Rooting the Samsung Galaxy S9+ (SM-G965U1): A Comprehensive Guide

We understand the desire for greater control and customization over your Android device. The Samsung Galaxy S9+ (SM-G965U1) is a powerful phone, and unlocking its full potential through rooting can be a rewarding experience. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the process, the potential benefits, and the important considerations involved in rooting your SM-G965U1.

Understanding Rooting and Its Implications

Rooting, in the context of Android, is the process of gaining privileged control (root access) over the operating system. Think of it as gaining administrator rights on a Windows or macOS computer. This access allows you to modify the system files, install custom software, and customize your device far beyond the limitations imposed by the manufacturer.

Benefits of Rooting

Rooting your SM-G965U1 offers several advantages:

• Custom ROM Installation: Rooting enables you to install custom ROMs (Read-Only Memory). These are modified versions of Android that often offer improved performance, additional features, and a more up-to-date Android version than what Samsung provides.
• System-Level Customization: Root access allows you to modify system files and settings, enabling you to customize the look and feel of your phone extensively. You can change everything from the boot animation to the system fonts.
• Ad Blocking: Many root-enabled ad-blocking apps can block ads across all apps and web browsing, providing a cleaner and more enjoyable user experience.
• Advanced Battery Management: Rooting allows you to install apps that provide granular control over battery usage. This can help extend battery life by optimizing background processes and app behavior.
• App Control: You can remove pre-installed bloatware (unwanted apps) that often come with Samsung devices. This frees up storage space and improves performance.
• Full Device Backups: Rooting allows you to create full system backups using tools like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project), ensuring that you can restore your phone to a working state if something goes wrong.
• Tethering and Hotspot Customization: Root access provides greater flexibility with tethering and hotspot functionality, potentially bypassing carrier restrictions and customizing how your device shares its internet connection.

Risks and Considerations of Rooting

While rooting provides significant advantages, it’s essential to be aware of the associated risks:

• Warranty Voiding: Rooting typically voids your device’s warranty. While you might be able to unroot and restore the original firmware, there’s no guarantee that this will completely erase the traces of rooting.
• Bricking: Incorrectly performing the rooting process or installing incompatible modifications can “brick” your device, rendering it unusable.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Rooting can potentially increase the risk of security vulnerabilities if you install malicious software or don’t keep your device up to date.
• Instability: Custom ROMs and modifications can sometimes be unstable, leading to crashes, freezes, and other issues.
• Data Loss: It’s always recommended to back up your data before rooting, as the process can sometimes lead to data loss.
• Samsung Knox: Samsung devices feature Knox security, which monitors the device’s bootloader and firmware integrity. Rooting often triggers Knox, and if Knox is tripped, it can permanently affect features like Samsung Pay and secure folder functionality.

Is Rooting the SM-G965U1 Possible?

Yes, rooting the Samsung Galaxy S9+ (SM-G965U1) is possible. However, the specific method and the level of difficulty can vary depending on the firmware version and the security patches installed on your device. It’s crucial to research the most up-to-date information and follow the instructions carefully.

Prerequisites for Rooting

Before attempting to root your SM-G965U1, you will need the following:

• A Computer: A Windows, macOS, or Linux computer is required to install the necessary tools and drivers.
• USB Cable: A reliable USB cable to connect your phone to the computer.
• Samsung USB Drivers: Install the latest Samsung USB drivers on your computer. You can download these from the Samsung website or through tools like Samsung Smart Switch.
• Bootloader Unlocking (If Applicable): Some Samsung devices require you to unlock the bootloader before rooting. This process varies depending on the model and firmware. For the SM-G965U1, the bootloader can be unlocked, but please refer to the latest guides for the most accurate information.
• TWRP Recovery: TWRP is a custom recovery that allows you to flash custom ROMs, root your device, and create backups. You’ll need to download the correct TWRP image for your SM-G965U1 model. You can find this in our Magisk Module Repository.
• Magisk: Magisk is a systemless root solution, which means it modifies the system without directly altering the system partition. This is the preferred method for rooting, as it is less likely to trigger Samsung Knox and more easily reversible. Download the latest Magisk ZIP file. You can download this from our Magisk Module Repository.
• Odin: Odin is a Samsung-specific flashing tool used to flash firmware and custom recoveries. You can download it from various online sources, but ensure you download a trustworthy version.

Steps to Root Your SM-G965U1

Please note that the following steps are a general guide and might need adjustment based on your specific firmware version and the latest available methods. Always research and verify instructions from reputable sources before attempting to root your device.

1. Backup Your Data: Before starting, back up all your important data, including photos, videos, contacts, and messages. This is a critical step to protect yourself from data loss.
2. Enable Developer Options: On your phone, go to Settings > About phone > Software information and tap on “Build number” seven times to enable Developer options.
3. Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlock: In Developer options, enable “USB debugging” and “OEM unlocking.” OEM unlocking is necessary for unlocking the bootloader.
4. Download the Necessary Files: Download the correct TWRP recovery image, Magisk ZIP, and Odin for your SM-G965U1 model. You can download these from our Magisk Module Repository.
5. Put Your Phone into Download Mode:
   • Power off your phone completely.
   • Press and hold the Volume Down, Bixby, and Power buttons simultaneously.
   • When the warning screen appears, release the buttons and press the Volume Up button to enter Download Mode.
6. Flash TWRP Recovery Using Odin:
   • Open Odin on your computer.
   • Connect your phone to your computer using the USB cable.
   • In Odin, the ID:COM port should turn blue, indicating that your phone is connected. If it does not, make sure you have installed the Samsung USB drivers correctly.
   • Click the AP button and select the TWRP recovery image file that you downloaded.
   • Ensure that the “Auto Reboot” option is unchecked.
   • Click the Start button to flash the TWRP recovery.
   • Once the process is complete, you will see a “PASS” message in Odin.
7. Boot into TWRP Recovery:
   • As soon as the flashing process completes, immediately press and hold the Volume Up, Bixby, and Power buttons simultaneously.
   • Continue holding the buttons until the phone boots into TWRP recovery.
8. Flash Magisk:
   • In TWRP, tap on “Install.”
   • Browse to the location where you saved the Magisk ZIP file.
   • Select the Magisk ZIP file and swipe the slider at the bottom of the screen to flash it.
   • Once the flashing process is complete, tap on “Reboot System.”
9. Verify Root Access:
   • After your phone reboots, download and install a root checker app from the Google Play Store.
   • Run the root checker app to verify that root access has been successfully granted.
   • If root is confirmed, the root checker app will show the details.

Post-Rooting Customization and Utilities

Once your SM-G965U1 is rooted, the possibilities for customization and advanced functionality are virtually limitless. Here are some popular options:

Installing Custom ROMs

Custom ROMs offer a way to get a new Android experience, with features and functionalities Samsung may not have provided. Some popular Custom ROMs you can look for:

• LineageOS: A popular open-source ROM that offers a clean and optimized Android experience.
• Pixel Experience: A ROM designed to mimic the Google Pixel experience.

Please, always ensure that the ROM you’re planning to install is compatible with your SM-G965U1 model.

Installing Magisk Modules

Magisk Modules are small packages that add extra features or customizations to your rooted device without directly modifying the system partition. There are thousands of modules available, covering a wide range of functionalities:

• Ad Blocking Modules: Enhance your browsing experience with ad-free web pages.
• System-Level Tweaks: Modify various system settings, such as animation speeds and network settings.
• Font Customization: Change the default fonts used by the system.
• Audio Enhancements: Improve sound quality and add audio effects.
• Custom Kernels: Optimize system performance with kernel modules.

You can find Magisk modules through the Magisk app’s module repository or by manually installing modules downloaded from sources such as our Magisk Module Repository.

Exploring Advanced Applications

Rooting opens the door to using a wide range of powerful applications:

• Tasker: Automate tasks and create custom workflows based on triggers and conditions.
• Titanium Backup: A powerful tool for backing up and restoring all your apps and data.
• Greenify: Optimize battery life by hibernating apps that consume power in the background.
• Xposed Framework: An advanced framework that allows you to install modules that modify the system without the need to flash a new ROM. Be cautious when using Xposed, as it can cause instability if not used carefully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Rooting can sometimes lead to unexpected issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Boot Loops

A boot loop occurs when your phone gets stuck in a continuous cycle of restarting. This is often caused by flashing an incompatible module or making a mistake during the rooting process.

• Solution: Boot into TWRP recovery and flash a backup of your system, or uninstall the problematic module. If you do not have a backup, you might need to flash the stock firmware using Odin.

Soft Bricking

A soft brick makes your phone unusable but can usually be fixed by flashing a new ROM or factory resetting the device.

• Solution: Try flashing a stock ROM using Odin.

Knox Tripping

If Samsung Knox is tripped, some features like Samsung Pay and secure folder functionality might be permanently disabled.

• Solution: There is no guaranteed solution to untrip Knox. Rooting and flashing custom ROMs generally trigger Knox.

App Compatibility Issues

Some apps might not work correctly on rooted devices due to security measures.

• Solution: Use Magisk Hide to hide root access from specific apps, allowing them to function properly.

Safety Precautions and Recommendations

• Research Thoroughly: Before starting, research the specific rooting method for your SM-G965U1 model and firmware version. Verify the instructions from multiple reputable sources.
• Back Up Your Data: Create a full backup of your data before starting.
• Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone is charged to at least 70% before starting the rooting process.
• Use Trusted Files: Only download files from trusted sources, such as our Magisk Module Repository
• Follow Instructions Carefully: Follow the instructions precisely. Any mistakes can potentially brick your device.
• Be Patient: Rooting can take time. Avoid interrupting the process, such as disconnecting the USB cable or rebooting the phone, before the process is complete.
• Understand the Risks: Be aware of the potential risks involved with rooting, including voiding the warranty and the possibility of bricking your device.

Conclusion: Unlocking Your Samsung Galaxy S9+

Rooting your Samsung Galaxy S9+ (SM-G965U1) can provide a highly rewarding experience, offering a level of customization and control that is impossible without it. However, it is essential to approach this process with caution, thorough research, and careful execution. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can significantly increase your chances of successfully rooting your device and enjoying the many benefits of a rooted Android system. Always prioritize your device’s safety and well-being, and remember that taking the time to research and prepare is key to a successful outcome. Explore the world of custom ROMs, Magisk modules, and advanced applications. Remember to take the time to explore the Magisk Module Repository for a curated collection of modules to enhance your rooted device’s functionality. Enjoy the journey of unlocking your phone’s full potential!