Rebooting a PlayStation 4 (PS4) console can be a simple yet powerful solution to address a range of issues that may arise during gamingsessions. Whether you're encountering performance hiccups, experiencing freezing or connectivity problems, or simply looking to refresh your system, a reboot can often do the trick.

In this article, we will guide you through different methods on how to reboot a PS4, ensuring that you have the knowledge and confidence to tackle any obstacles that come your way.

What To Do If Your PS4 Crashes Or Freezes Up?

How To FIX PS4 Crashing / Freezing! (2021)

Experiencing crashes or freezes on your PS4 can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here's what to do if your PS4 crashes or freezes up:

• Restart your PS4 -The first step is to reboot your PS4. Press and hold the Power button on the front panel of the console until it powers off completely. Afterward, unplug the power cord from the back of the console, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in. Power on your PS4 and check if the issue persists.
• Check for system updates -Ensure that your PS4's system software is up to date. Go to the Settings menu, select "System Software Update," and follow the prompts to download and install any available updates. Sometimes, software bugs can cause crashes or freezes, and updating your system can address these issues.
• Free up storage space -A lack of free storage space on your PS4's hard drive can lead to performance problems. Delete any unnecessary games, applications, or videos to free up space. Additionally, make sure you have sufficient free space for game updates and system operations.
• Rebuild the database -Over time, the database on your PS4 can become cluttered, potentially leading to crashes or freezes. To rebuild the database, start your PS4 in Safe Mode by holding the Power button until you hear two beeps. From the Safe Mode menu, select the "Rebuild Database" option. Be aware that this process may take some time, but it can help improve system performance.
• Check for overheating -An overheating PS4 can cause crashes or freezes. Make sure your console is well-ventilated and not placed in an enclosed space. Clean any dust from the vents using a can of compressed air, as dust buildup can impede proper airflow. If the console continues to overheat, you may need to contact Sony support for further assistance.
• Restore default settings -If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you can try restoring your PS4's default settings. Be cautious as this process will remove all user data, including installed games and saved progress. From the Settings menu, select "Initialization" and choose either "Restore Default Settings" or "Initialize PS4." Follow the prompts to complete the process.

If the problem persists even after attempting these steps, it may indicate a hardware issue. In such cases, it is recommended to contact Sony support or a professional technician for further assistance and potential repairs.

How To Back Up Your PS4 Data?

PS4 How to Backup Save Data in Under 2 Minutes

Backing up your PS4 data is essential to safeguard your game saves, settings, and other valuable content. Here's a step-by-step guide on how toback up your PS4 data:

• Prepare an external storage device -Connect an external USB storage device with sufficient capacity to your PS4. This can be a USB flash drive (USB 3.0 or higher), an external hard drive, or a solid-state drive (SSD). Ensure that the storage device is formatted to either FAT32 or exFAT.
• Access the Backup & Restore menu -Turn on your PS4 and log in to your account. From the main menu, navigate to "Settings" using the top menu bar. Scroll down and select "System," then choose "Backup and Restore."
• Select "Back Up PS4" -In the Backup and Restore menu, choose "Back Up PS4" to start the backup process.
• Choose data to back up -You will be presented with options to select the data you want to back up. By default, the "Applications" and "Saved Data" options are selected. You can also choose to include "Themes" and "Settings." Customize the selection based on your preferences.
• Start the backup -Once you've chosen the desired data, select "Next" to proceed. Review the summary of the backup settings and confirm by selecting "Back Up."
• Wait for the backup to complete -The backup process may take some time, depending on the amount of data being backed up and the speed of your external storage device. Ensure that your PS4 remains powered on and connected until the backup is finished.
• Verify the backup -After the backup is completed, you can verify its success by going back to the "Backup and Restore" menu. Choose "Restore PS4" and select the backup file. The system will display the backup details and confirm if the backup was successful.

It's recommended to perform regular backups to keep your data up to date. You can also set up automatic backups by enabling the "Automatic Downloads" feature in the "Power Saving Settings" section of the Settings menu.

How To Reboot A PS4 Using A Controller?

Rebooting a PS4 using a controller is a convenient method to quickly restart your console. Here's how you can do it:

• Ensure your PS4 is powered on - Make sure your PS4 is turned on and you're logged into your account.
• Press and hold the PlayStation button -Locate the PlayStation button in the center of your controller. Press and hold it for a few seconds until the Quick Menu appears on your screen.
• Navigate to the Power option -Use the directional pad on your controller (the left thumbstick) to scroll down and highlight the "Power" option in the Quick Menu.
• Select Restart PS4 -Once the "Power" option is selected, you'll see a sub-menu with different power-related options. Navigate down to "Restart PS4" using the directional pad.
• Confirm the restart -After selecting "Restart PS4," a confirmation prompt will appear on your screen. Verify that you want to restart your console and select "OK" to proceed.
• Wait for the reboot -Your PS4 will now begin the reboot process. It will power off and then turn back on automatically. Wait patiently until the console completes the reboot process.

Once your PS4 has rebooted, it will start up fresh, potentially resolving any temporary glitches or issues you were experiencing. This method is particularly useful if you're encountering minor software problems or if you want to perform a quick system refresh without physically turning off your console.

How To Factory Reset A PS4?

How to Factory Reset your PS4 pro or PS4 SLIM before your Resell?

Performing a factory reset on your PS4 will restore it to its original settings, erasing all data, settings, and accounts from the console. Here's how you can do a factory reset:

• Power on your PS4 -Make sure your PS4 is turned on and you're logged into your account.
• Access the Settings menu -From the main menu, navigate to the top menu bar and select "Settings."
• Enter the Initialization menu -In the Settings menu, scroll down and select "Initialization."
• Choose Initialize PS4 -Within the Initialization menu, choose "Initialize PS4."
• Select Full initialization -You will be presented with two options: "Quick" and "Full." To perform a complete factory reset, select "Full."
• Read the warning message -A warning message will appear, explaining that all data will be deleted. Make sure you have backed up any important data and double-check that you're ready to proceed.
• Confirm the factory reset -After reading the warning message, select "Initialize" to confirm the factory reset.
• Wait for the process to complete -The factory reset process may take some time as it removes all data and reinstalls the system software. Your PS4 will restart several times during this process. Make sure not to turn off the console or unplug it until the reset is complete.

Once the factory reset is finished, your PS4 will be restored to its original factory settings, similar to when you first unboxed it. You will need to go through the initial setup process again, including signing in with your PlayStation Network account and reinstalling games and applications.

How To Factory Reset A PS4 From Safe Mode?

How to Reset SONY PlayStation 4 using Safe Mode – Restore to Default Settings

If you're unable to access the Settings menu on your PS4, you can still perform a factory reset by using Safe Mode. Here's how you can factory reset a PS4 from Safe Mode:

• Power off your PS4 -Ensure that your PS4 is completely powered off. You can do this by pressing and holding the Power button on the front panel until the system shuts down.
• Access Safe Mode -Press and hold the Power button again. Release it after you hear the initial startup beep, and then wait for a second beep. This usually takes about seven seconds. Your PS4 will now boot into Safe Mode.
• Connect your controller - Connect your PS4 controller to the console using a USB cable.
• Navigate to Initialize PS4 -In Safe Mode, you will see a menu with several options. Use the directional pad on your controller to navigate and select "Initialize PS4."
• Choose Full initialization -You will be presented with two options: "Quick" and "Full." To perform a complete factory reset, select "Full."
• Confirm the factory reset -A warning message will appear, informing you that all data will be deleted. Make sure you have backed up any important data and carefully read the message. Once you are ready to proceed, select "Initialize."
• Wait for the process to complete -The factory reset process will begin, and your PS4 will be restored to its original factory settings. It may take some time for the reset to finish, and your console will restart multiple times during this process. Do not turn off the console or unplug it until the reset is complete.

After the factory reset is finished, you will need to go through the initial setup process, including signing in with your PlayStation Network account and reinstalling games and applications.

How To Reinstall System Software On A PS4?

Reinstalling System Software | PS4

If you're experiencing issues with your PS4 system software or if it becomes corrupted, you may need to reinstall it. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to reinstall system software on a PS4:

• Prepare a USB flash drive -You will need a USB flash drive with at least 1 GB of free space. Ensure that the USB drive is formatted to FAT32 or exFAT.
• Download the system software -On a computer, visit the official PlayStation website (https://www.playstation.com/) and search for "PS4 system software download." Locate the appropriate system software version for your PS4 model and download it to your computer. The file should be named "PS4UPDATE.PUP."
• Create the system software installation file -Insert the USB flash drive into your computer and create a folder named "PS4" in the root directory of the USB drive. Inside the "PS4" folder, create another folder named "UPDATE" (in all capital letters). Copy the downloaded "PS4UPDATE.PUP" file into the "UPDATE" folder on the USB drive.
• Start your PS4 in Safe Mode -Power off your PS4 completely. Press and hold the Power button on the front panel until you hear the initial startup beep, and then release it. After a second beep, your PS4 will boot into Safe Mode.
• Connect the USB drive and reinstall the system software -Connect the USB drive containing the system software to one of the USB ports on your PS4. From the Safe Mode menu, select the option "Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)." Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed with the reinstallation.
• Wait for the installation to complete -The PS4 will begin reinstalling the system software from the USB drive. It may take some time, and your console will restart multiple times during the process. Do not turn off the console or remove the USB drive until the installation is complete.
• Set up your PS4 -Once the installation is finished, you will need to go through the initial setup process, including configuring language settings, and network settings, signing in with your PlayStation Network account, and reinstalling games and applications.

Reinstalling the system software can help resolve software-related issues on your PS4. If you continue to experience problems after reinstalling the system software, you may need to contact Sony support for further assistance.

People Also Ask

How Do I Connect My PS4 Controller To My PS4?

• Connect your controller to the PS4 console using a USB cable.
• Press and hold the PlayStation button on the controller until it turns on and connects to the console.

Can I Use A PS5 Controller On PS4?

The PlayStation 5 (PS5) DualSense controller is not officially compatible with the PS4. The PS4 only supports the use of the DualShock 4 controller.

How Do I Clean The Dust Out Of My PS4?

• Power off your PS4 and unplug it from the power source.
• Use a can of compressed air to blow away the dust from the vents and ports.
• You can also use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any visible dust from the exterior.

How Do I Transfer Data From One PS4 To Another?

• Connect both PS4 consoles to the same network.
• On the new PS4, go to "Settings" > "System" > "Transfer Data from Another PS4" and follow the on-screen instructions.

How Do I Put My PS4 In Safe Mode?

• Completely power off your PS4.
• Press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps (approximately seven seconds).
• Connect your controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
• Select the desired Safe Mode option from the menu that appears on the screen.

Conclusion

By following the outlined methods, you can easily reboot your PS4 and potentially resolve various issues that may arise during your gaming adventures. Remember to regularly reboot your PS4 to maintain optimal performance and address any temporary glitches that may occur.

Should the need arise, you can always explore additional troubleshooting options or seek technical support from Sony or a professional technician. With the ability to reboot your PS4 at your fingertips, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. So, get ready to power cycle your console and get back to gaming with renewed vigor!