Last Updated: June 3, 2026
You can easily repair your SM-G9960 using the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware. I have gathered every file and step you will need right here, including flash files, FRP bypass methods, hard reset guides, IMEI repair tools, and the necessary drivers.
Device: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (SM8350) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 11, One UI 3.1 | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
The official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware package includes the exact files, Odin version, and step-by-step instructions needed to restore your phone. Using Odin to install Samsung software becomes a simple task once you understand the basics.
Before you begin, make sure to sign out of any active Samsung accounts. Skipping this step can trigger Knox security, which results in a KG lock that takes much longer to fix. Also, official Samsung packages use the .tar.md5 format. Once you extract the ZIP folder, look for files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If these are missing, you have the wrong package.
Your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware download arrives as a ZIP archive. Extract it using WinRAR or 7-Zip. You should then see files like 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 files, you might have downloaded the wrong package for your specific model.
Remember that installing stock firmware will wipe all data on your phone. This is the intended behavior, as it cleanly fixes software bugs, FRP locks, sluggish performance, forgotten passwords, devices stuck on the logo, connectivity bugs, battery drain, and soft brick conditions.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960
A hard reset on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 is performed by holding Volume Up + Power while the phone is powered off to access the recovery menu and select “Wipe Data/Factory Reset”. To do this without a computer, turn the phone completely off.
Press and hold Volume Up + Power (if you have an older model with a physical Home button, use Volume Up + Home + Power) until the recovery screen loads. Use the volume buttons to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm.
Performing a hard reset wipes your internal storage and returns the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 to its factory settings. This resolves common glitches like app crashes, lagging, bootloops, and lost screen lock PINs. If the phone still misbehaves after the reset, the full Odin flash guide below will help.
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 FRP Bypass
The most effective way to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 is to use a free Android apps launcher to access settings during the initial setup. After a factory reset or flashing, you might run into a Google account lock (FRP).
You can use our free Android apps launcher to get around it quickly. I always advise removing your Google account before starting any flash to prevent this hurdle entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware is necessary to fix software issues, update the operating system, or recover a device that will not boot properly. Samsung phones like the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 are flashed using Odin, no matter which processor they use.
If you are experiencing system errors or startup failures, installing the official software usually solves the problem:
- Unlock a phone that is disabled or locked.
- Upgrade to the most recent Android version available for your hardware.
- Stop freezing, lagging, and continuous bootloops on your SM-G9960 Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- Fix battery drain and over-the-air update errors.
- Return to the original stock ROM to maintain your warranty status.
- Fix a phone that only boots into recovery mode.
- Recover from Knox or KG lock issues caused by an interrupted or incorrect flash.
You can read more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Choosing the right firmware version for your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 requires verifying your model number, region code, and binary level to avoid damaging the phone. Take a minute to double-check your files before starting the installation, as installing the wrong package is a serious mistake.
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Open Settings › About Phone and check your full model number (for example, SM-G9960). The letter at the end is important, U/U1 means USA, W means Canada, N means Korea, and B/F means International/Global. Using the wrong variant causes errors.
- Match the CSC (Region): The firmware filename includes a 3-letter region code that must match your device. Find your current CSC under Settings › About Phone › Software Information or check the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Examples include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Look at your current version string (for example,
XXU9BZDP, the number after the letters is the binary level). You cannot downgrade past this point. If your phone is on Binary 9, you must use Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The last 4 characters of the PDA version show the build date, the first letter is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second is the month (A=Jan to L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Turn the phone off, then hold Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen displays your exact model, CSC, and current software version to help you verify before flashing.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960
The firmware details for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 include the Android version, chipset, region, and file type needed for Odin. Here is a quick breakdown of the official specifications:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 |
| Firmware Version | N/A |
| File Size | N/A |
| Android Version | Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
| Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (SM8350) |
| Release Date | Released 2021, January 29 |
| Region | Global, Africa and Asia |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
You should download the firmware version that matches your specific situation, such as using the latest version for a dead phone or an older version if the latest OTA caused lag. I see this question in the comments all the time, so I created a quick reference table to help you grab the correct file:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | the latest version, download this one. It is the latest Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 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 the next older version, 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 the latest version first, then follow the IMEI repair guide. Do not skip the reflash. |
| the latest version failed with a flash error | Try the next older version 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 | the latest version, 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 S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware
You can download the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware directly from the links provided below. The newest available build is the latest version. Once the download finishes, check that the file size matches the specifications table. A mismatched file size usually means the download was interrupted, and flashing a partial file creates more issues.
Only grab files that match your exact hardware. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-G9960 with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (SM8350). 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 S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware
The prerequisites for installing Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware include backing up data, removing accounts, charging the battery, and installing Samsung USB drivers. Check this list before opening Odin. Two common culprits cause problems here: forgetting to sign out of your Samsung account (which triggers KG lock) and using a cheap charging cable that drops the connection. I have been there, and it is frustrating, so always rely on a high-quality data cable.
- Back Up IMEI Numbers: Dial *#06# and write down both IMEI numbers. You will need them if you have to restore your IMEI later.
- Remove Google Accounts: Sign out of all Google accounts to avoid FRP lock after the installation.
- Remove Samsung Accounts: Sign out of all Samsung accounts to prevent KG lock.
- Back Up Your Data: Save your photos, contacts, files, and WhatsApp chats. The installation will wipe the phone entirely.
- Charge Your Device: Ensure you have at least 50% battery. A phone shutting down during a flash is very hard to save.
- USB Cable & PC: Use a reliable data USB cable and a Windows computer with open USB ports.
- Install Required Drivers:
How to Install Firmware on Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960
Installing firmware on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 is done by loading the AP, BL, CP, and CSC files into Odin and clicking start while the phone is in Download Mode. We will use Odin for this. A quick tip: leave “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checked in Odin to ensure the cleanest result.
If you need help picking an Odin version, check our Odin versions page. Older phones sometimes prefer older Odin builds.
- Download and Extract:
- Get the correct package from the links above.
- Extract the ZIP to a simple folder path without spaces or special characters, as some tools struggle with complex paths.
- Install the Listed Drivers:
- Make sure all drivers listed above are installed and restart your PC. Skipping the restart is a frequent reason drivers fail.
- Load the Firmware File:
- In Odin, click “BL” and choose the BL_*.tar.md5 file. Click “AP” and select the AP_*.tar.md5 file. Do the same for “CP” and “CSC”. Pick HOME_CSC to keep data, or CSC for a complete wipe.
- Connect Your Device:
- Enter Download Mode: Turn off the phone, then hold Volume Down + Power (add the Home button on older models) until the warning screen shows up. Press Volume Up to enter Download Mode.
- Plug your phone into your PC. Odin should display “Added..” in the log box, meaning the device is recognized.
- Start Flashing:
- Click “Start” to begin.
- Do not unplug the cable or touch the phone until the process finishes. Unplugging mid-flash will brick the device.
- Wait and Reboot:
- When the installation finishes, unplug the phone.
- Turn the phone on. The initial boot takes longer than usual, wait up to 8 minutes.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware
After flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware, you should expect a longer first boot time, a warm device, and the complete removal of your apps and data. I get many comments from readers who think the process failed when it actually worked perfectly.
Here is what is completely normal after a successful Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware installation:
- How to know the flash was successful: Odin will display “PASS.” in green text in the top-left corner. Seeing this means everything worked.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes, do not force a restart. The system is configuring itself. Interrupting this stage causes bootloops.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot, this is expected. It cools down after the initial setup finishes.
- All your apps are gone, this is normal. Download them again from the Play Store. If you had Google backup enabled, it will offer to restore them during setup.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup to verify your IMEI. Do this before inserting a SIM card. If it shows “unknown” or “null”, check the IMEI repair guide below first.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account, if you forgot to remove it before flashing, you might hit an FRP prompt. Add it during the setup wizard instead of going through Settings later.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should function right away. If mobile data fails, go to Settings › SIM and Network and input your APN manually, the installation sometimes wipes carrier settings.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Open recovery mode and run a factory reset, see the hard reset guide above. This happens occasionally and does not mean the file is bad; it is usually leftover data causing a conflict.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After installing your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware, Smart Switch might suggest extra updates. Allow it to finish to ensure you have the newest security patches.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 After Flashing?
A missing IMEI on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 after flashing usually indicates a corrupted EFS partition that requires repair tools to restore. The EFS partition is where your IMEI and network data live. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to the phone is illegal in most regions, so only restore your original number.
Software like ChimeraTool or BFT can fix this. Verify your local regulations first.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960
Common issues when flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 include Odin failing, the phone not being recognized, KG lock triggering, or the device entering a bootloop.
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This usually means the software region or model does not match your phone. Double-check your exact model number in Settings › About Phone before choosing a file. A single letter difference matters.
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Not Recognized by Odin:
- Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and ensure you are in Download Mode. Try a different USB cable, as Odin is sensitive to poor connections.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This occurs when a Samsung account was logged in prior to flashing, or if unofficial software was applied. Always log out of accounts first. If KG lock is active, you usually need a professional tool to fix it.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Open recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and perform a factory reset. This wipes leftover files from the previous system that might be causing the loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, installing this package with Odin wipes the phone completely and restores the default Android 11, One UI 3.1 settings. Every app, photo, contact, and account will be deleted. Save anything important beforehand, because you cannot recover data once the process finishes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No. This package is made exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (SM8350) processor. Even another Galaxy S21+ 5G with a different letter suffix might use entirely different internal hardware. Flashing the wrong file can ruin your phone. Always verify your exact model in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from the latest version to an older firmware version?
A: While sometimes possible on Qualcomm processors, I advise against it. Rolling back can introduce security flaws and app bugs on Android 11, One UI 3.1. If the newest build is giving you trouble, leave a comment below, there is often a better solution than downgrading.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Use our free Android apps launcher. FRP triggers on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 when a Google account remains logged in before flashing. Removing your account beforehand is the easiest way to prevent this.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960?
A: This guide focuses entirely on official Samsung stock software. Whether custom ROMs exist for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 depends on open-source kernel support for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (SM8350). Visit our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum for specific custom development threads.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Check your drivers first, reinstall the Samsung USB drivers, reboot your computer, and try again. Move to a USB 2.0 port if you are using USB 3.0, as Samsung phones connect more reliably to USB 2.0. Temporarily turn off your antivirus software. If it still fails, drop a comment with the exact error message and I will help you troubleshoot.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960?
A: Turn the phone off entirely, then press and hold Volume Up + Power until the recovery menu loads. On older Samsung devices with a physical Home button, press Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery menu shows the build number for your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960, which helps you verify your current software version.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, your phone is not broken, even though it looks bad. Follow the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section above. On Samsung phones, an EFS partition error is usually the culprit. Do not put a SIM card in until the IMEI is fixed.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware?
A: The actual installation in Odin typically takes 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the file size and your USB speed. The first boot afterward takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Do not touch the phone during either phase. If the Odin progress bar seems frozen, wait a few extra minutes before assuming it failed.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 Firmware
The Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware installation process is straightforward when you follow the exact Odin steps and use the correct files provided in this guide. That covers everything required to safely install the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G9960 firmware (the latest version) using Odin to get your phone running normally again.
If you ran into an error or a step did not work, leave a comment below. Include the exact error message, the step you are on, and what you have tried so far. I read every comment and will help you figure it out.
If this walkthrough helped you fix your phone, please share it with others who might need it.
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.
