What are backups?
Backups are duplicate copies of Xbox 360 games. They are burned on Dual Layer DVD's, which requires the use of a Dual Layer Burner as well. Backups are only legal if they are burned from a copy of a game that the owner legally purchased and continues to own. Backups are typically stealth patched to allow the game to be played on Xbox Live with little chance of being banned.
What is stealth patching?
With the latest iXtreme Firmware, currently version LT 1.1 for the LiteOn and BenQ drives, all backups are required to be stealth patched. Stealth patching is performed most commonly through a program called ABGX, in which the program essentially makes the disc appear to be a retail copy. There is also another option aside from patching for some games, in which the firmware bypasses the security scan with the use of Activate.iso, which is included with iXtreme 1.6 Firmware. This method and firmware, however, are not as safe as those previously referred to.
What's the catch?
Well, there is always the possibility of the console being banned from Xbox Live. Though with the current LT 1.1 firmware it is much harder to be detected, there is always a possibility of exposure.
How do I reduce the chance of being detected by Microsoft?
Essentially, just don't do anything idiotic. Some fools have thought it a good idea not to stealth patch a game before going on to Xbox Live. Don't do that.
Also, some people thought it would be smart to download a game before release and play it. Seriously? Do not do that!
The safest way to not be detected is to stay off of Xbox Live and keep your firmware updated. If you need to update the consoles dashboard, etc, it is recommended that you reflash back to stock firmware before doing so. Although some have reported updating their flashed consoles without problem, the goal here is to minimize ban risk.
So how do i flash my drive? I want in!
Flashing your drive requires you voiding the Warranty on your Xbox 360. You'll be required to take apart you console, which allows you to get access to the 360 DVD drive. There are four types of drives that your Xbox may be using. They are:
- Hitachi
Samsung
BenQ
LiteOn
Out of the four, the LiteOn drive is typically the hardest to flash. Dumping the key requires the use of a Connectivity Kit. Personally, I use the CK3 Connectivity kit with the addon probe.
Flashing the Samsung, BenQ, and Hitachi's are typically, a fairly easy process. The "easy" factor shared among the four of them is the use of a key. The drive's firmware matches a key which also matches to the console. If the key is lost, you have successfully converted your drive into a DVD player. Nice job.
Flashing tutorials can be found in many places. I would suggest checking for tutorials on Youtube or going to the official JungleFlasher website for further info.
Cheers, happy modding
