[How To] Boot Games Off Network (SMB) With Playstation 2 (PS2) Using OpenPS2Loader (A Novice Guide)

Note: This tutorial shows networking steps for Windows XP and Windows 7. Why no Vista love? Because Windows 7 is better, and I ask you to consider ditching Vista for 7. Thank you. – Versatile

Revisions:

3-15-10:  Initial release. Expect revisions all year round guaranteed.

8-9-10: Added more information/clarifications to the router method.

6-24-12: Fixed video links.

10-6-12: Fixed video tutorial links.

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Introduction:

The Playstation 2 (Fat or Slim) is a great console to have fun with. In fact, did you know that if you have a FAT PS2 (With the ethernet adapter), or a Slim PS2, that you can share PS2 games stored on the PC hard drive through the SMB network, and have the PS2 recognize it through Ethernet?

Sorry, did I lose you?  Let me paint an easier picture to understand:

1) You rip a PS2 game to your computer’s hard drive.

2) You setup the appropriate network information and share the correct PS2 folder that has your PS2 game data.

3) You boot the Playstation 2 console, and load homebrew program OpenPS2Loader.

4) OpenPS2Loader will start the network connection and it will automatically see your shared game folder on the PC. You select a game, and play!