ps5-linux-loader
Linux payload implementing HV exploits to run a custom bootloader
What is it?
What it is
ps5-linux-loader is a custom payload loader that exploits patched HV vulnerabilities on supported PS5 firmware versions to boot a Linux distribution from a USB drive or M.2 SSD, turning the console into a fully functional Linux PC.
Why it exists
It enables PS5 owners to unlock the console’s full hardware potential—high‑performance CPU, GPU, HDMI 4K60 output, and peripheral support—without modifying the internal storage, allowing them to run Linux applications, games, and emulators on the PlayStation 5.
Who should use it
Advanced Linux users, PS5 modders, developers, and hobbyists comfortable with command-line operations, flashing images, and exploiting console vulnerabilities to run Linux on PS5 Phat/Slim (firmware 3.00-7.61).
Who should avoid it
Beginners, casual users, those unfamiliar with Linux or low-level system modifications, users who want to retain warranty, dual-boot capability, or official Sony support, and anyone on unsupported firmware or unwilling to follow complex exploit procedures.
How it works
A quick walkthrough in plain English
How ps5-linux-loader works
Step 1 of 3
You interact with it
Open ps5-linux-loader, send a request, or connect it to your stack.
Features
Advantages
- Unlocks full hardware potential of PS5 for desktop use
- Enables running Linux directly on PS5 hardware
- Provides high-performance CPU/GPU for gaming and emulation
- Allows use of M.2 SSD for Linux while keeping PS5 internal SSD untouched
- Supports all USB peripherals, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and Blu-ray
- Enables 4K60 video/audio output
- No need for external PC hardware
- Easy installation via USB image
- Supports a range of firmware versions (3.00‑7.61)
- Community support via Discord, documentation, and open-source
Disadvantages
- Limited to specific PS5 firmware versions (3.00‑7.61), not future firmware
- Requires specific hardware: 64 GB USB drive, keyboard/mouse, optional M.2 SSD, optional Bluetooth dongle
- Must enable rest mode features and disable HDMI device link; settings must be reapplied after resets
- No dual‑boot; must re‑run exploit to boot into Linux
- No standby/resume support; cannot put Linux into standby
- Limited WLAN support (only Marvell chipsets)
- Some monitors may have black screen or HDMI audio issues
- Requires manual configuration and potential troubleshooting (e.g., cmdline.txt adjustments)
- Risk of bricking if exploit fails or settings misconfigured
- No support for firmware 1.xx/2.xx or 8.00+
- Requires manual updates and patches; may need to hold kernel updates
- Some features may be incompatible with certain PS5 hardware (e.g., M.2 not supported on 3.xx firmware)
Installation
docker
wsl --install sudo apt update sudo apt install docker.io -y sudo service docker start sudo usermod -aG docker $USER cd ~ git clone https://github.com/ps5-linux/ps5-linux-image cd ps5-linux-image chmod +x ./build_image.sh ./build_image.sh --distro ubuntu2604 # Image at output/ps5-ubuntu2604.img
FAQ
Which PS5 firmware versions support an M.2 SSD for Linux?
M.2 SSD support is available on firmware 4.00, 4.02, 4.03, 4.50, 4.51, 5.00, 5.02, 5.10, 5.50, 6.00, 6.02, 6.50, 7.20, 7.40, and 7.61. Firmware 3.00–3.21 does not support M.2 with Linux.
How do I flash the pre‑built Linux image onto a USB drive?
After downloading the .xz file from the releases page, unpack it. On Linux/macOS, run: ``` sudo dd if=output/ps5-ubuntu2604.img of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress conv=fsync ``` Replace `/dev/sdX` with your USB device. On Windows, use Balena Etcher to flash the .img file to the USB drive.
What steps are required to run the jailbreak on firmware 6.00–7.61?
1. Install Y2JB following the instructions at https://github.com/Gezine/Y2JB. 2. Run the kernel exploit with: ``` python3 payload_sender.py $PS5IP 50000 payloads/lapse.js ``` Replace `$PS5IP` with your PS5’s IP address. This will send the payload and put the console into rest mode.
After booting Linux, how do I initialize and install the image onto an M.2 SSD?
1. Attach the M.2 SSD following the official guide. 2. Boot Linux and run: ``` cd ps5-linux-tools sudo ./m2_init ``` 3. Reboot. If the PS5 asks to format again, report the issue. 4. Install the image: ``` cd ps5-linux-tools chmod +x ./m2_install.sh sudo ./m2_install.sh --install $PATH_TO_YOUR_IMG ``` 5. To boot from the M.2, run: ``` cd ps5-linux-tools chmod +x ./m2_exec.sh sudo ./m2_exec.sh ```
How can I boost the CPU/GPU and control the fan while running Linux on the PS5?
Use the ps5_control tool in ps5-linux-tools: ``` cd ps5-linux-tools sudo ./ps5_control --fan on # enable fan sudo ./ps5_control --boost on # boost CPU to 3500 MHz and GPU to 2230 MHz ``` Always enable the fan when boosting, mirroring the behavior of the official PS5 OS.
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