How to Update System Software on PS4

Keeping your PS4’s system software up to date is crucial for accessing new features, improved security, and overall better performance. This guide will walk you through both automatic and manual methods to update your system software, ensuring your gaming experience remains smooth and enjoyable.

Automatic Updates

Enabling Automatic Updates

1. Turn on Your PS4: Make sure your console is connected to the internet.
2. Go to Settings: Navigate to the top menu bar and select the gear icon.
3. Select System Software Update: This option is typically located about halfway down the Settings menu.
4. Enable Automatic Downloads: In the System Software Update section, ensure the “Automatic Downloads” option is turned on. This setting allows your PS4 to download updates automatically when they become available.

Automatic Installation

1. Rest Mode Configuration: To make sure updates install automatically, configure your PS4 to stay connected to the internet in Rest Mode. Go to Settings > Power Saving Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode, and check “Stay Connected to the Internet.”
2. Updates During Rest Mode: Your PS4 will now download and install updates while in Rest Mode, ensuring you’re always running the latest software.

Manual Updates

If you prefer or need to update manually, follow these steps:

Via Internet

1. Turn on Your PS4: Ensure it’s connected to the internet.
2. Access Settings: Navigate to the Settings menu from the home screen.
3. Select System Software Update: Choose this option to check for available updates.
4. Download and Install: If an update is available, the system will prompt you to download and install it. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Via USB Drive

If your PS4 isn’t connected to the internet, you can update using a USB drive:

1. Prepare a USB Drive: Format the USB drive as FAT32. Create a folder named “PS4” in the root directory, then create another folder named “UPDATE” inside the “PS4” folder.
2. Download the Update File: Visit the official PlayStation website on your computer and download the latest PS4 system software update file. Save this file in the “UPDATE” folder on your USB drive. The file should be named “PS4UPDATE.PUP”.
3. Insert the USB Drive: Plug the USB drive into one of the PS4’s USB ports.
4. Enter Safe Mode: Turn off the PS4 completely. Hold the power button for about 7 seconds until you hear a second beep, which indicates the system is in Safe Mode.
5. Select Update System Software: In Safe Mode, choose the option to update system software and follow the prompts. Select “Update from USB Storage Device” and confirm by selecting “OK”. The PS4 will find the update file and install it.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with the update process, here are some tips:

1. Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure your PS4 is properly connected to the internet. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired connection for a more stable update process.
2. Restart Your PS4: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve update issues.
3. Rebuild Database: In Safe Mode, select the “Rebuild Database” option to clean up your PS4’s file system, which can help with any software glitches.
4. Re-download the Update File: If updating via USB, make sure the file is correctly named and placed in the right folders. Re-download the update file if necessary to ensure it’s not corrupted.

Updating your PS4’s system software is essential for maintaining optimal performance and security. Whether you choose automatic updates for convenience or manual updates for control, following these steps will help ensure your PS4 stays current with the latest features and improvements.