The MSM Download Tool is a low-level firmware flashing utility used internally by OnePlus and authorized service centers for devices powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets. For end users, it is the most reliable recovery method for restoring official OnePlus firmware when normal flashing methods fail.
MSM Download Tool is commonly used to:
- Unbrick a OnePlus device that no longer boots
- Recover phones stuck in a bootloop or logo screen
- Restore factory firmware from a corrupted system state
- Downgrade to an earlier official OxygenOS build (where supported)
Unlike Fastboot or OTA updates, MSM Download Tool operates in Qualcomm EDL (Emergency Download) mode, allowing it to rewrite all firmware partitions, including bootloader and modem.
Who This Guide Is For
Use this guide only if all of the following apply:
- ✔ You own a OnePlus smartphone
- ✔ The device uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset
- ✔ Your phone can enter or be detected in EDL (9008) mode
- ✔ You have the exact MSM firmware package for your model and region
- ✔ You understand this process erases all data and relocks the bootloader
Do NOT use MSM Download Tool if:
- ❌ Your device is not a OnePlus phone
- ❌ The firmware package is for a different model or carrier variant
- ❌ You are attempting to flash custom ROMs or modified firmware
- ❌ You are trying to bypass FRP, SIM locks, or security protections
MSM Download Tool is a factory restore utility, not a customization or unlock tool.
Flashing Disclaimer
Flashing firmware with MSM Download Tool is a destructive, service-level procedure. FlashGuideHub is not responsible for data loss, network issues, or device damage caused by incorrect firmware selection, driver problems, or interruption during flashing.
Always verify:
- Exact model number (e.g. CPH2413, IN2023)
- Region or carrier variant (Global, EU, India, T-Mobile, etc.)
- Firmware compatibility with MSM Download Tool
Understanding MSM Download Tool
MSM Download Tool communicates with OnePlus devices in Qualcomm EDL mode, bypassing Android and Fastboot entirely. This allows it to restore devices that appear completely dead.
Key characteristics:
- Requires Windows (Windows 7–11)
- Uses Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 drivers
- Flashes official OnePlus firmware only
- Automatically relocks the bootloader
- Performs a full factory reset
Because of this, MSM Download Tool is often considered the last-resort recovery method.
What You Need Before You Begin
Required Items
- Windows PC
- Original or high-quality USB cable
- Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 drivers
- Correct MSM firmware package for your exact OnePlus model
- Battery charged to at least 60% (if possible)
ℹ️ In most cases, the MSM Download Tool executable is included inside the firmware package itself and is device-specific.
High-Level MSM Download Tool Workflow
⚠️ This is a conceptual overview, not a one-size-fits-all instruction set. Always follow firmware-specific documentation when available.
1. Install Qualcomm Drivers
- Install Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 drivers
- On Windows 10/11, you may need to temporarily disable Driver Signature Enforcement
- Reboot the PC after installation
2. Prepare the Firmware Package
- Extract the MSM firmware package to a simple folder
- Inside, you should see an MSM executable (e.g.
MsmDownloadTool.exe)
3. Boot the Phone into EDL Mode
- Power off the device completely
- Press and hold Volume Up + Volume Down
- While holding the buttons, connect the phone to the PC
- The screen remains black — this is normal
4. Launch MSM Download Tool
- Run the MSM tool as Administrator
- The tool should detect the device and display a COM port
5. Start Flashing
- Do not change default settings unless the firmware instructs you to
- Click Start
- Wait patiently while all partitions are written
6. Completion
- When flashing completes, the status turns green
- The device will reboot automatically
- First boot may take 10–20 minutes
Common MSM Download Tool Issues & Causes
Device not detected
- Missing or incorrect Qualcomm drivers
- Wrong USB port (USB 2.0 ports are preferred)
- Device not properly in EDL mode
“Sahara Communication Failed”
- Unstable USB connection
- Incompatible firmware package
- USB 3.0 port or hub interference
No network signal after flashing
- Incorrect regional or carrier firmware
- Modem files do not match hardware variant
Tool stuck on “Waiting for device”
- Windows driver binding issue
- Device not enumerating as QDLoader 9008
MSM Download Tool vs Other OnePlus Flashing Methods
| Method | Use Case |
|---|---|
| OTA / Local Update | Minor issues, working system |
| Fastboot | Bootloader accessible |
| MSM Download Tool | Hard brick, boot failure, deep recovery |
MSM Download Tool should be used only when simpler methods fail.
Final Notes
MSM Download Tool is the most powerful official recovery solution for OnePlus devices. When used with the correct firmware and drivers, it can restore phones that appear permanently bricked.
However, because it operates at a factory level, it should be treated with caution:
- Always double-check firmware compatibility
- Avoid cross-region flashing
- Expect full data loss and bootloader relock
If MSM fails or the device cannot be detected in EDL mode, hardware repair or authorized service may be required.