this adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set

Guri Bee

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22-10-2024

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"adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" - Troubleshooting Android Debugging

Have you ever encountered the frustrating error "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" while trying to debug your Android device? This error can be a real pain, preventing you from connecting to your device and performing essential tasks like installing apps, pulling logs, or running tests.

Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll dive into the reasons behind this error and provide a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix it.

Understanding the Error

The error message "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" typically occurs when your Android device is unable to establish a secure connection with your computer's ADB server. This usually happens because the necessary vendor keys are missing from your computer's ADB configuration.

Why are vendor keys important?

Vendor keys act as digital signatures used to verify the authenticity of devices connected to your computer. Without these keys, ADB can't confirm that the device is legitimate and safe to interact with.

Common Causes

Here are the most common culprits behind the "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" error:

• Missing or outdated vendor keys: The most likely cause is missing or outdated vendor keys on your computer. These keys are often provided by the device manufacturer and are used to identify specific device models.
• USB driver issues: If the USB driver for your device isn't properly installed or is outdated, it can prevent ADB from recognizing the device correctly.
• ADB server configuration problems: Sometimes, the ADB server might be configured incorrectly, leading to connection issues.
• Firewall blocking ADB: Your firewall might be blocking ADB from accessing the network, preventing the connection from being established.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

Now that you understand the common reasons, let's get into the solutions! Here's a step-by-step approach to address the "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" error:

1. Update ADB and USB Drivers:

• Download and install the latest Android SDK Platform Tools: This will ensure you have the most recent version of ADB. You can get it from https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools.
• Update USB drivers: Visit your device manufacturer's website and download the latest USB drivers for your specific model. Install them and restart your computer.

2. Install Vendor Keys:

• Identify your device manufacturer: Check the brand of your Android device (e.g., Samsung, Google, OnePlus).
• Download the vendor keys: Search online for "[Device manufacturer] adb_vendor_keys" to find the appropriate keys for your device.
• Place the keys in the correct location: Copy the downloaded vendor keys file (usually named "adb_vendor_keys") to the "adb" directory in your Android SDK Platform Tools folder.
• Restart ADB server: Open your terminal/command prompt and run: adb kill-server followed by adb start-server.

3. Configure ADB Server:

• Verify ADB path: Check that the "adb" directory is properly included in your system's environment variables (PATH). This allows you to run ADB commands from any directory.
• Check ADB server logs: To get more insight into the error, run adb logcat and search for any error messages related to device connection.

4. Disable Firewall or Antivirus:

• Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus: If you suspect they're blocking ADB, temporarily disable them and try connecting to your device again. Once you've connected, you can re-enable them.

5. Enable USB Debugging on Your Device:

• Go to Settings > System > Developer options (if Developer options are not visible, go to Settings > About phone and tap on Build Number seven times to enable them) and enable USB debugging. This allows your device to communicate with ADB.

6. Try a Different USB Port:

• Connect your device to a different USB port: Sometimes, a specific USB port can cause connectivity issues. Try a different port and see if that resolves the problem.

7. Reset ADB Server:

• Delete ADB data: Go to the ADB directory (usually in C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Android\Sdk\platform-tools) and delete the "adb_usb.ini" file.
• Restart ADB server: Run adb kill-server followed by adb start-server. This will reset the ADB server and might resolve the issue.

Additional Tips:

• Check for root access: Some devices require root access for ADB to work properly. If you're rooted, ensure that you have the necessary permissions granted to ADB.
• Use a different cable: If you're using a faulty USB cable, try a different one.
• Try a different computer: If the issue persists on your computer, try connecting your device to another computer to rule out any local issues.
• Search for specific solutions: If you're still facing issues, search online for solutions specific to your device model.

Example Scenario:

Let's say you're using a Samsung Galaxy S21 and are trying to connect it to your computer for debugging. You encounter the "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" error.

1. Download the latest Samsung vendor keys: Search online for "Samsung adb_vendor_keys" and download the appropriate file.
2. Place the keys in the correct directory: Copy the file to the adb directory within your Android SDK Platform Tools folder.
3. Restart the ADB server: Run adb kill-server followed by adb start-server in your terminal.

Now, try connecting your Galaxy S21 again. Hopefully, the error is gone!

Conclusion:

Troubleshooting the "adb server's adb_vendor_keys is not set" error might seem daunting, but by following the steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve the underlying cause. Remember to update your drivers, install vendor keys, and ensure proper ADB configuration. With a bit of patience and effort, you'll have your device connected and ready for debugging in no time!