Why is My PS4 Not Auto Updating? A Comprehensive Guide
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Many PlayStation 4 (PS4) owners rely on automatic updates to ensure their games and system software are always current. However, it can be frustrating when your console doesn’t seem to be updating as it should. The most common reasons your PS4 might not be auto-updating fall into a few key categories: incorrect settings, network issues, insufficient storage space, or system glitches. Let’s break down each of these possibilities.
Troubleshooting Auto Updates on Your PS4
Incorrect Settings
The most likely culprit for a lack of automatic updates is that the feature isn’t enabled or is configured improperly. To enable automatic downloads on your PS4, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings from the PS4’s main menu.
- Select System.
- Navigate to Automatic Downloads.
- Ensure the box next to System Software Update Files is ticked.
- Also, ensure that the checkbox for Application Update Files is selected if you want game updates to occur automatically.
If these settings are not enabled, your PS4 will not automatically download or install updates.
Network Issues
A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading updates. If your network is unreliable or experiencing issues, the updates will not proceed. Here are common network problems that can impede automatic updates:
- Unstable Wi-Fi: If your Wi-Fi signal is weak or inconsistent, downloads will be slow or may fail altogether. A wired Ethernet connection often provides a more reliable connection.
- Slow Internet Speed: Your download speed might not be sufficient to download update files in a timely manner. Check your internet speed with an online speed test tool.
- Network Congestion: If many devices are using your network simultaneously, this can slow down downloads significantly.
- Router Issues: Try restarting your router and modem to resolve temporary glitches. Sometimes, a simple reboot can fix a lot of network problems.
Insufficient Storage Space
The PS4 requires adequate storage space to download and install updates. If your hard drive is nearly full, the update process might be hindered. Here’s how to address this:
- Check Storage Space: Go to Settings > Storage to see how much space is available.
- Delete Unnecessary Files: Uninstall old games, apps, and other files you no longer need to free up space.
- Upgrade Your Hard Drive: Consider upgrading to a larger hard drive or an SSD (Solid State Drive) for more storage and faster performance.
System Glitches
Occasionally, a software glitch or corruption might cause problems with automatic updates. Here are some troubleshooting steps:
- Restart Your PS4: Turn off your PS4 completely (not just rest mode), wait a few minutes, and then turn it back on.
- Rebuild Database: Rebuilding the database can fix various system issues. To do this: turn off your PS4 completely, then press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps. Choose option 5 “Rebuild Database” from the safe mode menu.
- Update System Software Manually: If automatic updates fail, go to Settings > System Software Update to check and install updates manually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About PS4 Updates
1. How do I enable automatic downloads while my PS4 is in rest mode?
To enable automatic downloads while your PS4 is in rest mode, go to Settings > System > Power Saving Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode and ensure the box next to “Stay Connected to the Internet” is checked. This allows your console to download updates and content while in a low power state. Also, ensure in Settings > System > Automatic Downloads that you have checked both System Software Update Files and Application Update Files.
2. Is it faster to update games when my PS4 is in rest mode?
Yes, the PS4 is generally designed to download games and updates faster when it’s in rest mode compared to when it’s fully active. This is because the console is not using resources to run games or other applications, thus focusing on downloads.
3. Can I play a game while a firmware update is downloading?
You can play while a firmware update is downloading in the background. However, you cannot play while the update is being installed. You’ll have to wait until the installation is complete and the console restarts.
4. Can I play a game while a game update is downloading?
Yes, you can play a game while a game update/patch is being downloaded in the background. The PS4 allows game updates to download and install without interrupting active gameplay.
5. Will my game still download if my PS4 is turned off?
No, downloads will not continue if your PS4 is completely turned off. Downloads will only occur in rest mode when the system is still powered.
6. Should I put my PS4 in rest mode while downloading games?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to put your PS4 in rest mode while downloading games or updates. This mode allows your console to download items without using as much power, and usually allows for quicker download speeds, as other system functions are shut down.
7. Can I leave my PS4 in rest mode overnight to download games?
Yes, you can safely leave your PS4 in rest mode overnight to download games, updates, or other content. Just make sure your settings for auto-download and network connectivity are correctly configured.
8. What happens if I start a game without updating it?
You can play disc-based games on the PS4 without updating them if you set the console to offline mode (disable your internet connection). You won’t be able to access online features for that game, and this does not apply to digital download games.
9. What happens if I turn off my PS4 while an update is installing?
Turning off your PS4 while an update is installing could corrupt your hard drive, and your console might not boot up correctly. It’s essential to let the update complete before shutting off the console.
10. Do games update faster when the console is completely off?
No, games do not update when the console is completely off. Rest mode allows for downloads and updates as it keeps some functions running while the console is not in use. The console must be powered on (in rest mode) for updates.
11. Why does my PS4 copy games after an update?
The PS4 uses a copying method when installing updates because the updates only download the changes, not the entire game. Therefore, your console copies the entire game with the new patch to ensure all files are correct and compatible. This process is often referred to as “Applying Update”.
12. Do PS4 games update without an internet connection?
No, you cannot update games without an internet connection. While you can install the game itself from a disc without the internet, you must have a network connection to download and install updates and patches.
13. How can I speed up downloads on my PS4?
To speed up downloads on your PS4, try the following: put your console in rest mode, close any running games, use an Ethernet cable for a wired connection, pause and resume the download, and ensure there are no other devices using your internet bandwidth, if possible.
14. Why is my PS4 downloading so slowly?
Slow downloads can be caused by having a game or application running, weak Wi-Fi, internet congestion, router issues or slow internet speeds in general. Try closing any active applications, using a wired connection and ensuring you are using your full internet bandwidth by turning off or limiting the amount of devices that use the network. You can also check with your ISP to see what speeds they are currently experiencing.
15. How much electricity does my PS4 use?
The average electricity consumption of a PS4 is approximately 100 to 150 watts per hour, with the PS4 consuming roughly 60-90 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month with average usage. Rest mode uses significantly less power.
By understanding the factors that influence automatic updates and troubleshooting common issues, you can ensure your PS4 is always up-to-date with the latest games and features. If you’re still having trouble, consider contacting PlayStation support for further assistance.