What is how to factory reset ps4?

Factory Resetting Your PS4: A Comprehensive Guide

Performing a factory reset on your PlayStation 4 (PS4) will erase all data on the system's hard drive, restoring it to its original factory settings. This is useful for various reasons, such as selling your console, troubleshooting persistent issues, or simply starting fresh. It is crucial to back up any important data before proceeding, as the reset process is irreversible.

There are two primary methods for factory resetting a PS4:

Method 1: Resetting from the PS4 Menu

This method is suitable if you can still access the PS4's main menu.

  1. Backup Your Data: Before proceeding, back up your saved game data to an external hard drive or PlayStation Plus cloud storage.
  2. Sign Out of PlayStation Network: Go to Settings > Account Management > Sign Out.
  3. Deactivate as Primary PS4: Go to Settings > Account Management > Activate as Your Primary PS4 > Deactivate.
  4. Initialize PS4: Go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4.
  5. Choose Initialization Type: You'll be presented with two options:
    • Quick: This option is faster but less thorough. It may leave some recoverable data on the hard drive.
    • Full: This option takes significantly longer (potentially several hours) but completely erases all data. Choose this for maximum security, especially if you're selling the PS4.
  6. Confirm the Reset: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm that you want to initialize the PS4. The system will restart and begin the reset process.

Method 2: Resetting from Safe Mode

This method is useful if you're experiencing issues that prevent you from accessing the PS4's main menu.

  1. Turn off the PS4: Ensure the console is completely powered off. The power indicator light should be off.
  2. Enter Safe Mode: Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps. The first beep will sound immediately when you press the button, and the second will sound about seven seconds later. Release the button after the second beep.
  3. Connect a Controller: Connect a DualShock 4 controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
  4. Select "Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)": Using the controller, navigate to and select option 7: "Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)".
  • Note: If you are seeing other options, such as 'Initialize PS4', it is recommended to select this option first. Should the issue persist, only then attempt the 'Reinstall System Software' option.
  1. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the prompts to reinstall the system software.

Important Considerations:

  • PSN Login: You will need your PlayStation Network (PSN) login credentials (email address and password) to set up the PS4 after the reset. Make sure you remember your PSN details
  • Internet Connection: An internet connection is required to reinstall the system software.
  • Reinstalling System Software from USB Drive: If the Reinstall System Software option fails, you may need to download the latest PS4 system software from the PlayStation website and install it from a USB drive. Check PlayStation's support page for the most recent version.