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How to Downgrade Your Wii

The Nintendo Wii comes equipped with a 24/7 connection service that allows players to upgrade systems and download exclusive games. These upgrades also come with more security features that limit what players can do to customize the system for themselves. Upgraded systems are completely reversible through some simple hacks that allow players to return to systems versions they relied on in the past. The process takes about 20 minutes, and multiple former system versions are available.

Things You'll Need

Nintendo Wii
Internet connection
Homebrew Channel
SD card

Instructions

- 1
  Download and install the HackMii and BannerBust from your computer to a SD card. These programs are used to install the "Homebrew Channel" to the Wii and are free (see Resources below).
- 2
  Use the Wii Remote to click on the "SD Card Channel." Wait for the channel to load and then insert the SD card. A pop-up message will appear that shows success. Click "Yes" to proceed.
- 3
  Follow the on-screen directions to install the "Homebrew Channel." The Wii will automatically restart when the channel is successfully installed, and the "Homebrew Channel" appears on the main screen along with other channels.
- 4
  Start the "Homebrew Channel" and load the application entitled the "Homebrew Browser." Wait for the browser to load and add any updates.
- 5
  Activate your wireless Internet connection if you have not already. Without an Internet connection, the Wii will not be able to use the "Homebrew Browser" or download and install the downgraded system.
- 6
  Use the Wii remote's directional arrows to scroll through and find the "Wii System Downloader" application. Click on the "Download" icon and wait for the progress bar to turn green and have a check mark.
- 7
  Exit "Homebrew Browser" and load the "Wii System Downloader." The screen will turn black for an instant, and an all-text program will appear on the screen.
- 8
  Press the "A" button to proceed through the program. Select a Wii System version from the list of files. Wait for the application to find a successful connection to download and install the Wii system. Press the "B" button to restart the Wii when the process is completed.
- 9
  Check the status of your Wii menu by using the remote to click on the "System Preferences" menu in the bottom left-hand corner. Once the menu loads, the system version will appear in the top right-hand corner of the screen.

Nintendo Wii