Backup Needs Root. Root Needs Backup. Huh?

[ptonantryloc]

I've got to be misunderstanding this:

• I'd like to make a full backup of my Nexus 5 (Nandroid)
• Nandroid needs a custom recovery
• Custom recovery needs root
• Root needs unlocked bootloader
• Unlocking the bootloader wipes everything off the phone
• Wiped phone means I need a backup
• Backup needs a custom recovery...

Surely, I've got something wrong here.

 

[srkmagnus]

I've got to be misunderstanding this:

• I'd like to make a full backup of my Nexus 5 (Nandroid)
• Nandroid needs a custom recovery
• Custom recovery needs root
• Root needs unlocked bootloader
• Unlocking the bootloader wipes everything off the phone
• Wiped phone means I need a backup
• Backup needs a custom recovery...

Surely, I've got something wrong here.

Yes, unlocking the bootloader will wipe the device. I can't recall if it will also wipe the sd card, but backup those contents just in case. There are apps available in the Play Store that will backup different parts of the device without root. For example, use Helium to backup apps+data, and sms/call logs backup+restore. Sync your account(s) and backup anything you can.

Once you unlock the bootloader and get setup you can then root and restore the bits and pieces to get back up and running. This will take some time on the first go-around, but is worth it if you plan on unlocking/rooting. After that you can install a recovery and perform a Nandroid backup of the device.

Let us know if you have any questions.

 

[ptonantryloc]

Thanks for the reply. I was worried I had lost my mind. I'll work on the problem piece-by-piece (as you recommended).

 

[srkmagnus]

Thanks for the reply. I was worried I had lost my mind. I'll work on the problem piece-by-piece (as you recommended).

You are very welcome. Making a backup is a little messy without root, since you have to use different apps and services to achieve it. But once you unlock the bootloader and root, you'll be able to do it through recovery.

Have fun!