[Q] What order for EFS Backup/Root/TWRP Backup, etc - G3 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hello everyone! Just bought a used LG G3, coming from a Galaxy S4 and a Droid Charge, so most my rooting experience comes from a Samsung background (using Odin and such) and I'm trying to figure out the basics so I make sure I start off on the right foot. I've tried to do the necessary research before just jumping in (I've read a few stories of people losing IMEI's and such without EFS backups . . .) but I'm a little confused as to where to start. Unfortunately, this means I have a lot of questions.
1) The most important question I have is, what is the recommended order to ensure I have backups setup? I'm a bit confused because it sounds like you need TWRP before you can do an EFS backup but you need root before you can use TWRP, and it sounds like I should be doing an EFS backup before I start playing with root . . . So I'm not really sure what order to try and do this . . . heh
I have a few other basic questions if you have time (most are about recommended and personal preferences, warnings, etc) but the first question is, for me, the most important:
2) What tool do you use/recommend for flashing? I think I've read about an LG app flasher, read about doing it via command lines, and read about a program called "Flashify". Is there a recommended method or a good beginner's page that discusses basics at this level? I have experience with rooting but nothing with an LG phone specifically, unfortunately.
3) What is the recommended root method for an AT&T D850 on android 5.0.1 on software version D85020f? I was planning on trying the one click root method before trying to longer method using cmd prompt but thought I'd make sure there are no concerns or things I need to look out for before I jump in.
4) Any final thoughts/warnings about what not to do before proceeding?
Right now, I'm just doing my research so things go smoothly when I start moving forward on this (I still need to pickup a new SD card anyway). I'm going to be stuck in Bakersfield this weekend so it's a good distraction from having to hangout with the in laws . . . heh.
Thanks for your help, guys!

Heh, I know a lot of people have rooted their phone and done this stuff already . . . There's really no one willing to point me in the right direction?

I used a script to root and flashify to flash custom recovery. You need twrp to backup.
---------- Post added at 05:57 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:55 PM ----------
Just for the record bud, no one is going to help anyone with a bad attitude. Might be worth googling or youtubing before posting a thread here Google is your best friend in situations like this

Thanks for the reply!
So, based on this, is it safe to assume I should do the following:
1) Root (try one click, otherwise, try script method you used)
2) Install TWRP
3) Backup EFS
4) Install ROMS (I assume this is where the potential for wiping the EFS on accident lies)
If this is the case, I can play around with most other things. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't going to be in danger of wiping the EFS or anything else if I do things in the wrong order.
Thanks again for the reply! I was starting to wonder if there was actually anyone reading these forums . . .

Find SRK Tool in development section. It is a command script compilation whit programms that have many options. You need to root phone to flash anything else than original firmware in .kdz or.tot formats. After that You can flash recovery like TWRP and backup everything to phone memory or use the same SRT Tool to backup all that You want stright to PC.

Related

Questions about rooting an EVO

Let me first say I'm a noob to this whole rooting thing and I would like to get some more info on. I tried searching the forums for the answers, but I failed to find what I was looking for.
1) What is this nand people are talking about? RUU? ROM (what's the difference between sense and no sense)?
2) How do I backup my apps, etc before trying to root?
3) Which guide do I use? My Evo came with 2.1, but I did the stock update to Froyo.- I don't wanna end up with a 500 paperweight.
4) If I need to bring my phone in for service how do I return it to stock?
5) I know you can turn your phone into a free wifi hotspot after rooting, what are some other advantages to rooting?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
ok now let me remind you im not far ahead of you so let me tell you i would wait for a few more posts before taking what i have to say to heart, but i cant leave someone i may be able to help (even a little in need)....
1. the phrase "NAND" refers to the term nandroid backup, which is when you create a backup file. like a system restore point for windows, so when u start doing some different customizations or just try flashing some different roms assuming something goes wrong you will always be just one click away from doing a restore back to a fully functioning rom that you backedup previously. i believe the 2 main programs associated with this is amon_ra and clockwork.....
2. as far as backing up apps i just save the .apks on my pc and reinstall them once i reflash a new rom, but from what im reading you can use a program like titatnium backup, app brain...etc. but then again as far as personal experience goes...none here just what ive gathered from reading.
3. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=765496
(personally ive rooted with this method and it was very simple just read through the steps before starting and follow them accordingly, dont be discouraged general computer knowledge is needed though) or atleast the ability to move about the computer)
4. returning your phone from the method discribed below is simple as it seems...but again have not done personally only from what ive read: you are rooted (assuming you've used the thread above) with unrevoked3 meaning you have s-off(in laymen terms: the position of the bootloader {ON or OFF} which checks images being flashed to make sure they are signed with the htc security signature),,,you just need to download the unrevoked s-ON file and use that to return the phones security settings and re-download an RUU(RomUpdateUtility) thats official from the htc site and ull be back to unrooted good old-fashion stock evo.
5. and as far as the wifi tethering goes just go to the market place and download a wifi tethering .apk, once rooted of course ....and run it from your evo to connect to your pc wirelessly
*this should help*
http://handheld.softpedia.com/progDownload/Wifi-tether-download-76020.html
and as far as why root, well because when you buy a phone i assume you wanted it to be YOUR phone and with rooting its all about flashing opensource/custom roms to your phone and other things such as kernels to customize the phone to your liking and you cant flash unsigned data to your phone without having su permission, meaning you need ROOT access....
-now again let me disclaimer myself i am also very very new to the whole android community and may be spewing lots of wrong info and am probably quite confused my self but i figure id risk making a fool of my self to help u in the off chance that what im saying makes any sense at all....but yea
If I can root a phone trippin on 28 triple cs you can do it
Boss dextromethorphan.....is no fun, and I dunt suggest rooting ur phone or opperating heavy machinery under the influence of triple c's....
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Bump
Victory for L---S---U

backing up before root s off

Firstly I've searched the FAQ's and browsed the associated threads n cant find a satisfactory answer, so I'm not just being lazy n opening a new thread, so now thats outta the way......
I'm trying to find a way of backing up my original rom/software to allow me to return to it after rooting and flashing a new rom if its not suitable.
I've found a few apps etc but most need rooted to use, I plan on titanium back up pro once rooted, but its the initial one before rooting i need help with.
Please dont say google, i have that, cocntacts etc all ok, I'm trying to save the rom/software to allow me to return to it if desired.
I'm S-off.
Anyone help please?
Ron173 said:
Firstly I've searched the FAQ's and browsed the associated threads n cant find a satisfactory answer, so I'm not just being lazy n opening a new thread, so now thats outta the way......
I'm trying to find a way of backing up my original rom/software to allow me to return to it after rooting and flashing a new rom if its not suitable.
I've found a few apps etc but most need rooted to use, I plan on titanium back up pro once rooted, but its the initial one before rooting i need help with.
Please dont say google, i have that, cocntacts etc all ok, I'm trying to save the rom/software to allow me to return to it if desired.
I'm S-off.
Anyone help please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
install a recovery, and make nandroid backup ?
OR run a root script, that can be found on index thread, then install app like titanium backup and make backup, BUT it will only backup your apps and its data, not the whole rom.... maybe a first option is better ...
Definitely just do the recovery and then nandroid backup. Then root
sent from my android powered tank using xda premium B-)
I agree with b02 on this...
The best thing to do is install ClockworkMod recovery and make nandroid backup.

[Q]Need help flashing CM12 on XM SS

After countless hours of searching over all related posts I am still confused and pretty much intimidated on the flashing aspect. From all my searching expeditions till now I managed to outline some of the points but I don't know how to move forward with them. Also I am concerned with the possibilities of getting the device unresponsive just because of my stupidity, want to gain full knowledge before going forward with the process.
So as per my findings, for installing a CFW like CM12, I require the following things,
1. Unlocked Bootloader.
The Bootloader on my XM SS can be unlocked, I did a check on that but the thing that's bugging me is the occurrence of bootloop.
Question for this point: What is the proper method to unlock the bootloader?
2. Rooted phone.
This is the step that has confused me from the beginning. Some posts mention that rooting is essential requirement to get a fully functional CFW and in some posts there is a not a single mention for the requirement of a rooted phone.
Question for this point: Is rooting essential? What is the best step by step method that you use to root your device?
3. Back up data.
I read somewhere that unlocking the bootloader erases some of the important information like the IMEI number, DRM keys and other important stuff? Also the importance of backing up data like contacts and other stuff externally.
Question for this point: How to do a proper backup? How to go on backing up contacts, whatsapp databases etc?
4. Installing a custom recovery?
Honestly I am totally confused with this topic. What does custom recovery actually do? Best custom recover for CM12?
Question for this point: How to select and install a custom recovery?
5. Adb, Fastboot drivers.
Is it essential to actually download the full adb package that google provides to develop android apps? And are fastboot drivers available for windows 8.1? Will the phone management software provided by Sony work as a driver?
Question for this point: ADB, Fastboot driver installation?
6. Flashing the CM12.
The most important step in the whole process? How to go on with this step so as to successfully flash the firmware? Restoring the backed up data?
Question for this point: Steps to properly flash the CM12?
7. Link2SD, App2SD?
Which one will you suggest and how to go on installing it?
I know that most of you will find it bothersome to answer so many questions in a single go but I intend this topic to be a guiding thread for noobs like me who are beginners that want to flash some CFW on their devices.
So all the posts that you make are really appreciated! Please link in the posts that you think will answer the questions in layman terms for everyone to understand.
Thanks for taking your time to read this thread
Have a good day! :fingers-crossed:
Can anyone please help? :crying:
1. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2484622 Follow everything he said, while using some common sense. Just to avoid you in doing so much research on some common problems I faced, :
i) If any errors occur, just close flashtool and re-open it, even if the errors continue to happen, just close and open flashtool again.
ii) You will experience bootloop and the end of the procedure, so just flash the tft http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2779412
2. Just stay rooted, better safe than sorry Here's the guide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-m/general/towel-root-steps-to-root-t2789990 Understand the procedure first then continue.
3. You can export your contacts into your sim card tho, just open up the telephony app and go to contacts and open up the option or menu thingy in it (I think the icon was a 3 dot to access the options menu) and you'll see the Export/Import tab on it. You know what to do after this After root, I suggest getting the app Titanium Backup, really helpful. If possible, after the backup, move the folder to the sdcard, so it will never be lost (or to your pc, much safer).
4. Custom recovery.. well, I'm no expert but just think it this way, you're life saver when you do something wrong to your phone (and that it can still turn on, but couldn't get pass the boot animation) and provided that you had made a Nandroid backup before(a system backup). It can restore your phone back to the last time you've backuped it. This one for Stock 4.3 http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-m/development/recovery-philz-touch-6-41-6-xm-dual-t2795778 and this one for afteryou've installed CM12 http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...very-cwm-twrp-recoveries-custom-roms-t3016507
5. I'm not sure on this one, sorry:crying: ADB drivers and the fastboot drivers installed automatically for me:silly:
6. I think this video would be a bit helpful https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkNu0tiNro8
7. I don't know on this, I never used them. Soz :C
All the best:fingers-crossed: though my advice would be to stay Rooted for awhile before unlocking the bootloader, so you'd at least familiarize yourself with the terms that'll you'll most probably face.
The fastboot driver from google didnt work for me, use the ones from the sony bootloader unlock site. For win8.1 you need to disable signature verification to install them.
Thank you so much @AndyPhoenix9879
You are a lifesaver! I was finally able to flash CM2.1 on my Xperia M

Is there a way to backup my KitKat ROM officially? (no root)

Hi all,
Thread title is pretty self-explanatory.
I am still running KitKat 4.4.4 on my Z1C, and have not tried the 5.1 update ever, but I am wanting to give it a go (I tried 5.0 in May last year and was not satisfied so went back to KitKat but had to flash a ROM and start from scratch)
I'd like to be able to backup my KitKat ROM as it is now, with all my apps and configuration, etc etc. But how can I do this without root? I don't want to root my phone as I have some apps which detect root and will not work without it. Is there a "recovery" mode I can enter into without root, and if so how do I enter it?
Alternatively, is there an easy way I can:
* Root my Z1C
* Backup the KitKat ROM through Recovery
* Unroot
* Install the Lollipop 5.1 update?
Any help would be great.
Thanks
alex_ncfc said:
Hi all,
Thread title is pretty self-explanatory.
I am still running KitKat 4.4.4 on my Z1C, and have not tried the 5.1 update ever, but I am wanting to give it a go (I tried 5.0 in May last year and was not satisfied so went back to KitKat but had to flash a ROM and start from scratch)
I'd like to be able to backup my KitKat ROM as it is now, with all my apps and configuration, etc etc. But how can I do this without root? I don't want to root my phone as I have some apps which detect root and will not work without it. Is there a "recovery" mode I can enter into without root, and if so how do I enter it?
Alternatively, is there an easy way I can:
* Root my Z1C
* Backup the KitKat ROM through Recovery
* Unroot
* Install the Lollipop 5.1 update?
Any help would be great.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No expert, but AFAIK you can't have recovery without root. You could backup with Google app, and restore when you update. That's probably your best bet officially. Anyway, backing up in recovery will make a backup of your whole system, which will flash you right back to KK when you restore, unless you choose to restore data only, in which case you might as well just use Google backup, (and anyway you might get compatibility issues with app data). If you want to save your current image to go back to in case you don't like the update, just root, backup in recovery, and, when you restore it, you can unroot to use your anti-root apps again.
levone1 said:
No expert, but AFAIK you can't have recovery without root. You could backup with Google app, and restore when you update. That's probably your best bet officially. Anyway, backing up in recovery will make a backup of your whole system, which will flash you right back to KK when you restore, unless you choose to restore data only, in which case you might as well just use Google backup, (and anyway you might get compatibility issues with app data). If you want to save your current image to go back to in case you don't like the update, just root, backup in recovery, and, when you restore it, you can unroot to use your anti-root apps again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much for your fast response
I would like to be able to make a backup of my whole system image in recovery (I have experience of this backup and restoring of images on my old X10 phone) The problem is I don't know which is the best method to go about rooting, but unrooting is something that sounds even more complex. Would it be easy to do on this phone?
Thanks
alex_ncfc said:
Thanks very much for your fast response
I would like to be able to make a backup of my whole system image in recovery (I have experience of this backup and restoring of images on my old X10 phone) The problem is I don't know which is the best method to go about rooting, but unrooting is something that sounds even more complex. Would it be easy to do on this phone?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On Kk I'm pretty sure Doomlord's rootkit works. Couldn't be easier. Search the forums here.
---------- Post added at 04:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:22 PM ----------
alex_ncfc said:
Thanks very much for your fast response
I would like to be able to make a backup of my whole system image in recovery (I have experience of this backup and restoring of images on my old X10 phone) The problem is I don't know which is the best method to go about rooting, but unrooting is something that sounds even more complex. Would it be easy to do on this phone?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try this - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784900 also - http://d-h.st/f4p
levone1 said:
On Kk I'm pretty sure Doomlord's rootkit works. Couldn't be easier. Search the forums here.
---------- Post added at 04:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:22 PM ----------
Try this - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784900 also - http://d-h.st/f4p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much for your response.
I see from the link you sent that it seems pretty straightforward to root the phone, but how do I go about reversing the process once I have backed up my current KK ROM configuration??
Also I posted something similar on the official Sony forums - one of the mods replied saying that if I root I will "have to unlock the bootloader, which will remove the DRM keys, and unless you back them up, Sony apps and services won't work and the camera will be affected, same as xreality, etc." Is this the case??
Thanks
alex_ncfc said:
Thank you very much for your response.
I see from the link you sent that it seems pretty straightforward to root the phone, but how do I go about reversing the process once I have backed up my current KK ROM configuration??
Also I posted something similar on the official Sony forums - one of the mods replied saying that if I root I will "have to unlock the bootloader, which will remove the DRM keys, and unless you back them up, Sony apps and services won't work and the camera will be affected, same as xreality, etc." Is this the case??
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what they're getting at. You definitely don't have to unlock the bl if you don't want to. If you want to use a custom kernel or aosp / cm you would need to, and you will lose drm keys etc, but there are backup and restore options for that too. I've never unrooted, but I think it's just a 1-click thing. The root tools I linked probably have the option built in, and I've seen it on Flashtool options also.
There were some applications that could hide root state from the certain apps that didn't work with root. I don't remember exactly the name of the apps because I never needed them but you can try searching.
Edit: Here's an xposed module for example http://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/modules/mod-rootcloak-completely-hide-root-t2574647
IMAO without root you will not see part of system, it is protection against stupidity of users.
Surely root may be reverted, it is the most simple thing under the Sun.
For myself I'd rename su to other name and probably it would be enough while I'd have root till hands at any moment.
BTW:
Seeing how much crap they nowadays load into phone I don't imagine to have my phone not rooted.
Unlocking BL is different story. That opens whole lot of new area, sometimes risky, too.

Newbie! Zenfone 2 now rooted...now what!

Hi all,
I have a zenfone 2 that I have just rooted....so now what?
Basically I wanted to optimise my phone so I am able to disable annoying notifications which are greyed out (although since rooting and checking this it still greyed out) I want to remove bloatware and I would actually like to customise my own android system, starting from a 'vanilla' base where I can build it up myself.
I have also read that I need to install a android recovery programme on asap after rooting.
So sorry about this but I really do need 'stupid' instructions as using hi tech words will just baffle me. lol
I have played around with computers in the past and learned about them so this is the phone stage now!
Thanks in advance and for your patience with this newbie!
Kerry
Yankeegal said:
Hi all,
I have a zenfone 2 that I have just rooted....so now what?
Basically I wanted to optimise my phone so I am able to disable annoying notifications which are greyed out (although since rooting and checking this it still greyed out) I want to remove bloatware and I would actually like to customise my own android system, starting from a 'vanilla' base where I can build it up myself.
I have also read that I need to install a android recovery programme on asap after rooting.
So sorry about this but I really do need 'stupid' instructions as using hi tech words will just baffle me. lol
I have played around with computers in the past and learned about them so this is the phone stage now!
Thanks in advance and for your patience with this newbie!
Kerry
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Kerry,
First thing you should now do after rooting your device would be flashing a custom recovery that is specific to your device (make sure your devices boot loader is unlocked first). This will allow you to make a backup of everything just in case anything were to go wrong, flash custom ROMs and useful zips. You can pick your favorite custom recovery such as Team Win Recovery Projects custom recovery (TWRP), Clock Work Mods custom recovery (CWM) or Philz Touch recovery based off of CWM although personally I would recommended twrp.
There are multiple ways to do this: Using the TWRP/CWM recovery installer from the play store or the more complicated way of flashing it from your computer. If you were to choose to install TWRP from their app on the play store (grant it root permission) you can select your device from the supported device section within the app, pick the latest recovery, hit the install button and let the app work its magic. If all works correctly you can now reboot to recovery and you will see TWRP is installed. Now you should create a backup to be on the safe side and you're good to go!
To best optimize your device I would recommend installing a custom ROM (look up custom ROMs for the Zenfone 2) and install the zip through recovery. (make sure to pick the right ROM for your device and version otherwise you may soft brick your smartphone) Now with a custom ROM you can better optimize your device and fully customize it to your liking. Make sure to look up custom ROM installation instructions for your device for better detail.
As far as removing system apps/bloatware you can use a "root app delete" tool from the play store but be careful what you remove as some applications are required!
Make sure to take your time and be careful when attempting any of these things and be careful what you modify! Just remember that no question is a stupid question as we all have to start somewhere!
Hope I was able to help you even if it was just a little, good look and have fun!
Rooted Droid Thanks you so much!!! First of all thanks for being so patient with me and secondly thanks for the useful (and easy to read) information.
I will go and install a back up on my phone from the ones you have suggested.
Hopefully you will be around over the next few days if I have more questions. Not planning on doing this all at once but rather taking the time and doing it right.
Thanks so much again!! :good::good::good:
Ooops sorry....how do I do this please?? ---> (make sure your devices boot loader is unlocked first)
Yankeegal said:
Rooted Droid Thanks you so much!!! First of all thanks for being so patient with me and secondly thanks for the useful (and easy to read) information.
I will go and install a back up on my phone from the ones you have suggested.
Hopefully you will be around over the next few days if I have more questions. Not planning on doing this all at once but rather taking the time and doing it right.
Thanks so much again!! :good::good::good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not a problem! I'm always happy to spread some knowledge and appreciate when people do the same to me! I also went ahead and checked the TWRP app and the Zenfone 2 is supported so it looks like your good to go. And yes absolutely, there's no rush so take all the time you may need and everything will go smoothly! I'm always around and will try my best to answer questions.
---------- Post added at 08:02 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:41 AM ----------
Yankeegal said:
Ooops sorry....how do I do this please?? ---> (make sure your devices boot loader is unlocked first)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check this site out:
http://myzen.asus.com/2015/10/13/official-bootloader-unlock-for-zenfone-2-is-now-available/
All devices have a different method for unlocking bootloader (some don't even have locked bootloaders) but this is an official bootloader unlocking method for the Zenfone 2 from Asus itself. I suggest following its directions and you should be able to unlock it this way.
Ok I followed the link but now I am confused. I have version ww_2.20.40.63_201......
Apparently I need a later version. What started off with just adding an APP means me doing other things before I even get to that point (hence the confusion! lol)
I never updated the phone via OTA as I was told it would invalidate my warranty and also I have killed a phone before using that so can you walk me through please...if you have the time....or could I just check if I have it unlocked already??
I haven't even gotten to the part where I create a backup...tee hee
Yankeegal said:
Ok I followed the link but now I am confused. I have version ww_2.20.40.63_201......
Apparently I need a later version. What started off with just adding an APP means me doing other things before I even get to that point (hence the confusion! lol)
I never updated the phone via OTA as I was told it would invalidate my warranty and also I have killed a phone before using that so can you walk me through please...if you have the time....or could I just check if I have it unlocked already??
I haven't even gotten to the part where I create a backup...tee hee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi sorry for the late reply, I'm in Canada so it was 2am when I was last talking to you so I went to bed haha. Anyway as far as unlocking the Zenfone 2's bootloader I wouldn't have experience unfortunately as I'm using a Nexus 5. The easiest way to go about this now would be to go to your device specific forum and find a way to unlock it there.
The following way to unlock the bootloader requires you have ADB installed on your PC. This is a guide for installation on Windows :
http://www.android.gs/install-android-sdk-adb-windows/
And here is a thread specific to unlocking the Zenfone 2 using adb:
http://www.xda-developers.com/asus-zenfone-2-bootloader-unlocked-without-asus/
BTW as you mentioned "updating may invalidate your warranty" things like rooting, installing a custom OS, unlocking the bootloader, installing a custom recovery and other things like that all (in most cases) void your warranty.
Sorry I can't personally help with the bootloader as I've not personally unlocked it on a Zenfone. Still feel free to ask any questions if you need to. Good luck!

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