Last Updated: June 3, 2026
Installing the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware is the standard method to resolve system errors, FRP locks, and bootloop issues. This page provides the required flash files, drivers, and instructions for a complete installation.
Device: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N | Chipset: Samsung Exynos 2100 (S5E9840) | 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-G996N Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
You can repair your SM-G996N by installing the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware using the Odin flash tool. This section provides the correct files and the exact steps required to complete the process.
Before beginning, ensure you sign out of any active Samsung accounts. Skipping this step can trigger Knox security, which requires extra effort to resolve. Samsung firmware is distributed in a .tar.md5 format. Once you extract the ZIP archive, you should find files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If these files are missing, the package is incorrect.
Your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware arrives as a compressed ZIP archive. Download and 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 these specific files are absent, you likely downloaded an incompatible package for your phone.
Flashing stock firmware intentionally erases all data to provide a clean slate. This process effectively resolves software issues including FRP lock, application crashes, sluggish performance, forgotten pattern locks, a device stuck on the logo, connectivity bugs, battery drain, and soft brick scenarios.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N
A hard reset will return your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N to its original factory settings without needing a computer. Power down the phone completely, then press and hold Volume Up + Power (for older models with a Home button, use Volume Up + Home + Power) until the recovery menu loads. Navigate using the volume keys to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm.
Performing a hard reset wipes all personal data and restores the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N to its factory state. This addresses most common software problems like system lag, random reboots, lost screen lock credentials, and bootloops. If the device remains problematic after a reset, a complete firmware flash using Odin is the next step.
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N FRP Bypass
The most efficient way to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N is by utilizing a free Android apps launcher to access settings during the initial setup. Following a factory reset or firmware flash, you might encounter a Google account lock (FRP). You can use our free Android apps launcher to navigate past this screen. Removing your Google account before flashing is always the best practice to prevent this lock entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware is necessary to fix deep system bugs, update the operating system, or recover a non-booting phone. Samsung devices are flashed via Odin, regardless of the internal processor:
- Remove screen locks if the device is disabled or the password is lost.
- Upgrade the phone to the most recent Android build officially supported.
- Eliminate startup loops, system freezing, and general lag on your SM-G996N Galaxy S21+ 5G.
- Fix failed over-the-air updates and abnormal battery drain.
- Revert to the original stock ROM to maintain warranty compliance.
- Recover the phone if it only loads into the recovery environment.
- Clear KG lock or Knox errors resulting from an interrupted or incorrect flash.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Selecting the correct firmware version requires verifying your exact model number, region code, and binary level to prevent permanent damage. Flashing an incompatible file is a serious mistake:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Navigate to Settings › About Phone and record your full model number (e.g. SM-G996N). The letter at the end is critical, U/U1 = USA, W = Canada, N = Korea, B/F = International/Global. Installing firmware meant for a different variant will cause severe errors.
- Match the CSC (Region): The 3-letter region code in the firmware name must align with your device. Verify your current CSC under Settings › About Phone › Software Information, or check the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Common codes include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Examine the version string in your current firmware (e.g.
XXU9BZDP, the digit following the letters is the binary level). Downgrading to a lower binary is blocked by the bootloader. If your phone operates on Binary 9, you must install Binary 9 or newer. - Confirm the Build Date: The final 4 characters of the PDA version indicate the build date, the first character represents the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second represents the month (A=Jan through L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Power off the phone, then hold Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen lists your exact model, CSC, and current firmware version, use this data to confirm compatibility before proceeding.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N
The table below outlines the core specifications for the official Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N |
| Firmware Version | N/A |
| File Size | N/A |
| Android Version | Android 11, One UI 3.1 |
| Platform | Samsung Exynos 2100 (S5E9840) |
| 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?
The correct firmware version depends on your specific issue, such as a dead phone, an FRP lock, or post-OTA lag. Locate your scenario in the table below to find the appropriate 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-G996N 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-G996N Firmware
You can download the official stock Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware directly from the links provided below. The most recent available release is the latest version. After the download finishes, verify that the file size matches the table above. A mismatch usually indicates a corrupted or partial download, which can create further system issues if flashed.
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-G996N 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 2100 (S5E9840). 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-G996N Firmware
Preparing your workspace and device before opening Odin prevents common errors like connection drops and security locks. Two frequent culprits for Samsung flashing failures are an active Samsung account (which triggers KG lock) and a low-quality USB cable that disconnects during the write process. Always rely on 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 S21+ 5G SM-G996N
You can install the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware by using the Odin flash tool on a Windows computer. We recommend keeping “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checked in Odin for the cleanest installation. If you need help selecting an Odin version, visit our Odin versions page. Older Samsung phones occasionally perform better on previous Odin builds.
- 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 S21+ 5G SM-G996N Firmware
Following a successful Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware flash, the phone will take longer to boot and will be completely wiped of personal data. Here is what constitutes normal behavior after the installation:
- How to know the flash was successful: A green “PASS.” message will appear in the top-left corner of the Odin interface, indicating a successful write process.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes, allow the phone to sit undisturbed. The system is reconfiguring its core files, and interrupting this phase can cause system instability.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot, the processor is under heavy load during the initial setup. The temperature will normalize shortly.
- All your apps are gone, the flash resets the memory blocks. You will need to reinstall your applications. If Google Backup was enabled, the setup wizard will assist in restoring your data.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup to verify your IMEI status. Do this before inserting a SIM card. If the screen displays “unknown” or “null”, consult the IMEI repair guide below.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account, if the account was not removed prior to flashing, an FRP prompt may appear. Enter your credentials during the initial setup rather than through the settings menu later.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should function immediately. If mobile data fails, navigate to Settings › SIM and Network to manually input your APN details, as the flash can sometimes clear carrier configurations.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Access recovery mode and execute a factory reset, see the hard reset guide above. This clears residual files from the previous installation that might be causing a conflict.
- Samsung Smart Switch: Once the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware is installed, Samsung Smart Switch might recommend supplementary updates. Allow the software to update to guarantee your phone has the proper regional security patches.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N After Flashing?
A missing IMEI after flashing typically indicates a corrupted EFS partition, which stores your carrier settings. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to the original device is illegal in most regions, so only proceed if you are recovering your original number. Software like ChimeraTool or BFT can assist with this process. Check your local regulations before proceeding.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This error usually points to a mismatch between the firmware and your specific device model or region. Verify your exact model number in Settings › About Phone prior to downloading. A single incorrect character in the model code will cause a failure.
- Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N Not Recognized by Odin:
- Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and confirm the phone is in Download Mode. Switching to a different USB cable can also resolve detection issues, as Odin requires a stable data connection.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This security measure activates when a Samsung account remains logged in prior to flashing, or if unofficial software is used. Always sign out of Samsung accounts before starting. If KG lock is already triggered, specialized unlocking software is typically required.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Access the recovery menu (Volume Up + Power) and execute a factory reset. This wipes leftover data from the previous system that might be causing a software conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, installing this firmware with Odin completely wipes the phone and restores it to its factory defaults, including the original Android 11, One UI 3.1 settings. Every app, photo, contact, and account will be deleted. Create a backup of your important files beforehand, as data recovery is impossible once the flash finishes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No. This package is designed exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N utilizing the Samsung Exynos 2100 (S5E9840) processor. A different variant of the Galaxy S21+ 5G (such as one with a different letter suffix) often uses completely different internal hardware. Installing the wrong file can severely damage the phone. Verify your exact model in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from the latest version to an older firmware version?
A: While possible on certain Exynos builds, downgrading is generally not advised. Moving to an older Android 11, One UI 3.1 version can introduce security vulnerabilities and application instability. If the newest update is causing problems, leave a comment below for an alternative solution.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Utilize our free Android apps launcher. FRP activates on the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N when a Google account remains logged in before a flash. Removing your Google account prior to flashing is the easiest way to prevent this lock.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N?
A: This article focuses entirely on official Samsung stock firmware. The availability of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N depends on the open-source kernel support for the Samsung Exynos 2100 (S5E9840) chipset. Visit our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum for specific custom development threads.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Start by reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers and rebooting your computer. Try connecting to a USB 2.0 port instead of USB 3.0, as Samsung phones often communicate more reliably over USB 2.0. Temporarily disable your antivirus software. If the problem persists, leave a comment below with the specific error message for further assistance.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N?
A: Turn the phone off entirely, then press and hold Volume Up + Power together until the recovery menu loads. On older Samsung phones equipped with a physical Home button, press Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery screen displays the build number for your Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N, allowing you to confirm the software version before flashing.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, the phone is not permanently damaged, though the issue requires attention. Follow the IMEI repair guide located in the troubleshooting section. For Samsung devices, inspect the EFS partition for corruption first. Do not insert a SIM card until the IMEI is successfully restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware?
A: The Odin flashing procedure typically requires 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the firmware size and your USB transfer speed. The initial reboot after the flash takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Do not disconnect the phone during either phase. If the Odin progress bar appears to stall, wait a few extra minutes before troubleshooting.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N Firmware
Following this guide carefully will allow you to successfully install the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G SM-G996N firmware (the latest version) and restore normal operation. If you followed the steps accurately, your phone should now operate on a clean, stable system build.
If you encountered an error or a specific step did not work for your setup, leave a comment below. Include the exact error message, your current step, and the troubleshooting methods you have already attempted. I read every comment and will assist you in resolving the issue.
If this walkthrough was helpful, please share it to assist others facing similar software problems.
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.
