PlayStation Portable Hacks Guide
PSP Custom Firmware Overview
Welcome to this community guide for installing custom firmware (CFW) on the Sony PlayStation Portable. Custom firmware unlocks your handheld, letting you run software that Sony never authorized while keeping the original system menu intact. The process is safe when you follow the steps carefully, and it works across the entire PSP family.
Modern PSP modding centers on official firmware 6.61, the last update Sony ever released. Every guide here assumes you will reach 6.61 before installing CFW. From there you have two main paths depending on how permanent you want the setup to be.
Two flavors of CFW
ARK-4 (the modern successor to 6.61 PRO) is a lightweight custom firmware that loads fresh each time. 6.61 Infinity patches the system so CFW survives every reboot automatically, giving you a permanent setup with no launcher to run.
The good news for owners is that compatibility is excellent. ARK-4 supports all PSP models on 6.61, including the storage-focused PSP Go and the Wi-Fi-less PSP Street (E1000). Older or bricked units that cannot reach 6.61 the normal way can be revived using a Pandora's Battery.
- Read Is my PSP compatible? to confirm your model and firmware.
- Review Safety & risks and Backing up your data before touching anything.
- Use Choosing your method to pick the right path for your handheld.
Take your time, read each page fully, and you will have a fully unlocked PSP without much trouble.