Hey guys! So I had a Samsung vibrant for years before I got a 920 and rooted it. I would then of course flash roms every week. I looked over the main features of the Roms coming out for the new nexus 7 and don't see anything that I can't already do, but I may he wrong. Can you tell me what is unlocked if I root my amazing new n7? (Apps I can use if rooted , features, etc) Thanks!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
I am more than happy to answer that question for you. First: I want to shed a little light on what 'rooting' a device means, and what flashing new ROMs entails.
First and foremost: root is not required to flash new ROMs. Having root access to the file system is having full control and rights to your files. Think of it like having an Administrator account in Windows. You're free to manipulate all files on your device, including core system files, which is why you don't have root access by default; the normal end-user wouldn't know which system files do what and could delete a very important file that could soft-brick their device, or could download a malicious app that would do the same (think of it as a virus in Windows)(Protip: if you only download apps from the Play store, you're good).
Second: the only thing required to flash a new ROM is your bootloader to be unlocked, and maybe a custom recovery is required, I'm not too familiar with the stock recovery and whether or not you can flash .zips from there. Unlocking your bootloader enables you to flash unsigned images to your device, a custom ROM in this case. Here's where the confusion happens: when you flash a new ROM, it overwrites your old ROM, including the superuser status you had. Most custom ROMs have root enabled by default, which is why it seems like your old root access carried over. Think of flashing a new ROM as re-installing Windows on your computer. All of your old profiles are erased and you need to set up new ones. Having root access is like setting up your Administrator profile and using it.
Third: the benefits of rooting. I personally use root specifically for Titanium Backup, Cerberus, ES File Explorer, and franco.Kernel updater. If you don't know what those apps do, I'll explain. Titanium Backup backs up all of my apps so when I flash a new ROM, I can easily restore them, instead of having to manually re-install them from the Play store which takes time and sometimes, data. TB needs root because it's installing apps on your device automatically (after you tell it to). You can see why you would need root there. Cerberus is an anti-theft app, which needs root to remotely activate sensors like GPS, camera, take screenshots, show messages, get device info, etc. Again, you could see why root would be needed there: security. ES File Explorer (any root explorer app) needs root because, well, so you can see and manipulate files that you need superuser status to do those things. I use it for many miscellaneous reasons such as renaming my nandroid backups. franco.Kernel updater I use to tweak my kernel settings.
Now, I'm not trying to convince you to root. That is a decision that should be made by you. Having root comes with potentially negative consequences. You could mess up your ROM. The chances are very slim, and very reversible (worst-case scenario: flash new ROM), but still very real. If you don't know your way around the bootloader, or how to restore factory images to the device, it could be frustrating to fix a soft-brick caused by system files being manipulated. Still, you have XDA, full of helpful people and plenty of guides and if you have the patience to read and listen to advice, you should be able to learn how to fix your problem, should one arise.
Ok, sum-up. Having "root" is like having Administrator rights on Windows. Installing ROMs is like re-installing Windows on your computer. Recovery is like the BIOS on your computer. Therefor, root is not required to flash a new ROM, only your bootloader unlocked (possibly custom recovery). Root is nice to have, and poses almost zero risk to hard-bricking your device. Having root could soft-brick your device if you don't know what you're doing, however, and could potentially be very frustrating if you don't know your way around the bootloader and/or recovery. If you have the patience to learn or listen to advice, it can be fixed though. It's up to you to weigh the risks and rewards. One thing to keep in mind: if you only download apps from the Play store, you should be 100% A-Ok to have root. The only way to soft-brick your device then, is if you're in there poking around with files you shouldn't be messing with (so, user-error). If you do decide to root and/or flash new ROM's, I'd advise in doing it manually at first instead of using toolkits. That way, you can see what's happening, which could come in handy if something should come up later.
Well said, Johnmama.
Basically, the #1 reason I root is Titanium Backup. I do also use some additional root apps, like ES File Explorer, but I could live without them. Titanium Backup is the ONE app that I will not do without.
The majority of custom ROMs already come prerooted.
Related
I want to keep the stock HTC factory ROM on the phone now. I want to remove some of the system apps that come preinstalled, that's all. Facebook, for example. What's the simplest way to do this?
Also, I want the OTA update to 2.2 when it comes, and I don't care if I lose root, so long as I can cherry-pick what programs are on my phone.
And I want a pony, too.
Seriously, isn't there an easy method to just kill a few apps that is noob-friendly?
Download estrongs file explorer, go into settings/root options/Select hiapk or cyanogenmod (whichever works, you will also be prompted to grant su permissions)/then mount.
Now you navigate to system/app and delete at will.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
adelaney said:
Download estrongs file explorer, go into settings/root options/Select hiapk or cyanogenmod (whichever works, you will also be prompted to grant su permissions)/then mount.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't work. Looks like root is required, plus a custom ROM flashed. Far too many steps to simply delete a preloaded system app. I'm running the stock HTC ROM. I suppose I can run Unrevoked3 to get root, but I have no interest in a custom ROM. I simply want the stock ROM with fewer apps. Thanks anyways...
adelaney said:
Download estrongs file explorer, go into settings/root options/Select hiapk or cyanogenmod (whichever works, you will also be prompted to grant su permissions)/then mount.
Now you navigate to system/app and delete at will.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That doesn't work on the stock ROM
I would also like to remove some apps. I want to keep the stock ROM for now (tried some 2.2 and did not like them... I'll just wait for OTA) and I'm root. What are the posibilities?
Unrevoked only gives you root, you don't have to install a custom ROM. You could just root, keep the stock ROM and just delete whatever you want. Don't see much point in that though. I also hate FB, stock and all the rest but as long as you don't use them / sign in they don't do anything and the free space you gain will be useless.
Simply there is no way to remove system apps without root..
With root you can only do it in recovery by issuing adb commands or by simply deleting .apk files from a custom rom before you flash it.
edit: and i agree with pascanu no need, and you might just screw something up
So basically I have to get root access using something like Unrevoked3, then type in some commands (adb) in my computer, with the phone hooked up via USB, and delete the apps that way?
I can refer to one of the threads explaining how to use ADB, but a quick search tells me that I need to download & install the SDK to use it. Already we are getting way too complicated. Each solution I see involves downloading large files and installing software.
If this is the only way currently, than I can accept that. I have rooted phones and flashed ROMs before, and I am confident I could figure it out again if needed. I just don't want to bother now. I like the stock ROM from HTC on my Desire. All I want is control over exactly which apps live on my phone, just like I control which programs are on my PC. Imagine if you couldn't remove some toolbar or AOL from a new PC when you bought it? Scary, huh? That's where a lot of us are now.
Until it's easy and quick, I and the majority of users just won't bother. I'm still hoping it's possible, and if anyone can explain how to do it then please do.
Yes as i wrote there is no need for that, if you are going to root it should be because you want some of all the good stuff it comes with (wireless tether, a2sd, froyo, decent backup, custom theming etc.)
It is quite easy though.
I may know where you can get a pony..........
Hey All,
For Work I need to install the app Good for Enterprise so I can get my calendar and work email pushed to my phone. Unfortunately it is company policy that it be unrooted. Presumeably a security issue. Is it possible to unroot a custom rom? i'd rather not go back to stock for the simple reason of app storage. I love A2SD+ and being able to have as many apps as I want installed. Also nandroid backups, that would go away without root too wouldn;t it? Can I just remove the SU.apk? Will that suffice to be "unrooted"? Is that even possible?
Tweak_four17 said:
Hey All,
For Work I need to install the app Good for Enterprise so I can get my calendar and work email pushed to my phone. Unfortunately it is company policy that it be unrooted. Presumeably a security issue. Is it possible to unroot a custom rom? i'd rather not go back to stock for the simple reason of app storage. I love A2SD+ and being able to have as many apps as I want installed. Also nandroid backups, that would go away without root too wouldn;t it? Can I just remove the SU.apk? Will that suffice to be "unrooted"? Is that even possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to unroot, you'll need to go back to stock.
The reason they want unrooted phones, is not so much a security issue, as it is they just don't understand or don't wish to deal with possible problems.
If you backup your apps and data you can run the official RUU, and it will put the original unrooted system to your phone. I don't know other method.
Here are the official ROMs: http://shipped-roms.com/index.php?category=android&model=Bravo
Removing the SU binaries will unroot you, I don't see the need as to why you have to be unrooted though.
apparently you can't use the new movie-rental feature of google's market, when you are rooted.
Is it possible to stick to a custom rom but unroot it, so that google recognises your phone as a not-rooted device and allows you to watch movies from market?
I don't need root-permissions every day - in fact I only need it for Titanium Backup, so deleting su-binaries and/or superuser.apk would be ok - but it must be possible to restore them (via recovery/adb) to run TB.
This probably isn't what google wants you to do since you can download the movie to watch later and if you have a working recovery you probably could get you hands on the downloaded files, but still - would be nice, if this was possible.
Easiest way to unroot and go back to stock is to stick a PB99IMG.zip on your sdcard, and turn your phone on with volume held down
How about this:
1) Go back to stock ROM via RUU
2) Install Good For Enterprise (I guess your IT department installs this, so they can check you are not rooted?)
3) ROOT the stock ROM using UnRevoked
4) Take a Titanium Backup of Good For Enterprise
5) Re-install your custom ROM
6) Restore the Titanium Backup of GfE
-> You have a rooted, custom ROM with GfE installed. And your company will never know!
madcr0w said:
Easiest way to unroot and go back to stock is to stick a PB99IMG.zip on your sdcard, and turn your phone on with volume held down
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congratulations for not reading the post. Here is your cookie.
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA Premium App
Demonic idea
kuroneko007 said:
How about this:
1) Go back to stock ROM via RUU
2) Install Good For Enterprise (I guess your IT department installs this, so they can check you are not rooted?)
3) ROOT the stock ROM using UnRevoked
4) Take a Titanium Backup of Good For Enterprise
5) Re-install your custom ROM
6) Restore the Titanium Backup of GfE
-> You have a rooted, custom ROM with GfE installed. And your company will never know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like your idea mate! Hahahahahaha....
Edit: Bad boy! Bad bad boy! hahahahahahahaha....
kuroneko007 said:
How about this:
1) Go back to stock ROM via RUU
2) Install Good For Enterprise (I guess your IT department installs this, so they can check you are not rooted?)
3) ROOT the stock ROM using UnRevoked
4) Take a Titanium Backup of Good For Enterprise
5) Re-install your custom ROM
6) Restore the Titanium Backup of GfE
-> You have a rooted, custom ROM with GfE installed. And your company will never know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone ever tested this?
Or why don't you just delete superuser via adb or android commander
good for enterprise checks for root access/ su every time it starts. It's not an issue of not being able to install the app. It's available for free on the market. The problem is when entering all your info and starting it up, it checks for SU.
I am guessing the best way around this is to install custom rom, set everything up that you need that requires SU/root. Then delete all the su/root related files. Then install Good.
Unfortunately I don't have a list of all the files that have to be deleted for this to work.
There have been reports that other users who have tried this method got it to work but the App stopped syncing after a few days.
List:
/system/app/superuser
/system/bin/su
Sent from my HTC Desire using Tapatalk
I tried this method, renamed the 2 files. It has been working for last 24 hours. I'll update again after a week if it still works..
Edit:
yep this works perfectly.
vvelumm said:
I tried this method, renamed the 2 files. It has been working for last 24 hours. I'll update again after a week if it still works..
Edit:
yep this works perfectly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You renamed SU.apk to SU.apk.bak most likely...
What did you rename the libs file to?
vvelumm said:
good for enterprise checks for root access/ su every time it starts. It's not an issue of not being able to install the app. It's available for free on the market. The problem is when entering all your info and starting it up, it checks for SU.
I am guessing the best way around this is to install custom rom, set everything up that you need that requires SU/root. Then delete all the su/root related files. Then install Good.
Unfortunately I don't have a list of all the files that have to be deleted for this to work.
There have been reports that other users who have tried this method got it to work but the App stopped syncing after a few days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have rooted my HTC Salsa to get apps2sd which is great, but now my mobile banking app says it will not work on a rooted device, similar to your issue.
I am new to android modding, what commands do i need to enter where to rename the files you mention ?
Thanks in advance.
Mike
wont work good enterprises would more than likely check every time like sky go. you would have to removed a2sd command line i think and all su binarys ( and su.akp ( difficult as its normally a system app and once one of the su has been removed you dont have premition to remove the other/
and to the donunt who said ( the dont understand root) wanna cookie 0. basicly good enterprise is a secure web client for companys to send information to mobiles, i have it on my work (iphone) <<<< scummmy.. anyways as root gives to the option to do what ever you or anyone else wants with the phone in theory you could use that system to breack the law or for instance chaindd could possible put an update in to su that will take data from the company> for google videos ) well with root you can screen record ( basicly ) excuse the spelling im trying to find out how to un root and keep all of my system ui mods and themes and my rom ( proving difficult)
hey I know that this is based on a old post but I have a question did you ever find out how to unroot a custom rom that is pre-rooted?
Can anyone give someone fairly new to android some tips on what to do next now that I have unlocked and rooted? Running 4.0.2 now btw
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Custom roms.
I know about the roms but more specifically what about the apps that require root access?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
The root apps I use often are adbWireless and Titanium Backup.
But why would you root if you didn't even have a need to do so? Sounds like you're running stock anyway...
Titanium backup is the first app I use that requires root access. It lets you backup all of your apps and their saved data so you can restore them later. I think it is a must have app for any Android user.
Another one I use is SSH Tunnel to get around the corporate firewall when I connect to the wifi at work.
You can also get root file browsers so you can manipulate the system files on your phone.
You can find a lot of apps just by searching for root in the android market.
+1 on Titanium Backup. Here are a few I am using that require root:
LBE Privacy Guard
SetCPU
Nova Launcher (requires root to display widgets in the widget drawer)
ROM Manager
Root Explorer
Also running Android Revolution ROM, which is pretty much stock ICS with a bunch of speed/memory tweaks.
Nand -- the very first thing you should do is a complete nand backup so you have a bit by bit backup of your phone in case you need to restore it. This is beyond Titanium and if you are going to get into ROMs and kernels you will want to make a practice out of this.
I would say research. Typing something along the lines of "top root apps" into Google will bring up a myriad of results. Being able to research and read on your own will go a long way to helping you get out of a situation if you mess up your phone some how.
1) Clockwork Mod Recovery
Most important! Allows you to make a copy of your entire system as is. You make a mistake, you can return your system back to it's original working order. Don't leave home without it!
2) Titanium Back Up
Allows you to back up apps and/or corresponding data. This allows you to restore specific apps without restoring your entire system.
These two apps are commonly known as the two must have apps for root users. They will be your safety net. I would also recommend that you get the paid version on both. You won't want a limited safety net, if you get yourself into a "situation"
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
PS A nandroid is backup of your phones entire current system. Clockwork Mod Recovery does that.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
Another +1 for Titanium Backup. I've used it on every phone since the Nexus One and love it. It can even help you migrate apps to new phones, as long as you setup the configuration correctly. Make sure not to save system apps to restore on a different phone (did this when I got my Galaxy S II and it would boot-loop or restart every few minutes...then I remembered I had some system apps in my backup haha).
WiFi Tether: Best tethering app on the planet. Setup is easy (in settings just pick the Galaxy Nexus CDMA/GSM, then assign a name and password to your "router"), use is even easier. Open the app and tap the *only button on the app*. It turns your phone into a wireless hotspot. I used it all last night before my internet was installed (new place), and it worked perfectly. Got 15-25Mbps speeds and it's completely reliable. Played some MMOs using it =P
Rom Manager: Especially helpful once you start using custom roms and such, but also helpful for doing a NAND backup. This will backup your *entire* phone. When you want to restore it'll be as if you were in the exact same place as when you made the backup. Fantastic ability.
Root Manager: Helpful for if you need to browse system files or edit them. Nice for blocking ads, deleting system stuff, etc...
I know on previous phones I could just install RM, and then flash CWM that way. Is that also okay with the GN? I've read topics on how to install CWM but installing via RM just seems a lot easier and quicker.
I want to start this off by saying that i am totally new to rooting and anything that pertains to phone customization. But i can follow directions very well aslong as they are in lamens terms. I enjoy learning and want to continue to absorb all i can along the way. I dont play games on my phone, i watch movies sometimes, so i am looking to just be able to customize my phones appearance and have it run smooth and fast. So if anybody can lead me in the right direction i appreciate your time and consideration..
villaf7420 said:
I want to start this off by saying that i am totally new to rooting and anything that pertains to phone customization. But i can follow directions very well aslong as they are in lamens terms. I enjoy learning and want to continue to absorb all i can along the way. I dont play games on my phone, i watch movies sometimes, so i am looking to just be able to customize my phones appearance and have it run smooth and fast. So if anybody can lead me in the right direction i appreciate your time and consideration..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To truly use root, I would suggest a custom recovery such as TWRP or CWM. Then you can flash custom AOSP roms. These ROMS are highly customizable from the settings menu. Always backup your stock setup 1st, in case a ROM doesn't work properly. You can customize without flashing recovery or custom ROM. There are many apps in Google play that require root access, such as ROM toolbox that has a ton of options. You can download adaware off the internet to remove most ads you get on your phone. Also root explorer in Google play will allow you to remove apps you don't use from the system, but be careful with this, because you can bork your phone from removing certain apps, escpecially Google apps.
sent from my GS3
joeyhdownsouth said:
To truly use root, I would suggest a custom recovery such as TWRP or CWM. Then you can flash custom AOSP roms. These ROMS are highly customizable from the settings menu. Always backup your stock setup 1st, in case a ROM doesn't work properly. You can customize without flashing recovery or custom ROM. There are many apps in Google play that require root access, such as ROM toolbox that has a ton of options. You can download adaware off the internet to remove most ads you get on your phone. Also root explorer in Google play will allow you to remove apps you don't use from the system, but be careful with this, because you can bork your phone from removing certain apps, escpecially Google apps.
sent from my GS3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TO BACK UP MY PHONE AFTER ROOT I SIMPLY DO IT IN RECOVERY SETTING?(holding the volume up? right?) and i used the goku tutorial to root( it worked first time!!) and it suggested to nanodroid back up? i wasnt sure but im assuming it is talking about recvery back it up using the philz screen right?
I just ordered this beautiful tablet. I've never owned a tablet before. I've actually always wanted a laptop, but things are changing. I have an Amazon Kindle Fire HD from many years ago. It's actually worked pretty well for me for ebook reading, limited web browsing and email using. But, the last few months it's really started acting funny and not working right. So I've decided it's time to upgrade. Did a week's worth of research and decided this is my best option. I haven't received it yet, but I'm really excited to dig in and do a lot more than I can with my Kindle.
So that brings me here. I don't remember where, but through my research on which tablet to buy, this website was mentioned as a major resource. To be completely honest, I'm 100% lost. There are things I want to do but I don't even know where to start. I love tinkering and figuring things out, but I need a little push in the right direction.
One of the biggest things I want to be able to do is make a complete low level backup of the entire system to store on my home server should anything happen and I need to restore it.
The other big thing I want to do is remove all the excess junk that comes pre-installed that I'll never use. With such a small area of space available, having half or so used up in unnecessary stuff is just pointless.
I'm sure there are other things I can do and may want to do in the future, but for now, these are the major keys. So... any help? Did I make the right choice? What other features/functions should I be looking at or considering?
Thanks guys! Looking forward to getting a lot of great use out of my new tablet and this site.
ChewVodka said:
I just ordered this beautiful tablet. I've never owned a tablet before. I've actually always wanted a laptop, but things are changing. I have an Amazon Kindle Fire HD from many years ago. It's actually worked pretty well for me for ebook reading, limited web browsing and email using. But, the last few months it's really started acting funny and not working right. So I've decided it's time to upgrade. Did a week's worth of research and decided this is my best option. I haven't received it yet, but I'm really excited to dig in and do a lot more than I can with my Kindle.
So that brings me here. I don't remember where, but through my research on which tablet to buy, this website was mentioned as a major resource. To be completely honest, I'm 100% lost. There are things I want to do but I don't even know where to start. I love tinkering and figuring things out, but I need a little push in the right direction.
One of the biggest things I want to be able to do is make a complete low level backup of the entire system to store on my home server should anything happen and I need to restore it.
The other big thing I want to do is remove all the excess junk that comes pre-installed that I'll never use. With such a small area of space available, having half or so used up in unnecessary stuff is just pointless.
I'm sure there are other things I can do and may want to do in the future, but for now, these are the major keys. So... any help? Did I make the right choice? What other features/functions should I be looking at or considering?
Thanks guys! Looking forward to getting a lot of great use out of my new tablet and this site.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root with chain fire root, flash via Odin.
This will allow you to have root access allowing you to remove unwanted app amongst other things
Flash via Odin: TWRP Recovery for Chagallwifi (assuming it's a Samsung T800)
This will allow you to create a back up.
I believe the order of this can be inverted. IE. Flash recovery with Odin and then have TWRP flash the CFAutoroot zip and the SuperSU (the app that will "manage" your root)
Install Titanium Back up and freeze/uninstall unwanted apps. There are lists of removable apps on the forums. I prefer to freeze but it's up to you.
!!!Make a backup prior to this step!!!
Will update post when I am home with more suggestion's.
Thanks, that's somewhat helpful. At least it give me the names of programs. I have no idea what I'm doing though. Can you give me a link to a step-by-step guide, or at least explain what the different things are and what they do? Sorry for being such a noob with this.
Instructions
MAKE SURE TO DOWNLOAD THE FILES FOR YOUR SPECIFIC DEVICE (T700, T705, T800, T805, etc.)
You will need Odin (This is the software that will allow you to install the root and other files [FLASHING])
CF-AutoRoot (Will provide Root access for your device): You will be flashing this with Odin
Optional: Install custom recovery TWRP. This is also done with Odin. This will allow you to make backups and flash .zip files, including custom roms, apps, etc.
Just google for guides on rooting Samsung Galaxy Tab S. They will show you step by step on how to do the Odin flashing, PDA, settings, autoreset or not, etc.
I recommend backing up your device at this point. Reboot into recovery (instructions will be in the rooting guides), go to backup and backup everything for now. In the future when you feel comfortable enough that you can/will select to only backup what you deem necessary.
Your device is now rooted, the first boot after installing CFAutoRoot will take awhile +/-3 - 5 minutes.
Now download Titanium Backup, and you can google or search XDA for a list of "safe" things to uninstall. Just go into TitaniumBackup and look for the app you want to Freeze (This will prevent the app from running but it will NOT delete it, thus it will still take up space) or Remove.
Busybox: Will be required by certain apps.
Optional:
Link2SD App, this allows you to install/move/link your apps to the SD Card, it essentially frees up your internal memory of the device and tricks the device into installing apps and their data files onto your second partition of your External SD Card (Google or Search XDA for guides on Link2SD). This will allow you to install a lot more apps than you normally would be able to. (Example: Vice City, San Andreas, Plants vs Zombies, etc. I mention these because of their large data size). Not all apps will work when linked, just trial and error. I can't seem to get Word, Excel, Powerpoint linked to my SD Card without at least one of the failing, same with Facebook. You will have to test each app and see what files you can link/bind and which you can't.
Adblock Plus: Self explanatory
Xposed: A bunch of customization options for your device
ES File Explorer Pro: The best file management/directory app IMO
Greenify: Battery saver
Aptoide: Secondary App Store
Hancom Apps: I feel these work better on occasion then the Microsoft Office apps (Example large excel files with multiple formulas and filters)
NovaLauncher: Custom launcher, a lot more customizations then TouchWiz will provide you. (Your home screen)
Tasker: Limitless possibilities with this app (Search google/XDA for info)
TWRP Manager: TWRP Recovery app.
VLC: Video player
4way_multiwindow: This will allow you to have 4 apps open at a time and 3 apps "minimized", this also allows floating windows (Moveable apps running in "windowed mode" essentially.) There is an aesthetic bug when minimized, I have not found a fixed version of this yet, maybe others can provide link. Just load up TWRP manager and choose install, and select the .zip file and it will reboot into recovery and install the file for you. Or you can boot your device into recovery and install it the same way. I am attaching the .zip file.
If you are happy with your device up to this point, I would create another backup after you are done with the initial set up and have installed the apps of your choosing. Save a copy on the device, PC, NAS, etc. just in case you lose one of your copies. Some TWRP versions do not allow you to backup directly to the external SD Card, you may have to backup into the Internal and then transfer the information over to the external SD Card.
Good Luck.
xLima said:
Root with chain fire root, flash via Odin.
This will allow you to have root access allowing you to remove unwanted app amongst other things
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is this the link I should be using? I'll know for sure what it's model number is once I receive the tablet. http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-tab-s/development/root-cf-autoroot-twrp-t800-t3079488
xLima said:
Flash via Odin: TWRP Recovery for Chagallwifi (assuming it's a Samsung T800)
This will allow you to create a back up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't installing Chain Fire Root via the previous link also contain the TWRP Recovery? Or is this a special version I need to install after running the first root through Odin? What is Chagallwifi?
xLima said:
I believe the order of this can be inverted. IE. Flash recovery with Odin and then have TWRP flash the CFAutoroot zip and the SuperSU (the app that will "manage" your root)
Install Titanium Back up and freeze/uninstall unwanted apps. There are lists of removable apps on the forums. I prefer to freeze but it's up to you.
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This is just an app I get from the Google Play store right? Or is there a special version I need to get, or install manually? I think I saw in a YouTube video that I need to install something called GApps if I want install something from there after rooting, is this correct? Also, if Titanium Backup IS an app, how can I get a backup of the entire system when I'm booted into the OS? I think I read somewhere, or saw screenshots that show this basically creates backups of your installed programs, so you can easily restore them without having to re-download them. Maybe I'm wrong, as I said I'm completely new this and probably don't know what I'm talking about.
My biggest concern is that I'll screw something up and find myself with a tablet I can't use, without having had it no more than a couple days, and having spent nearly $600 for it and the accessories. I know that rooting/etc voids the warranty, but I also have seen where people are able to put the whole system back to factory default for repairs, etc. That sounds like something I really need to learn how to do and be confident I can do should something happen.
Thanks again for any help!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-tab-s/development/root-cf-autoroot-twrp-t800-t3079488
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This link works, although there are newer versions of TWRP, you can install these after however, no big deal.
Doesn't installing Chain Fire Root via the previous link also contain the TWRP Recovery? Or is this a special version I need to install after running the first root through Odin? What is Chagallwifi?
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The previous link contains TWRP, read above. The normal CF Autoroot comes with CWM Recovery I believe (A custom recovery similar to TWRP). You can use the link you posted. Chagallwifi is the "nickname" of the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 WiFi, it is one way to search for a device, the other being the model number T800, for instance or the long commercial name.
This is just an app I get from the Google Play store right? Or is there a special version I need to get, or install manually? I think I saw in a YouTube video that I need to install something called GApps if I want install something from there after rooting, is this correct? Also, if Titanium Backup IS an app, how can I get a backup of the entire system when I'm booted into the OS? I think I read somewhere, or saw screenshots that show this basically creates backups of your installed programs, so you can easily restore them without having to re-download them. Maybe I'm wrong, as I said I'm completely new this and probably don't know what I'm talking about.
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You get the app from the playstore, correct. I am not sure about GApps, I want to say it isn't necessary unless you will be installing a custom rom (you can double check this on the rooting guides, if it asks for GApps, then flash the GApps)
The system back up is done via TWRP or CWM, boot into recovery and choose backup.
Titanium Backup allows you to back up the app and its data file. So you don't lose the progress of your games. Also backs up email, WiFi passwords, etc.
My biggest concern is that I'll screw something up and find myself with a tablet I can't use, without having had it no more than a couple days, and having spent nearly $600 for it and the accessories. I know that rooting/etc voids the warranty, but I also have seen where people are able to put the whole system back to factory default for repairs, etc. That sounds like something I really need to learn how to do and be confident I can do should something happen.
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Most of the errors cause soft bricks, you can recover from these. I would recommend you backup after rooting, in case you mess something up toying with Titanium, Link2SD, SuperSU, etc. You can always use SamMobile and find a Stock Rom to flash back onto the device, again via Odin. Not sure if the KnoxTrip flag will still show up, you can trying Googling how to root without tripping Knox, I know there are methods, however I have never used them. I have soft bricked my device before, I deleted everything with TWRP, I wanted to factory reset, and I selected erase System..... scary times.
Stock Rom: SamFirm (Outdated) or Updato
Thanks for all your help and advice. I just got my tablet today. Still kinda playing around with it. I probably won't do anything for a couple of days. At least till my next day off from work (Thursday) so I can concentrate on what I'm doing. I was really scared when I first turned it on, everything was in Korean. I had to find a YouTube video showing how to go through the initial setup to change the language. All good now. Once I got it fully running, it downloaded a 350mb update and rebooted. I'm now running Lolipop 5.0.2. Is that going to cause any issues? Also, I can now confirm that it is model SM-T800.
Thanks again!
ChewVodka, once your past the learning curve rooting etc. can be done in your sleep. After some research, I rooted a 10.1 tab 4 a while back with no problem. Definitely better o have more control over the device, I think. Just got a new 10.5 also, and am looking around for the best way to administer the Android system - the Galaxy Tab S for Dummies book seems to me to be actually a good place to start. I'll check back here with any choice info I find on the 10.5.
Also, I have this case for my 10.1, and this is the best under $20 case you can get for the 10.5 - so cheap I bought two of them! Type in search: Xtra-Funky Exclusive Samsung Galaxy Tab S, 10.5 -- the black and navy blue are cool -- the others kinda garish.
Easy Way, allow installation of 3rd party apps in settings download this for android https://kingroot.net/ run it select install anyway when you get the pop up, and root device , open Playstore download flashify for root users, run it allow it access , click recovery image then download twrp choose the 3.0.2-0 release and install to your tab and reboot into recovery, at this point you can use it to make a backup of your current rom or install a custom rom (following the directions on the page for the rom that you choose), this is easier method if you aren't familiar with odin and don't have the drivers and all set up on pc. You can also change kingroot over to super user in a few different ways can download and use supersume from play store and run it or, just flash the newest superuser in twrp and remove whats leftover from kingroot manually after reboot. If you intend on doing a custom rom i suggest choosing first and having all files available before you start. However if you intend on using odin You might want to install this first http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790 so you have full communication with the device in case anything does go wrong there will be other options. This is of course if you are not already setup with this already. Also I would like to note there are a few roms here based on the stock firmware if you like it just look through the forum see what you like, and read everything.
What are the benefits to a custom ROM? I assume you're talking about things like Cyanogenmod. There are some people in another forum I visit that like it, but I don't know what it is or why I would want it. Does it allow installing pirated software or something? It's probably not allowed to be discussed here, and I'm not saying I would purposely do something like that (not that I wouldn't if possible lol). It all comes down to the fact that I'm completely new to the tablet world, other than the fact that it's a bigger and better Kindle Fire that I can get more usage out of by not being limited to Amazon's ROM and store for apps. The biggest things I'm looking to do is get rid of bloatware that came preinstalled (of which a lot was added with the update) and the ability to make backups of the entire system should something screw up.
It sounds like "rooting" is essentially giving you the administrative control access to the system (like in Windows) instead of being limited to a generic "user". That allows you to install more system accessible programs, where a generic user would get a UAC prompt and then be told and Administrator needs to preform that action. As for "recovery", it sounds like that is sort of like the CMOS/BIOS of a PC. It's the first "program" that runs when you boot up (even requiring a specific keypress to enter). This allows you to access the system before the system boots, to get you backup/restore functions, and the ability to install new OS's. It also sounds like the built in version from Samsung is what is getting changed (like updating the BIOS of the PC) to allow more functionality (like backups, etc). The only thing you don't have access to is stuff like disk drives, but things like RAM and CPU can be adjusted once you have ROOT.
The more I learn about it, the more I'm eager to do it. I really don't like feeling confined to a predetermined set of available things to do, and I really don't like having somebody decide to install software I'll never use on my system that just takes up space. I especially hate that said programs can't even be uninstalled. Looks like this is what I'm gonna have to do!
Decided not to wait and rooted it tonight. I have the freedom now to play, though I'm not sure where to start. Currently I have the CF-Autoroot thing done, and it installed SuperSU. Then I did the TWRP recovery, and made a backup of all the partitions. I was kinda hoping I could backup remotely (like on the computer) rather than stored on the same device. I have a microSD card ordered and on the way, so my next task will be to back up to that. There is a tool I use on my Kindle Fire called ES File Explorer. I'll see if I can get that on this. Then I can find the backup and transfer it over the wifi.
I'll check out your other recommended apps as I have time. Thanks again!
Now I'm having a bunch of trouble. I was able to get the Chainfire root to go through, and verified it with a Root Checker. I then installed the TWRP recovery so I could make a backup. I even have a few backups. Then I went and installed an app called TWRP Manager, that was supposed to enable me the option of making backups LIVE (without having to boot into TWRP). It wasn't working, so I went to do a "Classic Backup" which reboots into TWRP and starts the backup then reboots normally. Well, TWRP never booted. I just had a black screen. Nothing seemed to work. I couldn't power on with the power button, and I couldn't manually boot into TWRP. The only option that did anything was ODIN (Download) Mode. I'm really freaking out at this point. I found a way to connect to XDA's IRC Channel and talked with some really nice guys and was told to try re-flashing the stock. I did that, and it worked. But now I'm stuck again. Basically starting from scratch with a stock system, I went through to install the Chainfire root again. It seemed to work ok, and SuperSU showed up. Ran the Root Verifier and it confirmed it was successful. I then went to flash TWRP. ODIN says it passed, but I still can't boot into it. Here's the kicker.. even if it appears that it's not working, if I do the keypresses on my tablet correctly and wait like 2-3 minutes then try again, TWRP will actually be up but the screen locked. WTF??
So did I something wrong? I'm really lost. Like I told the guys in the chatroom, I'm going on blind faith here, not really knowing what I'm doing. I figured once I have stock installed, I'm basically back to square one and can go through the whole process again. Doesn't seem to be working. I have to go to work now but hopefully somebody has something of a suggestion I can try by the time I get home.
xLima said:
4way_multiwindow: This will allow you to have 4 apps open at a time and 3 apps "minimized", this also allows floating windows (Moveable apps running in "windowed mode" essentially.) There is an aesthetic bug when minimized, I have not found a fixed version of this yet, maybe others can provide link. Just load up TWRP manager and choose install, and select the .zip file and it will reboot into recovery and install the file for you. Or you can boot your device into recovery and install it the same way. I am attaching the .zip file.
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Before I try this myself and bootloop, would I be safe flashing the 4way multiwindow on the new stock 6.0.1 ROM? (SM-T805)