[LIVE-ISO][FWUL]adb/fastboot without any installation and driver issues [v3.2]

[steadfasterX]

About

FWUL ... Why this name and its meaning?
Well.. The name of FWUL has a simple reason. I wanted to have something where I were able to point users to when they came with issues on Windows because the most problems around were solvable when using Linux ...

... and so the generic answer I gave those were exactly what FWUL means today. The only issue with Linux (even with Ubuntu, Mint and such) is that they not include what an Android user needs. You still have to issue commands to install and you have to make other adjustments like udev rules etc. Nothing a "normal" Windows user can do without guidelining.

So I started FWUL.. and because I had this above in mind its named like this. That's all.

FWUL is pronounced as in "fuel" /ˈfjuːəl/

For those not familiar with the above: do you have ever thought:

"What the ...? Why?? Windows is not detecting my Android phone?!
adb, fastboot?? what are you talking about?"

or do you just wanna support someone who is using Windows and having issues?

• ... of course you have re-installed the drivers of your phone's vendor.
• ... of course you have re-downloaded the newest one from the the vendor's homepage as well
• ... of course you checked other drivers and uninstalled and rebooted hundreds of times
• ... of course it still does not work!

This is where this Live ISO should help you out.

That's completely normal because you're still using that OS named Windows
... an OS which you (should) have paid for.. (Did you know that? --> Linux is free!)
... an OS which is known to spy out his users - by default (Did you know that? --> Linux won't!)
... an OS where updating and upgrading annoying you more and more (Did you know that? --> Linux can be simply upgraded even between major versions!)
(... well that's your choice but maybe now is a good time to think about alternatives...)


On Linux we do not have such phone driver issues (there are others but forget about that now).
The main purpose of this ISO is to give you a quick and just working start to use the standard Android tools like adb and fastboot with ease.

• ... No driver hassle
• ... No complicated installation of android tools
• ... Remote support tool (teamviewer) can be installed with a double click
• ... just download, flash and enjoy

FWUL is just the way it should be. As time goes by the features grow so even when FWUL started as just an adb/fastboot ISO it can now provide you more then that. It has been enhanced to include all tools useful when it comes to using Android with your PC, flashing tools like JOdin (Samsung) or LGLAF (LG) are just some examples - check out the feature list!


Project status

Rock stable
well.. and: it could influence you sooner or later and you may never want to go back to your Windows...


Features

Based on the amazing (Manjaro) Arch Linux

Also checkout the detailed main features here: What's inside FWUL (click)?

• Windows 10 Theme for you my Windows lovers
• fast, stable and the most current Android debug experience you will ever get! it just works.
• Multi-Language support (If you miss your language let me know)
• adb and fastboot preinstalled and ready to use (thx for the amazing udev rules)
• simple ADB tool - a GUI for adb/fastboot (thx to the developer!)
• full MTP support
• full PTP support
• persistent mode (since FWUL v2.0)
• Teamviewer (TV) installer! If you need it just install it by simply starting the installer in the Desktop
• KISS + removed all docs + man pages keeping that ISO at small size
• JOdin (Java based version of Odin for Samsung devices) (Develop thread at XDA)
• hexchat to get fast support on IRC
• Advanced LG flashing tool like LGup (but with more features) -> SALT
• heimdall (GUI/CLI tool for Samsung devices)
• Installer for Sony Flashtool
• Installer for spflashtool for MediaTek devices
• If you find something is not working LET US KNOW!
• The amazing tool SALT to get shell access for managing LG phones
• Full Oracle VirtualBox support (since v1-1):
  -> 512 MB RAM for the VM is the lowest recommended (you may fail to use any installer though but adb and fastboot will work out of the box and would even work with less)
  -> 2+ GB RAM for the VM is recommended
  -> you have to download and install the VirtualBox extension pack for full USB support
  -> keep in mind: Even running in a VM is supported you will have best performance and best user experience when running from DVD/USB-Stick instead.
  To be more clear: It is HIGHLY recommended not doing critical operations from within VirtualBox as this can be a risk (see information here). This is not a FWUL issue but Virtualization related
• tmate - easy terminal sharing / remote control
• Recover files from backups, sdcards, image files with the graphical tool Qphotorec
• Extract ROM dat, dat.br and payload.bin with ROME
• MiFlash for Xiaomi devices lets you backup and flash
• Read the FWUL included tools & installers topic in post #3

Installation

1. Download
2. Either:
   ... burn it to a DVD (very stable and easy but slowest in boot)
   ... or flash it to an USB stick (very stable and easy and CAN be the fastest - it depends on your USB stick speed ... if you use a slow USB stick its slow right?!)
   ... or (while not recommended for critical operations) connect it in your VirtualBox VM (read FAQ #4 for the persistent mode option if you want to use it there as well)
   
   For flashing to an USB stick I recommend ETCHER!
   Do not use unetbootin or similar tools which very likely all will fail.
   If you want to use another tool then the listed ones ensure you have an option to use a DD (aka RAW copy, aka 1:1 clone) method to flash FWUL.
   Otherwise FWUL will not boot. I have tested flashing FWUL with the recommended tool Etcher only.
   The following post lists an alternative method (and legacy ones) if etcher does not work for you or if you want to flash to a sdcard etc: CLICK.
   
   Checkout the complete guide for flashing FWUL with etcher including pictures here: CLICK
   but in short it is like that:
   

   1. Download Etcher
   2. Select the FWUL image
   3. Ensure you choose the correct USB drive by clicking on Change below "USB device" :
   4. Click the Flash button and wait until it has finished:
   5. By default Etcher will verify the flashed image (you can abort that one but it is highly recommended to let the verification finish):
   6. Once all has finished reboot, ensure your PC booting from your USB (check your BIOS if not) and enjoy FWUL from your USB stick

   
   For using FWUL in a virtual machine download VirtualBox + the VirtualBox Extension pack
   

   keep in mind: Even running in a VM is supported you will have best performance and best user experience when running from DVD/USB-Stick instead.
   To be more clear: It is HIGHLY recommended not doing critical operations from within VirtualBox as this can be a risk (see information here). This is not a FWUL issue but Virtualization related
   
   -> add a new VM in VirtualBox and ensure you choose 64bit
   -> select Arch Linux from the list of Operating Systems (or any of the other Linuxes if that one is missing)
   -> 512 MB RAM for the VM is the lowest possible (you may fail to use any installer though but adb and fastboot will work out of the box) but it would even work with less. Not that smoothly of course and when you install things you will get out of space easily.. Consider the persistent install or even better the USB stick install if your RAM is low.
   -> 2+ GB RAM for the VM is recommended. The more the better but when you have enough free disk space you can use the persistent mode with VirtualBox as well! Check out FAQ #4
   -> connect the FWUL ISO or checkout the FAQ how to enable persistent mode for FWUL within VirtualBox

3. Boot FWUL
4. Login with username/password: android / linux
5. Open the terminal application (at the bottom the black small window or open the "Windows" menu and choose from there)
6. type in:
   adb devices
   or
   fastboot devices
   or
   open the simple-adb GUI (desktop)
   or
   ....

Download

XDA had problems in the past regarding file upload :crying: ...
so I decided to choose AndroidFileHost as our primary download server from now on.. XDA will always have the latest forgeful ISO at least but for a complete set AFH has them all.

Main Download Server:

• persistent mode ( read FAQ #4 ): Latest version (click) (note: deprecated, latest version is v3.1)
• forgetful mode ( read FAQ #4 ): Latest version (click)

Download Mirror 1 (XDA):

Note: This mirror may not contain all files but it will have the latest stable forgetful ISO at least!

• Go to the Download tab in this post

Download Mirror 2 (steadfasterX):

Note: This mirror is always current & fast (usually) but I share my bandwidth here so whenever possible use the main download server or Mirror 1 above!

• My leech server at: leech.binbash.rocks

Nightlies (v4.0 - mAid):

Note: These builds happen on a scheduled base and so most likely are completely untested and unsupported but the most current you can get: leech.binbash.rocks

Support / Telegram group

Of course here in this thread but also by my Telegram group: mAid (fka FWUL)


Changelog

See Post #2


Known Issues

• All issues can be found at the github issue tracker
• If you find an issue please open a new issue at the github issue tracker

FAQ

See Post #4

Credits

• The whole Arch Linux community for the best Linux experience ever
• www.androidfilehost.com for mirror our files without any costs
• https://github.com/M0Rf30 for the amazing list of android udev rules
• AdamOutler for creating JOdin
• @mhashem6 for simple ADB!
• @dibbled for creating the FWUL logo
• ... and all the girls & guys mentioned in post #3

XDA:DevDB Information
FWUL - Forget Windows Use Linux - an adb/fastboot ISO, Tool/Utility for all devices (see above for details)

Contributors
steadfasterX
Source Code: https://code.binbash.rocks:8443/mAid/build


Version Information
Status: Stable
Current Stable Version: 3.2
Stable Release Date: 2020-09-13
Current Beta Version: 4.0

Created 2016-12-27
Last Updated 2020-09-13

 

[steadfasterX]

Changelog

FWUL_v3.2_x86-64 (forgetful/ISO only)
Released: 2020-09-13
Reason: Maintenance release
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking
Full Changelog (this version VS. previous): git commits
Summary Changelog:

• Fresh Manjaro Arch Linux base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• new look & feel by a new icon and desktop theme
• backported from v4.0: new installer dialogs (goodbye ugly terminal outputs)
• backported from v4.0: SALT's new requirements are pre-installed now
• backported from v4.0: AMD graphic support for newer models
• backported from v4.0: fully pre-pkg all installers. this one is incredible important to keep the installers working without doing a full system upgrade. Previously once times passes by and you wanted to use the installers the package (e.g. spflashtools, teamviewer) got downloaded by the normal way. As everything depends on each other that could result in hundreds of Megabytes if not a full system upgrade at the end. Useless and annoying for a live ISO. The new approach will fully pre-package all dependencies directly within the build process so they will always fit exactly to the release. That way even if you start v3.2 in 3 years it will just download the pre-packaged file which contains all you need.
• Versions of the main FWUL components:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.19.144-1
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 30.0.3-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.22-12
  ROME -> version: 1.1-0
  Firefox (bundled) -> version: 80.0.1-1
  TeamViewer (installer pre-packaged) -> version: 15.9.5-1
  SonyFlash tools (installer pre-packaged) -> version: 0.9.29.0-1
  SPFlash tools (installer pre-packaged) -> version: 5.2028-1
  Chromium (installer pre-packaged) -> version: 85.0.4183.102-1
  bootimgtool-git -> version: 20150607.g9ccd962-1
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r7.ga2cfdaa-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.30.0-4
  xorg-server -> version: 1.20.8-4
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 6.1.14-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.14.3-3
  testdisk-wip -> version: 7.2-1
  tmate -> version: 2.4.0-1
  xfce -> version: 4.14.2-2
  ​
• there are more fixes/changes: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

Older releases

FWUL_v3.1_x86-64
Released: 2019-01-23
Reason: Maintenance release
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on my gitlab
Full Changelog (this version VS. previous): gitlab commits
Summary Changelog:

• FWUL has an own HOMEPAGE
• You may have noticed that I moved all code to an own gitlab server. The repositories on github.com will stay online but are archived, read-only and outdated.
• Fresh Manjaro Arch Linux base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components for this release:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.19.14-1
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 9.0.0_r18-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.21-4
  ROME -> version: 1.0-1
  TeamViewer (req user install) -> version: 14.1
  bootimgtool-git -> version: 20150607.g9ccd962-1
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r7.ga2cfdaa-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.5-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.28.0-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.20.3-1
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 6.0.2-99
  firefox -> version: 64.0.2-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.14.2-1
  testdisk-wip -> version: 7.1-1
  tmate -> version: 2.2.1-2
  ​
• fix: since v3.0 the default language was not set to EN (issue)
• fix: since v3.0 changing the language in persistent mode required a reboot (issue)
• fix: LivePatcher repo URL (issue)
• fix: since v3.0 shared folders stopped working when using VirtualBox (issue)
• there are more fixes/changes: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

FWUL_v3.0.2_x86-64 - PERSISTENT ONLY
Released: 2019-01-15
Reason: Maintenance release, ONLY for persistent builds
A patch has been released for FWUL persistent builds.
Patching a persistent build is handled by the FWUL LivePatcher which can be found on the desktop.
Due to many under-the-hood changes (mainly the repo URL path changed and that required adjusting several files) the following procedure is needed to upgrade correctly to the latest release:

1. double-click "FWUL LivePatcher"
2. click "Check & Download Patches" button!
3. once finished click "Start LivePatcher" and wait until it finishes
4. you will be prompted to re-open the LivePatcher as there was an update for the LivePatcher itself
5. you should be informed that your FWUL version is now 3.0.1
6. close the LivePatcher and re-open it
7. click again on "Check & Download Patches" button!
8. once finished click "Start LivePatcher" and wait until it finishes
9. you should be informed that your FWUL version is now 3.0.2

if something goes wrong do this in a terminal:

tar cvzf flu.tgz /var/log/fwul

and attach the resulting flu.tgz file in your post.

Summary Changelog:

• changed repository patch for FWUL LivePatcher to gitlab
• workaround for issue #88

FWUL_v3.0_x86-64
Released: 2019-01-02
Reason: Feature & Maintenance release
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on my gitlab
Full Changelog (this version VS. previous): gitlab commits
Summary Changelog:

• FWUL got an own HOMEPAGE
• You may notice that I moved all code to an own gitlab server. The repositories on github.com will stay but are archived, read-only and outdated.
• Fresh Manjaro Arch Linux base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components for this release:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.19.13-1 (major upgrade)
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 9.0.0_r18-1 (major upgrade)
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.21-4
  ROME -> version: 1.0-1 (newly added)
  TeamViewer (req user install) -> version: 14.0 (major upgrade)
  bootimgtool-git -> version: 20150607.g9ccd962-1
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r7.ga2cfdaa-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.5-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.28.0-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.20.3-1
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 6.0.0-1 (major upgrade)
  firefox -> version: 64.0-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.14.2-1
  testdisk-wip -> version: 7.1-1
  tmate -> version: 2.2.1-2
  ​
• new: added MiFlash for Xiaomi devices - read the short summary in FWUL included tools & installers
• new: finally pre-configured hexchat
• new: added two android boot image manipulating tools
• new: added an even more clear Virtualization warning in the welcome screen
• new: added [ROM][E] an extract tool for ROMs - read the short summary in FWUL included tools & installers
• new: polished up wallpaper
• fix: from now on FWUL supports (partly) system upgrades (see issue #63)! This means:
  - you CAN update FWUL (using the desktop icon for adding/removing software or within a terminal: trizen -Syu --noconfirm)
  - you will NOT be able to update the kernel, virtualbox guest utils or any other kernel related module(s) (they are excluded automatically so just for info)
  - you will NOT be able to update to newer FWUL releases. This will ALWAYS require a re-install as changing that would require an incredible amount of work and resources, update servers etc.
• there are more fixes/changes: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

FWUL_2.7_x86-64
Released: 2018-07-03
Reason: Maintenance release
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github
Full Changelog: on Github
Summary Changelog:

• Fresh Manjaro Arch Linux base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components for this release:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.14.40-rt30-MANJARO
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 8.1.0_r33-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.16-0
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r5.g5377b62-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.26.0-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.6+24+g56547b196-1
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.2.12-2
  firefox -> version: 61.0-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.14.1-2
  testdisk-wip -> version: 7.1-1
  tmate -> version: 2.2.1-2
  ​
• new: added the graphical tool Qphotorec recovery (recovers ANY type of files not just photos ! --> Example HowTo Guide)
  Also read the short summary in FWUL included tools & installers
• new: easing up the use of tmate (desktop icon, automatic session id info on startup) - read the short summary in FWUL included tools & installers
• new: greatly enhanced the teamviewer install experience, speed and compatibility
• new: added LG LAF fork of @runningnak3d (desktop -> folder LG)
• there are more fixes/news: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

FWUL_2.6_x86-64
Released: 2018-03-07
Reason: Maintenance release - main purpose was to update SALT due to the public release of UsU
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github
Full Changelog: on Github
Summary Changelog:

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components for this release:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.14-1
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 8.1.0_r7-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.8-2
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r5.g5377b62-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.24.0-3
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.6+13+gd0d1a694f-1
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.2.8-1
  firefox -> version: 58.0.2-1.1
  hexchat -> version: 2.12.4-8
  ​
• new: updated SALT
• fix: user icon login / password hint
• there are more fixes/news: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

FWUL_2.5_x86-64
Released: 2018-02-15
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github
Full Changelog: on Github
Summary Changelog:

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all OS packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components:
  
  Kernel -> version: 4.14-1
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 8.1.0_r7-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update6
  SALT -> version: 3.6-6
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r5.g5377b62-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.24.0-3
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.6+13+gd0d1a694f-1
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.2.6-2
  firefox -> version: 58.0.1-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.12.4-7
  ​
• new: Added the awesome LG tool SALT
• new: replaces LTS kernel with the latest (better hardware support for many cpus, network/wifi cards etc)
• new: added tmate as a TeamViewer alternative when no GUI is needed (no install needed)
• new: full support for VirtualBox share folders (big thx to @sdembiske who brought up the idea!)
• fix: user login icon
• fix:
• there are more fixes/news: follow the above full changelog/milestone link!

FWUL_2.3_x86-64
Released: 2017-09-23

• Versions of the main FWUL components:
  
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 7.1.2_r27-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update4
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r3.g9bcc42d-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.22.0-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.3-3
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.1.28-1
  firefox -> version: 55.0.3-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.12.4-6
  ​
• Fixed an issue with adb
• Fixed an issue with directory permissions
• Added FWUL LivePatcher --> details and issue

FWUL_2.2.x_x86-64 (persistent only)
Released: 2017-09-20 (manual download/installation)

• Fixed an issue with adb
• Fixed an issue with directory permissions

FWUL_2.1.1_x86-64 (forgetful only)
Released: 2017-09-13

• Fixed an issue where the persistent mode was shown in boot menu of forgetful ISO

FWUL_2.1_x86-64
Released: 2017-09-12

• Fixed an issue within the build process making persistent builds non-persistent

FWUL_2.0_x86-64
Released: 2017-09-11
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Full Changelog: on Github
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components:
  
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 8.0.0_r4-1
  simple-adb GUI -> version: update4
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.2.r1.g3b4f34e-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  lightdm -> version: 1:1.22.0-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.3-3
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.1.26-1
  firefox -> version: 55.0.3-1
  hexchat -> version: 2.12.4-6
  ​
• you may have noticed it already but FWUL has an own logo now and so goes a complete re-design of: boot menu screen and login screen
• added FWUL version info and a welcome screen
• added persistent mode (FAQ #4)
• added a graphical installer (pamac) to ease the installation of new software in FWUL
• added PT-br language
• preparation for an eventually coming installer
• replaced Otter Browser by Firefox
• several bugfixes (check full changelog above)

FWUL_1-4_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-05-03
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Full Changelog: on Github
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github
Hint: the main reason for the increased ISO size compared to v1.3 is missing qt libs etc.

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all packages are top current)
• Versions of the main FWUL components:
  
  ADB and fastboot: android-tools -> version: 7.1.2_r6-1
  heimdall-git -> version: 1.4.1.r37.gb6fe7f8-1
  xfwm4 -> version: 4.12.4-1
  xorg-server -> version: 1.19.3-2
  virtualbox-guest-utils -> version: 5.1.22-1
  ​
• bugfix (issue #10) for Sony Flashtool preventing the latest patch to be applied
• replaced Midori Browser by Otter Browser

FWUL_1-3_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-04-19
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Full Changelog: on Github
All closed issues for this release: see the Milestone tracking on github

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all packages are top current)
• updated heimdall to heimdall-git from AUR (user request)
• Samsung and LG tools are moved to subfolders on the desktop
• LG LAF shell is now fully usable (missed a python package) and now much more easily accessible by 2 desktop icons in the LG folder
• fixed issue #5 (thunar volume manager was missing)
• fixed issue #2 (compress/extract in file explorer thunar was not possible)
• shrinked ISO size a LOT

FWUL_1-2_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-04-11
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Full Changelog: on Github

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all packages are top current)
• Turkish language added (user request)
• Firefox installer added
• Chromium installer added
• some minor fixes

FWUL_1-1_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-03-18
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Full Changelog: on Github

• Fresh Arch base from the day of release (means all packages are top current)
• Added 3 failsafe boot modes (i hope that helps ppl with booting issues)
• Added LGLaf tool to get shell access for unbricking LG phones
• Added a hint to the installer popup about "Potential dangerous" note when installing
• Fix for Sony Flashtool: AUR provides only 0.9.22.3 instead of the newest 0.9.23.1 (which then gets patched to 0.9.23.2 ... omg )
• Fix for Sony Flashtool: the installer was not able to download anymore (link in AUR is dead! I needed to provide a new DIRECT-DL mirror to accomplish this! thx XDA )
• Added full support for Oracle VirtualBox - you can now boot into a VM instead of rebooting the whole PC
  -> you need to downlad and install the Oracle EXTENSION PACK to make full use of USB etc
  -> 8 GB of PC RAM are recommended (give as much as you can to FWUL! e.g. 6 GB)

FWUL_1-0_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-02-13
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Changes:

• First stable release of FWUL (well the previous ones were stable too but we now feel like that all needed things are working as they should)
• github changelog
  (wifi issues are fixed in this build besides so many other things.. just read the above changelog)

FWUL_BETA-3_x86-64.iso
Released: 2017-01-17
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Changes:

• Initial release based on Arch Linux
• github changelog
• The following known issue and workaround exists for this particular release:
  

  I cannot connect password protected wireless network...only free to air connects. When I click on password connected wireless network., it simply don't open.

  
  There is a package missing which will be included in the next build.
  You can still use Beta-3 when you do this after booting (The procedure has to be repeated on every boot):
  
  

  1. click on the WiFi you want to connect to. nothing will happen but it is needed for the next step.
  2. right-click on the network symbol in the panel and select "edit connections"
  3. you should see the WiFi you tried to connect to --> click on it and then on edit
  4. open tab "WiFi security" and type in the WiFi key
  5. Save it and it should connect

  
  If you can connect once by cable you can follow this instead:
  
  

  1. Connect the network cable
  2. Open a terminal (look at the panel at the bottom - black window with c:\ in it)
  3. type in that terminal:
     sudo pacman -S gnome-keyring
  4. you will be asked for your password (linux) and then press Enter when asked to install it
  5. Disconnect the network cable
  6. Afterwards it will work. No reboot. Just try again

FWUL_BETA-2_x86_64.iso
Released: 2017-01-05
Changes:

• now based on Ubuntu Mini Remix 16.04.1 + all updates/patches up to now
• switched to 64bit arch because of JOdin mainly
• reduced file size
• added: TeamViewer, JOdin3, heimdall (GUI) and other tools
• new wallpaper background

FWUL-i386-LM18_b1
Released: 2016-12-28
Changes:

• Initial release based on LM18.1 + all updates/patches up to now, removed some unnecessary stuff, added adb and fastboot etc

Roadmap

NEVER EVER ASK FOR ETAs!!!

To find all planned stuff for the next version(s) go to the official

FWUL Roadmap / Milestones​

 

[steadfasterX]

FWUL included tools & installers

Here you find some explanations / usage information for FWUL

Quick overview:

• Quickly open a terminal or the firefox web browser via icons in the panel
• An easy access to identify your current FWUL version is a double click on the Welcome icon
• To open your Download folder or accessing other local files just double click on the Home icon

Installers

FWUL itself includes many stuff but not everything is useful for everyone.
Besides this I try to keep the size of ISO/IMG not growing too much and last but not least I need to avoid licensing issues when delivering software.

This is where the installers steps in. Those Installers are little programs written by me to install all requirements needed with just a double click.


SP Flash Tools by MediaTek Inc. is a tool to manage all MediaTek devices out there (Example Guide: https://androidmtk.com/flash-stock-rom-using-smart-phone-flash-tool)

• Features: Flashing to Android stock ROM (scatter based), Flash Custom ROM (scatter based), Application for Fixing Bricked device, Advanced Memory testing and verifying, Read / Write parameters, Erasing / Formatting / Reset Your MTK based device and more.. (check out the homepage for all details)
• Homepage: https://spflashtool.com/

Sony Flashtool by Androxyde is a S1 flashing software that works for all Sony phones from X10 to Xperia Z Ultra.

• Features: Root your phone, Install recovery, busybox, custom kernels, rebrand your device and many more (check out the homepage for all details)
• Homepage: http://www.flashtool.net/

Chromium is an open-source browser project that aims to build a safer, faster, and more stable way for all Internet users to experience the web.

• Homepage: https://www.chromium.org/Home

Cross-platform Remote Control to easily receive or give support.

• Features: https://www.teamviewer.com/en/features/
• Homepage: https://www.teamviewer.com

Included


Firefox, Terminal, File Manager are just a small subset but the most used ones. Just open the start menu and explore the rest
For adb or fastboot just open the Terminal and you can start to manage ANY android device.


The idea of Simple ADB or S-ADB made by @mhashem6 is to give you a GUI experience for ANY android device using adb and fastboot commands. Just select the command from a dropdown and watch the output!

• Guide and Homepage: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/revive-simple-adb-tool-t3417155

FWUL LivePatcher should be just an easy way to solve smaller bugs without the need to reinstall the whole IMG.
So don't expect to update an existing v2 to a new v3! Major releases will require a full re-flash This is just for hotfixing known issues

• Check out how it works: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=73864195&postcount=421

Qphotorec is for sure the best (open source) tool for recovering deleted/lost data from your backup files, disk images, sdcards and/or disk partitions.
Example: use SALT (or a TWRP dd backup) to backup your userdata partition and open that file in Qphotorec to recover your accidentally deleted data

• Homepage: https://www.cgsecurity.org
• Short overview: https://www.cgsecurity.org/wiki/TestDisk_7.0_Release#PhotoRec_.26_QPhotoRec
• Detailed overview: https://www.cgsecurity.org/wiki/PhotoRec
• Example Usage Guide: http://howtorecover.me/how-recover-files-corrupted-memory-card-using-photorec

Often enough when you need remote control teamviewer is overkill and not needed. Here steps tmate in which lets you share just the terminal screen and nothing else.
Very nice for low bandwidth and slow PCs but not always then plus: as its included with FWUL its just a double click away

• Homepage: https://tmate.io

The folders LG and Samsung contain stuff related to these vendors.
You will find e.g. SALT in the LG folder, MiFlash in the Xiaomi folder or JOdin / Heimdall in Samsung.

SALT is THE tool for managing LG devices and is still active developed. The goal for SALT is to be a replacement for LGup plus many advanced features like backup and device unlock.

• Homepage: http://bit.do/SALTatXDA

Heimdall is a cross-platform open-source tool suite used to flash firmware (aka ROMs) onto Samsung mobile devices.

• Guide: https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Benjamin-Dobell/Heimdall/master/Linux/README
• Homepage: http://glassechidna.com.au/heimdall/

JOdin by @AdamOutler is a cross-platform tool used to flash firmware onto Samsung mobile devices. It is basically another frontend to heimdall but with the look & feel like the official ODIN software by Samsung.
Unfortunately there is no further support for JOdin by Adam but the software should work for the most Samsung devices out there. For the rest Heimdall will be your choice.

• Guide & Homepage: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2598203

LG LAF (Peter Wu), (steadfasterX), (runningnak3d)
Peter Wu created LG LAF which is an amazing tool for communicating and working with your LG device while in download mode.
Several forks exists like mine LG LAF (steadfasterX) and LG LAF (runningnak3d). Usually I would say all these are advanced ones as you need to understand how to use the CLI to make use of that code.
Before tampering around with the terminals consider SALT (see above) first.

• LG LAF (Peter Wu): the pure original code by Peter
• LG LAF (steadfasterX): the fork by steadfasterX and the base for SALT
• LG LAF (runningnak3d): the fork by runningnak3d who is working on unlocking / rooting all LG devices by LG LAF

ROME is a tool which is able to extract several of the new ROM formats.

• Homepage: https://code.binbash.it:8443/FWUL/android_rome

MIFlash is the Xiaomi flashing tool ported to Linux.

• Guide: https://github.com/limitedeternity/MiFlash-Linux
• Source: https://github.com/IcemanDev/XIAOMI-TOOL-MiFlash-for-Linux-by-IceMan

 

[steadfasterX]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• 1) What is that secure boot message I get?
  
  When booting up you may see a message like:
  Unauthorized changes detected
  Or
  Secure boot error
  Or similar.
  This is the windows secure boot detection which should avoid malware to boot. As FWUL is unknown to Microsoft (shame on them ) you get prompted.
  Please try this to enable FWUL to boot: https://help.ubuntu.com/community/UEFI#Disabling_SecureBoot_in_the_BIOS
• 2) Can I install FWUL permanently? || Can I dual boot FWUL?
  No. Not yet. Check the roadmap.
  
  
• 3) Can I save my changes in FWUL? Like the persistent mode in Ubuntu can do?
  Yes when using the persistent mode image (since FWUL v2.0).
  
  
• 4a) What is forgetful mode and/or persistent mode?
  
  
  FWUL v2 comes with many improvements and fixes but there is 1 really major improvement: persistent mode.
  
  From now on you have two options to use FWUL:
  

  • a so called "forgetful" mode (does not save any settings/data - next reboot like new)
  • and a "persistent" mode (keeps your settings and data - next reboot everything is there as left)

  
  forgetful mode
  works like in previous versions - so when you boot FWUL, install packages (e.g. Sony Flashtool) and then reboot you will start from scratch. If you need e.g. Sony Flashtool again you have to install it again.
  That's the general nature of a live ISO. Using the ISO works in VirtualBox without modifications like the persistent mode requires.
  The good: you can test and install whatever you want just to find out if it would work for you or not. If you damage the system just reboot and you have a clean start again.
  The bad: you have to re-install everything again when you reboot FWUL
  
  persistent mode (recommended)
  like forgetful but if you boot in persistent mode all your changes (e.g. installing software, set language, ...) are preserved on next boot!
  Just create your own version of FWUL with all tools and stuff you need and next time you boot all is here!
  Besides this the persistent image also contains a forgetful mode so if you need a clean working experience just select the forgetful mode on boot screen.
  
  The persistent mode requires(!) an USB stick and you have to download the FWUL persistent ZIP of your choice!
  FWUL persistent comes in 3 sizes (this may change silently in the future!):
  

  • 8 GB (min 8 GB USB stick) - hosted on AFH only!
  • 15 GB (min 16 GB USB stick) - recommended
  • 30 GB (min 32 GB USB stick) - hosted on AFH only!

  You can use any bigger stick but keep in mind that flashing FWUL on that stick will make the rest of the stick unusable (until you re-format/partition it).
  You can not use any smaller stick for persistent mode. 8 GB is the smallest available if you want to run FWUL persistent.
  ... If you have a smaller USB stick then 8 GB you can still flash FWUL in forgetful mode!
  
  So what does those sizes mean and which one you should use?
  The size defines the space preserved to save all your changes. Lets say you install TeamViewer then the whole installation will go to this hidden space.
  If you download big files and save them in FWUL they go there as well. On the opposite deleting packages or files will clean that space.
  The persistent storage cannot be re-sized (easily) so when it is out-of-space you have to uninstall packages and/or delete downloaded files.
  
  In general the 8 GB will work for the most without any issues but if you can choose the 15 GB version which gives you some more extra room just for the case.
  
  
  4b) How can I install FWUL in persistent mode within VirtualBox?
  4c) Are there ready-to-use VirtualBox images available?
  
  
  persistent mode - VirtualBox usage
  It is possible to use the persistent image in VirtualBox but this requires a little preparation:
  
  method 1 (recommended): convert image to VDI - the bulletproof way and/or downloading ready-to-use VirtualBox images
  

  • Follow the excellent guide of user @sdembiske <here>
  • or use his ready-to-use images from here

  
  method 2) link VirtualBox HDD to image
  

  • Open a Windows (cmd.exe) command prompt (may not work on all VirtualBox versions and the command is completely unsupported by VB):
    You have to know the path where you installed VirtualBox as its needed for the next steps.
    --> The default location is C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox
    Replace all following mentions of <VBOXPATH> with your installation path of VirtualBox!
    Now move to the path where you downloaded FWUL.
    --> Example: cd Downloads
    Ok now its time to convert:
    <VBOXPATH>/VBoxManage internalcommands createrawvmdk -rawdisk FWUL_v2.5_x86_64.img -filename FWUL_v2.5_x86_64.vdi
    if that one does not work for you try:
    <VBOXPATH>/VBoxManage convertfromraw FWUL_v2.5_x86_64.img --format VDI FWUL_v2.5_x86_64.vdi
    Then create a new VM in Virtualbox:
    Select Arch Linux (64bit) from the list and select the VDI file you created (FWUL_v2.5_x86_64.vdi)

  
  method 3) using an USB stick
  Windows Guide:
  

  • https://www.howtogeek.com/187721/how-to-boot-from-a-usb-drive-in-virtualbox/

  Linux Guide:
  

  • Create a new virtual disk in VirtualBox with the size of the USB stick
  • Open a terminal (may not work on all VirtualBox versions and the command is completely unsupported by VB):
    VBoxManage internalcommands createrawvmdk -filename usbstick.vmdk -rawdisk /dev/XXX
    (where /dev/XXX is your USB stick device - not partition)
    chmod 666 /dev/XXX
  • Add usbstick.vmdk to a VM and boot from it
• 5) How can I access my Windows/Linux drives/partitions/disks in FWUL?
  
  
  In general FWUL will mount Linux and Windows partitions automatically when you open the file manager (you get a password prompt). If not you will find in the left panel your system partitions which can be mounted with a click. if you encounter issues or using VirtualBox read on:
  
  When running in VirtualBox
  Since version 2.6 FWUL fully supports VirtualBox shared folders --> GUIDE (click)
  
  After you have created your shared folder it will be displayed on the FWUL desktop (/home/android/Desktop/sf_<your_choosen_foldername>)
  Important note: make a NEW folder in that general shared Host folder, naming it however you prefer but avoid using any spaces in the folder name (as long as issue #15 is not resolved)
  (thx @sdembiske for the hint regarding new folder)
  
  When running from USB/DVD
  Checkout this howto:
  https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...-fastboot-driver-issues-t3526755/post74586059
  
  For windows 8 and higher also ensure you read and say thanks to this very useful hint here:
  https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...-fastboot-driver-issues-t3526755/post74592849
  
  Another possible (GUI) way but not that good is here:
  https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=73778719&postcount=371
  
• 6) FWUL asks me for a password e.g. when I try to install something or when I change system settings. Why and what's the password?
  
  
  Since the beginning Linux is more secure then Windows. One of the important reasons is its user design. You can compare it with Windows UAC if you like but Linux has it implemented by design where windows has added it on top (and this not long time ago first).
  
  Linux asks for your permission for administrative tasks. Its your personal password for the user logged in. In the case of FWUL you have the
  user android and the
  password linux
  
  Hint: Windows does not care about case sensitive usernames but Linux will. It's another layer for security because this makes it harder to break credentials.
  
• 7a) FWUL does not boot or it boots but I do not get the login screen - what now?
  7b) I have a black screen after FWUL has booted. How to solve?
  7c) I have graphic issues in FWUL. How to solve?
  
  
  Unfortunately and due to the fact of proprietary software, drivers and hardware these things can happen sometimes.
  You likely have a PC/Laptop which is very old, very new or not that sold often. This behavior usually means that a driver is missing/outdated for your graphic card so try this:
  
  1) Try a FWUL nightly first (see the OP for a link). The nightlies are more recent and so contain the newest available drivers and firmwares so thats the first thing to try.
  
  2) If this does not fix your issues:
  On FWUL boot select a VGA fallback mode (note: fallback modes will never be persistent). Start with the first one and try to boot with it. If it doesn't work out try the next.
  
  3) Once you see the login screen login open a terminal (little black icon in the panel) and type:
  

  lspci | grep -i vga

  Copy the whole output and post the result in this thread
  
  4) if none of these VGA fallback modes showing the login screen .... -->
  a) ... but you see a login prompt:
  Login with user: android and password: linux and once logged in type:
  

  lspci | grep -i vga

  Copy the whole output and post the result in this thread
  
  b) ... and you do not see even a login prompt:
  if you see code lines on the screen make a photo of that and attach this to a post
  In the same post include your PC's vendor + model and the graphic card model and name.
  
  
  
• 8a) Is it possible to use the package manager to update/upgrade FWUL?
• 8b) Is it possible to upgrade FWUL to a newer release?
  
  
  In short: it depends.
  
  In detail:
  Updating within FWUL may break your install as listed in the known issue #63. The main reason is that updating the boot stuff like grub or kernel will not work as usual in FWUL.
  Since FWUL v3.0 it is possible to (partly) do system upgrades (see issue #63)! This means:
  - you CAN update FWUL (using the desktop icon for adding/removing software or within a terminal: trizen -Syu --noconfirm)
  - you will NOT be able to update the kernel, virtualbox guest utils or any other kernel related module(s) (they are excluded automatically so just for info)
  - you will NOT be able to update to newer FWUL releases. This will ALWAYS require a re-install as changing that would require an incredible amount of work and resources, update servers etc.
  
  Upgrading FWUL itself to a newer release (e.g. 2.7 to 3.0) is not possible (atm). There is a way in my mind to allow keeping persistent storage of a previous install but.. well atm this is not possible and there is no time plan when or if that happens.
  
  
  
• 9) Is there a 32bit version of FWUL?
  
  
  At the beginning of FWUL I offered a 32bit and a 64bit version of FWUL. Due to several reasons it is impossible for me to continue supporting 32bit releases since 2017.
  Read more about this here (click) and here (click) to understand the reasons behind.
  The latest 32bit release which is completely outdated and with a lot of missing features can be found here (click).
  Last warning about this: You may not be able to make much use out of this (besides the included features) as you cannot install packages anymore and so you are left at that state as it is.
  
  Note:
  You may can run FWUL in VirtualBox as long as your system supports hardware virtualization. Then VirtualBox allows to run a 64 bit system (FWUL) even when your Operating System is 32 bit only.
  All details here (click) -> Q: Does VB support 64 bit guests? which states: "Note that hardware virtualization support is required to run 64bit guests, regardless of whether the host OS is 32bit or 64bit". That FAQ contains also further explanation how to determine hardware virtualization and other related information.
  
  TLDR;
  As long as I keep doing this all alone a 32bit will not come back.
  
  
  
• 10) I have flashed FWUL on my USB stick and now I'm not able to see the flash disk in Windows anymore. Is that normal?
  
  
  Yes that's absolutely normal. You have now Linux based partitions on the USB device and Windows is not able to read them until you format it in the Windows device manager.
  
  
  
• 11) I have flashed FWUL on my USB stick / SDcard / DVD and now I see an error on boot about "failed to load kernel modules". Is that normal?
  
  
  Yes that's absolutely normal. The kernel modules which are failing here are for supporting VirtualBox. If you do not use VirtualBox (which is GOOD!) then the modules can't load obviously.
  Just ignore this error - it has zero impact on FWUL.
  
  
  
• 12) Can I use FWUL to do Android ROM or App development?
  
  
  FWUL's goal is NOT to help Android developers to build apps and/or custom ROM's. It is to ease up life in managing Android. Not more, not less.
  There are distributions like BBQLinux which has that as its goal.
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

[DevUt]

Good project Hope it cuts down the load of developers

 

[steadfasterX]

Please add an option to use another theme

This is for Windows users not yet brave enough switching over to Linux so ... So no it makes no sense using any other theme for this kind of ISO
btw: you can use other themes when logged in if u like..

 

[steadfasterX]

FWUL_BETA-3_x86-64.iso released!
Download: Go to the Download section in the OP
Changes:

• Initial release based on Arch Linux
• github changelog

 

[kessaras]

@steadfasterX ,
its a debloated linux mint ? imma replace my linux distro on dual boot with this and come in github to help a little too.

the name is bad its like you try execute windows in cold blood ! i don't think the purpose of this project is to kick Bill Gates ass
rename it to something that has to do with android or just give it a new name of your choice that best suits to your liking

 

[steadfasterX]

@steadfasterX ,
its a debloated linux mint ? imma replace my linux distro on dual boot with this and come in github to help a little too.

the name is bad its like you try execute windows in cold blood ! i don't think the purpose of this project is to kick Bill Gates ass
rename it to something that has to do with android or just give it a new name of your choice that best suits to your liking

No Mint just read the OP

No just put it on a stick that's enough because the ISO is changing and we should test exactly how it would be for the end user..

The name is perfect :angel: if you don't like it search urban for FWUL it's fun




#


Sent from my LG-H815 using XDA Labs

 

[Ricky Divjakovski]

F*** windows use linux!!

 

[kessaras]

No Mint just read the OP
No just put it on a stick that's enough because the ISO is changing and we should test exactly how it would be for the end user..
The name is perfect :angel: if you don't like it search urban for FWUL it's fun

F*** windows use linux!!

lol
virtual machine with steadfasterX FWUL
so no need to even reboot to live usb.
F**K windows !!! :highfive: :angel:

 

[Spaceboy60]

I can't boot up. Gives me an error about firmware configuration:

 

[steadfasterX]

I can't boot up. Gives me an error about firmware configuration:

This is a secure boot error.
Try this : http://superuser.com/q/1054790

Sent from my LG-H815 using XDA Labs

 

[pedrowood]

It didn't detect my phone as well, even changing the usb cable, i think my problem is in my LG G4, I can't even use an OTG on it. Does someone know what it could be? It happened after unrooting my phone.

 

[steadfasterX]

It didn't detect my phone as well, even changing the usb cable, i think my problem is in my LG G4, I can't even use an OTG on it. Does someone know what it could be? It happened after unrooting my phone.

It sounds like a defect USB port..

Sent from my LG-H815 using XDA Labs

 

[pedrowood]

It's not because I can use my Xbox 360 wireless adapter, my external hard drive, other phones, my headset, everything.

 

[DevUt]

It's not because I can use my Xbox 360 wireless adapter, my external hard drive, other phones, my headset, everything.

It didn't detect for phone ?
Can you elaborate ?
When you connect the phone you get nothing on the file manager ?

Does adb devices help ?
Is USB debugging enabled in the phone ?
If you have twrp installed can you boot into twrp and then try it .

Also do you have the latest BETA ?

 

[pedrowood]

When I plug my G4 on every USB port it only charges, trying FWUL nothing has happened, in Windows it says it's not recognizing, adb devices doesn't help, I already tried debugging enabled and disabled and it doesn't matter, I have unrooted my G4 and can't root or flash a new ROM, I still have the superSU installed.
In G4 it seems like I'm connecting it on a charger, I don't have the mtp option in notification bar, I used to have it but now it only charges.

 

[Spaceboy60]

This is a secure boot error.
Try this : http://superuser.com/q/1054790

Sent from my LG-H815 using XDA Labs

Ok, got it to boot. Now i Get the following error:

Mounting /dev/disk/by-label/FWUL to /run/archiso/bootmnt
/dev/disk/by-label/FWUL device did not show up after 30 seconds

Falling back to interactive prompt

 

[richie16171]

I cannot connect password protected wireless network...only free to air connects. When I click on password connected wireless network., it simply don't open.