Imagine booting Ubuntu on your PlayStation 5 to play Steam games. That’s exactly what a new project called ps5-linux-boot aims to do—but only if your console is running an older firmware version. Created by security engineer Andy Nguyen, this unofficial hack exploits a patched hypervisor vulnerability to give Linux direct access to the PS5’s powerful hardware. Below, we answer the most common questions about this exciting development.

What is the ps5-linux-boot project?

The ps5-linux-boot project is a publicly released tool that allows you to boot Ubuntu on a PlayStation 5 and use it as a fully functional Linux PC gaming device. It was announced by security engineer Andy Nguyen, who shared it so that others can transform their PS5 “Phat” console into a Linux environment capable of running Steam games. The project leverages an exploit that targets a hypervisor vulnerability which has since been patched by Sony. This means only consoles running specific old firmware versions can use it.

Who created ps5-linux-boot and why?

Andy Nguyen, a well-known security engineer with a history of console hacking, created ps5-linux-boot. He decided to release it publicly so that enthusiasts could repurpose their PS5s. In his announcement, he described turning the console into a “fully functional Linux PC gaming device.” His goal was to demonstrate that the PS5’s impressive hardware—featuring eight Zen 2 CPU cores (16 threads) and a custom RDNA 2 GPU—could be used for more than just PlayStation games. The release is strictly for educational and experimental purposes.

What firmware versions are required?

To use ps5-linux-boot, your PS5 must be running firmware version 3.xx or 4.xx. These are older updates that contain the hypervisor vulnerability the exploit depends on. If your console has been updated to firmware 5.xx or later, the vulnerability is patched, and the project will not work. It’s important to note that Sony regularly issues firmware updates to close security holes, so users who have kept their systems fully updated are out of luck. The exploit only works on “Phat” PS5 models (the original design), not the newer Slim or Pro variants.

How does the exploit work technically?

The exploit takes advantage of a vulnerability in the PS5’s hypervisor, which is the software layer responsible for managing virtualized hardware access. By bypassing the hypervisor’s security checks, the exploit gives Linux direct access to the console’s physical hardware, including the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. This allows Ubuntu to run natively rather than emulated, giving near-native performance. The project includes a bootloader that replaces the PlayStation OS with Linux, and it uses a custom kernel to handle the PS5’s unique hardware. Users can then install Steam and other Linux applications.

What can you do with Ubuntu on a PS5?

Once Ubuntu is booted, you can use it like any other Linux PC. The main application highlighted is Steam, which allows you to play thousands of games from your library. Because the PS5’s hardware is fully accessible, performance is excellent for games that have Linux support. Beyond gaming, you can also run productivity software, browse the web, code, or even use it as a media server. However, keep in mind that the PS5’s proprietary features (like the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback) may not work perfectly without additional drivers. The project is still experimental, so expect some rough edges.

Are there any risks or limitations?

Yes, several. First, installing ps5-linux-boot on a PS5 voids the warranty and could potentially brick the console if done incorrectly. Second, you lose access to the PlayStation ecosystem—you can’t play PS5 games or use online services while Linux is booted. Third, the exploit only works on older firmware versions (3.xx and 4.xx), so if you’ve updated, you’re locked out. Fourth, some hardware features like the custom SSD controller or Blu-ray drive may not be fully supported. Finally, Sony can patch the vulnerability in future firmware updates, so users must stay offline to keep the exploit working. Use at your own risk.

Will this work on future PS5 models or firmware?

Unlikely. The ps5-linux-boot project specifically targets the original PS5 “Phat” model running firmware 3.xx or 4.xx. Sony has already patched the hypervisor vulnerability in newer firmware versions, and the slim and Pro models likely have additional hardware changes that break the exploit. Andy Nguyen has not indicated any plans to develop for future models. If you want to try it, you’ll need an older console that you’re willing to keep offline permanently. The security community may find new vulnerabilities over time, but nothing is guaranteed.