Can't start console in Safe Mode

How to troubleshoot Safe Mode issues

Learn how to resolve issues when trying to access Safe Mode on your PlayStation®5 console or PlayStation®4 console.

How to start your console in Safe Mode

  1. Turn off your console by holding the power button for three seconds. The power indicator will blink for a few moments before turning off.
  2. Once the console is off, press and hold the power button again. Release it after you hear the second beep — one beep will sound when you first press, and another seven seconds later.
  3. Connect the controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.

Safe mode won’t launch

If Safe Mode doesn’t launch, there might be a problem with your USB, HDMI or power cable:

  1. If the TV or monitor doesn’t display the Safe Mode screen, it’s possible that the HDMI cable isn’t properly connected. 
PS5 console set up
PS4 console set up
  1. Try using a different USB cable, HDMI cable, and power cable. 
    Try to launch Safe Mode each time you change a cable.

If Safe Mode still won't launch, try power cycling your console:

  1. Completely turn off the console by holding the power button.
  2. Wait for the power light to stop flashing, then remove the power cable and leave the console for 20 minutes.
  3. Reconnect and attempt to launch Safe Mode.

System software can’t be updated automatically

If the console has been offline for a long time, or if the internet connection is lost during a system software update, you may need to update manually.

Please refer to the following guides for more information.

Update system software in Safe Mode

System software manual update has failed

If the manual update doesn’t work, you may need to reinstall the system software by selecting Safe Mode option 7 (Reinstall System Software).

Please visit the guides below for more information. If possible, attempt to back up your data before reinstalling your system software.

Reinstall system software
Back up PS5 console data
Back up PS4 console data

Still having issues?

If you're unable to access Safe Mode, use the PlayStation Repairs diagnostic tool for further instructions and to arrange for repairs.

Need help? 

Contact our support specialists

Contact PlayStation Support