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---
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layout: home
title: "3DS Hacks Guide"
hero:
text: "3DS Hacks Guide"
tagline: "A complete guide to 3DS (and 2DS) custom firmware, from stock to boot9strap."
image:
src: /images/home-page-feature.jpg
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---
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::: info
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Thoroughly read all of the introductory pages (including this one!) before proceeding.
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::: danger
<!-- @include: ./_include/3ds - online.md -->
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## What is custom firmware?
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**Custom firmware** ("CFW") is a full software modification to your 3DS, comparable to "administrator access" on a computer. It allows you to do anything that the 3DS is physically capable of doing, rather than being limited by whatever Nintendo allows you to do.
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Popular uses for custom firmware include:
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* Running homebrew software and games made for or ported to the Nintendo 3DS
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* Bypassing the region lock, allowing you to play games from other regions
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* HOME Menu customization, using community-created [themes and badges ](https://themeplaza.art )
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* Modification of games ("ROM hacks") through [LayeredFS ](https://github.com/knight-ryu12/godmode9-layeredfs-usage/wiki/Using-Luma3DS'-layeredfs-(Only-version-8.0-and-higher ))
* Save data editing, backup, and restore
* Emulation of older consoles, as well as native playback of DS and GBA games
* Installing your physical cartridges for digital use
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## What does this guide install?
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This guide will:
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+ Install **boot9strap** and **Luma3DS custom firmware** on unmodified retail 3DS/2DS consoles
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+ Luma3DS will automatically remove the region lock and allow you to run unsigned software
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+ Install various pieces of homebrew software, such as a package installer, save file manager, and a homebrew app store
+ Make critical system file backups that can help avoid bricks (and recover data in the event of one)
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___
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::: tip
Continue to [Key Information ](key-information )
:::