How to Factory Reset PS4: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your PS4 might be running slower than a loading screen from the 90s. You’re not alone. Millions of PS4 owners experience performance problems, freezing screens, and mysterious error codes each year.

A factory reset becomes a significant skill every PlayStation owner should master. This process helps when you plan to sell your console, fix persistent problems, or simply want a fresh start. The reset works like a time machine, taking your console back to its first-unboxed state.

The thought of resetting your gaming companion might feel overwhelming. Questions about saved games, screenshots, and digital purchases could make you hesitate. Rest assured – we have answers for all your concerns.

Our comprehensive walkthrough covers everything about factory resetting your PS4. You’ll learn proper data backup methods and steps to get your console running smoothly again. Let’s restore your PlayStation to its glory days!

Why Factory Reset Your PS4

Here’s what you need to know about PS4 factory reset and its impact on your console. This guide will help you decide if resetting is the right choice for you.

Common Reasons for Reset

Your PS4 might need a factory reset if it shows constant crashes, freezes, or mysterious glitches. Players often reset their console before selling or trading it, and with good reason too – this step protects your personal information and PlayStation Network (PSN) account details.

There’s another reason why you might want to reset – upgrading your PS4’s hard drive or removing potential malware. New owners of used PS4s should reset their console to start fresh without any old data that could pose security risks.

What Data Gets Erased

A factory reset comes in two different forms:

• Restore Default Settings: This keeps your games and saved data while reverting system settings
• Initialize PS4: The complete wipe that returns your console to its original state

A full initialization removes all user accounts, saved games, screenshots, video clips, downloaded games, and personal settings. Your console becomes exactly like it was the day you first opened the box.

When to Consider Alternative Solutions

A full reset isn’t always the answer. Your PS4’s slow performance might just need some storage space cleared or a better internet connection. To name just one example, see how rebuilding your PS4’s database – like giving your console a spring cleaning – might fix minor performance issues.

Keep in mind: Factory reset should be your last option. Simple fixes like clearing the cache or updating system software might solve your problem without the irreversible and time-consuming reset process.

Essential Pre-Reset Preparations

Let’s take a closer look at the reset process. Your important data needs to be safe and secure first. This guide will help you protect your gaming progress and personal information.

Backing Up Save Data and Screenshots

Your data should be backed up before moving forward with the reset. PlayStation Plus members can make use of 100GB of cloud storage for their backups. You can use a USB drive formatted as FAT32 or exFAT if you don’t have a PS Plus subscription. Here’s what you can save:

• Game saves and progress
• Screenshots and video clips
• System settings
• User profile data
• Deactivating PSN Account

This step is a vital part of the process, especially if you plan to sell your console. Your PS4 needs to be deactivated as your primary console to prevent sign-in issues on other devices. Navigate to 

Settings > Account Management > Activate as Your Primary PS4 > Deactivate.

Sony’s website offers an option to deactivate all devices if you can’t access your console. This option becomes available once every six months.

Removing External Storage

External storage devices need a safe disconnection to keep your data intact. Direct unplugging could damage your saved data, so never do this. Follow these steps instead:

1. Access the Quick Menu by holding the PS button
2. Select Sound/Devices
3. Choose Stop Using This Extended Storage
4. Wait for the confirmation message before removing your device

Your gaming progress is valuable, so take time to complete these preparations properly.

Standard Reset Process

Let’s start the actual reset process now that our preparations are complete. This guide will help you perform a smooth factory reset of your PS4.

Accessing PS4 Settings Menu

The first step starts on your PS4’s main screen. You need to find Settings, then look for Initialization as you scroll down. This menu has all the options needed to reset your console. Your PS4 should have a proper TV connection and a working controller.

Choosing Reset Options

The Initialization menu presents these options:

• Restore Default Settings: This keeps your data but resets system settings
• Initialize PS4: This wipes your console completely

A complete factory reset needs you to select Initialize PS4 and then choose Full on the next screen. Your console will be wiped clean of all personal data with this option.

Monitoring Reset Progress

The complete reset usually takes several hours. A progress bar on your screen shows how the process moves along. Here are vital points to remember:

1. Your PS4 must stay powered on during the reset
2. The console needs good ventilation because it might heat up
3. The system will restart automatically when finished

Safe Mode offers an alternative path if you can’t access the settings menu. Just hold the power button until you hear two beeps. This method gives you the same reset options and works great when system problems occur.

Post-Reset Setup Guide

We’ll help you get your PS4 up and running after the factory reset. A proper post-reset setup will ensure your console works flawlessly.

Original Configuration Steps

Here’s how to set up your system:

1. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection to connect your PS4 to the internet
2. Choose between Wi-Fi or wired connection
3. Go to Settings > System > System Software Update to update your system software
4. Let the automatic download and installation finish

Restoring Backed-up Data

Your saved data needs to come back now. PlayStation Plus members can easily access their cloud storage. 

To restore USB backups, plug in your storage device and go to Settings > System > Back Up and Restore. Pick the backup file you want to restore and the system will do the rest.

Reinstalling Games and Apps

Your game library needs rebuilding! Here are your options:

• Physical Games: Insert the game disk and let it install
• Digital Games: Head to your library to redownload your purchases
• Downloaded Content: This could take several hours so a wired connection will give you faster speeds

Note that your PlayStation Network purchases stay linked to your account, not your console. Your digital content becomes available for download once you sign in. An Ethernet cable will give you better download speeds than Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

Factory resetting your PS4 might feel daunting at first. But don’t worry – it’s a straightforward process that can fix many common console problems. Success depends on proper preparation. You’ll need to back up your data, deactivate your PSN account, and safely remove external storage before beginning.

Your gaming progress won’t disappear after a factory reset. Our backup strategies and post-reset setup guide will help you quickly restore your games, saves, and settings. The whole ordeal might take a few hours. Your patience will give a PS4 that runs like it did on day one.

Save this piece for when you need it later. These steps will guide you through a safe and effective reset, whether you’re fixing problems, selling your console, or starting fresh. A well-reset PS4 runs like new and stands ready to deliver countless hours of gaming fun.

FAQs

Q1. How do I perform a factory reset on my PS4? 

To factory reset your PS4, go to Settings, select Initialization, then choose Initialize PS4. For a complete reset, select the “Full” option. This process will erase all data except the operating system, returning your console to its original state.

Q2. What data will be erased during a PS4 factory reset? 

A full factory reset will delete all user accounts, saved games, screenshots, video clips, downloaded games, and personal settings. It essentially returns your PS4 to the same state as when you first unboxed it.

Q3. How long does a PS4 factory reset typically take? 

A full factory reset usually takes between 1-2 hours to complete. It’s important to ensure your controller is charged and to keep your PS4 powered on throughout the entire process.

Q4. Should I factory reset my PS4 before selling it? 

Yes, it’s highly recommended to perform a factory reset before selling your PS4. This ensures that all your personal information, including PSN account details and any stored payment information, is completely removed from the console.

Q5. What should I do before factory resetting my PS4? 

Before resetting, back up your save data and screenshots to cloud storage (if you’re a PlayStation Plus member) or to a USB drive. Also, deactivate your PS4 as your primary console in the Account Management settings, and safely remove any external storage devices.