Download & Trust

Download FFB-Bridge for Windows or Linux.

FFB-Bridge is a free beta app for the Microsoft SideWinder Force Feedback 2 joystick. Sign up once and you will receive private Windows and Linux download links by email.

Current build: v1.0.0-beta.11 · download published 2026-05-06. Download links are limited to reduce anonymous redistribution while the beta is moving quickly.

FFB-Bridge dashboard showing the app after launch with SideWinder FFB2 status and force output
After install, the Dashboard is the main cockpit for simulator status, device readiness, and force output.
Current release

v1.0.0-beta.11

Windows
ffb-bridge-setup-1.0.0-beta.11-x64.exe 34 MB · SHA-256 1a1f5f3ff9202f7a007b9a17efee3d539a6ee4884f48adebd3936158ea3b40de
Linux
FfbBridge-1.0.0-beta.11-x86_64.AppImage 40 MB · SHA-256 ea9bcc78ac7f7cc45b37636ec9c470b6e6f5092567fdae8ef42c02a54eb3c544
Install guide Changelog
Unsigned beta

Why Windows may warn you.

The Windows installer is not code-signed yet. SmartScreen may show an "Unrecognized app" warning, and Windows 11 Smart App Control can silently block first launch on some systems. Code-signing is planned for 1.0.

Windows warning notes
Local only

No telemetry from the app.

The desktop app talks to MSFS or X-Plane over local loopback and to the joystick over USB. It does not send flight data, settings, or hardware details over the internet.

Privacy policy
Support

Send evidence when something breaks.

Diagnostics can export a local support bundle with logs, settings, Doctor output, and system facts. You decide whether to attach it to a feedback report.

Support bundle guide
Install Path

From email link to first force.

  1. Confirm the email link and choose the Windows installer or Linux AppImage.
  2. Install per-user. No joystick driver package is required for the SideWinder FFB2.
  3. Launch FFB-Bridge, acknowledge the safety prompt, then connect MSFS 2024 or X-Plane 11/12.
  4. Arm from the cockpit ARM gauge only when your desk is clear and the stick is ready to move.
Read the install guide Check compatibility
FFB-Bridge safety prompt shown before first force feedback use
The first-run safety prompt appears before the bridge can arm the SideWinder and send force output.