Cannot start PS4: How to fix it

If you’re a PlayStation 4 owner, you may have encountered the frustrating “Cannot start PS4” issue at some point. This error message can leave you feeling stranded, unable to access your beloved gaming console and the immersive world of gaming it offers. Fear not, as we’re here to help you navigate through this predicament and get your PS4 up and running again.

The “Cannot Start PS4” error can manifest in various ways, such as a black screen upon startup, an infinite loading loop, or an error message preventing the console from booting properly. While this issue can be alarming, it’s important to remember that it’s not uncommon and can often be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps.

In this blog post, we will guide you through a series of proven methods to fix the “Cannot Start PS4” error. Whether it’s a software glitch, a hardware issue, or a combination of factors causing the problem, we’ll provide you with clear instructions to help you diagnose and resolve the issue on your own.

Before diving into the fixes, it’s worth noting that these troubleshooting steps are suitable for the standard PlayStation 4 console (PS4) and the PlayStation 4 Pro (PS4 Pro). So, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore the solutions that will bring your PS4 back to life and reignite your gaming adventures.

Disclaimer: While these methods have worked for many users, it’s essential to proceed with caution and understand that not all situations can be resolved through simple troubleshooting. If you feel uncomfortable attempting the fixes or suspect a hardware malfunction, it’s advisable to contact Sony customer support or a professional technician for further assistance.

Now, let’s delve into the troubleshooting process and get your PS4 back on track!

How to fix the “Cannot start PS4” issue

The “Cannot start PS4” error is a common problem that can occur for a variety of reasons. It can be caused by a corrupted system software update, a hardware failure, or even a power surge. If you are experiencing this error, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it, such as:

• Restart your PS4
• Check for issues with the cable and port
• Boot your PS4 into Safe Mode
• Initialize your PS4
• Contact PlayStation support

Restart your PS4

The first thing you should try is to restart your PS4 simply. This may fix the error if it is caused by a temporary glitch. To restart your PS4, hold down the power button for about 7 seconds until the console turns off. Then, turn it back on and see if the error is gone.

Check for issues with the cable and port

Furthermore, make sure there are no problems with the cord or the port. Then, examine the controller cable for signs of wear and tear.

This problem typically occurs when the cable has been damaged in some way, such as being cut or twisted. If that’s the case, you’ll need to get a new cable.

Make sure there is no debris blocking the PS4’s port. The PS4 controller may have trouble connecting to the console if the port is unclean.

After cleaning the port with a toothpick, you may reconnect the cable.

Boot your PS4 into Safe Mode

If restarting your PS4 didn’t fix the error, you can try booting it into Safe Mode. Safe Mode is a special mode that allows you to access certain troubleshooting options. To boot your PS4 into Safe Mode, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your PS4 completely.
2. Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
3. Connect a controller to your PS4 using a USB cable.
4. Press the PS button on the controller.

Your PS4 will boot into Safe Mode. Once you are in Safe Mode, you can try the following troubleshooting options:

• Update the system software. If your PS4 is not up to date, it may be causing the error. To update the system software, select Initialize PS4 > Update system software.
• Restore default settings. This will reset your PS4 to its factory settings. To restore default settings, select Initialize PS4 > Restore default settings.
• Rebuild the database. This will reorganize the data on your PS4 hard drive. To rebuild the database, select Initialize PS4 > Rebuild database.

Initialize your PS4

If the previous steps didn’t fix the error, you may need to initialize your PS4. This will erase all of your data, so make sure you back up your data before you do this. To initialize your PS4, select Initialize PS4 > Initialize PS4 (Reinstall system software).

If you have tried all of the above steps and the error is still there, you may need to contact PlayStation support for further assistance.

Additional tips:

• If you are experiencing the “Cannot start PS4” error after installing a new game or application, try uninstalling the game or application and then reinstalling it.
• If you are experiencing the error after a power outage, try unplugging your PS4 from the power outlet for a few minutes and then plugging it back in.
• If you are still having problems, you can try contacting PlayStation support for help.

Featured image credit: Unsplash