Linux

Run SideWinder FFB2 force feedback on Linux.

FFB-Bridge ships a Linux AppImage and drives the Microsoft SideWinder Force Feedback 2 through evdev force feedback. It is a practical path for X-Plane 11/12 on Linux and for MSFS 2024 setups running through Proton.

Download for Linux Linux install docs
FFB-Bridge Support page showing Linux SimConnect and loopback setup guidance FFB-Bridge Support page showing Linux SimConnect and loopback setup guidance
The Support page includes Linux-focused checks for simulator reachability, loopback details, and repair steps.
Linux facts
Package
Self-contained AppImage
Joystick API
evdev force feedback
Permissions
udev rule helper on the Support page
Tested distros
CachyOS, Ubuntu, Fedora, NixOS
Permissions

evdev access must be allowed.

If the DEVICE lamp is red on Linux, Support checks verify whether your user can open the FFB2 event node and can install the udev rule with a polkit prompt.

Support page guide
X-Plane

Clean native Linux path

X-Plane 11/12 on Linux pairs well with FFB-Bridge because UDP telemetry, evdev output, and the bridge all run natively.

X-Plane page
MSFS

Proton needs matching loopback config

MSFS 2024 under Proton can work, but SimConnect must bind to an address the Linux bridge can reach.

MSFS Proton notes
Setup Summary

The Linux checklist.

  1. Download the Linux AppImage from the emailed download link.
  2. Make it executable, run --install, then launch it from the menu or terminal.
  3. Run Support checks if the FFB2 is detected but not accessible.
  4. Connect X-Plane or MSFS, pick a profile, then arm from the cockpit ARM gauge.
Install on Linux Troubleshoot Linux
Linux desktop menu entry for launching FFB-Bridge AppImage
The AppImage --install flow can add a desktop entry so FFB-Bridge feels like a normal app after first setup.
Linux FAQ

Common Linux questions.

What Linux package do I download?

Use the self-contained AppImage from the download email. Make it executable, run it with --install, then launch it from your application menu or terminal.

Why is the device detected but not accessible?

Your user may not have permission to open the FFB2 evdev event node. Run Support checks; they can identify the permissions issue and guide the udev-rule fix.

Is X-Plane on Linux supported natively?

Yes. X-Plane, UDP telemetry, FFB-Bridge, and evdev force output can all run natively on the same Linux host.

Can MSFS 2024 under Proton work?

It can, but SimConnect must bind to an address and port the Linux bridge can reach from outside the Proton prefix.

Linux force feedback is a first-class path.

Hardware support is focused, but Linux is not an afterthought.

Get Linux download link Read X-Plane setup