To reset PS4 without losing data, you have two safe options: Restore Default Settings and Rebuild Database. These methods fix performance issues and glitches while keeping your saved games, profiles, and captured media intact, unlike Initialize PS4 which permanently deletes everything.
How to reset PS4 without losing data: your 2 safe options
The two non-destructive methods are Restore Default Settings and Rebuild Database. Restore Default Settings resets system settings only, leaving all user data, games, and saves untouched. Rebuild Database reorganizes the console's data to improve performance without deleting anything. Do not use Initialize PS4, which performs a full factory reset and erases all user and game data permanently.
Method 1: restore default settings to fix software glitches
Use Restore Default Settings when you need to fix software glitches, freezing, or system errors without losing any personal data. This option resets system settings to their original state but keeps all games, saved data, and user profiles.
- From the PS4 home screen, go to Settings.
- Select Initialization.
- Choose Restore Default Settings. The menu path is Settings > Initialization > Restore Default Settings. The Japanese PS4 menu path is ［設定］ > ［初期化］ > ［設定を初期値に戻す］.
- Confirm the warning message that appears on screen.
- Wait for the console to reboot and apply the default settings.
After the process completes, your PS4 will load with default settings intact. Your games, saved data, and personal content remain unchanged.
Method 2: rebuild database in safe mode to improve performance
Rebuilding the database reorganizes the data on your console, which can resolve performance issues, errors, and slow operation without deleting any files. This process optimizes how the system accesses your installed content.
- Turn off the PS4 completely. To enter Safe Mode, turn off PS4, press and hold the power button for at least 7 seconds until two beeps, release after the second beep.
- Release the power button after the second beep to start the PS4 in Safe Mode.
- Connect your DualShock 4 controller using a USB cable.
- Select Rebuild Database from the Safe Mode menu.
- Wait for the process to complete, which may take some time depending on data size.
- After completion, the PS4 will restart and you can log in as usual.
Rebuilding the database does not delete saved games, installed applications, or user profiles. It simply reorganizes the data to improve system performance.
What to avoid: initializing your PS4
Initialize PS4 is a full factory reset that permanently deletes all user data, game data, and personalized settings from the console. The menu path is Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4, with a Full option for a complete reset. PlayStation states that this process cannot be undone. If your goal is to keep your data, do not select Initialize PS4. This option is only appropriate when you are disposing of the console or need a complete wipe, and only after backing up everything you want to keep.
How to back up your PS4 data before a full reset
Before any full initialization, back up your data to preserve your games, saved data, screenshots, and videos. Use a USB drive formatted as FAT32 or exFAT. To reinstall system software via USB, create a folder named PS4, inside it a folder named UPDATE, and save the reinstall file as PS4UPDATE.PUP in the UPDATE folder.
- Connect the USB drive to your PS4.
- Go to Settings from the home screen.
- Select System.
- Choose Backup and Restore.
- Select Back Up PS4.
- Choose the data you want to back up, such as games, applications, saved data, screenshots, and videos.
- Select the USB drive as the backup destination and confirm.
- Wait for the backup to complete, then disconnect the USB drive.
To restore backed-up data after a full reset, go to Settings > System > Backup and Restore and select Restore PS4. For cloud backups, PlayStation Plus subscribers can use online storage for saved data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between resetting settings and initializing?
Resetting settings via Restore Default Settings only changes system settings back to factory defaults while keeping all user data, games, and saves. Initializing deletes all settings and information saved on the console and cannot be undone.
Does Restore Default Settings delete games or saves?
No. Restore Default Settings resets system settings only and does not delete games, saved data, or any personal content stored on the console.
Can I use Safe Mode to reset without losing data?
Yes. Safe Mode offers the Rebuild Database option, which reorganizes data without deleting it, and also provides access to Restore Default Settings. Avoid the Initialize PS4 options in Safe Mode if you want to keep your data.
How do I delete switch save data?
To delete switch save data, go to System Settings > Data Management > Delete Save Data, then select the game whose save data you want to remove. This deletes only that game's save data from the Nintendo Switch.
How do I delete saved game data on Xbox one?
To delete saved game data on Xbox one, go to My Games & Apps, highlight the game, press the Menu button, select Manage Game & Add-ons, then choose Saved Data and delete the local save. Cloud saves remain available unless you also delete them from the cloud.
How do I delete Steam game save data?
To delete Steam game save data, navigate to the game's local save folder, typically in Documents or under the Steam userdata directory, and delete the relevant save files. You can also disable Steam Cloud sync for the game to prevent re-uploading.
How do I get your PS4 to read an external hard drive docking station?
To get your PS4 to read an external hard drive docking station, ensure the drive is formatted as FAT32 or exFAT, connect it via USB, and go to Settings > Devices > USB Storage Devices to check if it is detected. If the drive is not recognized, try a different USB port or cable.
