How to Jailbreak a PS3: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Jailbreaking a PS3 unlocks its full potential, allowing you to run homebrew apps, play backup games, and customize your console. However, the method depends on your PS3 model. This guide explains the two main types of jailbreak: Custom Firmware (CFW) and Homebrew Enabler (HEN). Follow the steps carefully to determine which method is right for your console and how to perform it safely.

Understanding CFW vs. HEN

CFW (Custom Firmware): A full jailbreak that replaces the PS3’s original firmware. CFW allows extensive modifications and works on older models up to CECH-2508B. Models above this are not compatible.

HEN (Homebrew Enabler): A partial jailbreak that works on newer models (CECH-3XXX and later). HEN enables limited customization and homebrew apps but doesn’t provide full CFW functionality.

Compatibility and PS3 Models

Before proceeding, it’s crucial to check your PS3 model and current firmware version. Jailbreaking options differ based on these factors:

Model Identification

1. PS3 Fat Models: Model number is on the back (e.g., CECH-XXXX).
2. PS3 Slim Models: Model number is located on the bottom or rear panel.
3. PS3 Super Slim Models: Similar location as Slim models.

Firmware Check

• Navigate to Settings > System Settings > System Information to check your firmware version.
• As of now, the latest official firmware (OFW) is 4.91.

Types of Jailbreak

Custom Firmware (CFW)

• Available for models up to CECH-2508B.
• Requires your firmware to be downgraded to 3.55 before installing CFW. If your firmware is higher, you’ll need to use BGToolset (explained below).

Homebrew ENabler (HEN)

• For models CECH-3XXXA and above, including PS3 Slims and Super Slims that cannot install CFW.
• Enables homebrew functionality but lacks the full capabilities of CFW.

Steps to Jailbreak PS3

Step 1: Check Compatibility

• Verify if your model supports CFW or HEN using the table below.

PS3 Fat Model Compatibility:

PS3 Slim Model Compatibility:

PS3 Super Slim Compatibility:

Step 2: Prepare Your Firmware

• For Firmware 3.55 or Lower:
• Follow the instructions below to install via USB.
• For Firmware Above 3.55:
• Use BGToolset to safely downgrade to 3.55.
• Detailed steps for BGToolset will be covered in a separate article.

Step 3: Jailbreaking Process

1. Format a USB drive to FAT32.
2. Create a folder named PS3 and a subfolder UPDATE (PS3 > UPDATE).
3. Download and rename the jailbreak file to PS3UPDAT.PUP.
4. Place the file in the UPDATE folder.
5. Insert the USB into your PS3.
6. Navigate to Settings > System Update > Update via Storage Media.
7. Follow on-screen instructions to install the update.
8. Once complete, your PS3 will restart with jailbreak features.

How to Jailbreak a PS3 Using CFW

1. Download the CFW file compatible with your PS3 model and firmware version.
2. Format a USB drive to FAT32.
3. Create a folder on the USB named “PS3” and within it, a subfolder named “UPDATE”.
4. Place the CFW file in the “UPDATE” folder and rename it to “PS3UPDAT.PUP”.
5. Insert the USB into your PS3.
6. Navigate to Settings > System Update > Update via Storage Media.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the CFW.
8. Once installed, your PS3 will restart with CFW enabled.

How to Jailbreak a PS3 Using HEN

1. Download the HEN installer from a trusted source.
2. Copy the installer to a USB drive formatted as FAT32.
3. Insert the USB into your PS3.
4. Navigate to Network > Internet Browser and visit the official HEN installer page.
5. Run the HEN installer as instructed on the website.
6. After installation, restart your PS3.
7. Activate HEN from the new “Enable HEN” option in the Game menu.

FAQs

Conclusion

Jailbreaking a PS3 depends on your console’s model and firmware. Use CFW for older models or HEN for newer ones. Follow this guide carefully to unlock the full potential of your PS3, and remember to always download files from trusted sources.