Galaxy Nexus tool for root, custom recovery, bootloader unlock, etc.

If you’re holding a Galaxy Nexus in your hand and still wondering what it feels like to take full control of the device by performing certain modifications, then you’re on the right page. With the Galaxy Nexus Toolkit by XDA Developers recognized member mskip, you no longer need to exert too much effort, as the toolkit simplifies the hacking process of your phone. The toolkit automatically unlocks the bootloader, installs ClockworkMod Recovery, and performs many other dev functions with just one click.

There are lots of things the Galaxy Nexus Toolkit can do. For instance, you can download Google stock images directly via the toolkit, push files from your PC to your phone, or backup/ restore a single package or all apps, user data, and internal storage. These, together with more benefits of the toolkit, when successfully installed shall give you benefits you never had when you first started.

In this guide, learn how to set up and use the Galaxy Nexus tool for root, custom recovery, bootloader unlock, etc.

Warning

• The instructions can be used both for GSM and LTE variants of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus. Applying these instructions on another device or model may produce undesired outcomes.
• The information on this guide is provided for instructional and educational purposes only. There is no guarantee that these instructions will work under your specific and unique circumstances.
• Use these instructions at your own risk. We shall not hold any responsibility or liability for whatever happens to you or your device arising from your use of the info of this guide.
• Read and understand the whole guide first before actually performing the instructions.
• Be reminded that rooting your phone may void your warranty.

Requirements

• LTE or GSM variant of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus
• A Windows PC
• Close/Disable system tools such as antivirus software, firewall programs, and  Samsung Kies to prevent interruptions during the process. According to the tool’s developer, some executable files in the toolkit are not digitally signed and may trigger antivirus or security software to detect them as potentially harmful. They’re not, of course.
• Download the GNex Toolkit 7.8 (Galaxy Nexus ToolKit v7.8.0.exe, md5sum: f44f80747467aa63bf5d13ad320c7d62) to your computer.
• Download and install USB drivers to your computer. You can install the USB drivers via the toolkit or install if manually from the following links:
  • Download the USB drivers for 32-bit Windows 7/Vista/XP or 64-bit Windows 7/Vistaand follow the on-screen instructions.
  • For the Verizon variant, install the Verizon USB drivers(Verizon_Wireless_I515_Galaxy_Nexus_USB_Driver_v1.4.6.0.exe, 23.15 MB) to your computer.
  • For the Sprint variant, install the Sprint USB drivers(Sprint_L700_Galaxy_Nexus_USB_Driver_v1.4.6.0.exe, 23.15 MB) to your computer.
• Check your phone’s battery and make sure that it’s 75% charged before you perform the process to avoid disruptions.
• Enable USB Debugging by going to Settings > Developer Options > USB Debugging.
• Backup all personal data on  your phone to make sure you have a copy of your data. (eg., contacts, SMS, MMS, WI-Fi passwords and the like) in case the procedure in this guide erases some data.

Instructions

Making the ADB/Fastboot driver work

1. After the drivers have been installed, disconnect the USB cable and shut down your phone.
2. Place your phone in Fastboot Mode by simultaneously holding down the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons with the Power button.
3. Go to the Control Panel of your PC and open Device Manager. This will allow you to see whether or not your Fastboot driver has been installed, or so you can manually install it.
4. Connect your phone to the computer via USB cable. A new item called  Android 1.0 will appear on the list, and the driver should install automatically. Once installed, a new section in the Device Manager called “Android Phone” will appear.
5. If the driver doesn’t install automatically, double-click on the Android 1.0 item in Device Manager.  Click on the driver tab and select Update Driver. Select Browse My Computerfollowed by Let Me Pick From a List. If no items appear, untick “Show compatible hardware,” and find and select the Android ADB driver or Samsung ADB Driver.

Using Galaxy Nexus ToolKit 7.0

1. Download the Galaxy Nexus ToolKit package and install it on your PC. If you already have the driver files, and are just updating the toolkit, you may now untick the drivers.
2. Once the toolkit is installed, place your phone in Fastboot Mode.
3. Connect your phone to the computer via USB cable and launch the toolkit.
4. The toolkit will prompt you to select which phone model and build you have (GSM or LTE). Provide the right information to set up the main menu.
5. Your main menu shall then display “Fastboot Mode” and “ADB Mode”. If you installed the drivers correctly, you will see your phone’s serial number under the mode you are in.
6. Type in the number of your desired option and press Enter. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Congratulations! The Galaxy Nexus ToolKit is now ready for you to use. You’re finally well-equipped with all the tools for your hacking needs.

SOURCESXDA DEVELOPERS FORUM