How to Root Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM-G900H) on Android 5.0 Lollipop via CF-Auto-Root Tool [Tutorial]

For the last couple of months, Samsung - as a part of routine software update to their flagship devices - has been releasing the official Android 5.0 Lollipop OS to its Galaxy S5 in stages to select regions.

Tech-savvy users, who are not happy with the custom Touchwiz UI and all the bloatware that accompany the official Android 5.0 Lollipop, can unlock their Samsung Galaxy S5 model using the Chain Fire's CF-Auto-Root application tool.

Rooting enables users to install custom ROMs, third party applications of their choice and also perform tweaks in the settings to enhance the device's performance and add more customization options. For easy rooting experience, we will be using the Chain Fire's CF-Auto-Root application tool in this tutorial.

We would also like to remind our readers that installing custom ROM on devices is like using double-edged sword. Though firmware gives users more control over the smartphone, the company warranty will stand void and will no longer be liable for future updates.

[Note: Warranty can be restored by flashing the device with stock-ROM]

So we advise users to first go through the whole tutorial thoroughly and then go ahead with rooting procedure.

Prerequisites (things to remember before installing Custom ROM)

• This Rooting procedure has to be carried on Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900H (with Exynos Octa-core) 3G model running on official Android 5.0 Lollipop (build number: XXU1BOA7) firmware only; if tried on other devices, it might get bricked [To check your device model: Go to Settings >> About phone >> model number]
• Rooting of devices sometimes (if procedure is not followed properly) leads to complete data wipe out, so make sure to back all the data. [Install Clockwork Mod (CWM) Recovery/ TWRP in the smartphone to save the data].
• Users make sure they have installed USB drivers on the PC, or else your phone (Samsung Galaxy S5) will not be recognized by the computer.
• Make sure your device has more than 80 per cent battery, or else there is a chance of the smartphone getting temporarily bricked in case the installation process is interrupted mid-way.

[Disclaimer:This procedure is very technical and should be performed by a person with sound knowledge of rooting (or manual software installation) Android devices. If the step-by-step installation process is not followed properly, there are chances of the smartphone getting bricked or being permanently irreparable. International Business Times, India Edition cannot be held responsible for any damage or claims from readers if the procedure does not yield the required results or if the smartphone is bricked. Hence, users are advised to proceed with caution.]

Tutorial: Step-by-step installation procedure guide on Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM-G900H) 3G model via CF-Auto-Root tool -

Step 1: Download the latest CF-Auto-Root application (HERE) on your PC, and pull the .zip file to be installed later in to the Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM- G900H)

[Note: Before plugging the phone to the computer, be sure you have installed USB driver software, if not, click HERE to download firmware]

Step 2: Now connect the smartphone Galaxy S5 to the PC.

Step 3: Then, choose the file BETA-SuperSU-v2.44.zip and put in smartphone's SD card. [Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip file in SD card root, not in any other folder.]

Step 4: Now, turn-off of the phone, then enter Recovery mode, by press holding volume (up) + home button+ power button, once you see animated Android bot, press power key to enter to download mode.

Step 5: In Recovery mode, look for "flash zip from SD card" and select it by pressing the power button

Step 7: After selecting "flash zip from SD card", you will then go search for BETA-SuperSU-v2.44.zip and initiate the installation process

[Note: use "Volume" keys to navigate and "Power" button to select options]

Step 8: Once the installation is complete, come back to Recovery mode and select "reboot system now" the Galaxy S5, disband the connection between the phone and the PC.

Now, your device (Samsung Galaxy S5) will take a minimum of five minutes to complete the booting process.

To confirm whether the device is rooted or not, users can use SuperSU app/ Root checker app [HERE].

[Credits: Team Android]