Despite the best intentions of manufacturers and the best efforts of consumers, technology still often suffers from problems, and the PlayStation 5 is no exception. Sony actually has a helpful troubleshooting tool built into its console: Safe Mode.
Safe mode only provides minimal functionality when running the PS5. The idea is that you'll turn to it whenever you have a problem, and, at least in theory, anything that proves problematic won't be enabled when Safe Mode is active. This means you can at least get into a limited interface to change key settings and even reset the console.
Certain Safe Mode operations can wipe data stored on the console, so it's always wise to back up before something goes wrong - if you haven't done so already, Sony has a full PS5 backup guide you can refer to.
Enter safe mode
To launch Safe Mode on your PS5, make sure you turn it off first (if it's already on, hold down the front power button for three seconds to turn it off). Press and hold the front power button for seven seconds to turn it back on - when you hear the second beep, release the power button.
Before entering proper safe mode, you'll be prompted to connect the DualSense controller to the PS5 using a USB cable (one should be provided in the box with the console, but any will do). Wireless communication is one of the features disabled in Safe Mode, which is why you need a cable.
After connecting the cable and controller, press the PS button on the controller and you will find yourself at the main safe mode screen. You should see eight different options on the screen, and you can navigate between them using the D-pad on your controller - use the cross button to select and the circle button to go back.
Safe mode options
If your PS5 crashes frequently, behaves strangely, or refuses to boot at all, the options available in Safe Mode are useful. It might be worth trying them one by one and solving the problem, or there might be a specific option that sounds like a match for the specific problem you're having.
Restart PS5: This is just a normal restart of your PS5, but if you're having issues you've already tried this.
Change video output: Select this to change the resolution or change HDCP mode (DRM protocol for connecting to larger screens). Both options can be helpful if you're having trouble with the way your PS5's output is displayed.
Repair console storage: This won't delete anything on the PS5's internal drive, but will attempt some resets and repairs to get the internal storage working again. If you're having storage issues or your PS5 won't boot, try this.
Update system software: If you're having trouble applying updates in the normal way, there's one method you can try. The latest system software can be downloaded from the web or installed from a USB drive - Sony details how to set up a USB drive here .
Restore Defaults: Returns the PS5 to its factory state without deleting any games, apps, screenshots, video clips, or saved data, so it essentially just resets how the console is configured.
Clear cache and rebuild database: There are two options here. If some system features aren't working properly or you notice slow performance, use Clear System Software Cache. Alternatively, select "Rebuild Database" to run a drive scan and rebuild the database for PS5 content, which can also help fix functionality or performance issues.
Reset PS5: Now we're getting serious, this will completely restore your PS5 to factory condition, wiping everything from the system so you can start over. You need to restore all games, settings, and saves.
Reset PS5 (reinstall system software): Same option as above, except the system software will also be wiped and reinstalled - as mentioned above, this can be done by downloading the latest version from the web or via a USB drive.
Hopefully one of these options will resolve your PS5 issues without even reinstalling any games and saved data.
Other troubleshooting options
If you've tried every option in Safe Mode and you're still having problems with your PlayStation 5, there's nothing you can try: a hardware component may be damaged and need to be replaced or repaired.
Keep in mind that the reset option available in safe mode will restore the console to its factory state. If a problem persists by then, it's likely a very fundamental problem - though hopefully not an insurmountable one.
If troubleshooting through safe mode doesn't work, Sony recommends making an appointment for repair. In the meantime, if you can't get into safe mode at all, you may want to try using different HDMI and USB cables to see if that makes any difference.
