The legal status of console BIOS files is distinct from that of game software. While the "MGM Studios, Inc. v. Grokster, Ltd." ruling established precedents regarding file sharing, the specific legality of emulation was partially addressed in Sony v. Connectix . In that case, the court ruled that reverse-engineering the PlayStation BIOS for the purpose of creating a compatible emulator (Connectix Virtual Game Station) was permissible under fair use.
While many BIOS versions exist, the SCPH-90001 files are highly sought after for several reasons: scph 90001 bios download
The only widely accepted legal way to acquire a PS2 BIOS for personal emulation is to "dump" or extract it from a console you already own. PlayStation 2 Bios Where To Get PS2 Bios The legal status of console BIOS files is