PS4 Safe Mode is a great help when dealing with serious console issues. Taking the right action can typically resolve the problem. But, now and then, getting stuck in an infinite Safe Mode loop can be an issue in itself that needs to be addressed.
In this article, first we explore why the safe mode problem happens. Next, we present several methods to fix your PS4 stuck in the Safe mode.
Why a Safe Mode issue happens to a PS4?
A number of reasons could be the cause of why your PS4 is stuck in safe mode. These include:
Major file corruption or conflict in the console operating system preventing it from functioning
Issue with the operating system of PS4 due to the corrupted database
Damaged/broken cables of the console
Serious power issues
Internal hard drive issues
Malfunctioning/damaged area or parts in the PS4 motherboard
Problems in the hardware pieces of the PlayStation 4 console
Hopefully, you could fix the safe mode problem with the methods provided in this TechaLook guide. Otherwise, you might need to take your PS4 to a repair center for further testing/diagnostics.
Important note: it’s always better to seek expert advice on the issues like this, especially if related to PS4 hardware problems. With that being said, continue to these Safe mode fixes with your own risk.
Solution 1: Restarting your PS4
This restarting solution is one of the basic methods used to get your console of the safe mode. Although it might sound trivial, but in many cases just these simple steps could be the right solution:
Power up the console and link the controller to your PlayStation.
Select Restart PS4 on the safe mode menu.
Hit X and let it do its thing whilst it restarts.
If restarting your PS4 didn’t make any changes to your safe mode issue, don’t worry. We still got many more solutions which come next.
Solution 2: Rebuilding the database
Still got no luck fixing your PS4 in safe mode loop? It could be the sign of a corrupted database.
But don’t worry. Rebuilding the PS4 database can get your console back on track. This regular spring-cleaning will re-organize your files and folders, freeing up needed space and improving system performance.
If you want to know why this is important, read the article on the importance of rebuilding a PS4 database.
To rebuild your PS4 database, enter Safe Mode menu and select option 5 “Rebuild Database” – no worries, all your save data will stay intact.
Solution 3: Checking the console cables
For any gamer, making sure all cables are working right is a priority.
It’s not just about prolonging the life of your game console, either — taking the time to check the PS4 power cord for damage and fraying can help you avoid the risk of fire hazards and major electrical issues like spikes in power, electrical shocks, and inadequate power delivery.
Start by examining the PS4 power cord as it’s usually the most common cause of operating issues, and then go from there to ensure all USB, HDMI, and other connections are functioning correctly.
If you find any cords that are damaged, replace them right away to stay safe.
Apart from serious power problems, this might fix the Safe mode loop problem as well.
Solution 4: Updating the PlayStation 4 software
Sometimes, just a simple software update could fix so many issues within any system, including your PS4.
In case, you didn’t update your PS4 software recently, check out the steps below to make sure your console have the latest software needed to run smoothly and play your games correctly.
STEP 1: Check that your internet is running okay.
STEP 2: Connect your PS4 to the internet via either Wi-Fi or LAN cable.
STEP 3: When the console boots into Safe Mode, select the ‘Update System Software’ option from the menu.
STEP 4: Hopefully the system will be updated and the issue will be solved.
STEP 5: If the PS4 still boots into Safe Mode, select the ‘Restart PS4’ option and it should boot normally.
Solution 5: Reinstalling the system software
In case your PS4 is unable to connect to the internet, there is no need to worry. Here’s a step by step tutorial on how to manually install the update so that your PS4 would be fixed:
Format your USB drive so it has no content inside.
Ensure that you have at least 375 MB of free space.
Plug the USB drive into your computer and create a folder in it titled “PS4”.
Open the newly created “PS4” folder and create a folder titled “UPDATE” inside of it.
Open a web browser and download the update file for your specific version of PS4.
Transfer the the downloaded update file into the “UPDATE” folder on your USB drive, and rename it “PS4UPDATE.PUP”.
Disconnect your USB drive from the computer and plug it into your PS4.
Turn your PS4 on and boot up in safe mode.
Select the option “Update System Software” and the USB drive should be found and the update will begin to install.
Once the update is installed, turn your PS4 off and then start it up again.
If the PS4 boots up in safe mode again, select the “Restart” option.
You should now have access to the internet.
Solution 6: Clearing the CMOS memory
If you’ve exhausted all other options and are still having trouble with your PS4, it might be time to clear your CMOS memory.
CMOS, or Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor, is a type of memory that stores your PS4’s BIOS configuration. This memory controls how the console powers on.
Clearing it may help correct any irregularities or unusual behavior. Doing so is simple, but you’ll need a special screwdriver to complete the job.
If you’re sure to do this fix, you could check out a video from YouTube to follow all steps closely.
What is the Safe mode in PS4 exactly?
Each time your PS4 boots up in Safe Mode, these 8 options will appear on the screen:
‘Restart System’: When you want to return your PS4 to normal, select the ‘Restart System’ option – it will launch without Safe Mode.
‘Change Resolution’ will switch your display resolution to 480p once the PS4 restart, which can fix your display problems.
‘Update System Software’ is a great option if you want to update your console – you can do it via direct download, USB drive, or disc.
‘Restore Default Settings’ resets your PS4 to factory settings while keeping all games, apps, and other data intact.
‘Rebuild Database’ brings all of your content onto a new database that can fix system features, such as when an app icon doesn’t disappear after deleting the app.
‘Initialize PS4’ will reset the system back to its original settings and delete all settings and user data.
‘Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)’ erases the firmware of your PS4 while deleting user data and settings.
[PS4 Pro only] ‘Set HDCP Mode’ resolves compatibility issues with 4K TVs that aren’t HDCP 2.2 compatible. You can choose this to view images that would have otherwise not been displayed on your TV.
Conclusion
Sometimes, it’s better to solve the issue by yourself. Although some of the above methods might have some risks, from deleting your data to more damage, even on your PS4 hardware, but still, some prefer fixing the issue by themselves. So, if you’re not sure it might be better to consult with an expert to better address your game console Safe mode problem.
