. I found booting back into recovery even with Knox on Freeze it still would interfere ... Just my limited experience speaking here also.
Thanks again for the root method. Seems 4.3 is pretty smooth, I installed exposed and Wanam and all is good, Also flashed Devil Kernel and good good so far.:victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you meant by interfere?

DKM119 said:
This method works but i did a master reset to start "fresh" after rooting and i got on the Tmobile 4g lte screen loop.
Any ideas?
What do you meant by interfere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine hung on that screen for longer than I wanted (started getting nervous) but eventually the phone finished loading up
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app

Keep in mind that if you follow this method, you are tripping the knox flag to a 0x1. This completed voids your warranty and until this moment there's no possible way to revert back to a 0x0. This means you can't downgrade your firmware and if you try, even via Odin, it wouldn't let you and lock your phone. Just a heads up. OP shouldve posted this in the post but if you don't mind flashing custom rooms etc, then by all means go ahead.

ungraph said:
Keep in mind that if you follow this method, you are tripping the knox flag to a 0x1. This completed voids your warranty and until this moment there's no possible way to research back to a 0x0. This means you can't downgrade your firmware and if you try, even via Odin, it wouldn't let you and lock your phone. Just a heads up. OP shouldve posted this in the post but if you don't mind flashing custom rooms etc, then by all means go ahead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll edit it in right now to let everyone know.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app

it's work on my NOTE2
Thanks

I thank the OP for updating the post to reflect the Knox issue... but I think anyone with a Note 2 should have already been aware of such issues when rooting. Even if they weren't around for the "modified/binary count/triangle away" disscussions... those that did root, still had to deal with those issue and heard all about them... and now that we've headed towards that next phase of OTA's... it's hard to think anyone has not seen/heard/read something on Knox itself... I can hardly go 5 topics without seeing something related to Knox posted within the first 2 pages... I commend the OP for updating... but how can people be so careless with a phone that cost $400-700. Especially when the first rule of xda is "read first" followed by rule two "at your own risk"
Ultimately, I tripped out about the whole "modified status won't allow OTA's / void warranty" at first and in the end it was patched... I hope for everyone's sake, this gets the same solution... like Coug, I'm holding out for the moment, but I do have faith
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app

PhxDroid86 said:
I thank the OP for updating the post to reflect the Knox issue... but I think anyone with a Note 2 should have already been aware of such issues when rooting. Even if they weren't around for the "modified/binary count/triangle away" disscussions... those that did root, still had to deal with those issue and heard all about them... and now that we've headed towards that next phase of OTA's... it's hard to think anyone has not seen/heard/read something on Knox itself... I can hardly go 5 topics without seeing something related to Knox posted within the first 2 pages... I commend the OP for updating... but how can people be so careless with a phone that cost $400-700. Especially when the first rule of xda is "read first" followed by rule two "at your own risk"
Ultimately, I tripped out about the whole "modified status won't allow OTA's / void warranty" at first and in the end it was patched... I hope for everyone's sake, this gets the same solution... like Coug, I'm holding out for the moment, but I do have faith
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In a perfect world this is completely true, but this isn't a prefect world. Most the post I see about Knox is "what is Knox" instead of people searching. That's why we have so many people already bootlooping trying to go back to 4.1. I'm glad the op updated the Knox warranty but because I'm pretty sure there will be some people shocked by theirs being tripped.
On a side not Vroot and kingo will root without messing up the Knox. Just Google them. They were removed from xda because some suspicion of virus, but I didn't have s problem
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app

So if you flash Mr. Robinson's stock root injected update you lose root. He has ripped out knox so if you use this method, you shouldn't have any issues and regain root?

[Help] Unrooting Samsung Galaxy S3 urgent!

About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.

what model of S3 do you have? There is many.

GS3User15 said:
About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out an app called universal unroot it worked for me........ Not sure if it works for Samsung devices
Here is the link
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...&utm_medium=organic&utm_term=universal+unroot
Here is some information :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2231096
Press the thanks button if I helped!!!!!!
I am sure it will work
Sent from my MIND using my BODY....(JUST KIDDING)

Download the stock firmware, flash it with Odin, reboot to stock recovery and factory reset
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk

GS3User15 said:
About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.
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I guess u can update your device when the update comes u don't need to unroot.... The update will automatically unroot your phone....
If I am mistaken pls correct me thanks.....
Sent from my MIND using my BODY....(JUST KIDDING)

The best bet is to get that firmware to flash. You can try using an unroot option if all else fails (in the supersu app, just choose Full Unroot).
But if you want to try to get the firmware flashed, we need more info about what's happening. In particular, what model device, your current firmware version, the version you are trying to flash, where you got it from, and most importantly, what does Odin say when it fails? (Copy the text in your post)

DocHoliday77 said:
The best bet is to get that firmware to flash. You can try using an unroot option if all else fails (in the supersu app, just choose Full Unroot).
But if you want to try to get the firmware flashed, we need more info about what's happening. In particular, what model device, your current firmware version, the version you are trying to flash, where you got it from, and most importantly, what does Odin say when it fails? (Copy the text in your post)
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Okay, I'll get the text off Odin as soon as my phone charges to 80% or so. Should be about an hour or so.
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Okay so now for some reason Odin won't add the phone when its plugged in and in download mode. Maybe its because my battery charge wasn't at 80% or higher? Or could it be because I deleted the SuperSU file? And was it a bad idea to delet the file? Kinda frustrated cause I have no idea what's going on and why it won't unroot, I just want my phone back to normal...
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Did you open Odin after you plugged it in?
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serio22 said:
Did you open Odin after you plugged it in?
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Of course I did. I'm going to try again later today. Hopefully it works.
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GS3User15 said:
Okay so now for some reason Odin won't add the phone when its plugged in and in download mode. Maybe its because my battery charge wasn't at 80% or higher? Or could it be because I deleted the SuperSU file? And was it a bad idea to delet the file? Kinda frustrated cause I have no idea what's going on and why it won't unroot, I just want my phone back to normal...
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Ive used odin with less than 20% battery...
Try installing supersu from the play store, then choose full unroot from the app.

DocHoliday77 said:
Ive used odin with less than 20% battery...
Try installing supersu from the play store, then choose full unroot from the app.
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I would but Samsung Knox security won't grant it permission. And I can't delete the stupid app.
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GS3User15 said:
I would but Samsung Knox security won't grant it permission. And I can't delete the stupid app.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Is your computer detecting your phone when you plug it in while in download mode? unplug it and plug it back in a few times to see if your computer detects/installs correctly giving a couple minutes before unplugging each time.
Once odin does detect your phone, be sure you have the correct firmware for your phone. If you have the T999, be sure to download the firmware for the T999, if you have the T999L download the firmware for that one... Check DocHoliday77's Firmware/OTA's post in the Android Development section for directions on flashing back to stock.
If you are adamant about the whole Knox thing, you can just flash the attached zip using a custom recovery to remove knox

daggorlad said:
Is your computer detecting your phone when you plug it in while in download mode? unplug it and plug it back in a few times to see if your computer detects/installs correctly giving a couple minutes before unplugging each time.
Once odin does detect your phone, be sure you have the correct firmware for your phone. If you have the T999, be sure to download the firmware for the T999, if you have the T999L download the firmware for that one... Check DocHoliday77's Firmware/OTA's post in the Android Development section for directions on flashing back to stock.
If you are adamant about the whole Knox thing, you can just flash the attached zip using a custom recovery to remove knox
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It was just recently that Odin refused to work. Before that it was working fine but if you read my first post there were still obstacles. It all seems to be going well until Odin just gives a big read "FAIL!" at the top. And around last year when I unrooted the same phone, I always got "md5 error" but that isn't the case right now. And I do have the right firmware downloaded from SamWire.com. Hoping you can help.
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If I missed it I apologize, but you still haven't answered several of the questions we've asked you. I'm only assuming you have the T999 model since it sounds like you're stock and its in your dad app Sig.... but what firmware are you on now? What build are you trying to flash? Can you copy the text output from odin after it fails? You say you think knox is blocking odin from running.....if this is the case its actually not knox (common mistake), but its not letting you downgrade due to the revision check, which is why I want to know your current firmware and the build you're trying to flash.
Without this information, the only things I can think to tell you are to try several usb cables (they do go bad, and many are only for charging), try each cable in every usb port on the computer (weird but its worked many times), or try this....
Check my Towelroot root thread in general section. Reroot the device with this method and after installing SuperSU, let it update the binary and disable Knox. Now try flashing in odin. If it doesn't work, try the full unroot option I mentioned earlier.

GS3User15 said:
It was just recently that Odin refused to work. Before that it was working fine but if you read my first post there were still obstacles. It all seems to be going well until Odin just gives a big read "FAIL!" at the top. And around last year when I unrooted the same phone, I always got "md5 error" but that isn't the case right now. And I do have the right firmware downloaded from SamWire.com. Hoping you can help.
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Sometimes if Kies is running then also it fails so make sure Kies is not running in services or you can uninstall it
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DocHoliday77 said:
If I missed it I apologize, but you still haven't answered several of the questions we've asked you. I'm only assuming you have the T999 model since it sounds like you're stock and its in your dad app Sig.... but what firmware are you on now? What build are you trying to flash? Can you copy the text output from odin after it fails? You say you think knox is blocking odin from running.....if this is the case its actually not knox (common mistake), but its not letting you downgrade due to the revision check, which is why I want to know your current firmware and the build you're trying to flash.
Without this information, the only things I can think to tell you are to try several usb cables (they do go bad, and many are only for charging), try each cable in every usb port on the computer (weird but its worked many times), or try this....
Check my Towelroot root thread in general section. Reroot the device with this method and after installing SuperSU, let it update the binary and disable Knox. Now try flashing in odin. If it doesn't work, try the full unroot option I mentioned earlier.
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Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
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GS3User15 said:
Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
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That is your problem, you cannot downgrade firmware once you have upgraded to 4.3. That still doesn't explain the Odin problem. That is most likely a cable issue as DocHoliday77 stated or a driver issue on your PC. check your device manager when you plug it in to see if your computer even detects it. If it gives the yellow triangle in your device manager on your PC, try uninstalling, then unplug your phone and plug it back in.

GS3User15 said:
Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Thanks! This definitely helps! If you have previously updated to 4.3 firmware you cannot downgrade anymore. (Flashing older roms is ok, but not the full firmware). If you find a way to force the flash, it'll brick your phone.
So if your current firmware is MJC, you can only flash MJC or NC2 builds. If your current is NC2, then you can only flash NC2.
If you want to check for sure, install terminal emulator and enter this:
getprop to.bootloader
This will tell you your current firmware build.
If this still doesn't flash, let us know. But you could still try my other suggestions for rerooting and trying the full unroot again.
Sorry I misunderstood what you said about knox. Many people call the warranty bit part of a knox bootloader. This isn't entirely inaccurate, but can lead to some confusion, so I wasn't sure if that's what you were talking about.

DocHoliday77 said:
Thanks! This definitely helps! If you have previously updated to 4.3 firmware you cannot downgrade anymore. (Flashing older roms is ok, but not the full firmware). If you find a way to force the flash, it'll brick your phone.
So if your current firmware is MJC, you can only flash MJC or NC2 builds. If your current is NC2, then you can only flash NC2.
If you want to check for sure, install terminal emulator and enter this:
getprop to.bootloader
This will tell you your current firmware build.
If this still doesn't flash, let us know. But you could still try my other suggestions for rerooting and trying the full unroot again.
Sorry I misunderstood what you said about knox. Many people call the warranty bit part of a knox bootloader. This isn't entirely inaccurate, but can lead to some confusion, so I wasn't sure if that's what you were talking about.
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Okay. I'll download the 4.3 firmware. This is weird cause last time I unrooted, I did so while flashing a ln older version. Or maybe I was mistaken. I'll see what I can do with the new firmware and tell you guys how it turns out. Wish me luck!
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