The PS4 is an amazing console but just like everything tech, it can have it’s issues from time to time. Now while Sony has done a brilliant job with its interface helping people solve common issues from the console itself, some times that’s just not enough.

Almost every gadget out in the world has some sort of safe mode. This mode is there to help diagnose issues with the device not starting up and sure enough, it’s there in the PS4 as well. 

In this article, we’re going over how you can boot your console into its safe mode. Then once you’re done, we’re also going to touch on how you get out of it and boot into the regular console menu.

Also read: How to lower the ping on PS4?

What is the PS4’s safe mode?

Before we get into how to get to the safe mode, here’s a bit about what it actually does.

Once you boot into the safe mode, you’ll see seven options that can come in handy while troubleshooting a number of issues. Here’s a rundown of what each of the options does.

• Restart: Exits safe mode and starts the console up normally.
• Change Resolution: This forces the console to boot in 480p the next time around. This can help diagnose video output issues.
• Update System Software: Allows you to update the PS4 software using a USB drive, a disc or from the internet.
• Restore Default: This will reset your PS4 back to the factory state it shipped in except it doesn’t delete your data. 
• Rebuilt Database: This option scans the internal storage drive and re-indexes its contents. 
• Initialise PS4: This will wipe all data from your console and reset it back to the factory settings. This is the same as performing a factory reset on the console. 
• Initialise PS4(Reinstall System Software): Same as above, except this one, reinstall the entire system software from scratch. 

Also read: How to clear the cache on PS4?

Booting the PS4 into the Safe mode

Getting in (and out) the safe mode is actually quite easy. Here’s how.

Step 1: Ensure your PS4, is turned off completely and the power indicator is not on or blinking.

Step 2: Now press and hold down the power button until you hear two beeps, seven seconds apart. 

Step 3: Plug in your Dualshock 4 controller using the USB cable it came with and press the PS button. 

You’ll see the Safe Mode screen show up on the display. Note that you’ll only be able to use the d-pad and the X button on your console. 

Also read: How to connect Bluetooth headphones to PS4?

How to get out of the Safe mode in PS4?

Once you’re done doing your thing, all you need to do to get out of the safe mode is select the Reboot PS4 option and the console will boot back into the normal interface.

However, some users have reported getting stuck in a safe mode boot loop. If you’re also running into this, here are a few things you can try.

Check your cables

First up, ensure you’re not having any power issues. Check your AC in and HDMI cables. Replace these if you think they might not be in working condition.

Try rebuilding your database

There’s a good chance that a corrupt file in storage might be causing these issues. Try the Rebuilt Database option from the safe mode menu to see if it resolves your issue. 

Update/Reset your PS4

If nothing else works, try either the Update System Software option to update your PS4’s firmware or simply factory reset it by using the Initialize PS4 option.

Also read: How to change your PS4’s password?