CIA files are installed to your emunand on your sd. 3DZ files are on your microSD in your Gateway cart. Depending on what size cards you have, you might prefer one over the other. Both should be safe for online play.
aside from all that, you can now set up your o3ds to boot straight into Gateway with Menuhax so you don't have to bother with the DS Profile exploit (4.5) or loading Gateway through browser (9.2). I have mine set up to load straight into Gateway mode and installed HBL cia to launch HB. Takes a little hex editing, but works great.
that sounds quite nice actually. Does the exit setting glitch still kick you back into your sysNAND though?
The fact is that it still takes hours to install a CIA file. If OP wants to spend that much time installing a game, he can use that time to walk to the nearest Walmart, buy a bargain bin game, walk back to his house, and get a private header in the time before the CIA finished installing.
EDIT: @XDark_FenixX Continue using .3dz as you have been, but you should get a CIA installer anyway so you can install DLC and updates.
The whole point of having a Gateway is for the convenience of using .3dz files. If you are going to use CIAs, just sell your Gateway and use CFW.
Sounds good. I do want some DLC and updates though (like smash characters) so it sounds like I'll have to get a CIA installer anyways. Is it really that complicated to use CIA files?
I do have several games ripped that ive been using for different 3dz files. I've found some headers won't work with some games (not sure why) but i have 3 or 4 I can rotate and 1 eventually works
Last edited by XDark_FenixX,