If you’re planning to sell your PS4 or encountering technical issues that can’t be resolved, performing a factory reset might be your best course of action. However, the process can seem daunting if you’re unsure of the steps involved or the consequences.
This guide will detail how to factory reset your PS4, with or without a controller, how to reset a PS4 Slim, the time it takes for a factory reset, and what data will be erased in the process.
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Factory Resetting a PS4: An Overview
A factory reset wipes your PS4 clean, restoring it to its original state when you first bought it. This process will delete all user data, settings, downloaded games, and saved game data.
Hence, before you initiate a factory reset, make sure to back up any essential data to an external storage device or the cloud.
How to Factory Reset Your PS4 with a Controller
Resetting your PS4 to factory settings using a controller is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Access Safe Mode: Turn off your PS4 completely (don’t enter Rest Mode). Once it’s off, press and hold the power button. Release it after you’ve heard two beeps: one when you initially press, and another about seven seconds later.
- Connect Your Controller: Using a USB cable, connect your controller to the PS4 and press the PS button on the controller.
- Perform Factory Reset: In the Safe Mode menu, select ‘Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)’. Follow the prompts to complete the process.
How to Factory Reset Your PS4 Without a Controller
If your controller isn’t working, you can still factory reset your PS4 using the console’s power button. This method involves booting your PS4 in Safe Mode and resetting it from there:
- Access Safe Mode: Turn off your PS4. Then, press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
- Perform Factory Reset: Press the power button to select ‘Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)’ in the Safe Mode menu. Follow the instructions to complete the process.
How to Factory Reset a PS4 Slim
The process of factory resetting a PS4 Slim is the same as the standard PS4 model, involving booting in Safe Mode and selecting the ‘Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)’ option.
Factory Resetting Your PS4 for Sale
Before selling your PS4, you’ll want to ensure that none of your personal data remains on the console. Factory resetting is the way to go:
- Backup Your Data: Backup any important data, like game saves, to an external storage device or the cloud.
- Deactivate Your PS4: To remove the PS4 from your Sony account, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Account Management’ > ‘Activate as Your Primary PS4’ > ‘Deactivate’.
- Perform Factory Reset: Follow the steps mentioned earlier to factory reset your PS4.
How Long Does it Take to Factory Reset a PS4?
The time taken to factory reset a PS4 can vary based on different factors, such as the amount of data on the console. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.
Does Factory Resetting PS4 Delete Everything?
Yes, performing a factory reset will delete all data and settings on your PS4, including your downloaded games, game saves, and user profiles. Ensure you backup any crucial data before starting the reset process.
In conclusion, while a factory reset may seem like a complex task, following these steps will make the process smoother and more manageable. Remember to always back up your data before initiating a factory reset, as the process will erase all data on your PS4.
