Root [Verizon] Beginner Root

[androiduser142]

I will soon be upgrading from my S3 to an S5. I do not plan to root the S5 but I do want to root the S3. I want to do it for the fact that I will not be using it anymore and want to learn how to root phones anyway. So, I was wondering if someone could help hook me up with their favorite tutorial/rooting tool. I have never rooted a phone before but would like to try it with my soon to be old phone. I do not really have a preference as to what OS version it is but would rather a more recent one such as 4.3 or 4.4.

Also:
1. Must I unlock the bootloader to root?
2. Does having Android 4.4.2 from Verizon affect the ability to root the phone once it is off the network?

 

[Mikestony]

Hello there androiduser142!

Well, as you are on 4.4.2, I believe the only way to root right now is Towelroot. The bootloader is locked on the Verizon version starting with 4.3. And if you are thinking about downgrading to 4.3, don't, it will brick.

As far as roms, you will need a recovery, but since the bootloader is locked the only "recovery" now for 4.4 is a modified version of what is called "safestrap"

I think there are limited roms you can flash whilst on 4.4.2, rooted, and with safestrap.

Here is a thread with alot of information about what you can, and cannot do if you are on version 4.4.2.:
[GUIDE][ML1/NC1/NE1] TW 4.4 and 4.3 Sticky R… | Verizon Galaxy S3 | XDA Forum

Notice this line for rooting:

https://towelroot.com
Only tool available that will root 4.4 NE1 and 4.3 NC1 basebands. Will also root 4.3 ML1

so you will also need to know what baseband you are on (menu/settings/about phone)

Also take note of this line for the modified (unofficial) safestrap (dependent on your baseband):

[RECOVERY LOCKED/NE1] Unofficial Safestrap Recovery v3.75 [2014-06-27 KK B01]
Only recovery that will work on the NE1 baseband.

Another link that is there, has some things for 4.4 on the NE1 baseband:
[INDEX] TW 4.4 Download List (7-10-14) | Verizon Galaxy S3 | XDA Forum

Hope that helps

If you have anymore questions, just ask