How to Reset PS4: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is one of the most popular gaming consoles in the world, but like any device, it can run into issues over time. Whether your PS4 is slowing down, freezing, or you’re planning to sell it, a reset can give it a fresh start.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through how to reset PS4 safely, explain the different reset methods, and provide troubleshooting tips so you can enjoy smooth gaming again.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Reset Your PS4

Resetting your PS4 isn’t always the first solution, but it can fix a wide range of problems, including:

Slow performance – Games taking too long to load or system lag.
Software glitches – Errors, crashes, or corrupted files.
Account/security issues – Resetting helps when you forget your password or need a clean login.
Preparing for resale – A factory reset ensures your personal data is wiped before selling or gifting the console.

If minor troubleshooting doesn’t solve your issue, a reset is often the best solution.

Types of PS4 Reset

1. Soft Reset (Restarting the System)

A soft reset simply means restarting your PS4. It’s the first step to try when your console is lagging or freezing.

Hold the PS button on your controller.
Select Power > Restart PS4.
Wait for the system to reboot.

2. Hard Reset (Power Cycling the Console)

A hard reset helps when your PS4 isn’t responding at all.

Hold down the power button until the system shuts off completely.
Unplug the power cable for at least 30 seconds.
Plug it back in and restart.

3. Factory Reset (Full Initialization)

This is the most powerful reset. It erases all data and restores your PS4 to factory settings. Use this if you’re selling, gifting, or fixing major software issues.

How to Back Up Your Data Before Resetting

Before a full reset, always back up your important files:

USB Drive: Go to Settings > System > Backup and Restore.
PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage: Upload saved data to the cloud if you’re a PS Plus subscriber.

This ensures you can restore your progress later.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reset PS4

Method 1: Reset PS4 Through Settings Menu

Go to Settings.
Select Initialization.
Choose Initialize PS4.
Pick Quick (faster, less secure) or Full (slower, more secure).
Confirm and wait for the reset to complete.

Method 2: Reset PS4 in Safe Mode

Use this if you can’t access the Settings menu.

Turn off the PS4 completely.
Hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
Connect your controller with a USB cable.
In the Safe Mode menu, select Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software).

How to Reset PS4 Without Password

If you’ve forgotten your account password, you can still reset via Safe Mode. This wipes accounts but allows you to log in later with new credentials.

How to Reset PS4 Without Controller

No controller? No problem:

Connect an external USB keyboard or mouse.
Or use the PS Remote Play app on your PC or mobile to navigate menus and reset.

How Long Does a PS4 Reset Take?

Quick Initialization – Takes about 5–10 minutes.
Full Initialization – Can take 2–3 hours depending on storage size.

Common Issues After Reset & How to Fix Them

Can’t log into PSN – Reset your password or check server status.
Game saves missing – Restore from USB or PS Plus cloud backup.
Controller not syncing – Connect via USB and re-pair.

Tips for Keeping Your PS4 Running Smoothly

Update system software regularly.
Clean dust from vents to prevent overheating.
Free up storage space to avoid lag.
Rebuild database occasionally through Safe Mode.

FAQs About Resetting PS4

1. Will resetting my PS4 delete all my games?

Yes, a factory reset removes all games and apps. You’ll need to reinstall them.

2. Can I reset PS4 without losing my PSN account?

Yes, your PSN account is stored online, so you can log back in after reset.

3. What’s the difference between Quick and Full initialization?

Quick erases data but can be recovered with special tools. Full securely wipes everything.

4. Do I need internet to reset my PS4?

No, but you’ll need it to reinstall updates and log back into PSN.

5. How often should I reset my PS4?

Only when necessary—such as performance issues or preparing to sell.

Conclusion

Resetting your PS4 is a powerful way to fix performance issues, remove glitches, and prepare your console for a new owner. Just remember to back up your data first and choose the right reset method for your situation.

With this step-by-step guide for beginners, you can confidently reset your PS4 and get back to gaming without stress.