Linux Guide/PlayStation 3

This guide describes how to get Linux on a PlayStation 3.

Important Note
The "Other OS" feature, which is required to run Linux on the PS3, is disabled in firmware version 3.21, and later. But still runs on older consoles that have firmware 3.15 or lower. You will not be able to install Linux using this guide unless your PlayStation 3 has firmware 3.15 or lower. There is no official way to downgrade or rollback the firmware.

Pre-installation Configuration
Currently, Installing an "OtherOS" requires you to re-format the hard drive. On 20Gb models the system allows two 10Gb partitions, while the 60Gb model offers a 10Gb/50Gb configuration for the OtherOS and the PS3 system. You can choose which operating system uses which partition. For this, you will need a USB drive with ~3Mb of free space, a PC with a DVD burner for the Linux Image, and a USB Keyboard and Mouse.

Installation
Installing Fedora Core 5 PPC will take the system around 2 hours.

Post-install Configuration
When installation is complete, the startup operating system can be changed. The system can be easily booted back into the cross media bar by holding down the power button while restarting. However, this will reset the system resolution to factory default. From Linux, you can switch to the XMB by typing boot-game-os at a prompt. This will restart the system to the XMB, but will boot back to Linux the next time you restart. Sony has set up a web page which will list compatible operating systems.