Develop Bugs

Help for a somewhat new person.

I am new with rooting my phone. I have used Rooted phones before, I followed http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2258633 Motochopper how to. I ran into a problem. I click the superuser app that was installed onto my phone, and it tells me that "The Superuser binary (su) must be updated. Please choose an installation method. Recovery mode installation is recommended for HTC devices." I click install and it tells me there was an error. I would like to root my phone along with potentially installing CWM so that I can easily install Cyanogenmod when they release a stable verison for the S4. Also would love to install titanium backup along with some Adfree apps.
Any help would be very much appreciated.

OK, so it looks like you already have it rooted.
When super SU asks that question, dont install via CWM, tell it to just install normally.
Once you have SuperSU working, Download Rom Manager from the play store and install CWM Recovery right from within the ROM Manager app.
It will give you the option to pick between two types of CWM(ClockWorkMod). The Touch version, like its name gives you the ability to use the touch screen and not only the volume up/down + Power button.

Telling it to install normally causes it to just tell me there was an error, it also tells me it is out of date as well. Titanium Backup tells me that it cant get root access and I was never asked about it.

OK, so your phone is not rooted then.
Your going to have to try rooting it again or flashing an already rooted rom with Odin.

I just tried it again, this time it said failure after the install of the superuser.apk. I just read that one of the later updates by samsung can make it harder to root. I just got my phone and i was fully updated. What Roms, are already rooted for the S4. I am actually enjoying some of the default apps that came with the phone.

Wicked (and most ROMs that don't include the [STOCK] tag) are pre-rooted...but you'll need to ODIN a custom recovery first then flash the ROM.
If you want to stay on rooted stock, follow the steps in the "root May 7 MDL" thread to ODIN a rooted kernel, and you'll be good to go.
(You don't need root access to get a custom recovery flashed)
Basically, any of your options are pretty straightforward, but they're going to involve Odin-ing stuff.

So there isn't really a way to just root my phone without installing a custom rom?

There was before the second update, with the second update rooting got just a little bit more steps
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium

movieaddict said:
There was before the second update, with the second update rooting got just a little bit more steps
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is there a way to keep it stock but root it? What are the other steps I would have to take. Why does Samsung not like people rooting their phones, I thought carriers were the ones that hated people rooting their phones

Spud37 said:
So is there a way to keep it stock but root it? What are the other steps I would have to take. Why does Samsung not like people rooting their phones, I thought carriers were the ones that hated people rooting their phones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you still on the MDB firmware or have you done any over the air updates? Specifically the May 7 update which is MDL. Motochopper is specifically for then older firmware (MDB) and it won't work if you are already on the updated. MDL firmware. In which case you would have to follow these instructions to acquire root.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=41162041
I usually use a market app called root checker to quickly check if I do have root.
And yes you can be rooted on stock.
Sent from my SGH-M919

lazaro17 said:
Are you still on the MDB firmware or have you done any over the air updates? Specifically the May 7 update which is MDL. Motochopper is specifically for then older firmware (MDB) and it won't work if you are already on the updated. MDL firmware. In which case you would have to follow these instructions to acquire root.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=41162041
I usually use a market app called root checker to quickly check if I do have root.
And yes you can be rooted on stock.
Sent from my SGH-M919
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root checker says no root. I believe it does have that over the air update installed. T Mobile updated it when they gave me the phone, because they thought I didn't really know anything about phones. I assume this means I have to follow another method to root my phone?

If you have the MDL update you have to root using the steps listed here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2268880
Easily done, just a few more steps.

ronin4740 said:
If you have the MDL update you have to root using the steps listed here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2268880
Easily done, just a few more steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is going to sound like a dumb question but from reading all of that I need to use ODIN to install the ROOT_M919?UVUAMDL onto the phone? that should root the phone and allow me to install ROM Manager and install CWM from there right?
Also would doing this delete everything I have on my phone right now?

Spud37 said:
This is going to sound like a dumb question but from reading all of that I need to use ODIN to install the ROOT_M919?UVUAMDL onto the phone? that should root the phone and allow me to install ROM Manager and install CWM from there right?
Also would doing this delete everything I have on my phone right now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you use Odin to install one of the recoveries. You use the recovery to install the zip ROOT_M919?UVUAMD. Personally I didn't use that file. I installed the kernel in recovery and SuperSU in recovery. And no, it won't delete things on your phone.

Atmazzz said:
No, you use Odin to install one of the recoveries. You use the recovery to install the zip ROOT_M919?UVUAMD. Personally I didn't use that file. I installed the kernel in recovery and SuperSU in recovery. And no, it won't delete things on your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much, I am about to go and do this. I will use the kernel you suggested since that looks like a better option, after flashing the kernal should i reboot and just use it normally for a bit and then go to recovery and flash SuperSU?
EDIT: The steps on the thread for ODIN are for installing a rooted ROM, I am assuming its still the same steps for installing a recovery instead of a rooted ROM

Spud37 said:
after flashing the kernal should i reboot and just use it normally for a bit and then go to recovery and flash SuperSU?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I remember right I just flashed them both at the same time. Just make sure you do the kernel first.
---------- Post added at 02:01 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:59 PM ----------
Spud37 said:
EDIT: The steps on the thread for ODIN are for installing a rooted ROM, I am assuming its still the same steps for installing a recovery instead of a rooted ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The steps for Odin are for the stock rom, but yes, you use it the same way for a recovery.

Atmazzz said:
If I remember right I just flashed them both at the same time. Just make sure you do the kernel first.
---------- Post added at 02:01 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:59 PM ----------
The steps for Odin are for the stock rom, but yes, you use it the same way for a recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay I didn't get any error using ODIN, however when I try and boot into CWM using Volume Up + Power it just goes to android recovery. Which doesn't have any of the options I need. Am I just booting up the wrong way, or did I do something wrong. I tried both the touch version and the non-touch version

Spud37 said:
Okay I didn't get any error using ODIN, however when I try and boot into CWM using Volume Up + Power it just goes to android recovery. Which doesn't have any of the options I need. Am I just booting up the wrong way, or did I do something wrong. I tried both the touch version and the non-touch version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2 options. uncheck auto reboot in Odin. When Odin is done, unplug your phone, pull your battery, then boot into recovery. Or .. when Odin is done and it reboots your phone, keep holding volume up to get to recovery.

Atmazzz said:
2 options. uncheck auto reboot in Odin. When Odin is done, unplug your phone, pull your battery, then boot into recovery. Or .. when Odin is done and it reboots your phone, keep holding volume up to get to recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You so much. However it now seems like I have both Super User and SuperSU installed.

How did you root? Did you install the ROOT_M919?UVUAMDL zip and install SuperSU?

|Guide|How-To| Root & Install Custom Recovery for 4.3 / 4.4 Update |16 July 2014 |

|Guide|How-To| Root & Install Custom Recovery for 4.3 / 4.4 Update |16 July 2014 |
Warning: Following any of these instructions will void your warranty, and could possibly cause irreparable harm to your device (i.e. bricked). If you do not understand these risks, stop here and do not proceed. If you do not know how to use Odin, stop here and do not proceed. I am not responsible for anything that happens to your device. YOU chose to follow this guide.
If you have not updated to 4.3, go here.
If you have not updated to 4.4, go here.
Finally, there is no guarantee that either method will work for you.
Root Method #1:
The first thing you should try is CF-Autoroot since this has worked for many users.
If you successfully root with this method, you can simply install Goo Manager or ROM Manager and install recovery.
This method failed for me after many attempts.
Edit:
Here is some potentially useful info for root method #1 from ansonantonym.
Root Method #2:
1) Reboot in to download mode
2) Flash TWRP with Odin via PDA
3) Reboot to recovery then flash SuperSu and the Knox Remover
4) Reboot
5) Download SuperSu from the Play Store
6) Open SuperSu and update the binary when prompted
7) Reboot
8) Enjoy rooted 4.3/4/4
Downloads:
Odin
TWRP (Odin flashable tar)
SuperSu (v1.65)
SuperSu (v2.01)
DE-SAMSUNGNIZER_KNOX_REMOVAL_SCRIPT_V1.0
If you found another method that worked for you, please post here so that others may benefit.
If you are uncertain about any of the steps above, please ask your questions here before proceeding.
Please be sure to thank Chainfire, Dees_Troy, and Kaito95.
*****

Noob here, first off I unrooted a while ago, then took the ota 4.3, is the bootloader locked? Cause according to the cf auto root site if your bootloader is locked you'll probably brick your phone if you flash the auto root? Also do these steps have to be in order? I tried rooting by other means and installing supersu first, wouldn't work so I removed knox with the script, and then updated supersu in the play store and still nothing, can I try to flash cf auto root now and then update supersu in the play store? Thanks a million, need this thing rooted
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

jeremyds45 said:
Noob here, first off I unrooted a while ago, then took the ota 4.3, is the bootloader locked? Cause according to the cf auto root site if your bootloader is locked you'll probably brick your phone if you flash the auto root? Also do these steps have to be in order? I tried rooting by other means and installing supersu first, wouldn't work so I removed knox with the script, and then updated supersu in the play store and still nothing, can I try to flash cf auto root now and then update supersu in the play store? Thanks a million, need this thing rooted
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I'm not bricked, so I think that answers your question about the bootloader.
Do you have a custom recovery installed? I assume so since you say you flashed the Knox remover script. If you do have a custom recovery installed, just flash the SuperSu zip, then update in the Play Store.

upndwn4par said:
Well, I'm not bricked, so I think that answers your question about the bootloader.
Do you have a custom recovery installed? I assume so since you say you flashed the Knox remover script. If you do have a custom recovery installed, just flash the SuperSu zip, then update in the Play Store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah it is so nice to have root again... Thank you so much for putting up with a noob.
Crazy events of a noob that lead me to root
Installed ota 4.3
Tried to root and install superuser by odin and then custom recovery to flash
Root didn't happen because of knox
Could only get to CWM custom recovery if it was right after odin and battery pull?...
Flashed the script to remove knox, which did remove knox
Tried the same root method as above and no root access
Tried supersu and then updating in play with no success
Changed security update settings etc nothing
Reset delvik, cache, permissions, etc nothing
Different root method and files for odin, and custom recovery stuck
Used files from this thread, went into custom recovery and flashed supersu
Installed supersu from play store...
Updated the binary using custom recovery
Rebooted...
ROOT access, all root applications work fine and root sticks even after reboots
I never messed with cf auto root method
THANK you guys for your time effort and sharing, helps noobs out like me a lot!

Sweet! I've missed root since I upgraded using the OTA file you provided. Looking forward to much other great things coming from you

Thank You
upndwn4par said:
Warning: Following any of these instructions will void your warranty, and could possibly cause irreparable harm to your device (i.e. bricked). If you do not understand these risks, stop here and do not proceed. If you do not know how to use Odin, stop here and do not proceed. I am not responsible for anything that happens to your device. YOU chose to follow this guide.
If you have not updated to 4.3, go here. Make sure you understand the risks and uncertainties described in the OP.
Finally, there is no guarantee that either method will work for you.
Root Method #1:
The first thing you should try is CF-Autoroot since this has worked for many users.
If you successfully root with this method, you can simply install Goo Manager or ROM Manager and install recovery.
This method failed for me after many attempts.
Root Method #2:
1) Reboot in to download mode
2) Flash TWRP with Odin via PDA
3) Reboot to recovery and flash SuperSu.
4) Flash the Knox Remover
5) Reboot
6) Download SuperSu from the Play Store
7) Update the binary when prompted
8) Reboot
8) Enjoy 4.3
Downloads:
Odin
TWRP (Odin flashable tar)
UpdateSuperSu
If you found another method that worked for you, please post here so that others may benefit.
If you are uncertain about any of the steps above, please ask your questions here before proceeding.
*****
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Method two absolutely worked. Thank you so much. I was scared to flash TWRP but knowing you did it gave me the courage. Have full root and happy

questions about this root
Hi, I'm a little nervous with this root but I need the root as the phone is useless without it.
I have the [email protected] galaxy s3 I747 will all these files work with it im just double checking.
Also do you flash the knox remover the same way as you flash other things with the pda button?
Will I still be able to do factory restores?
Also I saw that knox remover removes a lot of apps, Can you install these deleted apps from the market if you need too?
THanks please let me know asap.

THANKS!!!! your a lifesaver didn't know how much longer i could take without root

Dunno where you guys got your 4.3 update from and how you got it working but I did the OTA and Root just does not want to stick. I used knox remover and Cf auto root but it loses root after a restart. SuperSu never opens and crashes as soon as you open it. I have a feeling Cf auto root is just not compatible for the ota 4.3 i747??

bkong said:
Dunno where you guys got your 4.3 update from and how you got it working but I did the OTA and Root just does not want to stick. I used knox remover and Cf auto root but it loses root after a restart. SuperSu never opens and crashes as soon as you open it. I have a feeling Cf auto root is just not compatible for the ota 4.3 i747??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
use the TWRP method worked perfected for me

Thanks

PimpMyPC said:
Hi, I'm a little nervous with this root but I need the root as the phone is useless without it.
I have the [email protected] galaxy s3 I747 will all these files work with it im just double checking.
Also do you flash the knox remover the same way as you flash other things with the pda button?
Will I still be able to do factory restores?
Also I saw that knox remover removes a lot of apps, Can you install these deleted apps from the market if you need too?
THanks please let me know asap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The second method worked great. I believe (and the way that worked for me) that you use your custom recovery to flash the knox script, not using Odin and pda. I don't think it removed anything other than knox, there is a different script for removing knox and att bloatware. Should still be able to factory reset... But can't guarantee that.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

Root & Knox
When you go to Settings/More tab/Security/Device Administrators, You have KNOX and Android Device Manage. Both are unchecked on mine. So does that mean Knox is not working if unchecked and safe to try to Root?????

tailgunner9 said:
When you go to Settings/More tab/Security/Device Administrators, You have KNOX and Android Device Manage. Both are unchecked on mine. So does that mean Knox is not working if unchecked and safe to try to Root?????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those settings are just for granting device administrator privileges. If unchecked, Knox is still doing it's thing, just not at an administrative level.
Yes, it is safe to try and root.
I have Android Device Manager as admin. That way if I ever lose my device I can just log in to the Play Store and locate and / or wipe the device.

To do this just flash the recovery.img file using odin and clicking the pda button correct?

Is there a way to freeze Knox instead of deleting it in the event I would want to go back to full stock?

After you are rooted, use an app like Titanium Backup(pro) or My Backup pro. Both will freeze it.

Root
If some of you out there use Root Method #2 and it works well and No problems, Please post and let us all know. Thanks

tailgunner9 said:
If some of you out there use Root Method #2 and it works well and No problems, Please post and let us all know. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried method 1 and failed.
Then tried method 2, but using a CMW tar that was posted yesterday.
I seem to be rooted!
So far no issues.. Just need to get everything setup as I had it in the leak.

indymx said:
I tried method 1 and failed.
Then tried method 2, but using a CMW tar that was posted yesterday.
I seem to be rooted!
So far no issues.. Just need to get everything setup as I had it in the leak.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks indymx, may get the nerve up to try it on my AT&T S3. Let me know if you run into any problems. Guess Rom Manager and other programs that require Root are working Ok and you have rebooted few times to be sure it keeps Root?? Have Happy Thanksgiving.

[Q] rooting SGH-T999 with Skipsoft

I've read as much as I can and I just need a little more help. I want to be able to root my T-Mobile Galaxy S3, SGH-T999.
1. Is there any other way to pull files from /data/data without rooting?
2. Can I just do a simple root and then later root with CWM or TWRP using another option?
3. I thought rooted was rooted, what is the need for "insecure boot"? Is that the only way to get a file image backup of my partitions?
4. None of the rooting options in the Skipsoft Android Toolkit wipe the device, correct?
5. Is the only way to be able to "recover" back to stock by installing a "custom recovery"?
All of the options include "custom recovery". What if I just want to root the device and install a custom recovery later? Or it custom recovery included in all the options so I can get back to stock if I mess up? Thanks!

I am not sure why you'd need to go to such extent.
By your question on Insecure Kernel, I assume, you have Stock 4.3 update. If so, please flash SuperSU Zip via Custom Recovery. You can Also flash Root66 of 4.3 (UVUEMJC ) to get Root as well. None of these methods are destructive and make you loose your data.
As to your other questions, /data/data should be accessible read only to Good File explorers such as ES File Explorer. My Backup Pro should be able to backup those files too. Insecure boot is needed to root as SELINUX Enforcing will not let you have Stable Root. Best Flash ATT Insecure Kernel Posted on this sub forum. I don't understand what you mean by "Recover to Stock".

can't do anything without root
I tried ES File explorer and 2 others, they show /data/data as blank. Most everywhere I've looked says you have to have root

In that case please post your Current Android version and what you see under Baseband. What step we take next depends on this information.

rooting galaxy
perseus71 said:
in that case please post your current android version and what you see under baseband. What step we take next depends on this information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4.3, t999uvuenc2

fdecker said:
4.3, t999uvuenc2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root 66 Will not work you will need Auto Root, CWM/TWRP and Update SuperSU for a complete root.
CF-Auto-Root-d2tmo-d2tmo-sght999.tar
openrecovery-twrp-2.7.0.0-d2tmo
UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.93
DE-SAMSUNGNIZER_KNOX_REMOVAL_SCRIPT_V1.0
For a suceed root and Knox remove.

Thanks!
jmberumenb said:
Root 66 Will not work you will need Auto Root, CWM/TWRP and Update SuperSU for a complete root.
CF-Auto-Root-d2tmo-d2tmo-sght999.tar
openrecovery-twrp-2.7.0.0-d2tmo
UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.93
DE-SAMSUNGNIZER_KNOX_REMOVAL_SCRIPT_V1.0
For a suceed root and Knox remove.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, this is great. I rooted the same model phone that was on OS 4.1.2 by uploading root66 with Odin and it worked in one step. I see now that root66 is not the way to go on the 4.3 phone just yet. I will follow your tips. I see too that I have to get rid of Knox and make sure the recovery partition does not get reset. Think I should put busybox out there too, or with TWRP and SuperSU do I have all I need?
Thank you very much for your help!

fdecker said:
Thanks, this is great. I rooted the same model phone that was on OS 4.1.2 by uploading root66 with Odin and it worked in one step. I see now that root66 is not the way to go on the 4.3 phone just yet. I will follow your tips. I see too that I have to get rid of Knox and make sure the recovery partition does not get reset. Think I should put busybox out there too, or with TWRP and SuperSU do I have all I need?
Thank you very much for your help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used the TWRP and SuperSU method no problems so far.

TWRP and SuperSU
jmberumenb said:
I used the TWRP and SuperSU method no problems so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll give that a try then.

busybox?
One last question: Would you load busybox as well?

fdecker said:
One last question: Would you load busybox as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah I wouldn't unless its required by your Rom or something.

[GUIDE] how to root Sph-L710/L710T S3 4.4.2 (updated as of 8/19/2015)

I'm sorry i had the wrong links and because of this i had miss information. So i formally apologize by updating with the proper links.
this first method doesn't work with the Sph-L710T or the Sph-L710 on NJ2/NJ3
First method: You can root the stock 4.4.2 ND8/NDC:laugh:
1st. Make sure your on 4.4.2 ND8 or NDC
2nd. Download Towel Root
3rd. Place Towel Root in sdcard or internal storage
4th. With any file manager find and install Towel Root
5th. Open Towel Root and well root
6th. Go to play store and download https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.chainfire.supersu&hl=en and also https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=stericson.busybox&hl=en let super user update the binary
7th. Flash any recovery you want {personally i went with PhilZ Touch (this was before PhilZ had a root Option)}
8th. Enjoy your rooted stock 4.4.2 ND8/NDC
Down below is one more way too root Stock ND8/NDC/NJ2/NJ3 or NF4/OA3 (L710T) and basically any other update
(link to the almighty ODIN)
Second Method: mostly recommended
1st. Odin flash TWRP
2nd. In Odin choose PDA, PA or AP then select the TWRP Tar you just downloaded
3rd. Make sure Auto reboot is unchecked (also at this time your s3 should be in download mode)
4th. Hit start and let Odin let it finish!!
5th. Hold power button to turn off your S3, after it turns off about 10 seconds later it will turn back on to the battery charging screen so before that quickly hold Volume+ and Home, to boot into recovery
6th. now your in TWRP
7th. so to root your stock rom with TWRP flash the following file SuperSU.zip by Chain fire (pro tip. Install any other custom recovery the same way I did for TWRP above if it is in .tar format)
and here is Philz recovery for the D2Lte 6.48.4 ( which you must flash in TWRP)
and here is TWRP that was made specifically for the D2Rephersher/triband/L710T TWRP (which you must flash in a recovery)
Third method Most recent.
Hidyman said:
This is in reference to Samsung Galaxy S3 for Boost Mobile SPH-L710.
Just want to let anyone out there that updated their Boost S3 to L710VPUC0J1 know that you can still root and/or ROM your phone.
Use the instructions to (use Odin to) update the recovery to TWRP first (in the second set of instructions). I had trouble trying to go right to PhilZ Recovery (which I believe is based off of ClockWorkMod). I Had to do the TWRP (twrp-2.8.7.0-d2spr.img.tar) first.
It was the only way to get it to actually accept the recovery, not sure why, maybe because the latest Samsung firmware fixed an exploit or two.
This is an older phone, but it is still a viable one.
I hope this helps someone out there.
It took me a while to figure this quandary out.
As always this WILL flag KNOX, but I'm sure this won't be an issue at this date and time (8/2016).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

work on ND8 rom? sprint phone?

Tekone said:
work on ND8 rom? sprint phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i want to say yes but towel root does come with a warning that it might brick your device.....but i want to say yes since most things that can be done to the ND8 can be done to the NDC and also in reverse order.....so try it and report back it will be good to know if it works on both bootloaders

Sprint S3 Android 4.4.2 ND8-It works!
I just used this method to root my Sprint S3 running Android 4.4.2 and ND8, since my USB port is on the fritz, and it worked successfully. I have root, and was able to do a full apps backup with Titanium Backup, and gained root access in ES File Explorer. Next, download and install a custom backup. Thanks, great job, and could not have been made easier to do!

oops
Rooted the phone in one click. Unfortunately, I lost all data (no 3G or 4G connection). Did I goof? I'm looking in the stickies and can't seem to find an answer. I'd appreciate any help I can get.

henhun said:
Rooted the phone in one click. Unfortunately, I lost all data (no 3G or 4G connection). Did I goof? I'm looking in the stickies and can't seem to find an answer. I'd appreciate any help I can get.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ND8 or NDC? have you tried updating your profile/PRL?

6th_Hokage said:
ND8 or NDC? have you tried updating your profile/PRL?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya know. People keep talking about ND8 and ND___. I have no idea what that means. I know I should be embarrassed.
UPDATE: FIGURED IT OUT, BASEBAND VERSION. GOTCHA. IT IS NDC.
I was JUST coming back to update my post. I DID update the PRL and restarted my phone. That seems to have done the trick. Thank GOD I got my data connection back!! It worked. Even though I found the info somewhere else, thank you so much for the quick reply. PRL update fixes the problem. You're awesome.

I used it before i had a custom recovery. And on reboot i wouldnt have root. After i ran it root checker told me i was rooted then reboot killed. I installed philz and all was ok
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Free mobile app

jbnorton0524 said:
I used it before i had a custom recovery. And on reboot i wouldnt have root. After i ran it root checker told me i was rooted then reboot killed. I installed philz and all was ok
Sent from my SPH-L710 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
many users of basically the same phone report different things with every root method out there. If it worked for you that's great tell other users what you did for it to work and if it didn't work, then ask for help and you will get help; some people don't have success with any method while others do with all of the methods.....my phone falls under every method.....

Successful Towelroot on VM Galaxy S3 4.4.2.NDC
6th_Hokage said:
you can root the stock 4.4.2
first step make sure your on 4.4.2
second step download Towel Root
third step place Towel Root in sdcard or internal storage
fourth step with any file manager find and install Towel Root
fifth step root
sixth step go to play store and download Superuser (Chainfire) and also Busy Box (Stericson) let super user update the binary
seventh step flash any recovery you want personally i went with Philliz Touch
eighth step if you want flash a custom rom now if not enjoy your rooted stock 4.4.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Straight forward, fast and easy. I did notice the following:
1) Updating binary reported it did not successfully install. I've seen this before on other devices, but everything worked well. Ext SD and Camera all OK. Everything works fine so far - Titanium, Nandroid, Root Browser, etc.
2) At one point, I was directed to install Busy Box. Having done this on other devices, I said "Yes" and installed it.
3) I see that my device now shows Device Status as Custom ( was Normal before, if I remember correctly). Is this due to Busy Box?
4) Is Device Status the only way to know the KNOX Status? I see no yellow triangle as I did on my Galaxy Reverb.
5) I got a Google warning to uninstall Towelroot since it is usafe and a security exploit. I understand that.
I would like to verify the KNOX status and if tripped in the Towelroot process, to let potential users know of that possibility.
Thank You! And thanks to everyone who has continued to work on keeping root free!
Dave

dave260 said:
Straight forward, fast and easy. I did notice the following:
1) Updating binary reported it did not successfully install. I've seen this before on other devices, but everything worked well. Ext SD and Camera all OK. Everything works fine so far - Titanium, Nandroid, Root Browser, etc.
2) At one point, I was directed to install Busy Box. Having done this on other devices, I said "Yes" and installed it.
3) I see that my device now shows Device Status as Custom ( was Normal before, if I remember correctly). Is this due to Busy Box?
4) Is Device Status the only way to know the KNOX Status? I see no yellow triangle as I did on my Galaxy Reverb.
5) I got a Google warning to uninstall Towelroot since it is unsafe and a security exploit. I understand that.
I would like to verify the KNOX status and if tripped in the Towelroot process, to let potential users know of that possibility.
Thank You! And thanks to everyone who has continued to work on keeping root free!
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Knox only notifies Samsung that your device isn't stock anymore not necessarily rooted like with a custom recovery and then flashed mods and what not but if you Odin the stock rom it resets the counters so Samsung will never know....and that i have noticed TowelRoot doesn't trip that counter.....only the recoveries and when you update the binary (<---completely forgot to fix that) you must hit the option normal not TWRP/CWM

churninern said:
I just used this method to root my Sprint S3 running Android 4.4.2 and ND8, since my USB port is on the fritz, and it worked successfully. I have root, and was able to do a full apps backup with Titanium Backup, and gained root access in ES File Explorer. Next, download and install a custom backup. Thanks, great job, and could not have been made easier to do!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's great news because same boat here. It worked on 4.3 as well.
I had the phone hacked before and something must not be fully stock so the Ota fails.
I downloaded a package and mobile odin should flash it properly and then I can root it with this again and install a nice modified TouchWiz rom.

Darkangels6sic6 said:
That's great news because same boat here. It worked on 4.3 as well.
I had the phone hacked before and something must not be fully stock so the Ota fails.
I downloaded a package and mobile odin should flash it properly and then I can root it with this again and install a nice modified TouchWiz rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just a quick add on Mobile Odin and stock ND8/NDC don't mix at all

Knox Counter and "Device Status"
6th_Hokage said:
Knox only notifies Samsung that your device isn't stock anymore not necessarily rooted like with a custom recovery and then flashed mods and what not but if you Odin the stock rom it resets the counters so Samsung will never know....and that i have noticed TowelRoot doesn't trip that counter.....only the recoveries and when you update the recovery you must hit the option normal not TWRP/CWM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your response. I may be over thinking these indicators. All I did was Towelroot, successfully. On the phone, the "About Device, Status" now says CUSTOM (was "Official"). The Knox counter according to app "Phone Info" shows Knox Counter at 0x0. As you said, since the counter is not tripped, should be no problem on warranty. So then Device Status CUSTOM is not a problem? I'm not really worried about warranty at this point, but I think I'll hold off further mods for another 6 moths.
Thanks again for your help!

6th_Hokage said:
just a quick add on Mobile Odin and stock ND8/NDC don't mix at all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I tried the md8 and mk3 "mk3 is what it's on". Both just restart and get stuck on splash screen :/.
I have to go to download mode and and restart it that way to boot system back up.
Do you have any other suggestion. I'm not sure what part of the system is altered. It seems like a stock recovery and it's stock firmware "now rooted". Maybe the kernel.
I can't use USB at all.
I'm guessing maybe I should install twrp. Then install a stock zip or try out a 4.3 rom that way. I would like to get to md8 one way or another. Most md8 Roms want you to odin or flash an md8 base.

Darkangels6sic6 said:
Thanks. I tried the ND8 and MK3 "MK3 is what it's on". Both just restart and get stuck on splash screen :/.
I have to go to download mode and and restart it that way to boot system back up.
Do you have any other suggestion. I'm not sure what part of the system is altered. It seems like a stock recovery and it's stock firmware "now rooted". Maybe the kernel.
I can't use USB at all
I'm guessing maybe I should install TWRP. Then install a stock zip or try out a 4.3 rom that way. I would like to get to md8 one way or another. Most ND8 Roms want you to Odin or flash an md8 base.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cause they need the ND8 base to work as intended...my suggestion would be to get the usb port on your phone fixed but i don't know how expensive that will be

6th_Hokage said:
just a quick add on Mobile Odin and stock ND8/NDC don't mix at all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
6th_Hokage said:
cause they need the ND8 base to work as intended...my suggestion would be to get the usb port on your phone fixed but i don't know how expensive that will be
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was afraid you would say that.

Holy crap. May I say, I am quite impressed. I never planned on rooting my S3 (I like it that much!) but this just looked so damn easy to do and it was!
For the curious! I have a Virgin Mobile S3, and I'm on Kitkat 4.4.2, baseband NDC. Verified root with Root Checker Basic. No problems with mobile data.
Many thank yous, 6th_Hokage!

strangelady said:
Holy crap. May I say, I am quite impressed. I never planned on rooting my S3 (I like it that much!) but this just looked so damn easy to do and it was!
For the curious! I have a Virgin Mobile S3, and I'm on Kitkat 4.4.2, baseband NDC. Verified root with Root Checker Basic. No problems with mobile data.
Many thank yous, 6th_Hokage!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
your welcome strangelady and if you want check out the links in my signature area for other cool stuff

added two more t=root methods

I Want To Update To Latest OTA But I'm Rooted. Help!

I would like to upgrade to the latest OTA update for my S3 but since I've rooted using towelroot, how can I update without messing anything up?

CrossBones3129 said:
I would like to upgrade to the latest OTA update for my S3 but since I've rooted using towelroot, how can I update without messing anything up?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First step is to figure out what bootloader and modem you're running. There are a couple of different ways to go about this, and knowing what firmware you're on will help with path to take.
To check your bootloader enter this in a terminal:
Code:
getprop ro.bootloader
To check your modem enter this in a terminal:
Code:
getprop gsm.version.baseband
Alternately install an app called Phone Info Samsung from the Play Store by vndnguyen. The app will tell you all the same stuff.
---------- Post added at 07:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:48 AM ----------
And whatever you do, do not try to Odin back to stock until you know what bootloader version you're on.

i removed root. flashed stock recovery for the version i was on ie 4.1.2. then let OTA update me to the latest version. 4.4.2 then used odin to flash custom recovery and used a root zip from www.galaxys3root.com.

jason2678 said:
First step is to figure out what bootloader and modem you're running. There are a couple of different ways to go about this, and knowing what firmware you're on will help with path to take.
To check your bootloader enter this in a terminal:
Code:
getprop ro.bootloader
To check your modem enter this in a terminal:
Code:
getprop gsm.version.baseband
Alternately install an app called Phone Info Samsung from the Play Store by vndnguyen. The app will tell you all the same stuff.
---------- Post added at 07:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:48 AM ----------
And whatever you do, do not try to Odin back to stock until you know what bootloader version you're on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bootloader & Modem: I747UCUNFE4

I believe this is the latest ROM: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3-att/general/rooted-ucufnj1-stock-rom-t2985006

savagephoenix said:
i removed root. flashed stock recovery for the version i was on ie 4.1.2. then let OTA update me to the latest version. 4.4.2 then used odin to flash custom recovery and used a root zip from www.galaxys3root.com.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I'd have to factory reset because I already have CWM Recovery? I'm not sure the steps to take.

You cannot use Odin to flash stock ROM since you are on a KK bootloader. Any attempts to flash a stock ROM that tries to downgrade the bootloader could brick your phone.

audit13 said:
You cannot use Odin to flash stock ROM since you are on a KK bootloader. Any attempts to flash a stock ROM that tries to downgrade the bootloader could brick your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what are my options?

Have a look at this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3-att/general/ucufne4-to-ucufnj1-update-t2941792

Is there a way to update from NE4 to the latest firmware keeping root via ODIN? Or do you have to use clockwork mod / TWRP?

audit13 said:
Have a look at this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3-att/general/ucufne4-to-ucufnj1-update-t2941792
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
K well I got up to the part aftwr you do the ota update. SuperSU keeps saying there's no binary installed. So I'm kind of stuck. Do I need to flash a custom recovery then flash supersu again through that custom recovery?

CrossBones3129 said:
So I'd have to factory reset because I already have CWM Recovery? I'm not sure the steps to take.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no reset required.. be sure you unfreeze any apps and or re install that pertain to OTA . use SU to unroot. either use odin to flash stock recovery per your android version or reboot into CWM and reboot without it fixing root. then let OTA update. use the tut at www.galaxys3root.com to get root after you update.

savagephoenix said:
no reset required.. be sure you unfreeze any apps and or re install that pertain to OTA . use SU to unroot. either use odin to flash stock recovery per your android version or reboot into CWM and reboot without it fixing root. then let OTA update. use the tut at www.galaxys3root.com to get root after you update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got it thanks! My USB Cord/Ports are messed up. Also like it says in that thread linked earlier, you have to hold the buttons down when Odin restarts your phone or you will definitely lose the custom recovery.

When flashing a custom recovery via Odin, uncheck auto reboot.
When you see reset in the status window, remove USB cable from phone, pull battery, replace battery, boot into recovery.
These steps will prevent the stock recovery from returning.
Flashing supersu from your custom recovery should give you root access.

CrossBones3129 said:
Got it thanks! My USB Cord/Ports are messed up. Also like it says in that thread linked earlier, you have to hold the buttons down when Odin restarts your phone or you will definitely lose the custom recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no need to uninstall su just unroot in settings. what android version you on?

savagephoenix said:
no need to uninstall su just unroot in settings. what android version you on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got everything working fine as well. Seems better than the towelroot method so far.

CrossBones3129 said:
I've got everything working fine as well. Seems better than the towelroot method so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right on. Glad it worked out for you. It seems the quickest and easiest.