Welcome to our guide on how to perform a PlayStation 4 factory reset using a USB. If you’re experiencing issues with your PS4 or simply want to start fresh, a factory reset can often solve the problem. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of performing a factory reset using a USB.
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, let’s make sure you have everything you need. To perform a factory reset using a USB, you’ll need the following:
- A USB flash drive with at least 1GB of free space
- A computer with internet access
- A PlayStation 4 console
Step 1: Prepare the USB
The first step is to prepare the USB flash drive. Connect the USB to your computer and ensure it has at least 1GB of free space. Format the USB to FAT32 file system to ensure compatibility with the PS4.
Step 2: Download the System Software
Next, you’ll need to download the latest system software for your PlayStation 4. Visit the official PlayStation website and navigate to the “System Software” section. Download the software onto your computer.
Step 3: Create the Update Folder
Once the system software is downloaded, create a new folder on the USB flash drive and name it “PS4”. Inside the “PS4” folder, create another folder named “UPDATE”.
Step 4: Transfer the System Software
Now, transfer the downloaded system software file onto the USB flash drive. Make sure to place the file inside the “UPDATE” folder. Ensure that the file is named “PS4UPDATE.PUP”.
Step 5: Safely Eject the USB
After transferring the system software file, safely eject the USB from your computer. This will ensure that the data is properly saved and ready for use on the PS4.
Step 6: Perform the Factory Reset
With the USB prepared, it’s time to perform the factory reset on your PlayStation 4. Turn off your PS4 completely and unplug it from the power source. Insert the USB flash drive into the PS4’s USB port.
Step 7: Boot into Safe Mode
Hold down the power button on the PS4 until you hear two beeps. This will boot the console into Safe Mode. Connect a controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
Step 8: Initialize PS4
In Safe Mode, select the “Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)” option. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the factory reset process. The PS4 will automatically detect the system software on the USB and guide you through the installation.
Step 9: Wait for the Process to Complete
Once the factory reset process begins, it may take some time to complete. Be patient and do not interrupt the process. The PS4 will restart automatically once the reset is finished.
Step 10: Set Up Your PS4
After the reset is complete, you’ll need to set up your PS4 again, just like when you first purchased it. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your language, network settings, and user profile.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully performed a PlayStation 4 factory reset using a USB. This process can help resolve various issues and give your PS4 a fresh start. Remember to backup any important data before performing a factory reset. Enjoy your newly reset PlayStation 4
