Last Updated: June 2, 2026
You can repair software problems on your SM-N980F Galaxy Note20 by installing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware. This page contains every file, driver, and step required for hard resets, FRP removal, and IMEI repair.
Device: Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F | Chipset: Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Installing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware requires the correct Odin version, official USB drivers, and the right flash files. The Exynos 990 inside this phone is a highly capable 7nm+ chipset, and flashing it with Odin is a straightforward process once you have everything organized.
Before you connect your phone to the computer, check if a Samsung account is currently signed in on the device. Sign out of that account first to prevent Knox security from triggering a KG lock, which takes extra effort to unlock. Samsung firmware packages arrive in .tar.md5 format. Once you extract the ZIP folder, you must see files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If those specific files are missing, you have downloaded the wrong package.
Your Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware download arrives as a compressed ZIP archive. You can extract it using WinRAR or 7-Zip. After extraction, look for files such as AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). If you do not see these exact file types, you might have grabbed an incompatible package for your phone.
Flashing stock firmware intentionally erases all data on your phone. This complete wipe is exactly what resolves persistent software problems like FRP locks, severe app crashes, sluggish performance, forgotten screen patterns, bootloops, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drops, abnormal battery drain, and soft brick situations.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F
A factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F is performed by holding Volume Up and Power buttons while the device is powered off to access the recovery menu. Once the recovery screen loads, use the volume keys to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm the action.
Executing a hard reset completely wipes your internal storage and returns the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F to its original factory settings. This process clears up common performance hiccups, system freezes, lost passcodes, and continuous bootloops. If the phone still acts up after the reset, move on to the full Odin flash instructions detailed in the next sections.
Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F FRP Bypass
The fastest way to bypass FRP on Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F is to use a free Android apps launcher during the initial setup wizard. Factory resets and fresh flashes often trigger the Google account lock (FRP). You can use our free Android apps launcher to quickly access the necessary settings and bypass the lock. Removing your primary Google account before flashing remains the best way to prevent this hurdle entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware resolves severe software issues like bootloops, system crashes, and locked states. Samsung phones always rely on Odin for flashing, no matter which processor they use. Here is why you need these files:
- Regain access if your phone is disabled or locked.
- Upgrade the operating system to the newest Android version officially supported for your hardware.
- Eliminate system freezing, severe lag, and continuous bootloops on your SM-N980F Galaxy Note20.
- Fix battery drain problems and failed over-the-air (OTA) updates.
- Revert to the original stock ROM to maintain your warranty status.
- Fix a phone that will only boot into the recovery menu.
- Clear KG lock or Knox errors caused by an interrupted or incorrect flash.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Selecting the correct firmware version for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F requires matching the exact model number, region code, and binary level. Flashing the wrong file is a critical error that is hard to reverse:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Open Settings › About Phone and read the full model number (for example, SM-N980F). The letter at the end defines the region, U/U1 is USA, W is Canada, N is Korea, and B/F is International. Installing a file meant for another region causes major errors.
- Match the CSC (Region): The firmware filename contains a 3-letter region code that must align with your device. Verify your current CSC under Settings › About Phone › Software Information, or read the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Common codes include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Read the version string on your current firmware (for instance,
XXU9BZDP, the number directly after the letters is the binary level). You cannot downgrade past this number. A phone on Binary 9 only accepts Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The last 4 characters of the PDA version reveal the build date. The first character is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second is the month (A=Jan through L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Power off the phone, then hold Volume Down + Power to open Download Mode. This screen displays your precise model, CSC, and current firmware version for final confirmation.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F
The official firmware specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F include the Android 13 One UI operating system and the Exynos 990 platform. Review the details below:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F |
| Firmware Version | V01, XXS9HXA3, XXS8HWK3, N980FXXS7HWG4, N980FXXS6HWE1, N980FXXS1DUD1 |
| File Size | 2.1 GB to 6.86 GB |
| Android Version | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI |
| Platform | Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) |
| Release Date | Released 2020, August 21 |
| Region | SM |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
You should download the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware version that matches your specific issue, such as using XXS9HXA3 for a completely dead phone. Use the table below to find your exact scenario and grab the correct file:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | XXS9HXA3, download this one. It is the latest Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware available. |
| FRP / Google account lock only | See the FRP bypass guide above, you likely do not need the full firmware for this. |
| Not sure which region/CSC to download | Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or enter Download Mode (Volume Down + Power), it shows the CSC on screen. Match the 3-letter code (e.g. XAA, BTU, INS) to the firmware filename. |
| Phone slow after a recent OTA update | Try XXS8HWK3, sometimes the latest OTA introduces new bugs and an older build runs better. Make sure the binary level is the same or higher than what your device currently has. |
| IMEI missing after a previous flash | Re-flash XXS9HXA3 first, then follow the IMEI repair guide. Do not skip the reflash. |
| XXS9HXA3 failed with a flash error | Try XXS8HWK3 instead and double-check your AP/BL/CP/CSC file assignments in Odin before assuming the firmware is the problem. |
| Restoring to factory / warranty repair | XXS9HXA3, clean state, fresh start. |
To tell which Samsung firmware is newer, look at the last 4 characters of the PDA version string (e.g. S938BXXU9CZDP). The first character is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), the second is the month (A=Jan, B=Feb… L=Dec, Z=final stable), and the last two are the revision (0-9 then A-Z, where Z is highest). But before comparing dates, always check the binary level: the digit just before the date code (e.g. XXU9CZDP = Binary 9). You cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device is on Binary 9, only flash Binary 9 or higher. Also make sure the 3-letter CSC code in the firmware matches your device region.
Download Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware
You can download the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware directly from the links provided below. The newest available build is XXS9HXA3. Once the download finishes, compare the file size against the table above. A mismatched file size usually points to a corrupted or incomplete download, and attempting to flash a broken file creates more problems than it solves.
| Software Details | Download Link | Members Link |
|---|---|---|
|
File Name: COMBINATION_FAC_FAQ0_N980FXXU2AUE1_FAC_CL21655634_QB40000339_REV01_user_mid_noship_MULTI_CERT.tar.md5.zip Size: 2.1 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: N980FXXS9HXA3 Size: N/A | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: N980FXXS8HWK3 Size: N/A | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: Samsung_Note_20_SM-N980F_N980FXXS7HWG4_4_File.zip Size: N/A | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM-N980F_N980FXXS6HWE1_4_File.rar Size: 6.86 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM_N980F_N980FXXS5HWC1_4_File.rar Size: 6.83 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM_N980F_N980FXXU4FVGA_4_File.rar Size: 6.75 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM_N980F_N980FXXU3FVC5_4_File.rar Size: 6.61 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM_N980F_N980FXXU2DUF8_4_File.rar Size: 6.6 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: SM-N980F_N980FXXS1DUD1_4_File.rar Size: 6.52 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
Only download firmware that is fully compatible with your exact device model. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-N980F with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830). Confirm in recovery mode before proceeding.
- You downloaded the file from a source other than this page.
- The file size differs significantly from the sizes listed in the table above, a size mismatch usually means a partial download, which will fail mid-flash.
Prerequisites for Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware
Preparing to flash the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware requires backing up data, removing all accounts, and installing the correct USB drivers. Two things routinely cause issues here: forgetting to sign out of a Samsung account (which triggers KG lock) and using a cheap charge-only cable that drops the connection mid-flash. Always grab a high-quality data cable.
- Back Up IMEI Numbers: Dial *#06# and write down both IMEI numbers now. You will need these if you need to restore your IMEI after flashing.
- Remove Google Accounts: Sign out of all Google accounts to prevent FRP lock after flashing.
- Remove Samsung Accounts: Sign out of all Samsung accounts to avoid KG lock.
- Back Up Your Data: Back up everything, photos, contacts, WhatsApp chats, important files. Flashing wipes the device completely.
- Charge Your Device: At least 50% battery. A device that powers off during a flash is very difficult to recover.
- USB Cable & PC: Use a proper data USB cable, not a charge-only cable, and a Windows computer with available USB ports.
- Install Required Drivers:
How to Install Firmware on Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F
You can install the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware by using the Odin flash tool to load the AP, BL, CP, and CSC files in Download Mode. We are using Odin for this process. Keep the “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” boxes checked in Odin to ensure a clean installation. If you need a different build, check our Odin versions page.
- Download and Extract:
- Download the correct firmware package from the links above.
- Extract the ZIP to a simple folder path, avoid paths with spaces or special characters, as some flash tools have trouble with them.
- Install the Listed Drivers:
- Confirm all drivers listed above are installed and that your PC has been restarted since installation. Skipping the restart is a common reason drivers do not work correctly.
- Load the Firmware File:
- In Odin, click “BL” and select the BL_*.tar.md5 file. Click “AP” and select the AP_*.tar.md5 file. Repeat for “CP” and “CSC”. Use HOME_CSC to keep data, or CSC for a clean flash.
- Connect Your Device:
- Enter Download Mode: Turn off your phone, then hold Volume Down + Power (add Home button on older models) until the warning screen appears. Press Volume Up to confirm and enter Download Mode.
- Connect your phone to your PC via USB. Odin should show “Added..” in the log area, this means your device is detected.
- Start Flashing:
- Click the “Start” button to begin.
- Do not disconnect, move the cable, or touch the device until the process is fully complete. Disconnecting mid-flash is how devices get bricked.
- Wait and Reboot:
- Once flashing finishes successfully, disconnect the device.
- Power on your device. The first boot will take longer than usual, give it up to 8 minutes.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware
After successfully flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware, your device will take 3 to 8 minutes to boot up while it configures the new operating system. Many users assume something went wrong during this delay, but here is exactly what is normal:
- How to know the flash was successful: Odin will display “PASS.” in green text at the top-left of the log area. Seeing this message confirms the installation finished properly.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes, allow the phone to sit without touching it. The system is rebuilding its core files from scratch, and interrupting this phase causes bootloops.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot, the processor is working hard to optimize apps. The temperature will drop once the initial setup concludes.
- All your apps are gone, this is expected. Reinstall them from the Play Store. If you had a Google account backup active, it will offer to restore your apps automatically during setup.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup to check your IMEI. Do this before you insert a SIM card. If it shows “unknown” or “null”, follow the IMEI repair guide below before doing anything else.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account, if you did not remove it before flashing, you may see an FRP prompt. Add it fresh during the setup wizard, not afterwards through Settings.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should all work right after setup. If mobile data is not connecting, go to Settings › SIM and Network and re-enter your APN manually, the flash sometimes clears carrier APN settings.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Enter recovery mode and do a factory reset from there, see the hard reset guide above. This can happen occasionally and does not mean the firmware is wrong, it is usually a conflict with leftover data from the old install.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After flashing your Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware, Samsung Smart Switch may prompt you to install additional updates. Let it complete, this ensures your device has the latest security patches for your region.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F After Flashing?
A missing IMEI or corrupt baseband on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F usually indicates a corrupted EFS partition that requires dedicated repair tools. The EFS partition houses your IMEI and network configuration. Keep in mind that writing a fake IMEI is illegal in many regions, so only restore the original number that came with the phone. Software like ChimeraTool or BFT can handle this task. Verify your local regulations before proceeding.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This generally happens when the firmware model or region does not match your phone. Double-check your exact model number under Settings › About Phone before choosing a file. Even a single incorrect letter breaks the process.
- Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Not Recognized by Odin:
- Install the Samsung USB drivers again. Ensure the phone is actually in Download Mode. Swap to a different USB cable, as Odin requires a strong data connection.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This error appears if a Samsung account remained logged in prior to the flash, or if unofficial software was installed. Always log out of Samsung accounts beforehand. Removing an active KG lock typically requires a specialized paid tool.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Open recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and execute a factory reset. This wipes out leftover system data from the previous installation that might be causing the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, flashing this firmware through Odin completely wipes the phone and restores the default Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI configuration. Every app, photo, contact, and account will disappear. Save your important files beforehand, because there is no way to recover them after the flash finishes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No, these files are designed strictly for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F using the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) processor. A slightly different variant of the SM-N980F might use entirely different internal hardware. Installing the wrong software can permanently break the phone, so always verify your exact model in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from XXS9HXA3 to an older firmware version?
A: Downgrading is possible on certain Exynos models, but I advise against it. Rolling back can create security vulnerabilities and app crashes on Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI. If XXS9HXA3 is giving you errors, describe the issue in the comments below, and we can find a safer solution.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Download our free Android apps launcher. FRP triggers on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F when a Google account remains logged in before a factory reset or flash. Removing your Google account prior to flashing is the easiest way to dodge this roadblock.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F?
A: This page focuses entirely on official Samsung stock software. The availability of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F depends on whether developers have open-source kernel access for the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) processor. Visit our Custom ROMs page or browse the XDA Developers forum for community-built projects.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Start by reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers and rebooting your computer. Move the USB cable to a USB 2.0 port instead of a USB 3.0 port, as Samsung phones communicate more reliably on the older standard. Temporarily disable your antivirus software. If Odin still ignores the phone, leave a comment below with the exact error message.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F?
A: Turn the phone off entirely, then press and hold Volume Up + Power together until the recovery menu pops up. Older Samsung phones with a physical Home button require you to hold Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery screen displays the current build number for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F, which helps you verify your software version.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, the phone is not broken, and the issue is repairable. Read through the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section. For Samsung devices, the EFS partition is usually the culprit. Do not put a SIM card into the phone until you successfully restore the IMEI.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware?
A: Odin typically finishes the flashing procedure in 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the file size and your USB transfer speed. The first startup takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Never unplug the device during either phase. If the Odin progress bar freezes, wait a few extra minutes before assuming the installation failed.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F Firmware
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 SM-N980F firmware is the most effective way to restore your device to full working condition. If you followed the instructions carefully, your phone should now be running a clean, stable build of the software.
If you ran into an error or a specific step did not work, leave a comment below. Include the exact error message, your current step, and the troubleshooting steps you already attempted. I read every comment and will help you resolve the issue.
If this guide helped you get your phone back online, please share it with others who might need the same assistance.
Browse all Samsung firmware downloads for more devices.
Disclaimer: Flashing stock firmware is performed at your own risk. Follow the instructions on this page carefully. I cannot be held responsible for any damage to your device, but I will always try to help if something goes wrong.
