Golden rules before modifying a console
By Tgames · · 2 min read
Installing homebrews, modified firmware or a loader is fascinating... as long as you don't turn your console into a paperweight. Before each tutorial, whether on Switch, PlayStation, Xbox or a handheld, these few rules avoid the vast majority of nasty surprises.
1. Backup your internal memory (NAND)
This is rule number one. A complete internal memory backup, made before any modification and kept in two copies (PC + external drive or cloud), allows you to go back in almost all cases, even after a mistake. On consoles that allow it, also keep the keys and files specific to your console: they are unique and irreplaceable.
2. Don't update blindly
Official updates often patch the vulnerabilities used by the scene. Before accepting an update, check on the forum that it doesn't block your homebrews. Disable automatic updates and avoid leaving the console connecting for no reason.
3. Follow a recent and complete tutorial
A tutorial written for another firmware version or console model can be dangerous. Read it entirely before starting, check the date and version involved, and ask your questions before the step that scares you. Our tutorials are sorted by console, and each thread allows you to get help.
4. Charged battery, reliable cable
A power cut during memory writing is the classic cause of a "brick". Charge the console, use a quality SD card and a cable in good condition.
5. Be wary of dubious sources
Download tools from their official page (often GitHub) or from recognized community threads. A file claiming to be "urgent", without source code or history, should raise suspicion. On PC, run any unknown executable through your antivirus.
6. Think about online play
Manufacturers can ban modified consoles from online services. If online gaming matters to you, research solutions that separate the modified environment from the original system, and stay careful.
7. Stay legal
Homebrew is running your own programs, free applications, emulators or saves of your own games. Sharing commercial games, protected BIOSes or firmwares is prohibited on Tgames, as our terms of use.
remind you. Have a question before you start? Open a thread in the "Questions/Help" section for your console: the community is there for that.
1. Backup your internal memory (NAND)
This is rule number one. A complete internal memory backup, made before any modification and kept in two copies (PC + external drive or cloud), allows you to go back in almost all cases, even after a mistake. On consoles that allow it, also keep the keys and files specific to your console: they are unique and irreplaceable.
2. Don't update blindly
Official updates often patch the vulnerabilities used by the scene. Before accepting an update, check on the forum that it doesn't block your homebrews. Disable automatic updates and avoid leaving the console connecting for no reason.
3. Follow a recent and complete tutorial
A tutorial written for another firmware version or console model can be dangerous. Read it entirely before starting, check the date and version involved, and ask your questions before the step that scares you. Our tutorials are sorted by console, and each thread allows you to get help.
4. Charged battery, reliable cable
A power cut during memory writing is the classic cause of a "brick". Charge the console, use a quality SD card and a cable in good condition.
5. Be wary of dubious sources
Download tools from their official page (often GitHub) or from recognized community threads. A file claiming to be "urgent", without source code or history, should raise suspicion. On PC, run any unknown executable through your antivirus.
6. Think about online play
Manufacturers can ban modified consoles from online services. If online gaming matters to you, research solutions that separate the modified environment from the original system, and stay careful.
7. Stay legal
Homebrew is running your own programs, free applications, emulators or saves of your own games. Sharing commercial games, protected BIOSes or firmwares is prohibited on Tgames, as our terms of use.
remind you. Have a question before you start? Open a thread in the "Questions/Help" section for your console: the community is there for that.
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