| Feature | Full CFW (Custom Firmware) | PS3HEN | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Only CECH-20xx, 21xx, 25xx (with minver check). Fat models. | ALL models (especially Super Slim & late Slims). | | Persistence | Permanent. Boots into CFW every time. | Temporary. Requires enabling after each cold boot. | | Stability | 99.9% stable. Deep kernel access. | 95% stable. Occasional crashes when loading large ISOs. | | Online Play | Possible (with PSN patch & syscall deletion). Higher risk. | Safer, but still risky. | | Best For | Hardcore modders, overclockers, Linux enthusiasts. | Casual players who just want to backup discs & use trainers. |
* Stay tuned for our next deep dive: Overclocking the RSX without killing your caps. * | Feature | Full CFW (Custom Firmware) |
Whether you want to turn your PS3 into a Linux server, an emulation station, a media hub, or simply a way to play Metal Gear Solid 4 in 4K via upscaling, is your home. | | Persistence | Permanent
Today, we’re going to look at why the PS3 modding scene is experiencing a renaissance in 2024, the risks and rewards of custom firmware (CFW) vs. HEN (Homebrew Enabler), and the five best things you can do with your modded console right now. If you left the scene back in 2018, you might think that modding was dead. Sony stopped releasing major system updates for years, and then—out of nowhere—they dropped Firmware 4.89 and 4.90 in 2023. Why? To patch lingering vulnerabilities, of course. Requires enabling after each cold boot
Because the PS3 is the last console that felt dangerous .