Is it possible to unlock the Xbox 360 via software? Understand what RGH and LTU are

O Xbox 360 closed its virtual store on June 29. As a result, it is no longer possible to purchase games or DLCs virtually for the console. At least for those who have content already purchased in their libraries, all they can do is download it and play it at any time.

However, for many players, an option that has become interesting is the famous unlocking, thus allowing the console to run games in an alternative way — that is, via piracy. However, in the case of the Xbox 360, there are some differences, mainly between the way it is done, which can be RGH or LTU.

If you have questions about how a jailbroken Xbox 360 works, check out more details about each of the methods below.

What is Xbox 360 RGH Unlock?

The RGH (Reset Glitch Hack) method is an unlock that uses an accessory to store Xbox 360 games and other software. With it, it is possible, for example, to have a series of games and applications on an HD or SSD, without the need to use discs to play the titles.

In the RGH unlock the Xbox 360 main dashboard can be customizedSource: Digiex

The procedure exploits a security breach in the console’s processor, which then allows the loading of unauthorized software, such as emulators of other video games. Therefore, it is also possible to make a series of modifications to the Xbox 360’s main dashboard, making it fully customizable.

The downside of this type of unlocking is that it takes much longer to boot the console, and even to play games and applications, in some versions. Especially if the RGH uses an HD for the process, since it has a much lower speed when compared to the SSD.

The RGH unlock is one of the most used on the Xbox 360.Fonte: GettyImages

Finally, it is also important to note that this type of unlocking does not allow you to play online. Furthermore, even if unlocked, only original discs can be played with the RGH method, since the procedure does not change the Xbox 360 driver, which is exactly where the lock for alternative DVDs is changed.

What is Xbox 360 LTU Unlock?

The Xbox 360 LTU unlock method involves removing the security lock from the video game’s disc drive. This makes it possible to play non-original games on the console, or even games from other regions that have a type of lock through the DVD used, as is the case with certain films, series and shows that have a region lock.

LTU is a type of unlock that allows you to play alternative media on your Xbox 360 as if it were original.Fonte: GettyImages

This type of unlocking also allows the player to access Xbox Live normally, in addition to the possibility of playing any title with online support. The reason is that, by removing the lock, the video game system understands that the inserted disc is original, even if in practice it is not.

The downside to this type of unlocking is that, due to the quality of the media used, the lifespan of the Xbox 360 disc drive may be shorter. And when this happens, only replacing the drive can solve the problem. And considering that the Xbox 360 stopped being manufactured in 2016, it can be quite difficult, and even expensive, to perform this replacement.

The Xbox 360 disc drive may last less time due to the use of low-quality mediaFonte: GettyImages

Is it possible to unlock the Xbox 360 at home, without opening the console?

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to unlock an Xbox 360 at home or unlock it via software, the answer is no. Both of the aforementioned Xbox 360 unlocking procedures require advanced knowledge of electronics, as they require changes to boards and other components of the console, which in turn needs to be completely opened for this.

Doing the Xbox 360 unlock procedure yourself is a somewhat complex task.Fonte: Instructables

Although there are hundreds of videos nowadays, mainly on YouTube, that provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform both procedures, the steps are somewhat complex for more casual users. Because of this, for those who do not have experience with electronics, the tip is not to try to unlock the Xbox 360 at home.

However, if you still think it’s worth trying it yourself, it’s important to remember that, in many cases, a simple mistake when carrying out part of the procedure can result in the total loss of the device.

A simple incorrect process when unlocking the Xbox 360 alone can result in total loss of the device.Source: Reddit

Which Xbox 360 models cannot be unlocked?

It is also worth noting that all devices released in 2015 and 2016, from the latest version of the Xbox 360 Slim, cannot be unlocked. The consoles in this line left the factory with protections in the gaps where unlocking of older models is performed. So much so that to this day, about nine years later, a way to bypass these protections has still not been discovered.

Therefore, before trying to unlock your Xbox 360, you need to check the year your device was released. To do this, simply look at the label located on the back of the video game console, which contains a series of information, such as the serial number and the year it was manufactured.

You need to look at the back of your Xbox to find the sticker with the device information.Source: Wiki How