The PS5 is a technological powerhouse for gamers since it runs games at high resolutions and framerates. You can’t avoid errors no matter how advanced something is, much less a machine as complicated as the PS5. Sony thus incorporated the ability to boot their latest flagship console in Safe Mode.
Safe Mode is a secure way to turn your PS5 on. It also grants access to several settings not usually available, which can help fix problems. Read on to find out the details.
Booting a PS5 in Safe Mode
You don’t need to find a problem with your PS5 just to go into Safe Mode. Plenty of users do so because they want to adjust some advanced settings. Here are the instructions:
- First, turn the PS5 off using the Power button.
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Release it after you hear a second beep.
- Connect a controller to the PS5 using USB.
- Press the PS button on the controller.
- Boot in Safe Mode.
- Look at the seven options and pick the one you want.
To exit Safe Mode, you can either select “Restart PS5” in Safe Mode or press the Power button to turn it off. Both options will take you back to the home screen.
Safe Mode Options
The seven options are:
- Restart PS5
This choice is simple. If you went into Safe Mode by mistake or just finished adjusting something else in the mode, this is the option to select. Once your PS5 restarts, you can access the home screen as before, usually with any changes applied.
- Change Video Output
Not everyone has a 4K gaming monitor with a 120Hz refresh rate. If you want to manually adjust the PS5’s video output, Safe Mode lets you do so. There’s a list of resolutions and framerates under the “Resolution” option.
You can also let the PS5 decide the output automatically if you’re not too confident. The console has intelligent software to determine the best video resolution and framerate.
Other settings you can adjust are Color Format and HDCP. The latter is especially helpful for those who see blank screens upon PS5 startup.
- Update System Software
Even though the PS5 can update its firmware automatically, some users may experience errors that prevent the console from doing so. By going into Safe Mode, they can manually renew the firmware and get the latest software on their PS5. As the setting implies, you’ll need a reliable internet connection so the device can download the package smoothly.
- Restore Default Settings
The fourth choice will restore the PS5 to factory settings, but it’s not a full factory reset. Your game saves, app data, and other objects in storage are preserved from deletion. You can save precious time by restoring the default settings with it instead of doing so manually.
- Clear Cache And Rebuild Database
The PS5 comes with a speedy SSD to achieve lightning-fast loading and boot times. That will last until the cache builds up. Now, your console will feel sluggish compared to the honeymoon phase.
By selecting “Clear Cache And Rebuild Database,” you’ll delete plenty of data you might not need. This information usually helps improve loading times, but storing too much will result in slower speeds instead.
Once your PS5 erases the cache and rebuilds its database, you should be free to enjoy the original loading speeds once again. It’s best to clean the console regularly and prevent it from underperforming.
- Reset PS5
A true factory reset, this is the last resort for when every other fix doesn’t work. When you select it, you’ll lose everything, including your game saves and apps. A common scenario to use “Reset PS5” is when the console refuses to boot normally aside from Safe Mode.
You should back your data up to a hard drive before performing a factory reset. Doing so lets you preserve your game progress and more.
- Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software)
Aside from wiping everything on the console, you also delete the firmware itself when you select this final option. Therefore, your console must reinstall the operating system before you can use it again.
Safe Mode should still work when you get “the blue light of death.” This humorous nickname refers to the console refusing to boot normally but can enter Safe Mode.
Safe Mode Not Working
Safe Mode isn’t challenging to activate, but some users might not be able to boot the PS5 this way. That’s when power cycling comes in.
- Turn the PS5 off.
- Wait for the light to stop flashing.
- Remove the power cable from the console and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Reinsert the charging cable and try to launch Safe Mode with the steps above.
In the meantime, you should check your other cables, like the USB and HDMI cords. They should be connected securely to the console and screen. Try using different sockets and cables if these options are available to you.
Some reasons you have to power cycle your PS5 include faulty wiring, using an HDMI splitter or capture card, or bricking.
Bad wires can be replaced, and you can also use another socket. However, the second cause isn’t as clear-cut. These devices are convenient and might even be necessary for your setup. You may have to switch to higher-end products. They’re usually built to work with all compatible consoles flawlessly.
Bricking is trickier to fix since it won’t respond to any buttons you press on it. Safe Mode can’t save your PS5 if it bricks, as it can’t even enter that mode at all.
Your only hope is to try and turn it back on after leaving it unconnected to a power source for an extended period. Otherwise, you’ll need to claim the warranty and let a professional fix the console.
Additional FAQs
Does rebuilding the database delete anything?
It will delete cached data, but the function leaves game progress and other data untouched. We recommend performing this task every so often to ensure a smooth experience. You’ll likely find the console loading faster after the caches are cleared.
Should I perform a PS5 reset?
Only if you encounter a serious problem or want to sell your console. A factory reset should eliminate any errors you find and can’t fix. The data should also be wiped to preserve your privacy when you sell your console.
Can I update my PS5 without the internet?
If you don’t have a reliable internet connection on hand, it’s possible to pre-download the latest firmware onto a USB drive. Your PS5 can access the files and update the software without an internet connection.
Important Safety Features
The PS5’s powerful functionality doesn’t just work for games, as it also comes with ways to let users fix numerous problems. Safe Mode has helped many users address issues or customize their settings. All PS5 owners should learn how to use Safe Mode in case something comes up without warning.
Has Safe Mode ever saved your console? What do you think about the PS5’s software? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
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