Last reviewed

Intermediate

NetHunter Device Matrix

Use this matrix before flashing anything. NetHunter success depends on exact model, codename, bootloader state, recovery support, Android generation, and rollback options.

Exact Model Required

Device family names are not enough. Confirm the exact model number, codename, SoC, bootloader unlock status, and recovery image before downloading or flashing any file.

Lab Runbook

Use this page as a controlled lab build, not a production hardening guide. Validate isolation before running exercises and write down the cleanup command before starting.

Critical risk Intermediate 2-4 hr

Plan

Linux host plus supported phone; 4 GB downloads plus backups. Device dependent. Isolation: Use only owned devices and authorized wireless targets.

Build

  • - Model verified
  • - Backups complete
  • - Matched ROM/recovery/NetHunter files

Validate

  • - adb and flashing tool detect device
  • - Downloaded files match codename
  • - First boot completes

Exercise

Run only the exercises tied to this lab and save screenshots, command output, logs, and timestamps outside disposable VMs.

Clean Up

  • - Keep stock firmware/recovery links
  • - Document Knox/warranty state
  • - Remove unauthorized test profiles

Compatibility Decision Table

Check Pass Signal Stop Signal Evidence
Official support Exact codename appears on the official Kali mobile download page. Only a similar model or old forum build exists. URL, codename, file name, date.
Bootloader Unlock is supported for your exact model and region. Carrier, Snapdragon region, or OEM policy blocks unlock. Unlock status screenshot or fastboot output.
Recovery TWRP or supported recovery matches exact codename. Recovery exists only for another variant. Recovery file name, hash, source URL.
Base ROM LineageOS or required base ROM version matches NetHunter notes. NetHunter ZIP expects a different Android generation. ROM version, Android version, codename.
Rollback Stock firmware, recovery path, and device key combos are documented. No known stock image or unreliable USB detection. Firmware link, checksum, rollback notes.

Practical Device Tiers

Good Candidate

Official NetHunter build, unlockable bootloader, matching recovery, active ROM docs, and a known rollback path.

Research Candidate

Partial support or community builds exist, but one of recovery, ROM, kernel, or rollback is uncertain.

Do Not Flash Yet

Locked bootloader, mismatched codename, missing stock firmware, unclear recovery support, or no trustworthy source.

Go Deeper After Setup

NetHunter Device Matrix Check device fit before flashing. NetHunter Helper Script Audit Audit helper scripts before running them.