Hacking Explain cIOS and IOS and how these relate to System Updates

[imgod22222]

I haven't been on the scene in over two years, before Nintendo started releasing updates that were scary for us (homebrew and backup blockers and whatnot)

Gimme a rundown on what's out there and what's the deal with these newfangled workarounds

 

[lolzed]

IOS- http://wiibrew.org/wiki/IOS
cIOS- custom IOS made by hackers usually for running downloaded ISO's ...but many have shifted to SNEEK cuz it beats the reason of cIOS(or something like that)

Workarounds so you don't need to update? You could install the latest channels with their updated IOS if that's what you mean...

 

[Xoo00o0o0o]

IOS are the original system files that are installed when you buy your Wii. They can be updated by Nintendo's servers. They also can be updated by alternative ways such as games. CIOS are Custom IOS which were developed by hackers to be able to run homebrew and the usb loader. These can only be updated by unofficial servers and can be removed by Nintendo by an update.

 

[SifJar]

IOS are the System files of the Wii. They are always running and are the "firmware". They run on the ARM processor and basically control input and output, making things simple for code running on PPC processor (games, System Menu, homebrew). They also have the security system, to prevent unsigned code being run.

cIOS or Custom IOS are basically patched versions of these IOS. They may have limitations removed (e.g. security features, to make stuff like custom channels possible), or may have custom "modules" added, to increase functionality (e.g. add USB2.0 functionality). Most cIOS are created purely for piracy.

As for updates: Almost all IOS are updated at every System update, as well as the System Menu being updated. This is because some people "patch" several IOS in their Wii (e.g. to remove security, allowing them to install other fake signed stuff like custom channels. These patched IOS are sort of like cIOS, but not as extensively patched usually), and by updating all IOS, Nintendo wipe these patches out. Old, unused IOS are "stubbed", by installing a useless copy of the IOS, with no functionality in place of the old revision. "Stubs" are also installed to common cIOS slots, which are usually slots >200, where there are no official IOS (at the moment), and these stubs remove (some) cIOS when an update is installed.