Whether it’s trying to resolve an issue or simply wanting a fresh start, this guide will walk through the steps necessary to factory reset a PS4.
Factory resetting a device like a PlayStation 4 can be a sometimes drastic, but necessary step in troubleshooting and resolving an issue. Otherwise, it can be useful in simply getting a fresh start with the console or if one plans to sell the PlayStation 4 or give it to a friend or family member. Knowing how to perform the factory reset on a PS4 can be a tricky proposition without a guide.
There are two major components to performing a factory reset. The first is disassociating the PSN account from the PlayStation 4. The second is the actual factory reset. Performing the factory reset is recommended if the user is planning on keeping the console. Performing both is recommended if planning on selling or giving away the console.
Disassociate the PSN Account
- Navigate to and open “Settings”
- Navigate to and select “Account Management”
- Select “Activate as Your Primary PS4”
- Select “Deactivate”
- Select “Yes” to confirm
- Select “OK” once complete
Deactivating the PSN account on the PS4 is akin to disabling the “find my device” feature on a phone and signing out of any accounts associated with it. It’s also wise to perform this step if purchasing a used PlayStation 4 as it may not have been done by the previous owner or reseller.
Performing the Factory Reset
- Navigate to and open “Settings”
- Open “Initialization”
- Select “Initialize PS4”
- “Quick” will quickly wipe all of the data from the drive but isn’t completely secure as the data can be recovered using specialized software. “Full” will wipe the drive securely and prevents attempts at recovering data. Selecting “Full” will take several hours to complete, but is the best option from a security standpoint.
- Once “Quick” or “Full” has been selected, select “Initialize”
- Select “Yes” to confirm
- The PlayStation 4 will reboot and the Factory Reset process will begin. Once complete, the PlayStation 4 will boot and be at the startup screen. From here, holding down the power button will safely turn the console off.
Performing the necessary steps to factory reset a PlayStation 4 and/or prepare it for resale isn’t necessarily complicated, but having the steps can be useful for new users and veterans alike. It’s also good to remember that the process can take several hours to complete, so carving out enough time to ensure the process completes is crucial. With a “fresh” PS4 ready to be loaded with games and apps, there’s not much in the way between players and their content aside from download times.
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