Last Updated: June 14, 2026
This guide offers the official Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware to address software issues on your device. Here you will find the correct flash files, necessary tools, and detailed instructions for procedures such as performing a hard reset, bypassing an FRP lock, and repairing IMEI data.
Device: Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S | Chipset: Qualcomm APQ8084 Snapdragon 805 | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), TouchWiz UI | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Installing Samsung firmware using Odin is a routine process when you understand the necessary steps and common pitfalls. This article compiles all relevant resources for the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S, including the correct firmware file, the appropriate Odin version, and a reliable flashing procedure.
Before you begin the flashing process, if a Samsung account is active on your device, it is important to sign out of it. Skipping this step can trigger a Knox Guard (KG) lock, which requires additional time and effort to resolve after flashing. The official Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware files are provided in a .tar.md5 format. After extracting the ZIP archive, you should find individual files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If your extracted files do not match this pattern, you may have downloaded the incorrect package.
Your Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware comes as a compressed ZIP file. Download it and use an archive utility like WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract its contents. After extraction, you should find 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 not present, it indicates you might have the wrong firmware package for your device model.
Please note that installing stock firmware will erase all data on the device. This data wipe is an intentional part of the process, as it helps resolve various software-related issues. These include Factory Reset Protection (FRP) locks, application problems, sluggish performance, forgotten screen locks, devices stuck on the logo or failing to boot, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity problems, battery drain, and soft brick situations.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S
To perform a factory reset on the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S without a computer, power down the device completely, then simultaneously press and hold Volume Up + Power. For older Samsung models that include a physical Home button, use Volume Up + Home + Power. Continue holding these buttons until the recovery menu appears on the screen. From this menu, use the volume keys to navigate to “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and confirm your selection with the Power button.
A hard reset removes all user data and returns the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S to its original factory configuration. This action typically resolves common software problems such as slow performance, application crashes, forgotten screen locks, and continuous boot loops. If the device’s issues persist even after a factory reset, a complete firmware flash using Odin, as detailed in the following sections, is the next step.
Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S FRP Bypass
To bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S quickly, you can use an Android apps launcher that allows access to device settings during the initial setup wizard. After a firmware flash or factory reset, you might encounter a Google account lock, known as Factory Reset Protection (FRP). Our free Android apps launcher provides an efficient method to navigate past this lock. It is always recommended to remove your Google account before performing a flash to avoid this issue entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware?
Samsung devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S, are typically flashed using the Odin tool, regardless of the internal chipset. Installing the official firmware can resolve a range of issues, from boot problems to general software malfunctions:
- Gain access to your device if it has become locked or disabled.
- Upgrade your phone to the newest Android version it supports.
- Correct startup loop errors, general lagging, and freezing on your SM-G906S Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S.
- Address issues with failed Over-The-Air (OTA) updates and excessive battery drain.
- Revert to the original Samsung stock ROM, which helps maintain warranty validity.
- Restore your device to functionality when it only starts in recovery mode.
- Recover from a KG lock or other Knox-related problems that may occur after an incorrect or interrupted flash process on your device.
You can learn more about stock ROMs and their problem-solving capabilities.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Before proceeding with any flashing, it is important to confirm you have selected the correct firmware file. Using the wrong firmware can lead to issues that are often difficult to fix:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Navigate to Settings › About Phone and note your full model number (e.g., SM-G906S). The letter suffix is important; for instance, U/U1 typically denotes USA variants, W is for Canada, N for Korea, and B/F for International or Global versions. Flashing firmware designed for a different variant can cause serious problems.
- Match the CSC (Region): The three-letter region code found within the firmware filename should correspond to your device’s region. You can check your current CSC in Settings › About Phone › Software Information, or by looking at the Service Provider line while in Download Mode. Common codes include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Examine the version string of your current firmware (e.g.,
XXU9BZDP). The digit immediately following the letters indicates the binary level. It is important to remember that you cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device is currently operating on Binary 9, you should only flash firmware that is Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The last four characters of the PDA version string encode the firmware’s build date. The first character represents the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second indicates the month (A=January through L=December).
- Verify in Download Mode: To enter Download Mode, power off your device, then hold Volume Down + Power. This screen displays critical information such as your exact model number, CSC, and current firmware version, which you should use to confirm compatibility before initiating any flash.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S
Below is a concise summary of the official firmware specifications for the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S |
| Firmware Version | KSU1ANK1, KSU1BOL1, KSU1CPL1 |
| File Size | 1.38 GB to 1.48 GB |
| Android Version | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), TouchWiz UI |
| Platform | Qualcomm APQ8084 Snapdragon 805 |
| Release Date | Released 2014, July |
| Region | Global, Africa and Asia |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
I often receive questions about which firmware version to choose, so I have created a straightforward guide. Locate your specific situation in the table below to find the recommended file:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | KSU1CPL1, this is the latest Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware available and is generally the best starting point. |
| FRP / Google account lock only | Refer to the FRP bypass guide above; a full firmware flash is likely not required for this specific issue. |
| Not sure which region/CSC to download | Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or enter Download Mode (Volume Down + Power) where the CSC code is displayed on screen. Match the three-letter code (e.g., XAA, BTU, INS) to the firmware filename. |
| Phone slow after a recent OTA update | Consider trying KSU1BOL1. Sometimes the most recent OTA updates can introduce new bugs, and an earlier stable build might perform better. Ensure the binary level is the same as or higher than your device’s current version. |
| IMEI missing after a previous flash | First, re-flash with KSU1CPL1, then follow the IMEI repair guide. It is important to complete the reflash before attempting IMEI repair. |
| KSU1CPL1 failed with a flash error | Attempt KSU1BOL1 instead. Also, double-check your AP/BL/CP/CSC file assignments in Odin before concluding that the firmware itself is the issue. |
| Restoring to factory / warranty repair | KSU1CPL1, this provides a clean slate and a fresh start for your device. |
To determine which Samsung firmware is newer, examine the last four characters of the PDA version string (e.g., S938BXXU9CZDP). The first character indicates the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), the second represents the month (A=January, B=February… L=December, Z=final stable build), and the final two characters denote the revision (0-9 then A-Z, where Z is the highest revision). However, before comparing dates, always check the binary level, which is the digit immediately preceding the date code (e.g., XXU9CZDP = Binary 9). You cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device has Binary 9 firmware installed, you must flash Binary 9 or higher. Additionally, ensure the three-letter CSC code in the firmware file corresponds to your device’s region.
Download Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware
You can download the official stock firmware for your Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S from the links provided below. The most current version available is KSU1CPL1. After downloading, it is important to verify that the file size matches what is listed in the table above. A discrepancy in file size often indicates a partial or corrupted download, and flashing a damaged file can lead to more severe problems.
| Software Details | Download Link | Members Link |
|---|---|---|
|
File Name: G906SKSU1ANK1_G906SSKC1ANK1_SKC.zip Size: 1.38 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: G906SKSU1BOL1_G906SSKC1BOL1_SKC.zip Size: 1.42 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: G906SKSU1CPL1_G906SSKC1CPL1_SKC.zip Size: 1.48 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
Ensure you only download firmware that is fully compatible with your precise device model. If you are unsure which version to select, please refer to the firmware selection guide provided above.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-G906S with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Qualcomm APQ8084 Snapdragon 805. 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 S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware
Before you launch Odin for your Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S, it is important to review this checklist. Two common issues that frequently arise with Samsung devices are a Samsung account that was not signed out prior to flashing, which can activate a KG lock, and using a USB cable that only charges but loses connection during the flash process. Always use a proper data transfer cable instead of a charge-only cable.
- Back Up IMEI Numbers: Dial *#06# and record both IMEI numbers immediately. These will be necessary if you need to restore your IMEI after the flashing procedure.
- Remove Google Accounts: Sign out of all Google accounts on the device to prevent an FRP lock from activating after the firmware flash.
- Remove Samsung Accounts: Sign out of any active Samsung accounts to avoid triggering a KG lock.
- Back Up Your Data: Create a full backup of all your data, including photos, contacts, WhatsApp chats, and any other important files. Flashing the firmware will completely wipe the device.
- Charge Your Device: Ensure your device has at least a 50% battery charge. A device that powers off unexpectedly during a flash can be very challenging to recover.
- USB Cable & PC: Use a reliable USB data cable, not one solely for charging, and a Windows-based computer with available USB ports.
- Install Required Drivers:
- Ensure the Samsung USB Drivers are installed.
How to Install Firmware on Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S
We will be using Odin for this procedure. A useful tip: keep both “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” selected in Odin, as these two options together contribute to the cleanest flash outcome. If you are uncertain about which Odin version to use, you can consult our Odin versions page, as some older Samsung devices might perform better with older Odin builds.
- Download and Extract:
- Download the appropriate firmware package from the links provided earlier.
- Extract the contents of the ZIP file into a simple folder path, avoiding spaces or special characters in the path, as some flashing tools may encounter issues with these.
- Install the Listed Drivers:
- Confirm that all drivers mentioned previously are installed, and that your computer has been restarted since their installation. Forgetting to restart is a common reason for drivers not functioning correctly.
- Load the Firmware File:
- In the Odin application, click the “BL” button and select the BL_*.tar.md5 file. Then, click “AP” and select the AP_*.tar.md5 file. Repeat this process for “CP” and “CSC”. Use HOME_CSC if you wish to retain user data, or CSC for a clean flash that wipes all data.
- Connect Your Device:
- Enter Download Mode: Power off your phone completely, then simultaneously press and hold Volume Down + Power (add the Home button for older models) until the warning screen appears. Press Volume Up to confirm and proceed into Download Mode.
- Connect your phone to your PC using a USB cable. Odin should display “Added..” in its log area, indicating that your device has been successfully detected.
- Start Flashing:
- Click the “Start” button within Odin to begin the flashing process.
- It is important not to disconnect the device, move the cable, or interact with the phone until the entire process is completed. Disconnecting during a flash is a primary cause of device bricking.
- Wait and Reboot:
- Once the flashing operation successfully finishes, disconnect your device.
- Power on your device. The initial boot after flashing will take longer than usual; allow it up to 8 minutes to complete.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware
Many users comment with concerns, thinking something went wrong when it was actually a normal part of the process. Here is what is typically expected after a successful Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware flash:
- Confirmation of successful flash: Odin will display “PASS.” in green text in the top-left section of the log area. Seeing this indicates the procedure was successful.
- First boot duration: The device’s initial startup will take between 3 and 8 minutes. Do not force-reboot the device, as the operating system is performing its first-time setup. Interrupting this phase can lead to boot loops.
- Device temperature: It is normal for the phone to feel warm during its first boot cycle. This warmth typically subsides after a few minutes once the initial application setup is complete.
- Application status: All your installed applications will be removed. This is an expected outcome. You will need to reinstall them from the Play Store. If you had a Google account backup enabled, the setup wizard will offer to restore your applications automatically.
- IMEI check: Immediately after completing the setup, dial *#06# to verify your IMEI. Do this before inserting a SIM card. If the IMEI displays as “unknown” or “null”, follow the IMEI repair guide provided below before proceeding with anything else.
- Re-adding Google account: Exercise caution when re-adding your Google account. If you did not remove it prior to flashing, you might encounter an FRP prompt. Add your account as a fresh entry during the initial setup wizard, rather than later through the Settings menu.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should function correctly immediately after setup. If mobile data does not connect, navigate to Settings › SIM and Network and manually re-enter your APN settings; the flash sometimes clears carrier APN configurations.
- Persistent boot loop: If your device remains in a boot loop after the first startup, enter recovery mode and perform a factory reset from there. Refer to the hard reset guide above. This can occasionally occur and does not necessarily mean the firmware is incorrect; it is usually due to conflicting leftover data from the previous installation.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After successfully flashing your Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware, Samsung Smart Switch may prompt you to install additional updates. Allow these updates to complete, as they ensure your device has the latest security patches for your specific region.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S After Flashing?
If a Samsung device displays a missing IMEI after flashing, this typically indicates a corrupted EFS partition. This partition is responsible for storing your IMEI and carrier-specific settings. It is important to remember that restoring an IMEI to a number different from its original is illegal in most regions. Therefore, only proceed with this if you are restoring the original IMEI that the device had before flashing. Specialized tools such as ChimeraTool or BFT can assist in this process. Always verify your local laws before attempting any IMEI repair.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S
- Odin Displays “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This outcome typically points to a mismatch between the firmware’s region or model and your device. It is crucial to confirm your exact model number in Settings › About Phone before selecting the firmware, as even a single letter difference in the model code can lead to issues.
- Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Not Recognized by Odin:
- Begin by reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers. Ensure your device is correctly in Download Mode. If the problem persists, try using a different USB cable, as Odin can sometimes be sensitive to cable quality.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This situation occurs when a Samsung account remained signed in before the flashing procedure, or if unofficial firmware was used. Always sign out of all Samsung accounts before flashing. If a KG lock is already active, professional unlocking tools are generally required to resolve it.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- If your device enters a continuous boot loop, enter recovery mode (by holding Volume Up + Power) and perform a factory reset from there. This action helps clear any old data from the previous firmware that might be causing conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, flashing this firmware with Odin will reset your device to its factory settings, including the default Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) version, upgradable to 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), and TouchWiz UI. All applications, photos, contacts, and user accounts will be removed. It is essential to back up any necessary data before you begin, as there is no way to recover data once the flash is complete.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No, this firmware is specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S, which operates on the Qualcomm APQ8084 Snapdragon 805 chipset. Even other Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S variants with a different letter suffix can contain a completely different chipset. Attempting to flash incorrect firmware can render your phone in a state that is very difficult to restore. Always verify your exact model number in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from KSU1CPL1 to an older firmware version?
A: While it is sometimes technically possible on certain Qualcomm builds, I generally do not advise downgrading. Such an action can introduce security vulnerabilities and application compatibility issues with Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), and TouchWiz UI. If KSU1CPL1 is causing problems, please leave a comment below; there is usually a more effective solution than reverting to an older build.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: You can use our free Android apps launcher. An FRP lock activates on the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S when a Google account remained signed in before the flashing procedure. This is why I always recommend signing out of your Google account beforehand, as it completely prevents this particular issue.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S?
A: This guide focuses exclusively on official Samsung stock firmware. The availability of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S depends on whether the Qualcomm APQ8084 Snapdragon 805 chipset has adequate open-source kernel support from the developer community. For device-specific custom ROM discussions, please check our Custom ROMs page or the dedicated threads on the XDA Developers forum.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: First, focus on the drivers: reinstall the Samsung USB drivers, restart your PC, and then attempt connection again. If you are using a USB 3.0 port, try switching to a USB 2.0 port, as Samsung devices often connect more reliably there. Temporarily disable your antivirus software. If these steps do not resolve the issue, please leave a comment below with the exact error message, and I will assist you further.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S?
A: To enter recovery mode, power off your device completely, then simultaneously press and hold Volume Up + Power until the recovery menu appears. For older Samsung models equipped with a physical Home button, the combination is Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery menu will display the build number for your Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S, which can be useful for verifying your current firmware version before flashing.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, this situation, while concerning, is usually fixable. This often suggests EFS partition corruption. Refer to the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section above. For Samsung devices, it is important to check for EFS partition issues first. Crucially, do not insert a SIM card into the device until the IMEI has been successfully restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware?
A: The actual flashing process typically lasts between 3 and 10 minutes, depending on the firmware file size and the speed of your USB connection. The first boot after flashing will take longer, usually ranging from 3 to 8 minutes. It is important not to interrupt the device during either of these stages. If the progress bar in Odin appears to be stuck, allow a few more minutes before assuming something has gone wrong.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S Firmware
This covers all the necessary information to safely flash the official Samsung Galaxy S5 LTE-A G906S SM-G906S firmware (KSU1CPL1) using Odin and restore your device’s functionality. If you followed each instruction, your phone should now be operating on a clean software build.
If any step did not proceed as expected, such as a specific error message or a procedure not working for your setup, please leave a detailed comment below. Include the exact error, the step you were on, and what troubleshooting steps you have already attempted. I review every comment and will provide assistance to help you resolve the issue.
If this guide proved helpful to you, please consider sharing it. This is the most effective way to assist others who may be encountering the same problem.
You can browse all Samsung firmware downloads for other devices.
Disclaimer: Flashing stock firmware carries inherent risks and is performed at your own discretion. Please follow the instructions on this page meticulously. I cannot be held accountable for any damage that may occur to your device, though I will always endeavor to assist if issues arise.
