Resetting your PlayStation can help fix errors in the system or its installed apps by restoring the console to its factory default settings. There are multiple ways to reset a PlayStation, like using the “System Settings” or the “Safe Mode.”
Key Takeaways
- You can factory reset a PlayStation in two ways: by initializing/restoring it from the “System Settings” or through the “Safe Mode.”
- It brings advantages for the user, like increasing free storage, boosting the console’s speed and performance, and resolving various errors.
- Make sure to back up your essential data and sign out of your PlayStation Network profile before resetting the system.
What Does It Mean To Reset PlayStation?
Resetting differs from a simple restart such that it erases all the data on your PlayStation’s hard drive, including the installed games, apps, personal files, and user profiles. Therefore, you should consider it a last resort when solving system errors.
The Right Way To Reset PlayStation?
There are two basic ways we use to reset any PS model;
- Using the PlayStation Settings.
- Using the Safe Mode.
PS3
Performing a full format on your PlayStation 3 will reset the device and erase all the installed games and apps, changing the settings to their default.
Settings
We tried this method since it seemed to work for various subscribers of Youtuber Mydoodads, and it proved helpful:
- Head to PS3 Dashboard > Settings > System Settings > Restore PS3 System.
Restore PS3 (Image By Tech4Gamers) - Pick Yes > Full Format > Yes.
Full Format (Image By Tech4Gamers) - The next screen should read, Restoring Default Settings.
Safe Mode
Here are the steps you can use:
- Turn off your PS3.
- Press and hold the Power button > wait for two beeps > Release after the second beep.
- Connect a controller with a USB wire > Press the PS button.
- Select Restore PS3 System.
Restore PS3 (Image By Tech4Gamers)
Also Read: Explained: How To Power Cycle PlayStation?
PS4
For PlayStation 4, you need to fully initialize your system when restoring the settings to their factory default, or the process will not work.
Settings
This is our go-to technique for resetting PS4, plus it has helped several Reddit users too:
- Come to the Dashboard > Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 > Full.
Full Initialize (Image By Tech4Gamers) - Hit Initialize > Yes.
Confirm Initialize (Image By Tech4Gamers) - The next screen will say, Restarting The PS4. Once completed, the initialization should begin.
Safe Mode
Find the correct method to reset PS4 using the Safe Mode below:
- Turn off your PlayStation.
- Hold the Power button on the console for about 8 to 9 seconds until you hear two beep sounds > Release after the second beep.
- Connect the controller to the console with a USB wire > Press the PS Button.
- Navigate to Initialize PS4 > Yes.
Initialize PS4 (Image By Tech4Gamers) - Your PS4 will start initializing.
Also Read: How To Update PlayStation? [PS4 And PS5]
PS5
The PS5 settings menu has a slightly different interface than its predecessor, though we found it well-defined and easy to navigate.
Settings
The following are the exact steps we used to reset our PS5, and it is legitimate, as also proven by the subscribers of Tech & Design on YouTube:
- Access Settings > System > System Software.
- Choose Reset Options > Reset Your Console > Reset.
Select Reset (Image By Tech4Gamers) - Select Yes.
- The next screen will read, Restarting Your PS5.
Safe Mode
Here are the easiest steps we followed.
- Shut down your PS5 and wait for the console’s light to go out.
- Hold the “Power” button on the console. Let go after the second beep sound is audible.
- Connect the PS5 controller using a compatible USB cable > Hit the PS button.
- Select Reset PS5 > Yes.
Reset PS5 (Image By Tech4Gamers)
When Should You Reset PlayStation?
Many situations can compel you to reset your PlayStation, for instance, when facing different PS errors or corrupted data.
It is wise to reset your system before selling or giving it away to someone since it contains your profile data and credit/debit card information.
In addition, resetting is necessary when your PlayStation is running low on free space, restricting you from downloading new games and apps. Additionally, technical issues like freezing, crashing, glitches, overheating, and noisy functioning may require a system reset.
Benefits Of Resetting Your PlayStation
Performing a full reset on your PlayStation can be beneficial for several reasons, such as those mentioned below. The process;
- Resolves software issues in your PlayStation and solves frequent system crashes or in-game freezes.
- Provides storage by erasing unnecessary files and data from the system.
- Wipes out all the data to start afresh.
- Helps fix different app and game errors.
- Speeds up your console’s performance.
- Reinstall the operating system to get rid of corrupt files and data.
Also Read: How To Clean PS4, PS5, & Controller
Frequently Asked Questions
Certain reasons could demand you to reset your console, for instance, when you face technical issues, cannot install new applications/games, or before selling or giving away your PlayStation.
Yes, resetting will wipe out all the user data on the system, including your saved game data and profiles.
You can reset or initialize your PlayStation from “Settings” or “Safe Mode.”
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[How To Guides Specialist]
Dayan Shahid is a skilled mechanical engineer passionate about technology. With certifications in various programming languages and subjects ranging from microcontrollers to aerial robotics, Dayan can effortlessly present complex technical topics in an engaging way. His ability to bridge the gap between theory and practical applications sets him apart as he continues to inspire others through their insightful content.
