These steps show you how to root the Samsung Galaxy A7 running Android 5.0.2 Lollipop. The latest Lollipop software update patched the earlier exploit people were using; now we must use this new method.
Although the guide uses a new kernel, we are flashing that same kernel through Odin like we would with most other rooting methods for Sammy devices.
The Files You Need
- Download the pre-rooted kernel you need from this page.
- Download the Odin flashing tool suitable for Windows PCs from this page. You can download any of the versions, although one of the later versions is probably more suitable for Android 5.0.2 Lollipop.
- The following guide is only to be done with the Samsung Galaxy A7. Do not risk bricking your device by attempting to flash this rooted kernel on a different device.
- The guide doesn’t work for Windows RT operating systems running on the Microsoft Surface tablets.
Rooting the Samsung Galaxy A7 on Android 5.0.2 Lollipop
- Download the rooted kernel and the Odin flashing tool directly to the Windows PC you are using.
- Unzip both of the files so you can use them when they are required.
- Double-click the Odin file from the folder after you’ve unzipped it, and run the flashing tool on the computer. You should now have the Odin tool open and waiting.
- Enter download mode on the Samsung device.
- Connect the Galaxy A7 smartphone to the computer using the USB cable.
- Click the AP button and upload the pre-rooted kernel. The button might be called PDA if you are using an older version of the Odin tool.
- Make sure the re-partition box is left empty.
- Click the Start button and wait for Odin to flash your device with the rooted kernel.
- The Odin app on the computer will give you the pass message when it is all done.
- Now you have root access on the Samsung Galaxy A7 running the latest version of Android 5.0.2 Lollipop.
Confirm the A7 is unlocked by installing the root checker app from the Google Play Store.