A "portable" converter is a standalone executable tool that requires no installation. You can run it directly from a USB drive or a folder on your desktop. These tools automate the process of decrypting and rebuilding game data into a format that the 3DS operating system can recognize as an "installed" application. Why Use a Portable Converter?

, CIA files allow games to be installed directly onto a system's SD card and launched from the home menu. Why Use a Portable Converter?

With so many 3DS to CIA converter portables available online, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a converter:

Click the big "Convert" button. The software will work its magic. You will see a command prompt window pop up and scroll through text—this is normal. It usually takes only a few seconds to a minute depending on the game size.