Root Galaxy S4 Verizon SCH-I545 on I545VRUFNG6
Yes, you can root the Verizon Samsung Galaxy S4 (SCH-I545) running the I545VRUFNG6 firmware, but the method differs from earlier builds because this update closed the old Loki bootloader exploit. The reliable route is to use a custom recovery (like TWRP) to flash a root package (such as SuperSU), which works on this specific firmware version without tripping the Knox warranty flag permanently.
Background: Why NG6 Is Different
The I545VRUFNG6 update (Android 5.0.1 Lollipop) was released by Verizon in late 2015. It was the last official firmware for the SCH-I545 before the phone was abandoned by Samsung. Earlier firmware versions (like I545VRUFNC5 or I545VRUFNE1) could be rooted with a one-click tool called Towelroot, which exploited a kernel vulnerability. NG6 patched that vulnerability, so Towelroot no longer works. The bootloader is also locked, meaning you cannot install a custom kernel or a custom ROM without using a workaround. However, the bootloader still allows you to flash a custom recovery via Odin, which is the key to rooting.
How the Root Process Works
Rooting the NG6 firmware involves three main steps: enabling Developer Options, flashing a custom recovery with Odin, and then flashing a root package from that recovery. The custom recovery (TWRP) replaces the stock recovery temporarily or permanently. Once TWRP is installed, you boot into it and flash a ZIP file that contains the root binaries (usually SuperSU). The process does not require unlocking the bootloader, but it does rely on the fact that Odin can flash a recovery image to the recovery partition.
Step-by-Step: Rooting NG6 with Odin and TWRP
- On your phone, go to Settings → About phone and tap Build number seven times to enable Developer Options.
- In Settings → Developer options, enable USB debugging and OEM unlock (if present; on NG6 it may not be visible).
- Download the correct TWRP image for the SCH-I545 (e.g., twrp-2.8.7.0-jfltevzw.img.tar) and Odin 3.10.7 or later for Windows.
- Power off the phone. Boot into Download Mode by holding Volume Down + Home + Power for a few seconds, then press Volume Up to confirm.
- Open Odin as administrator, connect the phone via USB, and wait for the COM port to turn blue/yellow.
- Click the AP button and select the TWRP tar file. Make sure Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time are checked, but Re-Partition is NOT.
- Click Start. When Odin says PASS, the phone will reboot. Immediately hold Volume Up + Home + Power to boot into recovery, because the stock recovery will overwrite TWRP on the next normal boot.
- In TWRP, go to Install, select the SuperSU ZIP (e.g., BETA-SuperSU-v2.82-201705271743.zip), and swipe to flash.
- Reboot the phone. You should now have root. Verify with an app like Root Checker.
Common Problems and Fixes
Many users encounter the phone booting normally instead of into TWRP. This happens because the stock recovery re-installs itself on the first boot. The fix is to immediately boot into recovery after Odin flashes, before the system fully loads. Another common issue is Odin failing to recognize the phone; install the Samsung USB drivers and try a different USB port or cable. If TWRP shows a “failed to mount /data� error, you may need to format data (which wipes the phone) by going to Wipe → Format Data and typing “yes�.
Safety and Warranty Considerations
Rooting voids the manufacturer warranty, and on Verizon devices it also trips the Knox security flag, which permanently disables some Samsung apps (like Samsung Pay) and may affect warranty service. The process itself is safe if you follow the steps exactly, but there is a small risk of bricking the phone if you flash the wrong file or interrupt the process. Always back up your data before starting. The NG6 bootloader is not unlocked, so you cannot install a custom kernel or a custom ROM that requires an unlocked bootloader. However, you can still install a custom recovery and root, which allows system modifications, ad-blocking, and backup tools.
Alternatives to Full Root
If you only need to remove bloatware or block ads, consider using a package disabler app (which requires no root but uses the device admin API) or a VPN-based ad blocker. These are less invasive and do not trip Knox. However, they are not as powerful as root. For example, a package disabler can disable Verizon apps, but it cannot modify system files or install a custom kernel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Towelroot work on NG6?
No. Towelroot exploits a kernel vulnerability that was patched in NG6. It only works on earlier firmware like NC5 or NE1.
Will rooting NG6 trip Knox?
Yes, any custom recovery or root will trip the Knox warranty bit to 0x1. This is irreversible and may affect warranty repairs, but it does not affect normal phone functionality.
Can I unroot after rooting?
Yes, you can unroot by flashing the stock NG6 firmware via Odin. This will remove root and restore the stock recovery, but the Knox bit will remain tripped.
Do I need to unlock the bootloader?
No, the NG6 bootloader is locked, but you can still flash a custom recovery via Odin because the bootloader allows signed images. You cannot install a custom kernel or a custom ROM that requires an unlocked bootloader.
What if my phone is already on a newer firmware?
If your SCH-I545 has a firmware newer than NG6 (e.g., I545VRUGOF1), the steps are similar, but you must use the TWRP image that matches your exact firmware version. Check the build number in Settings → About phone.
Is there a one-click root for NG6?
No, there is no reliable one-click root for NG6. The Odin + TWRP + SuperSU method is the standard and proven approach.
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