What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of updating your PS4, whether you prefer to do it via the internet or using a USB drive.
- Turn off your PS4 and connect the USB drive to one of the USB ports on the front of the console.
- Before performing a system update, it’s a good practice to back up your PS4 data to an external storage device or PlayStation Plus cloud storage.
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a powerful gaming console that offers a wide range of features and entertainment options. To ensure that you’re getting the most out of your PS4, it’s important to keep it updated with the latest system software. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of updating your PS4, whether you prefer to do it via the internet or using a USB drive.
Why Should You Update Your PS4?
There are several reasons why you should keep your PS4 updated:
- Improved Performance: System updates often include improvements to the PS4’s performance, making games and applications run smoother and faster.
- New Features: Updates may introduce new features and functionalities to the PS4, enhancing your gaming experience.
- Security Enhancements: System updates often include security patches to protect your PS4 from vulnerabilities and malware.
- Bug Fixes: Updates address known bugs and glitches in the PS4’s software, ensuring a more stable and enjoyable gaming experience.
How to Update Your PS4 via the Internet
1. Check for Updates:
- Turn on your PS4 and connect it to the internet.
- Go to the “Settings” menu on the PS4’s home screen.
- Select “System Software Update.”
- The PS4 will check for available updates.
2. Download and Install Updates:
- If an update is available, select “Download and Install.”
- The PS4 will download and install the update. This process may take some time, depending on the size of the update.
- Once the update is installed, your PS4 will restart automatically.
How to Update Your PS4 Using a USB Drive
1. Download the Update File:
- Visit the PlayStation website and navigate to the “Support” section.
- Select “System Software Update” and then choose your PS4 model.
- Download the latest update file to your computer.
2. Prepare the USB Drive:
- Connect a USB drive with at least 1GB of free space to your computer.
- Format the USB drive as FAT32.
- Create a folder named “PS4” on the USB drive.
- Inside the “PS4” folder, create another folder named “UPDATE.”
3. Copy the Update File:
- Copy the downloaded update file (usually named “PS4UPDATE.PUP”) to the “UPDATE” folder on the USB drive.
4. Update Your PS4:
- Turn off your PS4 and connect the USB drive to one of the USB ports on the front of the console.
- Press and hold the power button on the PS4 until you hear two beeps.
- Release the power button and the PS4 will enter Safe Mode.
- Select “Update System Software” using the controller.
- Select “Update from USB Storage Device.”
- The PS4 will detect the update file on the USB drive and start the installation process.
- Once the update is installed, your PS4 will restart automatically.
Troubleshooting Common Update Issues
- Update File Not Found: Ensure that the update file is named correctly (“PS4UPDATE.PUP”) and is placed in the “UPDATE” folder on the USB drive.
- USB Drive Not Recognized: Make sure that the USB drive is formatted as FAT32 and has sufficient free space. Try using a different USB drive if the issue persists.
- Update Failed: If the update fails, try restarting your PS4 and attempting the update again. If the issue persists, contact PlayStation Support for assistance.
Additional Tips for Updating Your PS4
- Enable Automatic Updates: You can set your PS4 to automatically download and install updates. Go to “Settings” > “System Software Update” and select “Automatic Download.”
- Use a Wired Internet Connection: For the most stable and reliable update experience, connect your PS4 to the internet using a wired Ethernet connection.
- Backup Your Data: Before performing a system update, it’s a good practice to back up your PS4 data to an external storage device or PlayStation Plus cloud storage.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I update my PS4 without an internet connection?
A: Yes, you can update your PS4 using a USB drive. Follow the steps outlined in the “How to Update Your PS4 Using a USB Drive” section above.
Q: How long does it take to update my PS4?
A: The update time may vary depending on the size of the update and your internet connection speed. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
Q: Do I need to back up my data before updating my PS4?
A: While it’s not mandatory, it’s a good practice to back up your PS4 data to an external storage device or PlayStation Plus cloud storage before performing a system update. This ensures that your data is safe in case of any unexpected issues during the update process.
