---
title: Protocol — setup procedures | Meridian
description: Meridian setup procedures in order: Windows installer, firmware install, first boot, library indexing, DualSense, and runtime fixes.
canonical: https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol
updated: 2026-10-13
---

# Protocol

The ordered setup path: install, firmware, boot, index, controller — with fixes attached.

## Facts (2026-10-13)

- **Order:** Installer → firmware → boot → index → controller
- **Firmware:** Official PS5UPDATE.PUP, File → Install Firmware
- **Runtime:** Microsoft Visual C++ 2015–2022 x64
- **Time:** About 20 minutes plus downloads

## Protocol sequence

| Step | Page | Check |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | [Windows installer](/protocol/windows-installer) | Launcher opens, version shown |
| 2 | [Install firmware](/protocol/install-firmware) | Firmware version listed in About |
| 3 | [Boot system software](/protocol/boot-system-software) | System menu reaches idle |
| 4 | [Index your library](/protocol/index-your-library) | Owned title appears with art |
| 5 | [DualSense](/protocol/dualsense-setup-pc) | Pad test shows USB + triggers |

## Follow the procedures in order

Each Protocol page is one procedure with a stated precondition and a check at the end. Run them in sequence: [Windows installer](/protocol/windows-installer), [Install firmware](/protocol/install-firmware), [Boot system software](/protocol/boot-system-software), [Index your library](/protocol/index-your-library), then [DualSense](/protocol/dualsense-setup-pc).

If a step fails, do not skip ahead — the failure compounds. The two most common stops are a missing firmware file and the missing runtime in [Missing runtime](/protocol/missing-runtime).

All procedures assume the free [Download Meridian](/download) build for 64-bit Windows 10 or 11.

## What each page guarantees

- Preconditions stated up front: what must already be true.

- Numbered steps with exact menu paths, e.g. File then Install Firmware.

- A verification check that proves the step worked before you continue.

## FAQ

### Can I skip firmware and index games first?

Indexing without firmware succeeds but nothing boots. Install the official PS5UPDATE.PUP first per [Install firmware](/protocol/install-firmware).

### How long does full setup take?

About 20 minutes of active work plus download time for the installer, firmware, and runtime.

### Where do I get Meridian itself?

From [Download Meridian](/download). Verify SmartScreen guidance in [Windows installer](/protocol/windows-installer).

## Related

- [Windows installer](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol/windows-installer)
- [Install firmware](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol/install-firmware)
- [Boot system software](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol/boot-system-software)
- [Index your library](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol/index-your-library)
- [Missing runtime](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol/missing-runtime)

## Download

Free Windows app: [Download Meridian](https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/download)

Markdown mirror: https://ps5emulatorwindows.com/protocol.md