Softmod

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A softmod (short for software modification) is an unofficial modification of the software of an electronic device. The modification makes it possible in most cases to reactivate functions that have been deactivated by the manufacturer or to bypass various security measures, while other softmods only add new control elements .

Popular examples

  • the iPod could be equipped with a telephone extension in early designs
  • The Nintendo Wii can be expanded with homebrew games with a softmod , USB loading becomes possible, games from foreign regions can be played
  • The Xbox from Microsoft can be operated with a hard drive through a softmod , like the Wii region-free
  • the PlayStation 3 can then be started again with the alternative Linux operating system
  • The d-box as well as other SAT / cable receivers can thus u. U. use the large program packages (Sky, Kabel Digital Home) without having a subscription

Advantages of a softmod

With a softmod, a device can have many other functions that could not be used by the end customer in whole or in part. It is also possible to activate special features for all regions of the world that were otherwise only available to special regions. Or take your device with you when you move to another region and continue to use the content available in the country in question.
Often it is also possible to change the region of a country not only for DVDs or the like, but also for the online functionalities. This allows you to shop in a Japanese online shop with a European device, for example.

Disadvantages of a softmod

  • in some cases this can cause irreparable software damage to the device
  • the manufacturer's guarantee is completely lost
  • Manufacturer updates will no longer be possible in most cases
  • the online capability on Xbox and PlayStation will no longer be possible
  • The expansion of the software or the exploitation of security gaps is not permitted in every country (e.g. United States of America)
  • also reverse engineering is not compatible in any country with the prevailing laws

Creation of the softmod

The creation of the softmod is usually done by specifically looking for a security hole using reverse engineering . This makes it possible to write a program with the PC and to copy it to an external data carrier, which loads further code into the software of the device and thereby in some cases extends it.

Some soft mods, for example with the Xbox 360 , require an intervention in the hardware (in this example on the DVD drive). The further procedure can then be found in the appropriate scene boards or via other websites specially written on the topic.

Problem: piracy

The software enhancements make it possible to use content that has not been purchased (USB loading, see film packages without a subscription ...). This is an act of piracy and does not comply with copyright law . Even if there are different opinions regarding the conduct of the business of the most diverse content owners, the respective state laws must be adhered to.