why is it soo hard to flash a ROM?

[jordyd]

So I follow these guides set out by people on these forums etc...

Half the links take to me virus sites installing stuff like browsers that I don't even want. Tells me what I need to do then half way down the list telling me I need something else.

Is there any simple guides so I can root and flash a ROM to my S4 that's simple and works?

 

[Golfdriver97]

To put flashing ROMs in a basic set of steps is this:
1. Unlock bootloader (if needed)
2. Flash a custom Recovery, like Team Win Recovery Project (aka TWRP), or ClockWorkMod (CWM)
3. Use the new recovery to flash a superuser app
4. Make a Nandroid backup.
5. Install the custom ROM with Google apps.

For just flashing a ROM, you can follow steps 4 and 5. The first 3 were for flashing a ROM for the first time.

To go into specifics:
Every time a carrier releases an Android Update, they usually attempt to break root and secure the device form being hacked in this manner. Always check to make sure the instructions you are following are your for your version of Android.

Once a new version is out, developers who live for this sort of thing have to figure out how to bypass everything to get root access again. This can take time. The new version sometimes makes the older method obsolete.

As for more simple guides....I can try to find one.

 

[Golfdriver97]

You might want to look at this:

How to Root Galaxy S4! | GalaxyS4Root.com


He does some very good root/ROM guides. His videos are quite well done. If you have any questions, ask before doing even the first step.

 

[jordyd]

Thanks both of you for your help.

One of the things is you get half way then it tells you to download something else.

I've managed to do it, booted up, and it now saying 'unfortunately system ui has failed' and I can't get it off the screen, but I can see the custom rom underneath the message, but I can't get to that.

A website has told me to do a reset, however when I hold volume up, power and home keys, it doesn't boot into recovery but straight to home screen.

I'm doing this as a test on my S4 before I attempt it on my Note 4 lol. Might not try it now. Ha ha.

 

[jordyd]

I've managed to sort it some how lol. Don't think I'll be bothering again though.

 

[Golfdriver97]

Sorry...first time revisiting the thread. Glad you got it sorted out, and thanks for the follow up. See you around the forums.

From my G4
Android Central Ambassador Team Leader