Why is My PS5 Failing to Update? Troubleshooting Guide

So, you’re staring at your screen, the update bar stubbornly stuck at 0%, or worse, you’re facing a cryptic error code. Your PlayStation 5, the pinnacle of gaming technology, refuses to update. Why? The reasons can range from simple network hiccups to more complex internal issues. This guide will walk you through the most common culprits and how to fix them.

In essence, your PS5 update could be failing due to network connectivity issues, insufficient storage space, corrupted system files, problems with the PlayStation Network (PSN), disc read errors, software glitches, or hardware failures. Let’s dive into each of these causes and how to tackle them.

Common Reasons and Solutions for PS5 Update Failures

1. Network Connectivity Problems

The most frequent reason for a failed update is a shaky internet connection. The PS5 needs a stable connection to download and install system software updates.

• Solution: Begin with the basics. Restart your router and modem. Wait for them to fully reboot before attempting the update again. Ensure your PS5 is connected to a strong Wi-Fi signal. If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable and faster connection. Consider changing your DNS settings to a public DNS server like Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) for potentially improved speeds.

2. Insufficient Storage Space

Your PS5 requires ample free space to download and install the update files. If your hard drive is nearly full, the update process can fail.

• Solution: Check your storage space. Go to Settings > Storage to see how much space you have available. Delete unnecessary games, apps, or media files to free up space. Consider investing in an external SSD to expand your storage capacity.

3. Corrupted System Files

Sometimes, existing system files can become corrupted, preventing the update from installing correctly.

• Solution: Try restarting your PS5. If that doesn’t work, boot your PS5 in Safe Mode and select “Rebuild Database”. This process scans the drive and creates a new database of all content, which can resolve file corruption issues. To enter Safe Mode, turn off your console completely. Then, press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps.

4. PlayStation Network (PSN) Issues

The PSN can occasionally experience outages or maintenance, preventing you from downloading updates.

• Solution: Check the PSN status page on the PlayStation website. If there are any reported issues, wait until they are resolved before attempting to update again.

5. Disc Read Errors

If you’re trying to update via a game disc, a dirty or damaged disc can cause the update to fail.

• Solution: Clean the disc with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure it is inserted correctly. If the problem persists, try a different disc to see if the issue is with the specific disc.

6. Software Glitches

Occasional software glitches can interrupt the update process.

• Solution: Try a power cycle. Completely turn off your PS5, unplug it from the power outlet, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in and turn it on.

7. Hardware Failures

In rare cases, a hardware failure, such as a faulty hard drive or Blu-ray drive, can prevent updates.

• Solution: If you suspect a hardware issue, contact PlayStation Support for assistance. They can help diagnose the problem and provide repair options.

8. Using an Outdated System Software Update Method

The update method can affect its success. Updating directly through the PS5 console is commonly used.

• Solution: If update fails when directly updating from the PS5 console, consider updating using the USB drive or via the game disc.

Error Codes: Deciphering the Messages

Specific error codes can provide more clues about the cause of the update failure. Here are some common error codes and their solutions:

• SU-101312-8: This error often indicates a problem with the Blu-ray Disc drive. Turn off and unplug your console and router. Restart the router after 5 minutes, then plug back the PS5 console.
• CE-100002-3: This usually means the application update file wasn’t installed successfully. Restart your PS5.
• CE-100056-5: This suggests there was a problem reading the disc. Turn off your PS5, unplug the power cable, plug it back in, and restart.
• CE-100096-6: This typically indicates an application error. There was a problem loading the application, try to reinstall the application.
• CE-112840-6: Indicates problem connecting to the server. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and check the PSN status.
• CE-106487-6: Update the system software to the latest version by going to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Updates and Settings and Restore licenses.
• CE-108255-1: Make sure your system software and application are updated. If the error occurs after launching a game, delete the game from Settings > Storage, and reinstall it. Start your PS5 console in Safe Mode and select Rebuild Database.
• Fail Error Code 8: the proxy failed to connect to the web server, due to TCP connection rejection (TCP Reset). Check your proxy settings or try a different network.

Alternate Update Method: Using a USB Drive

If you’re consistently encountering update failures, try updating your PS5 using a USB drive.

• Solution: On a computer with internet access, format a USB drive as FAT32. Create a folder named “PS5” and inside it create another folder named “UPDATE”. Download the latest PS5 system software update file from the PlayStation website and save it in the “UPDATE” folder. Insert the USB drive into your PS5 and go to Settings > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software > Update from USB Drive.

Further Assistance

If you’ve tried all the above solutions and your PS5 still won’t update, it’s time to contact PlayStation Support. They may be able to offer more specific troubleshooting steps or arrange for repair or replacement of your console.

Remember, patience is key. System updates can sometimes take time, especially if the download servers are busy. Don’t interrupt the update process unless absolutely necessary, as this can lead to further problems. And consider exploring the educational aspects of gaming through organizations like the Games Learning Society to broaden your perspective on this ever-evolving entertainment medium. This can deepen your appreciation of the games you love and the technology that powers them. Find out more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I force my PS5 to update?

You can’t “force” an update, but you can trigger a check for updates by going to Settings > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software. If an update is available, it will begin downloading. If it fails, try the USB update method.

2. What do I do if my PS5 is stuck on the update screen?

First, be patient and wait for a reasonable amount of time (e.g., an hour). If it’s still stuck, try restarting your PS5. If that doesn’t work, boot into Safe Mode and try rebuilding the database.

3. How much storage space do I need to update my PS5?

The exact amount varies depending on the update size, but it’s generally recommended to have at least 20GB of free space.

4. Can I update my PS5 while playing a game?

No, you can’t play a game while an update is in progress. The update process requires exclusive access to system resources.

5. What happens if I turn off my PS5 during an update?

Turning off your PS5 during an update can corrupt the system software and potentially brick your console. Avoid doing this unless absolutely necessary.

6. How long does a PS5 system software update usually take?

The download time depends on your internet speed and the size of the update. The installation process can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour.

7. My PS5 downloads are slow. What can I do?

Ensure your PS5 is connected to a 5GHz Wi-Fi network if available. If you have an older router, consider upgrading to a newer model with better performance. A wired Ethernet connection is always the most reliable option.

8. Does resetting my PS5 delete everything?

Yes, a factory reset will delete all your data, including games, saves, and settings. Be sure to back up your data before performing a reset. You must go to System Software and choose the Back Up and Restore options. That way, you can restore the data after the resetting is done.

9. How do I clear the cache on my PS5?

While there isn’t a direct “clear cache” button, you can clear the system software cache by selecting Clear Cache and Rebuild Database in the Safe Mode menu.

10. Is it better to keep my PS5 horizontal or vertical?

PS5 positioning should have no affect on the console airflow. However their is strategically a best position for the console, which is vertical. You would be better off putting your PS5 in a vertical position, because there is more space in your room for the heat and dust to come out of the PS5’s ventilation system.

11. What does it mean if my PS5 is bricked?

A “bricked” PS5 is unresponsive and won’t turn on. This is usually caused by a severe software or hardware failure. Contact PlayStation Support.

12. What does a solid white light on the PS5 mean?

A solid white light indicates that the console is powered on and working normally.

13. My PS5 is not reading discs. What should I do?

Restart your PS5. Clean the disc and disc drive. Test out other discs. Make sure the disc is inserted correctly. Make sure your game works with PS5. Restart PS5 from Safe Mode. Factory reset the console.

14. Why is my PS5 taking a while to copy updates?

The larger the original game size, the longer it’s going to take for your PS5 or PS4 to complete the copying procedure.

15. What causes a PS5 Not Turning On?

Problems with the power supply. Problems with the PS5 system software. The inside of the console is dirty.