Root [Verizon] Install custom ROMS on VXW Galaxy S3

[EnderWigginDA]

I have a Verizon Samsung Galaxy S3 (SCH-I535) running Android version 4.4.2 and I am thinking about switching to either stock Android or CyanogenMod 11. In short, I want to know if this is even possible. I am seeing conflicting information. So, uh. Is it possible?

One page says I would be screwed by Knox if I see "warranty bit" on the device ROM download screen. I do not see this string following their instructions.

 

[EnderWigginDA]

First post wouldn't let me post links so... second post.

This page says I would be screwed by Knox if I see "warranty bit" on the device ROM download screen. I do not see this string following their instructions.
[FAQ] KNOX and you | Sprint Samsung Galaxy S III | XDA Forums

This was helpful:
http://androidforums.com/verizon-galaxy-s3-all-things-root/866525-how-install-cyogenmod.html

This page says I can.
Update Verizon Galaxy S3 SCH-I535 To Android 4.4.4 KitKat via CM11 Nightly–How To | True Android

This page says I can't.
Install CM for d2vzw - CyanogenMod August 19, 2014
Additionally, you must be a 4.2.2 or older build or this will not work. In fact, if you try to use this method on a newer revision, you will almost certainly brick your device. Seriously don't try it. Downgrading won't work either. If you've updated, a qfuse is already tripped and any attempt to downgrade will also result in a brick.

As does this (March, 2014): Advice on rooting verizon samsung galaxy s3 sch-i535 : cyanogenmod
So by accepting the OTA from Verizon you also got the Samsung Knox. This Knox program from what I have read locks down your bootloader, thus preventing you from installing a custom recovery and custom roms. You can root it but AFAIK you can not unlock your bootloader until someone figures it out.

 

[spagman72]

Well here it is short and sweet :

Only the I535 on 4.1 has bootloaders that can be unlocked by using an app like Ez-unlock.
With unlocked bootloaders it's possible to root / custom recovery and Rom the phone.

If an I535 is on 4.3 or 4.4.2 bootloaders, trying to unlock the bootloaders using ez-unlock will HARDBRICK the phone... Do not try it.

If you have 4.3 or 4.4.2 bootloaders search for a "bootstrap" solution for the I535, some people were successful. Read and do your homework first.... And as always... Any firmware modification can still soft/hard brick your phone.

I forgot to mention that you can still root the 4.3 and 4.4.2.... Just no rom/custom recovery flashing

 

[EnderWigginDA]

Thanks for the reply. much appreciated.