The PlayStation 4 was one of Sony’s most popular consoles to date, and for a good reason. The console was powerful enough, had quite the game library and was adequately priced.
However, just like everything tech, it also had its fair share of problems. In this article, we’re looking at the “cannot start PS4” error and giving you a few fixes for the problem.
Restart your console
Restarting your device can fix many seemingly random issues you might be facing, and the PS4 error is no exception. Regardless of the issue you’re facing, restarting your device should be the number one item on your troubleshooting list.
Also read: Why does my PS4 keep disconnecting from WiFi?
Reset your controller
The error could potentially be in the DualShock 4 controller. If that’s the issue, you can reset your controller by inserting a pin or another small object inside the reset hole near the L2 button and holding it in place for five seconds.
Try reconnecting your controller now, and your console should start without any problems, provided the issue was with the controller.
Check your cables
If you’re connecting the controller using the provided USB cable directly into the console’s USB port, the issue might be the USB cable or the port itself. Check the port for dust or debris and clean it using a small brush. You can try other USB ports on your console as well. If the ports are fine, try using another USB cable to rule out any cable issues.
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Try another controller
A lot of times, this issue occurs because the controller isn’t able to pair with the console. If that’s your problem, try using any other controllers lying around. There’s a chance that your controller might be bricked, and you may have to get a new one.
Update your console
Another popular reason this issue occurs is that your PS4 turned off during an update causing system files to be corrupted. You can resolve this by trying to update the console to the latest software version possible.
There are two ways you can do this.
- Update using the internet.
- Update using local installation media (USB/CD)
We strongly recommend trying to update using the console’s interface and the internet. However, if that doesn’t work out for you, you’re going to have to boot into the Safe Mode and try updating your console from there.
However, follow these steps to clear out the previous update’s notification before you start the update process.
Step 1: Head over to Notifications from the main menu.
Step 2: Scroll down to find the last update notification and press the Options button on your Dualshock 4 controller. Select Delete from the side menu.
You can now start updating your console to the latest update.
Also read: Failed to create Conexant audio factory: 3 Fixes
Rebuild your console’s database
The PS4’s Safe Mode has many handy options that can help resolve several issues with the console. One such option is the Rebuild Database, option five in the Safe Mode menu.
This restructures your drive so that your console can read it just like new again. This option can help you get around many other storage-related issues and potentially fix the error.
Read our in-depth guide to know how to enter (or exit) the PS4 Safe Mode.
Initialise PS4
If all else fails, you will have to factory reset your PS4. It’ll remove all existing data on your console and give it a fresh start to fix any issues you’re facing, including this error.
You can reset your PS4 using the console interface or Safe Mode. We recommend resetting through the console interface as it’s safer and comparatively easier.
If that doesn’t resolve your issue, you will have to enter Safe Mode and select the Initialise PS4 option to reset your console.
Check out our in-depth guide on how to reset your PS4 here.
Also read: Top 7 shooting games in PS4
