How to Root the Samsung Galaxy S5 with Android Lollipop: A Complete and Detailed Guide

  • Full access to the file system to remove bloatware and optimize device performance.
  • Ability to install custom ROMs and advanced kernels to update the Android version.
  • Ability to customize the interface and functionality using tools such as Xposed Framework.
  • Mandatory requirement of official drivers and the use of Odin for a safe and stable process.

Root Samsung Galaxy S5 Lollipop

In the following practical tutorial, I'm going to show you, step by step, how to obtain permissions. Root on Samsung Galaxy S5 international model or model SM G900F/SM G900H they are rolling Android LollipopGaining superuser access is one of the most important steps for any tech enthusiast who wants to get the most out of their device's hardware.

In addition to successfully rooting the international Samsung Galaxy S5 in its two main variants, the one of Qualcomm processor (SM-G900F) and the version with Exynos processor (SM-G900H), in a very simple and highly reliable way, we will also tell you in detail Advantages and Disadvantages of Rooting Samsung Galaxy S5 InternationalWe will analyze everything you need to consider and the critical warnings to make the rooting process as safe as possible and avoid any technical incidents.

Rooting the Samsung Galaxy S5 unlocks a range of extraordinary benefits. Among them is the ability to flash a custom ROMThis allows you to give the phone a second life with more modern versions of Android. It also allows remove bloatware (pre-installed applications from the manufacturer or carrier that cannot normally be deleted), install applications that require root access to function, and optimize battery consumption by managing processor frequencies.

Security warnings to take into account before proceeding with the Root in the Samsung Galaxy S5 International

Samsung Root Warning

Before proceeding with this tutorial, please note that the process for rooting and installing a custom recovery on this Samsung device is an advanced operation. This method The internal flash counter will increase. of the terminal (known as the KNOX counter), which implies that Your warranty will be automatically cancelled of the same if you still have the official manufacturer's warranty.

It is crucial to understand that modifying the operating system at the root level carries risks. While this method is widely tested, any error in the cable connection or an unexpected PC shutdown could result in a device brickingTherefore, we recommend performing this process in a stable environment. If the following tutorial seems too complex or technical, we suggest trying alternative tools such as Apps to root Samsung which simplify the process without the need for a computer, although the manual method using Odin is generally more robust and cleaner.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Getting Root Permissions on Samsung Galaxy S5

S5 in Recovery mode

To make an informed decision, it's vital to analyze the pros and cons of this procedure. The biggest drawback, beyond the loss of the warranty, lies in the security and compatibility of services.

Main disadvantages:

  • Warranty Void official Samsung on a permanent basis.
  • Loss of OTA updates (Over-The-Air), which means you will no longer receive automatic system updates through your mobile settings.
  • Knox system unlockThis is Samsung's security layer. When this seal is broken, the device becomes technically more vulnerable to external threats if permissions are not properly managed.
  • Incompatibility with financial appsMobile payment applications such as Samsung Pay or strict banking applications (such as some versions of BBVA) detect root access and stop working for banking security reasons.

On the other hand, the advantages are what drive thousands of users to carry out this process, since they transform the experience of using the device.

Main advantages:

  • Update via Custom ROMsWhen Samsung stops providing official support, the community continues to create newer versions of Android that you can install to keep your device up to date.
  • Performance optimizationThrough the installation of Custom Tweaks and KernelsIt is possible to overclock or undervolt to improve speed or extend battery life.
  • deep customization: Thanks to tools like the Xposed FrameworkYou can change virtually any visual or functional element of the system without needing to change the entire ROM.
  • Total control of storage: Allows access to restricted system folders to perform complete backups of applications (including their data) using tools such as Titanium Backup.

Samsung Galaxy S5 Root

What do I need to root my Samsung Galaxy S5? Mandatory requirements

SuperSU Root logo

To ensure the process is successful and you don't damage your device, you must strictly comply with the following technical requirements before starting:

  1. Compatible modelThis tutorial is valid exclusively for the international Samsung Galaxy S5 models SM-G900F and SM-G900HIf you own a US carrier version (Verizon, AT&T, etc.) or a different model, Do not follow this tutorialas you could render the phone unusable. You can check your model at Settings> Phone information.
  2. Updated Samsung driversIt is essential to have the official USB drivers installed on your Windows PC for Odin to recognize the phone. You can download them via the link below. direct driver download or by installing the software Samsung Kies from the official Samsung website.
  3. Battery at full capacityThe terminal must be charged to 100 %A shutdown during system partition writing is the main cause of bricking.
  4. Full backupBack up your contacts, photos, messages, and apps. While the process doesn't necessarily erase data, any errors could force you to perform a factory reset.
  5. USB debugging enabledYou need to enable developer options. To do this, go to Settings> Phone information and press seven times in a row on the Compilation NumberOnce the menu is activated, enter it and check the box. USB debugging.

Files Needed to Get Root on Samsung Galaxy S5

S5 Root Files

The fundamental tool for this process is the file. CF-AutoRoot, developed by the renowned programmer ChainfireThis ZIP package contains the binaries needed to patch the kernel and efficiently grant superuser privileges.

It's crucial to download the exact version for your device's processor. Here are the direct links for your specific Android Lollipop variant:

Step by step tutorial: Root Samsung Galaxy S5 models SM-G900F/SM-G900H on Lollipop (Android 5.0)

Follow these instructions meticulously to ensure the success of the operation.

Step 1: File Preparation
The first thing we will do is unzip the CF-AutoRoot file which we downloaded earlier. Use a tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip. After extraction, you'll see a folder with several files, including the Odin executable and the root file in .tar.md5 format.

CF-AutoRoot Folder

Step 2: Running Odin
Now we will look for the executable of Odin, the specialized software used by Samsung technicians to flash the firmware. It is vital to run it correctly: do Right-click on the Odin icon and select Run as administratorThis avoids write permission issues in Windows that could interrupt the flashing process.

Run Odin Administrator

Step 3: Root File Configuration
Once Odin is open, you'll see the interface with several fields (PDA, Phone, CP, AP). We must Click on the AP button and navigate to the folder where we extracted CF-AutoRoot. We will select the file that contains the .tar.md5 extensionWhen selected, Odin will load the binary into memory.

Odin Interface

Upload AP Odin file

Step 4: Adjusting options in Odin
Go to the tab Options on the right side of the application. This is where we make common mistakes that can be fatal. You must make sure that only those marked the options of Auto-Reboot and F.Reset.TimeMost importantly: The Re-Partition option should NOT be checked. Under no circumstances should you do this, as it would modify the partition table of your internal memory and could cause total data loss or even computer failure.

Odin options

Step 5: Download Mode and Connection
Now we need to prepare the hardware. Make sure that the USB debugging be active. Turn off the Samsung Galaxy S5 completely. To enter Download modePress and hold the following buttons simultaneously: Volume Down + Home Button + Power ButtonWhen the warning screen appears, confirm entry into download mode by pressing Volume Up.

Connect the device to the PC, preferably using the original usb cable to prevent disconnections due to poor contact. In Odin, you'll see the status box change and the word appears. COM followed by a number (e.g., COM3), which indicates that communication between the PC and the mobile has been successfully established.

Step 6: The flashing process
Once you have confirmed that the device is recognized, click the button StartThe rooting process will begin and will last approximately one minute.

Starting Root Odin

During this time, it is imperative Do not touch the device or the USB cable.Do not turn off the computer or allow it to enter sleep mode. If you are using a laptop, make sure it is plugged into a power outlet. A power outage or accidental unplugging at this point would result in a brick of the terminal.

When the process is complete, Odin will display a green box with the word PASSThe Samsung Galaxy S5 will restart automatically. At this point, you can disconnect the USB cable and enjoy using your device with root access.

Successful Root S5

Root Verification and Management
If everything has gone correctly, when you enter the applications menu you will see a new tool called SuperSUThis application is the root control center; from here you can grant or deny superuser permissions to applications that request them, ensuring that only apps you trust have access to the system root.

Troubleshooting: Loop in Recovery
Sometimes, after Odin displays the PASS message, the terminal may not reboot and remain stuck in the Samsung Original RecoveryIf this happens, don't panic. Use the volume buttons to navigate the menu and select the option. Wipe cache partitionConfirm with the Power button. Once done, select Reboot system now and confirm again. The device should now boot normally into the rooted Android system.

Rooting a Samsung Galaxy S5 Lollipop transforms an older device into an extremely versatile tool. From removing bloatware to installing newer Android versions via custom ROMs, the user is now in complete control. It's crucial to always remember the importance of backing up your data and strictly following the Odin setup steps to avoid any permanent damage to your device's hardware.


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