THIS FAQ IS OUT OF DATE. AN UPDATE FAQ IS HERE

​

Since so many people have the same questions, I typed up an FAQ:
Please note this is simplified to be as understandable as possible. If you want something elaborated on I will add it as it's own question. This is just a general list of questions that I have seen being asked repeatedly over the past few weeks since the bootloader hack was leaked early.

Does my switch support Fusee Gelee/Atmosphere:

Spoiler

ALL SWITCHES SUPPORT THIS, ALL OF THEM. NO SERIOUSLY, STOP ASKING THE ANSWER IS YES. WE WILL LET YOU KNOW IF IT CHANGES.

What if I upgrade to the latest firmware:

Spoiler

ALL SWITCHES/FIRMWARE ARE SUPPORTED AT THIS TIME. IF YOU HAVE NEWER FIRMWARE 5.0+ IT ONLY MEANS THE EASY METHOD WILL TAKE LONGER TO BE RELEASED.

What about ... [insert question here]:

Spoiler

ALL SWITCHES/FIRMWARE ARE SUPPORTED AT THIS TIME. IF YOU HAVE NEWER FIRMWARE 5.0+ IT ONLY MEANS THE EASY METHOD WILL TAKE LONGER TO BE RELEASED.

What about Firmware [insert Firmware version here]:

Spoiler

ALL SWITCHES/FIRMWARE ARE SUPPORTED AT THIS TIME. IF YOU HAVE NEWER FIRMWARE 5.0+ IT ONLY MEANS THE EASY METHOD WILL TAKE LONGER TO BE RELEASED.

When will [insert name of thing here] be released?:

Spoiler

Soon TM. Note: Soon does not mean today, tomorrow, or even a month from now. Soon merely means whenever the hell the devs are done and it won't crash because you looked at it. Just like a road trip asking 100 times only pisses off the drivers, and they will turn this car around dammit.

Now onto the actual FAQ

List of TermsFirmware Versions FAQSwitch Modding General FAQReiNX FAQAtmosphere FAQFusee Gelee FAQLinux FAQ

1. 
   
   List of terms:​
   
   Cold Boot:
   Spoiler

   A method of booting a sytem that is not already powered on. Typically done when turning on your computer after shutting it down.
   Custom firmware (CFW):
   Spoiler

   Firmware that has been customized by the hacking community to extend functionality and allow users to run unsigned code on their device.
   Firmware (FW):
   Spoiler

   Firmware is the software that tells your device how to run. This is usually updated to provide new features/bug fixes.
   Hard Mod:
   Spoiler

   A method that uses a hardware modification to run arbitrary code. As it's name suggests it usually required modifying the Hardware and is also a Hard mod to do (usually). The nintendo swtich is lucky as it only requires bridging pin 10 to ground to allow privilege escalation.
   Hekate IPL:
   Spoiler

   Named after the God Hekate, it is a boot loader that allows you to choose what you want to boot your switch into (Horizon OS, Linux, Atmosphere, etc.). Still in development at this time
   Horizon:
   Spoiler

   The name of the firmware (OS) that runs on the switch, analogous to Windows 10 for PC or your favorite linux distro.
   NAND/eMMC:
   Spoiler

   The NAND is the storage of the Switch (think hard drive). In this case it is a 32GB eMMC module that is removable. However at this time we cannot upgrade the storage space as all components seem to be linked to the device (eMMC, screen, motherboard, etc.) This is used to store the firmware and games for the switch.
   NXLoader:
   Spoiler

   An Android app used to boot Fusee Gelee payloads from an android device. Required a USB OTG adapter and USB-A to USB-C cable. If your phone already has USB-C (congratulations) you just need a USB-C to USB-C cable.
   NSP:
   Spoiler

   A Nintendo eshop game format, similar to .cia files for the 3ds consoles.
   Payload:
   Spoiler

   Usually a ram binary that is loaded into the Switch's memory and then run. Can be used to run
   Privilege Escalation:
   Spoiler

   A method used to run code as a higher privileged user such as root or kernel. This is usually not possible since users run with limited privilege for security reasons.
   RCM:
   Spoiler

   Recovery mode of the switch analogous to DFU mode on iPhones or safe mode on your PC. Usually it is used to diagnose issues with hardware/software.
   RetroArch:
   Spoiler

   Software used to emulate older game systems so you can play their games.
   Signed code/Unsigned code:
   Spoiler

   Code from Nintendo is "signed" by a special key that only they should have access to. Unsigned code is not signed by this key and cannot run unless done so by an exploit (like custom firmware) or allowed by Nintendo.
   Soft Mod:
   Spoiler

   A method that uses software to modify your switch to allow for running unsigned code. It is usually an easier method than hard modding
   Tethered:
   Spoiler

   A term referencing the requirement of a host device to boot a compromised device, usually via a program to send a starting payload. Without this the device will either boot into the normal (not moddable) os or not boot at all until you have access to a computer.
   Vulkan:
   Spoiler

   An API Used by software to get better performance from GPU's. The driver for Linux on Switch is still being worked on at this time.
   Warm Boot:
   Spoiler

   A method of booting a system that is already powered on. Typically done during a reboot.
   XCI:
   Spoiler

   A Nintendo game card format, similar to .3ds files for the 3ds consoles
   
   
2. 
   
   Firmware Versions FAQ​
   
   
   What firmwares can I install homebrew on?:
   
   Spoiler

   Homebrew can be installed on Nintendo Switch system version 5.1.0 and below.
   What can I do with Firmware 1.0.0 to 1.0.0
   
   Spoiler

   Block Updates while waiting for CFW. You might also update without burning fuses.
   
   What can I do with Firmware 2.0.0 to 2.3.0
   
   Spoiler

   Block Updates and use ReiNX, RajNX, Atmosphere or SXOS CFW
   
   What can I do with Firmware 3.0.0 to 3.0.0
   
   Spoiler

   Block Updates and use ReiNX, RajNX, Atmosphere or SXOS CFW.
   
   What can I do with Firmware 3.0.1 to 5.1.0+
   
   Spoiler

   Block Updates and use ReiNX, RajNX, Atmosphere or SXOS CFW
   
   I’m on x.y.z but my new gamecart for botw/xenoblade/etc needs to update to a higher version what should I do?
   
   Spoiler

   You have one of two options.
   

   1. Do a fuseless upgrade.
   2. Find a gamecart with the appropriate update and try to update through that
   3. Find a gamecart of lower version out in the wild (buy another copy and see if it's cart 000 or 001, etc.)
   4. Update to the latest Firmware (Please no just wait it'll be worth it)
   5. Have patience and wait for CFW to make things better

   
   If you're not sure what FW a game requires you can reference this list --> List Games Required Firmware Version
3. 
   
   
   Switch Modding General FAQ​
   
   What is Hekate-IPL for 4.x and 5.x? Will it hurt my switch?
   
   Spoiler

   These are tethered methods of loading the Homebrew Launcher. They currently require us to boot via a host device such as a PC or Android through nxloader.
   
   THIS METHOD WILL NOT HARM YOUR SWITCH.
   
   However as with all mods if you don't know what you're doing wait for the noob friendly version. You always run a risk even if the risk is low. However, this boot method will not cause damage to your switch.
   
   If your switch is booted via this method and is allowed to go into sleep mode it will crash as Hekate-ipl does not support sleep mode at this time. If this happens just hold the power button for 15+ seconds, and it should turn on as normal. This will eventually be fixed but Hekate-ipl is a WIP
   
   When can I play/install backedup/pirated games?:
   
   Spoiler

   While GBATemp does allow for discussion of piracy, it doesn't condone it. There are two current methods of doing this. Paying for TX SX for XCI or use one of the free CFW's with Sigpatches for NSP files
   
   What is this Update Message Nag issue people have been reporting:
   
   Spoiler

   Nintendo has figured out a way to flip a switch on your switch making it nag you to update before you can even go online. The only systems not affected are those that are already on the latest firmware. For the time being put your Switch into airplane mode and keep it there until an update is made regarding this issue. At this time there is NO FIX.
   
   This issue seems to be separate from another similar issue and the devs are still working figuring out how this was done by Nintendo.
   
   What size SD Card should I get for CFW:
   
   Spoiler

   The recommended size is at MINIMUM 64GB. This is because while the SD card is SOLD as 32GB, the actual formatted amount is ~28-29GB. We will have to store an image on the SD card that is roughly 32GB in size, so no a 32GB card will not work. Personally I'd recommend you use at least 128GB as you must also have space to store games, homebrew, etc.
   
   Note: You should typically go for as large an SD card as you can afford.
   (I will add a list of known working cards that I know is floating around)
   
   Note 2: Fat32 can only store files upto 4gb per file
   
   Additionally if you want to boot linux, you should use a second SD card so you don't risk losing anything on your main one.
4. 
   
   ReiNX FAQ
   Coming Soon​
5. 
   
   Atmosphere FAQ​
   
   
   If I Update to firmware x.y.z will I lose access to Atmosphere/Fusee Gelee?:
   
   Spoiler

   Updating your switch will not prevent you from using Atmosphere/Fusee Gelee. It will just make doing so more difficult and involved.
   
   You should avoid updating as earlier versions of the Switch firmware have bugs that have been patched by Nintendo in later versions. These bugs make it easier to run Atmosphere/Fusee Gelee without the need for a hardware mod and a computer. In time all versions of the switch's firmware will be able to boot Atmosphere/Linux/Fusee Gelee Payloads without the use of a computer, this includes new versions not yet released. It will just take time for devs to update their code to work with those versions.
   
   More information will be given as the Devs working on Atmosphere and FG release more information.
   
   What is Atmosphere CFW?:
   
   Spoiler

   Atmosphere is what is called a Custom Firmware. It is a patched version of the firmware that is running on your switch. However, this version is run off of the SD card and supports all FW versions. At this time all firmware that runs on the switch supports atmosphere. This includes later firmware as the switch has a rather nasty hack that lets us crack the system wide open.
   
   What can Atmosphere Do?
   
   Spoiler

   Atmosphere can do everything your switch can currently do and more. However that more is where the fun begins.
   
   Atmosphere opens the switch to running unisgned third party code. Because of the amazing community that has been setup this means we have things like:
   
   

   • Run Retroarch an emulation program with support for a wide range of game consoles
   • Browse the web and watch youtube
   • Run third Party Games
   • Backup your game saves and restore them in case they are lost!!!
   • Run downloaded games

   
   But seriously guys the switch is shaping up to be one of the greatest portable emulation devices we have ever had. Even the PSP/Vita won't be as good once everything has matured. The switch is the device we all wanted in the backseat of the car on those long family trips. Nintendo has shown the switch's versatility in gaming and with homebrew on the switch through Atmsophere we will be seeing some amazing homebrew.
   
   When will Atmosphere CFW be released?:
   
   Spoiler

   Planned release: 15th of June.
   
   Bootable: 1-2 weeks (not for the end user).
   
   Can Atmosphere be patched?:
   
   Spoiler

   Nintendo CANNOT release an update that breaks Atmosphere. The vulnerability used is in the hardware of the switch and can only be fixed with different hardware being released. Think of how the original Xbox 360 didn't have an HDMI port, but later versions did. The older one couldn't add support through software, it required all new hardware to be released.
   
   Can Atosphere run signed code (Can atmosphere run games I already own?)
   
   Spoiler

   Atmosphere will be able to run signed code. More plainly Atmosphere will be able to run your gamecarts and eshop purchases without issue. All Atmosphere does is patch things to allow you to load the HBL (home brew launcher) without having to run a hack every time. It allows for execution of both signed and unsigned code.
   
   What is Trust Zone:
   
   Spoiler

   Arm TrustZone technology is a System on Chip (SoC) and CPU system-wide approach to security. TrustZone is hardware-based security built into SoCs by semiconductor chip designers who want to provide secure end points and a device root of trust. Jamis Vu and Deja Vu are the names of privilege escalation exploits that allows the user to run code as root or kernel. Usually unsigned code is prevented from being run, let alone as a more "priviledged user", but with TZ we are able to run such code. This is the exploit that will be used to launch Atmosphere. It currently works on all switches 1.0-4.x and has different names depending on the firmware version.
   
   At this time I know of no TZ exploit implementation for 5.0+, but I have heard that it is possible, it will just take time. This means that for now you anyone on 5.0+ rely on the JoyCon Mod to boot Atmosphere. This will probably change over time.
   
   What is Jamis Vu:
   
   Spoiler

   This is the name of the Trust Zone exploit implementation for FW 1.0.0. This will be used to launch Atmosphere when it is released.
   
   What is Deja Vu:
   
   Spoiler

   This is the name of the Trust Zone exploit implementation for FW 2.x-4.x. This will be used to launch Atmosphere when it is released.
6. 
   
   
   Fusee Gelee FAQ​
   
   
   What is FUSEE Gelee:
   
   Spoiler

   This is a hack that allows us to run just about any OS/CFW on the switch. It works by interrupting the boot process of the switch through use of a special RCM mode (think iPhone DFU/recovery mode) and then sending a different payload to be booted. Right now we require the use of a computer to then boot alternative software on the switch. This includes Linux, Atmosphere, ReiNX, RajNX and SXOS CFW. This flaw CANNOT BE PATCHED THROUGH FIRMWARE UPDATES. Only a new console release from Nintendo will solve this. Think of how the original Xbox 360 didn't have an HDMI port, but later versions did. The older one couldn't add support through software, it required all new hardware to be released.
   
   In order to Launch Fusee Gelee you need a pc (windows or linux) with USB 3.0 or 3.1+ (type-c connector) or a mac with usb 2.0+, and the FG launcher (link added when I can post links). You can also launch FG from a raspberry pi that has been set to run the launcher on a loop so you can just connect and boot. All methods will require either a USB-C to USB-C or USB-A to USB-C cable.
   
   What can I do with FUSEE Gelee:
   
   Spoiler

   - Dump your switch's internal memory/keys with one of the custom payloads
   - Boot Linux
   This list will be updated as new things come out. Atmosphere has not been released at this time and will be added once it has been.
   
   What is NXLoader:
   
   Spoiler

   NXLoader is an android application that allows you to boot Fusee Gelee payloads via an android device. You will still require a usb On-The-Go adapter and a USB-A to USB-C adapter. If your phone has USB-C already you just need a USB-C to USB-C cable and an android device.
   ((If information is missing from this section please let me know. I am an iPhone user so I haven't been paying much attention to this item.))
   
   What is the JoyCon Mod:
   
   Spoiler

   The JoyCon Mod is a reference to the bridging of pin 10 (closest to the back) on the RIGHT joycon's connector (on the switch) to ground (pins 1 or 7 without the joycon connected to the system). This pulls the pin low (low voltage) and in conjunction with pressing the volume up button at boot, is used to put the switch into RCM mode which is required for Fusee Gelee. This is like pressing the home button on an android or iPhone. It should not be confused with the home button on the right joycon which is more like the back button on android.
   
   You can also push pins 9 and 10 on the joycon itself together to short them. Note that this only works if you connect the joycon to the system as pin 9 on the connector is only ground when the joycon is docked on the switch. Otherwise you should ground pin 10 to pins 7 or 1 in order to get into RCM mode. This can be acheived through a joycon jig (insert link here) or through soldering specific points of the joycon.
   
   If you opt for the soldering option I'd recommend you put in a magnetic switch so you can activate the RCM by placing a magnet on the right joycon (link).
7. 
   
   
   Linux FAQ​
   
   
   What size SD Card should I get for Linux:
   
   Spoiler

   At this time no definitive size has been set for Linux on Switch. While any size above 4gb should work, I'd recommend any size 32gb and up.
   Keep in mind that if you are using linux to run emulators:
   1.) Performance is really spotty right now and there's a lot of stuff that doesn't work.
   2.) Games will need to be put on the SD card, which at this time is not an easy task unless you know about linux partitions and this will require space.
   
   Additionally if you want to use Atmosphere CFW I recommend you use a second SD card so you don't risk losing anything because of linux.
   
   What is this battery issue I keep seeing?:
   
   Spoiler

   Linux on the Switch is in it's extremly early days and not all things work on the switch. This includes complete power management. While we can put the GPU in high/medium/low power mode, there seems to be an issue where the Switch's original OS doesn't keep track of the battery while the Switch is running Linux. Because of this, when you're in Linux, the switch "loses track" of the battery's actual charge. This will be fixed in later releases, just give it time and avoid Linux unless you know what you're doing.
   
   What is this Linux SD Card issue I keep Seeing?:
   
   Spoiler

   Certain SD cards support transferring data that is apparently faster than the Switch can. There is a patch that forces faster cards to run slower so they can work, but at this time it is advised to just wait for a proper fix/solution.
   
   What actually works on Linux?:
   
   Spoiler

   • Wifi: Requires you to reboot linux and run the exploit again. Do not just force the console off with the power switch, have linux reboot.
   • Bluetooth: Works but JoyCons cannot be paired yet
   • Touchscreen: Works, but interface isn't friendly yet
   • GPU Acceleration: Works via mesa, with OpenGL (vulkan maybe?)
   • Volume Buttons: Works in Gnome, but doesn't do anything at this time

   Credit: Natinusala's thread on how to boot linux on your switch -> https://gbatemp.net/threads/quick-tuto-how-to-boot-linux-on-your-switch.501918/
   
   What doesn't work on Linux?:
   
   Spoiler

   • Power Management: See Battery issue, battery level working in Gnome.
   • Joycons: Not recognized
   • Audio: Not working
   • Power Button: no function, no sleep mode, no graceful shutdown (reboot works)
   • USB Support: No flash drives, mice, keyboards, controllers, ethernet as these all use USB. It is only used to boot into linux at this time.
   • Dock: Untested, doesn't do anything other than charge battery (No HDMI).

   Credit: Natinusala's thread on how to boot linux on your switch -> https://gbatemp.net/threads/quick-tuto-how-to-boot-linux-on-your-switch.501918/
   Note: This information for Linux may be out of date.
   

There are probably a lot of issues with this, and I will correct them in time. If you want a question added just let me know and I will add it. Links and pictures to relevant topics/guides/etc will be added when I have enough posts to do that XD.

@Adran_Marit is now maintaining this FAQ. Please ping my if anything is incorrect

 

[Thatcher]

Excellent post, the tone of the answers made me lol a little too.

Including the reference guide as well as the FAQ was a good idea.

 

[Kolyasisan]

Umm, just to note, the API is actually called Vulkan, not Vulcan

 

[saneatsu]

You should rename this thread to “Switch Guide for Free Games! CFW install guide.”

That’ll get the people asking the constant questions about current status and “is it safe to update” to actually click on this lolol

I would but this isn't mean to be a guide. When things are released (atmosphere) I will update this FAQ to link to the guide OR I will write a guide if one isn't available.

I think this is great.

I don't think the specific section about Deja Vu was updated to include higher firmwares.

Also, I think you already had this plan once you can post links. It might be good to link to other well answered conversations/tutorials, etc... in each answer . I think the purpose of this thread is to prevent people who refuse to search from opening a new thread.

Hope you can keep it updated at the speed everything is moving in this scene.

I was not aware that Deja Vu works on 5.0+, can you link me so I can add it? And yes links are next.

I could feel the arrogance while trying to read the answers given in this faq. Also, they had a "I am fed up, GOT IT" vibe to them. Maybe it's time for a new hobby? Or is the intensive swearing part of the things newcommers should be aware of? No offense but, even if this was pinned, I'd rather get the info in other threads.

Not sure what you mean by intensive swearing, I honestly could have made this 1000x worse so not sure if /s there. As for being fed up, I really was. SO I decided to address the problem by writing an FAQ that people will hopefully find useful. I'll probably tone it down as I revise things as there's some structural changes I want to make to the answers anyways.

Umm, just to note, the API is actually called Vulkan, not Vulcan

Yep, I derped. Live long and prosper.

List of things to update:
-Add in information about Pegaswitch and 3.0 homebrew
-Add in information about 1.0.0 Homebrew
-Reorganize structure to flow better (kinda jumpy to me really)

 

[jinx10000]

What is Deja Vu:
Warning: Spoilers inside!
This is the name of the Trust Zone implementation for FW 1.0.0. This will be used to launch Atmosphere when it is released.

Think it should be up to 4.1, right?

 

[saneatsu]

What is Deja Vu:
Warning: Spoilers inside!
This is the name of the Trust Zone implementation for FW 1.0.0. This will be used to launch Atmosphere when it is released.

Think it should be up to 4.1, right?

Wow, this is what I get for editing things late at night. At one point I refreshed and lost half the edits I made accidentally. And yes it should be good catch.

 

[zzzzBeatz]

Not sure what you mean by intensive swearing, I honestly could have made this 1000x worse so not sure if /s there. As for being fed up, I really was. SO I decided to address the problem by writing an FAQ that people will hopefully find useful. I'll probably tone it down as I revise things as there's some structural changes I want to make to the answers anyways.

Thank you for considering a revision. I will not nitpick and quote the swearing. I just meant that, as a new user and a fanatic of homebrew, I always try to use the search, keep up to date and I am patient. I am not one to comment "wen" or whatever. I am sure there are others like me. I just feel that this mess that some people are making will always be present to some extend and, a FAQ post that has been pinned should be informative and not "1000x worse". To show that some of us still appreciate the efforts made by the devs. Contributing in a professional / civilized fashion is the way to go imho. I just felt that I was paying for "trollz" mistakes when I am just trying to get the info without pissing people off. I do appreciate compilations like yours otherwise. So kudos

 

[tottti1914]

hi
so i understand i can get cfw no matter the firmware is ,but am now on 5.0.0 and i need to update to 5.0.2 to unlink an account so what is the disadvantages to get the supernag update except of having to update to the next firmware (if i chose not to put my device on airplane mode after i update ) consider all fw are cfw ready (when it come) and i am already beyond softmode for the near future, not sure if it's the right thread to ask thanks in advance .

 

[iktwo]

Thanks for getting all this information together! I sometimes swing by the forum and try to see what's going on, it's way easier when there's a nice compilation!

 

[OrakioRob]

I'm a noob and just read the whole FAQ. That helped a lot, thanks!

 

[ThirdEyeCx]

Great FAQ! This should definitely help a lot and should hopefully stop the endless questions people ask about Switch modding over and over.

 

[Waveracer]

I read it all. You say you aren't covering things on other threads like hacking methods then I'd add those relevant threads as links at the bottom. Also, the swearing and unfriendly complaints are off and unnecessary. I like the way you organised the FAQ though, but you'd need to consider those two things to make it better.

 

[rommy667]

Thanks for this,now i have to get a switch

 

[riahc3]

Lets be legit and honest here: Everyone wants to know when and how to play backup Switch games. Thats it.

Im saying this because this should go at the top of the FAQ.

 

[leerz]

Add pegaswitch

 

[natinusala]

There are some typos : jamais vu, Vulkan

Are you sure that jamais vu and deja vu are TrustZone implementations ? Are they not exploits (deja vu allows software RCM boot to use Atmosphère without a jig) ?

 

[Heran Bago]

Aside from Retroarch, I am sure that I read there is another Multisystem emulator for the switch. One that didn't have sound support at first but got it eventually. It was an unusual one that I think I have used on a different system before. Not mednafen either.

Now I cant find it in thread titles or lists of Switch homebrew. What emulator am I thinking of?

 

[natinusala]

Was it MAME ?

 

[saneatsu]

There are some typos : jamais vu, Vulkan

Are you sure that jamais vu and deja vu are TrustZone implementations ? Are they not exploits (deja vu allows software RCM boot to use Atmosphère without a jig) ?

yes a user on reddit notified me of this and an update will be coming later today

 

[aikon]

Make any diference between FW 5.0.1 and 5.0.2?

Enviado de meu F5122 usando Tapatalk

 

[saneatsu]

Make any diference between FW 5.0.1 and 5.0.2?

Enviado de meu F5122 usando Tapatalk

no