Does the PS4 Still Download in Rest Mode?
Yes, the PlayStation 4 (PS4) absolutely continues to download games, updates, and patches when in Rest Mode. This is one of the key features that makes Rest Mode so convenient for gamers. Instead of leaving your console fully powered on, consuming electricity and generating heat, you can utilize Rest Mode’s low-power state while still ensuring your downloads proceed. This article delves into the specifics of PS4 downloading in Rest Mode, along with answers to other frequently asked questions.
Understanding PS4 Rest Mode and Downloads
How Rest Mode Works
Rest Mode on the PS4 is a low-power state that keeps certain functions active while the console appears to be off. Crucially, it maintains an internet connection, allowing downloads to progress and other background tasks to run. This functionality makes it a very useful feature for PS4 owners who want to avoid leaving the console fully on overnight or while they’re away.
Benefits of Using Rest Mode for Downloads
The main advantage of downloading in Rest Mode is that it allows your PS4 to maximize its internet bandwidth for downloads. When the console is active, other processes can compete for network resources, potentially slowing things down. In Rest Mode, however, the PS4 prioritizes downloads, leading to faster and more efficient completion times. It also significantly reduces the power consumption compared to being fully active.
Optimizing Your PS4 Downloads in Rest Mode
Enabling Automatic Downloads
To ensure your PS4 automatically downloads content in Rest Mode, you need to enable automatic downloads in your console’s settings. This feature can be found in the “System” settings menu under “Power Save Settings” and then “Set Features Available in Rest Mode”. Make sure the option for “Stay Connected to the Internet” and “Enable Turning on PS4 from Network” is also checked. Doing this ensures that your console can download new content as it becomes available without any user intervention.
Leaving Your Console in Rest Mode
The ideal scenario for efficient downloads is to leave your console in Rest Mode whenever you’re not actively using it. This will allow the PS4 to focus on download tasks, maximizing your internet bandwidth and minimizing interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play a game while another game is downloading?
Yes, you absolutely can. You can even start playing a game before it has finished downloading completely. While you’re playing, the remaining data will continue to be downloaded in the background. This means you can enjoy your games while also adding new ones to your library.
2. Will my PS4 downloads continue if I use sleep mode or stand-by?
The PS4 does not have a “sleep mode”. If you are thinking about other devices, then no. Sleep mode, stand-by mode, or hibernate will all stop any downloads on a laptop or PC. To continue downloading, you need to keep your laptop or PC running, even with the screen closed. This is very different to the PS4, where the Rest Mode acts like a sleep mode while maintaining downloads.
3. Can I download disc games in Rest Mode?
Yes, you can. Disc games will install and download updates in Rest Mode. However, the physical disc installation won’t continue in Rest Mode, only downloads and updates related to the disc game will continue.
4. Why are my PS4 downloads so slow?
Slow PS4 downloads are most often caused by poor internet connections. This isn’t always an issue with your console itself. Other factors like your internet provider’s limitations, outdated hardware, or network interference, can all affect download speeds. Ensure you’ve met your internet speed requirements for gaming and download.
5. How can I speed up my PS4 downloads?
There are several methods you can use to speed up your downloads:
* Close Background Applications: Ensure no games or apps are running.
* Use Rest Mode: This prioritizes downloads over other activities.
* Pause and Resume: Sometimes, pausing and then restarting the download can give it a boost.
* Use Ethernet: A wired connection is more stable and faster than Wi-Fi.
* Limit Devices: Reduce the number of devices using your internet simultaneously.
* Change DNS: Sometimes changing your DNS settings in network options can help.
* Check Network Equipment: Ensure you have a modern router that provides enough bandwidth.
6. What are the other benefits of PS4 Rest Mode?
Besides downloading, Rest Mode offers several advantages, including:
* Faster Start-Up: The PS4 starts up much more quickly from Rest Mode than from a full shutdown.
* Resume Games: You can pick up a game exactly where you left off.
* Remote Downloads: Download games remotely via the PlayStation app.
* Updates: Download game patches and software updates.
* Controller Charging: Charge your controllers even when you’re not playing.
7. Does Rest Mode make downloads slower?
No. In fact, Rest Mode often results in faster download speeds, as it dedicates more bandwidth to downloading, while using minimal power.
8. What’s a good download speed for PS4 gaming?
A recommended download speed for gaming is between 15-25 Mbps. This is usually sufficient for most games and online play. However, if you have several devices using the internet simultaneously, you may need a higher speed for optimal performance.
9. What is the maximum download speed a PS4 can reach?
The PS4 can achieve a maximum download speed of 1 Gigabit (1000 Mbps) using an ethernet connection. Though, for most real-world scenarios, speeds are often much slower.
10. How long should PS4 downloads typically take?
Download times vary greatly depending on both the size of the game and the speed of your internet. A large game could download in 5-10 hours with fast internet, but could also take 99+ hours with a slow internet connection.
11. How can I fix a PS4 download that’s stuck at 99+ hours?
If a download gets stuck showing 99+ hours remaining, you should:
* Delete the Download: Go to the game in the PS4 main menu, press the “Options” button, and then select “Delete.”
* Restart Wi-Fi: Unplug your router to reset your Wi-Fi connection.
* Try again: Re-download the content.
12. Is it okay to leave my PS4 in Rest Mode overnight?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to leave your PS4 in Rest Mode overnight. The fan will only run when needed to cool the system and then will switch off, consuming minimal power.
13. How long can the PS4 stay in Rest Mode?
There is no limit to how long a PS4 can stay in Rest Mode. It’s designed for continuous use in this low-power state.
14. What happens if the PS4 is turned off during an update?
If a PS4 is turned off during a game or software update, the update data could become corrupted. It’s recommended you allow the update to finish, and if corrupted, you may need to restart it or reinstall it.
15. What is the difference between sleep and hibernate on PC’s compared to rest mode on PS4?
Sleep and hibernate are modes for PCs, which are different to the PS4’s Rest Mode. Sleep puts the PC in a low-power state for quick start up, but downloads are stopped in both of these modes on PC’s. Hibernate uses even less power, but takes longer to start up. The PS4’s Rest Mode is similar to sleep but downloads continue and it can be started via the network. Sleep on a PC, for example, can be turned off in settings, but the PS4 does not have this option.
Conclusion
The PS4’s Rest Mode is an essential feature for all gamers, allowing for efficient background downloads, as well as quicker start times. By enabling automatic downloads and using Rest Mode while not actively gaming, you can make the most out of your console and its capabilities. Remember to check your internet connection and settings to ensure optimal performance.