There will come a time when your PS4 will start failing. Sometimes, it might just be old age. Other times, it might be from specific components falling apart. Fret not, because you have two options to fix it. These are the two steps you can do:
Rebuild Your PS4 database
The PS4, like any computer, needs defragmenting every once in a while. Defragmenting your device’s hard drive can eliminate unnecessary files and help it work at optimum capacity. Your system will reorganize all your files so they can run smoothly and efficiently.
You can apply this trick with your PS4. One of the features of the Sony PS4 Safe Mode menu is the Rebuild Database option, which can speed up and solve many issues in your console. Think of it as a defrag option for the PS4. The device will scan its own drive and create a new database to free up space.
When you rebuild your PS4’s database, rest assured that it won’t delete any of your saved data. It will reorganize your data to free up space and freshen up your system. To rebuild your PS4 database, you need to put your PS4 into Safe Mode, which can be achieved with these steps:
- Power down your PS4 and connect your Dualshock 4 controller to the console via a USB cable.
- Put it on safe mode by pressing and holding the power button down until you hear two beeps in about seven seconds.
- Once it is in safe mode, select the “Rebuild Database” option from the menu. Do not select the “Initialize PS4” because it will erase all your data.
- The screen will go black, indicating the rebuild process. It will take some time, depending on your data. If it still doesn’t work, try to initialize PS4.
Initialize Your PS4
Initializing your PS4 means deleting all the data on the console’s hard drive and system software. This should be your last resort. To make sure you have all the data you need, upload your files to an external device or to the cloud. If you want to back up using the cloud, you will need a Playstation Plus account. You also need the full package of PS4 system software to back up on an external device.
Here are the steps to initialize PS4:
1. Access Safe Mode
Follow the steps in the previous section to access safe mode. However, do not select “Rebuild PS4 Database.”
2. Select Initialize PS4
Once you can access Safe Mode, you can select option 7 [Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software), and you’re all done.
3. Clear the PS4 CMOS
Remove the CMOS battery. After 10 seconds, put it back in place.
What Are the Reasons My PS4 Is Freezing?
The most common reason for PS4 freezing is a defective internal hard drive. There are two levels of damage: serious and easy. When you start hearing a clicking noise in your PS4, that is a sign of a seriously damaged hard drive. The noise comes from the bad movement in the disk’s read-write actuator, which you will need to replace soon.
If it doesn’t make any noise, then the damage is likely easy to fix. Other reasons for PS4 freezing are unstable internet connections, bad controllers, malfunctioning cooling fans, or defective hardware.
Whatever the case may be, these issues are best handled by professionals skilled in PS4 repair.
Final Thoughts
If your PS4 ever freezes or misbehaves, you can follow these two options. It’s still best to choose to rebuild your database over initializing your PS4. Just make sure to back up your files beforehand to avoid any problems when initializing.
Do you need a shop that offers PS4 repairs in the UK? Gamer Tech is a gaming repair company that uses the latest techniques and quality parts to repair your PS4. Check our website today!
