This is a list of alternate ways to install custom firmware, intended to be used when your 3DS is for some reason incompatible with the guide's instructions. If you're getting assistance with installing custom firmware, you will probably be linked to a specific subpage based on your scenario and the additional hardware that you have (if applicable). Otherwise, if you know what you're doing, feel free to follow these guides if you're curious.
Homebrew Launcher access
Some custom firmware installation methods first require Homebrew Launcher access.
| Method Name | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Homebrew Launcher (ninjhax2-dx) | Cubic Ninja
A working 3DS camera |
| Homebrew Launcher (steelhax) | Steel Diver: Sub Wars (digital) |
| Homebrew Launcher (PicHaxx) | Pokémon Picross (digital) |
| Homebrew Launcher (basehaxx) | Pokémon Omega Ruby or Alpha Sapphire (cartridge)
A second 3DS with custom firmware |
| Homebrew Launcher (oot3dhax) | The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D (cartridge)
A second 3DS with custom firmware |
| Homebrew Launcher (supermysterychunkhax) | Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon (cartridge)
A second 3DS with custom firmware |
| Homebrew Launcher (stickerhax) | Paper Mario: Sticker Star (cartridge)
A second 3DS with custom firmware |
CFW installation methods for latest firmware
This is a list of alternate custom firmware installation methods for the latest firmware (11.16.0).
| Method Name | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Installing boot9strap (HBL-USM) | Homebrew Launcher access
Working shoulder buttons |
| Installing boot9strap (Frogtool) | Homebrew Launcher access
Working DS mode |
CFW installation methods for older versions
This is a list of alternate custom firmware installation methods for older firmwares. If you have a newer firmware than is stated in the table, the method will NOT work.
| Method Name | Requirements | Firmware Version |
|---|---|---|
| Installing boot9strap (freakyhax) | Freakyforms Deluxe
A working 3DS camera |
11.15.0 and below |
| Installing boot9strap (uloader) | Homebrew Launcher access | 11.15.0 and below |
| Installing boot9strap (safecerthax)
(unusable due to no DNS server) |
An Old 3DS
Internet access |
11.14.0 and below |
| Installing boot9strap (SSLoth-Browser)
(unusable due to no DNS server) |
Internet access | 11.13.0 and below |
| Installing boot9strap (2xrsa) | Internet access | 2.1.0-4 ONLY |
| Installing boot9strap (MSET) | A working DS flashcart | 4.x.x, 6.x.x (e.g. 4.5.0-10U) |