What does android system recovery mean? What is Recovery Mod and why is it needed? Custom recovery – what is it and what are the differences?
After purchasing a tablet or smartphone, many begin to study its functionality along with the instructions, in which the term is often found Recovery Mod e(recovery mode). Let's try to figure out what kind of mode this is and why Recovery Mode is needed in your Android device.
Typically, developers or engineers use recovery mode. Its main purpose: installation and configuration of custom (factory) firmware, create or use full copy operating system (including all information and settings of the smartphone). Also sometimes Recovery is used for full reset settings to factory values.
Remember, using Recovey Mode on an Android system does not void the warranty on your smartphone. Entering Android recovery mode does not dangerous procedure, and even very “green” users can do this.
How to enter recovery mode?
Visually entering this mode may differ, but the principle is the same on all smartphones. And so for this you need:
1. Turn off your smartphone;
2. Hold down the volume control key (increase);
3. Do not release the volume while holding down the Home key;
4. Without releasing the previous two keys, press power on;
5. Wait for the android to load in recovery mode.
How to Use Recovery Mode in Android
In Recovery Mode, navigation (moving) through the menu occurs using the volume control buttons (up/down) and confirmation (Home) or the power key.
As a rule, this mode is different for many manufacturers, but the main content is always present:
apply sdcard:file.zip - the file file.zip is installed, which must first be uploaded to /mnt/sdcard/file.zip;
wipe data/factory reset - the data and cache partitions are cleared internal memory device, and also cleans system folder android_secure. Cleaning means removing all installed applications and resetting system settings;
wipe cache partition- the cache partition is cleaned (the partition in which applications store their information).
Like any operating system, Android has a special boot mode when the device turns on, but the system itself does not boot. This mode is called Recovery Mode, or recovery mode in Russian. This mode is present in any Android device and allows you to reset parameters, change firmware, restore firmware from a backup, or simply in case of a freeze. It is noteworthy that, unlike root rights, using Recovery Mode is not dangerous, and therefore is not blocked by the developer in any way. This function can be used by absolutely everyone and completely officially. Let's take a closer look at how to enter recovery on any device running Android, and what each menu item is responsible for.
Recovery Mode provides access to the system functions of the device
Ways to enter Recovery mode
On the device itself
Standard method. The principle of entering Recovery Mode is the same for all devices - when you turn it on, you need to hold down several buttons. Most often this is volume up, but the following options may also occur:
- Samsung - power on + volume up + “Home”.
- LG - power on + volume down.
- Google Nexus, HTC - power on + volume down, then tap Recovery.
- Certain Lenovo, Motorola models - power on + volume up + “Home”.
- Sony - power button, after double vibration, hold down the volume up.
If for some reason you enter Recovery Mode standard means If it doesn't work, try checking the instructions. The listed combinations are valid in almost all cases and will work both to enter the standard recovery menu and the custom one. In addition, you can run it even when the tablet does not boot or the system freezes.
If you have root rights you will need installed application Terminal Emulator(https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jackpal.androidterm). After installation, you will need to enable superuser rights and enter two commands: first su and then reboot recovery. The device will reboot.
Via computer
A prerequisite is that USB debugging mode is enabled (Settings - For developers - USB debugging, or select the appropriate item when connecting to a PC). Therefore, if this mode was previously disabled, the tablet will not start and you will not be able to use it.
You will need a program ADB Run(http://cloud-androidp1.in/Android/PC/Project_Site/AdbProgramm/), cable and working device.
- Connect your device to your computer.
- Run ADB program Run.
- In the program menu, press 4 and then 3 in sequence.
The device will reboot into Recovery Mode. You can perform the procedures you need.
How to use Recovery Mode
As we have already said, there is both a standard recovery and a custom or custom one. Many experienced users claim that the capabilities of the first one are quite scarce, so it is better to install the unofficial one. We'll talk about them a little later, but now let's look at what points Recovery menu Mode you can find on your device.
Install zip from sdcard- installation of an archive with updates saved to a memory card. Through this menu, root rights are obtained and the firmware is installed.
Wipe data/factory reset - erase data/reset settings to factory settings - complete cleaning system partition, reset all settings to their original state. All apps and settings will be removed, but your media files will remain intact. Used for critical errors system failures or when executed new firmware. Especially effective remedy in cases where the device does not turn on.
Wipe cache partition - cleaning system cache- a system section in which temporary files and all program settings are stored. It is recommended to do this when the firmware is changed.
Backup and restore - backup systems and restoration from previously created backup copies.
Mounts and storage - for correct operation all sections of the system must be correctly mounted and connected. Often, this procedure is performed automatically, but sometimes something has to be corrected manually. You can also clear one of the partitions. We advise you to use this method only in case of specific need, otherwise file system will not boot and the tablet will not work.
Advanced - additional settings, among which - reboot Recovery Mode, clear dalvik cache, reset permissions system applications. Most often used by professional programmers.
Management, unless otherwise indicated, is carried out through (moving through the list) and power (selecting a menu item). In some cases, selecting is done with the volume up, and scrolling is done with the volume down. In any case, the system must indicate exactly how to manage menu sections. There are developments with touch control.
Unofficial Recovery
As mentioned above, standard Recovery Mode very often has several limited opportunities, therefore it is best to use third-party, unofficial developments. The most popular are two of them - ClockworkMod recovery(abbreviated CWM) and TeamWin Recovery Project(abbreviated as TWRP). Both developments have excellent functionality and allow you to very quickly and conveniently modify or change the firmware, obtain root rights, reset settings to factory settings, or restore a backup copy.
CWM looks very similar to the standard one, only with a slightly different arrangement of menu items. Navigation through the menu is carried out using the volume buttons, and selection is made through the power button. There is a version with touch controls. Well, TWRP has an unusual tiled interface and is controlled via touch screen. You can navigate through the menu by pressing the display, and you need to confirm the action by swiping. Some Android devices have one of these recovery installed either by default or with the standard one. Installation and download custom recovery may differ depending on the model, so look for information in the sections about your tablet model on specialized forums.
Conclusion
The Recovery menu is a special service mode mobile system Android. Available on all smartphones and tablets. Used to launch if the user wants to quickly clear all information on the device, restore factory settings, change the firmware, and also in some other situations.
If the Recovery on the device has never been changed, it is called STOCK. If this menu has been stitched, then it is already called CUSTOM.
Among custom recovery, CWM and TWRP are considered the most popular due to their functionality.
To enter the recovery menu on a switched off device, use special combination pressing HOME, POWER, VOLUME+ and VOLUME-. At the same time, on different devices you need to use different of these buttons.
Below in the article you can find a method for your device. By the way, there are also special programs to launch this menu. We will look at one of the most convenient ones called Quick Boot here.
A universal way to enter recovery on Android
Nowadays for many models different manufacturers the same key combination works. Therefore, it makes sense to consider this method first. Perhaps it can be called a universal method.
The procedure is as follows:
- Turn off your Android smartphone or tablet.
- Press the power button and then briefly press the volume up control.
- The device will go into Recovery.
- With the device turned on, press the on/off button for a few seconds.
- A menu with some parameters will appear on the screen, where there may be a button “Go to recovery” or something like that.
If on your Android these key combinations do not lead to the desired result, then see below all possible combinations specifically for each popular line of devices. For all other devices, one of the universal options described above is suitable.
Recovery on Samsung
If you have a device from the popular Galaxy line from Samsung Electronics, then one of the following methods will suit you. Keep in mind that all key combinations apply when the smartphone or tablet is turned off.
Methods:
Recovery on Sony Xperia
If you are the owner of a Sony Xperia line device, then turn off the device, and then turn it on and When the indicator lights up or the SONY logo appears on the screen, hold down the volume down or up key. On some other models, clicking on the logo works.
This option is also possible: turn off the device, hold down the power button and wait for a few vibrations, then release the ON/OFF button and quickly press “Volume +”.
Recovery on HTC
First of all, the user needs to switch to Bootloader mode. In most cases, this requires removing and installing the battery again:
Recovery on Nexus
With the device turned off, hold down the following key combination: volume down and on/off (power).
Now find the Recovery option and go to it by pressing the Power button.
Enter recovery using the Quick Boot application
There are also special programs that help you switch to Recovery with one touch of your finger. The procedure in this case is not at all complicated. Just open the Play Store, search for the application and install it. I decided to introduce you to one of the most convenient ones called Quick Boot.
After installation and launch, select Recovery from the program menu.
The device will successfully reboot into Recovery mode, and you will be able to continue working with those partitions that you need, depending on the task at hand. For example, if you need to restore all factory settings on your device, you will work with the Wipe data (Factory reset) section; to update the firmware, use the Apply section update from, etc.
How to work in the recovery menu
Navigation here is done by pressing the side volume up and down keys. To confirm the selected option, briefly press the on/off button.
Advice: if you are not sure of your actions, it is better not to experiment in this menu, as the consequences will be irreversible. Mobile devices Android, unlike PCs, will not issue warnings about possible problems.
What's in the Recovery menu
This menu contains the following sections:
- Reboot system. When you click on this item, Android will reboot in normal mode. In case you just went into Recovery out of curiosity, use this command to exit.
- Apply update from . This section is for updating installed firmware from the existing distribution, installation of patches, etc. In this section, you can select the type of update from the following list:
1) Internal storage - from an existing option, including from system memory, file storage, memory card;
2) External storage - from some external device;
3) Cache - from the internal system cache. - Backup/Restore. Each device stores a backup image of the system. When you click on this item, recovery from this image will be started. That is, the system will be completely updated to the state it was in after purchase.
- Wipe cache partition. The contents of the system cache will be completely deleted.
- Wipe data|Factory reset . Selecting this item will allow you to reset all settings made by the user over the entire period of operation. The device will completely return to its factory preset settings. Please note that during the reset process, all information entered and saved by the user will be lost. Including all files, folders, music, videos, etc. However, the performance of the tablet usually increases by an order of magnitude after resetting the settings.
Hello, please explain how to use it Android mode System Recovery 3e, there is such a huge menu that half of the items are not clear.
Answers (2)
This comment is edited.
Recovery (also known as the recovery menu) is a separate small operating system that has a minimum of functions and works independently of the main one. There are stock and custom recovery. The first is “native”, the second is modified and improved, it must be installed independently.
The most common custom ones are CWM and TWRP; they are supported by most devices.
To enter recovery on Android you need:
- be sure to charge the battery 80-90%;
- turn off the device;
- simultaneously hold down the “on/off” button, volume control button “louder”, sometimes also the “home” button (depending on the model);
- wait until the manufacturer icon appears;
- release, the recovery menu will appear.
To move around it, use the volume control carriage - “louder” up, “quieter” down. To enter the sub-item you need to press the “on/off” or “home” button.
Returning to the previous menu is carried out using the “go back” item. After selecting any command, a list appears with sub-items “no” and one “yes”, which must be clicked to run.The number of points depends on android system recovery. Instructions for use are as follows:
- "reboot system now" - reboot, through it you can exit android system recovery, depending on the device, the menu may contain this item in the “power menu” section;
- “wipe data/factory reset” - reset to factory settings, deleting all information from the device, after which the smartphone will be the same as after purchase;
- “wipe cache partition” - this item is responsible for deleting the system and application cache, that is, cleaning unnecessary files;
- “install from sdcard” - installation of archived files from a flash drive.
Some points have additional sub-points, so I’ll tell you about each of them. Chapter " backup and restore":- “backup” - a backup copy of the operating system is created and stored on a flash drive;
- “restore” - installing a backup, opening the item, a list of firmware will appear;
- “advanced restore” - restores part of the operating system, the command works with the same partitions as the next function.
You need to be very careful with the “mounts and storage” item, as it can damage the device. It is used for formatting - permanent deletion all information and mounting, that is, connection to the system. This item works with the following sections:- “mount/system” - system;
- “unmount /data” - to store user information;
- “mount /sd-ext” - mounts part of the operating system onto a flash drive to expand capabilities;
- “unmount /cache” - cache, temporary files;
“mount /sdcard” - SD card.
The "format" command works with the same sections, but only clears all content. Applying this item to “system” or “data” will kill the smartphone.
In recovery there is an “advanced” submenu, which includes additional features. Here is their list:
- “wipe dalvik cache” - cleaning unnecessary files from the dalvik machine in which programs are launched on the phone;
- “wipe battery stat” - clearing information about battery usage;
- “restart adb” - loading into adb mode, which is needed to control the device via command line from PC;
- “fix permissions” - the command returns file permissions to their original state.
This comment is edited.
Rarely, but a situation arises when android system recovery 3e does not respond. What to do about this problem and how to solve it depend on the reasons:
- not unlocked bootloader;
- experiments on installing custom recovery, as a result of which the original one failed;
- Broken volume or power buttons.
The most common reason Because of which android system recovery 3e may not respond - this is a locked bootloader. Its unlocking occurs in different ways and depends on specific model devices.
An unsuccessfully installed recovery must be “rolled back” to its original one. First you need to find stock recovery For the desired model- It’s best to search on our and American forums.
The recovery is flashed through the ADB program, which is installed on the computer as follows:
- download the zip archive;
- open it, find the ADB.exe file;
- in the menu that appears after right-clicking on it, select “run as administrator”;
- then a blue window will appear;
- write “y” and press “inter”, repeat this 3 times, so we agree to install the program and drivers;
- go to the ADB folder, it should be in the root of drive C;
- copy the downloaded recovery here and rename it to recovery.img;
- press “shift” and the right mouse button;
- select “open command line”;
- enter “fastboot flash recovery recovery.img” this is the command that will install the downloaded recovery;
- by pressing “inter” we launch it;
- write “reboot”.
After this, you can enter the updated recovery.
If the buttons malfunction, you need to connect the device to the computer as described above, enter “reboot recovery” and press “enter”.
While there are no problems with the Android phone, the list of functions in the Recovery menu is of no interest to the average user. But some time passes and even the most reliable device starts to slow down. There are problems with scrolling pages, they take a long time to load simple applications, etc. That's when the Recovery Menu comes to the rescue.
The Recovery menu allows you to work with the firmware of your smartphone or tablet and create backup copies of user data.
Recovery mode is built into all Android devices without exception. With its help, you can solve all the accumulated problems in one fell swoop by rolling back the device to factory settings. In addition, here you can initiate the flashing process by independently selecting the files to work with.
Another very useful feature menu – create backup copies. There are many applications and programs for personal computer performing the same tasks. But why resort to additional options, if your phone or tablet already has a very convenient and effective tool? The user is free to choose the data that he wants to save as duplicates. It can create a copy of the entire system, or “save” individual sections.
The main advantage of this backup tool is that it does not require the device to be operational in normal mode. The smartphone may not start due to viruses, global errors in the firmware and other problems, but the Recovery mode will boot in any case and offer to protect the data.
Login to Recovery Menu
First of all, you should come to terms with the fact that you won’t be able to enter Recovery mode from normal mode (at least if you don’t use special applications, but more on that later). PC users using two or more operating systems on one machine, are familiar with this: to run an alternative software part, the active OS will have to be turned off. Therefore, we turn off the phone or tablet using the power button, the same as always.
Then you have to choose a combination to switch to recovery mode. On devices different types can be used different combinations. Fortunately, there are not many common options.
Manufacturers see no reason to complicate access to Recovery mode and use only a few standard combos.
The standard method is to use the device buttons
Try the following combinations in descending order of popularity:
- Press and hold the device's Power button and Volume Up button at the same time.
- Do the same thing, only now do not increase, but decrease the sound of the turned off gadget.
- Try the triple combo. The “Start” button of the device, one of the volume control buttons, the “Home” key (usually it is located in the central part of the space under the screen, but in some models it may be on the side).
- Repeat the previous option, only this time hold down both volume keys.
If nothing happens, then you got a device with a unique option to launch the recovery menu. Try to find information online if the manufacturer is one of the leading brands. But in most cases, such problems arise with unnamed Chinese devices, for which there are simply no instructions.
Experiment! On modern gadgets There are very few mechanical keys. It's easy to go through all the available combinations. Something will work.
An alternative way is to use special programs
Perhaps you still prefer not to take matters into your own hands and trust automatic decisions.
In this case, use one of the many applications to reboot your phone in alternative modes. They can be easily found by the word Reboot in the name.
After installing one of these applications, choose from the few Reboot Recovery options and wait for the recovery menu to appear on the screen with a broken upside-down robot in the background.
It should be noted that such programs will not be able to work without ROOT rights, so you will have to worry about transferring the phone to superuser mode.
Pay attention! Trying out key combinations is much faster, more convenient and does not put the device in a vulnerable position.
How to work in Recovery mode?
The successful launch of the mode is indicated by the above-mentioned green robot on a black background. A red warning sign flies out from the robot's core, as if to hint that the menu should only be used in case of serious problems.
It won’t be difficult to navigate the meager list of commands even inexperienced user. But management can cause some difficulties, since without a loaded Android systems The touchscreen does not read a signal from the outside, but works like a regular display.
In most cases, you can scroll through menu items using the volume control keys. And the choice in this case is made by the device start button.
But there are also models that allow you to scroll through the menu in only one direction, most often down. In this case, to confirm your choice, you need to press the volume up button.
Exit Recovery Menu
In some versions of recovery mode (especially in gadgets from unknown Chinese companies), menu item text may vary slightly. Therefore, we don’t worry and look for an item that offers a reboot system without verbose additions. In the standard version, this item looks like Reboot System Now.
Sometimes, even after a reboot, the device may start again in recovery mode. This is a warning sign that may indicate serious hardware problems. But sometimes normal mode does not start due to minor problems that are easy to fix.
Try one of the following emergency options:
- Press and hold the device's start button for at least ten seconds. This is similar to pressing the restart button on a frozen computer and solves most problems by resetting the settings, returning you to the recovery screen.
- Remove the battery, wait a few seconds, and put it back in.
- Disconnecting from the power source is also perceived by the gadget as a large-scale reboot.
- Wait until the device is completely discharged and try to turn it on again, recharging the battery a little.
- Connect the equipment to your computer and reset it using ADB RUN or another similar program.
Remember: simply entering the recovery menu does not have any restorative effect on the gadget. To solve problems with your phone, you will have to roll back to factory settings or install new firmware.