How to Fix PS4 Safe Mode Not Working Without Losing Data

This article provides a thorough guide on troubleshooting the "PS4 safe mode not working" issue. It covers a range of methods including power cycling, system updates, database rebuilds, and using specialized software like MyRecover.

By @Lori Last Updated September 13, 2024

Frustrated with your PS4's refusal to boot up properly? Facing the dreaded "PS4 safe mode not working" issue can disrupt your gaming experience. This comprehensive guide delves into troubleshooting methods to resolve this problem effectively. Whether you're a tech newbie or a seasoned gamer, these step-by-step solutions will help get your console back up and running.

Understanding PS4 Safe Mode

What is PS4 Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in the PlayStation 4 that allows users to access various tools and options to troubleshoot and fix issues. It's a crucial feature when the console encounters a problem that it can't resolve through normal operations.

Common Causes of 'PS4 Safe Mode Not Working'

This issue can arise from a multitude of factors, including software glitches, faulty hardware, or improper connections. It's like having a puzzle with missing pieces – frustrating and confusing.

How to Fix PS4 Safe Mode Not Working

Method 1: Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Step-by-Step Hardware Check

Inspect Power and HDMI Cables: Ensure that your PS4's power cable and HDMI cable are not damaged and are securely connected.

Check the Power Socket: Sometimes, the issue could be with the power source itself. Try plugging your PS4 into a different socket.

Examine the HDMI Port: Look for any signs of damage or debris in the HDMI port on your PS4 and TV.

Method 2: Power Cycling Your Console

Refreshing Your PS4

Turn off Your PS4: Make sure your PS4 is completely turned off, not in Rest Mode.

Unplug the Console: Disconnect the power cable from the back of your PS4.

Wait: Leave your PS4 unplugged for about 3-5 minutes. This step clears the console's cache and resets its internal memory.

Reconnect and Restart: Plug the power cable back in and turn on your PS4.

Method 3: Updating System Software

Ensuring Your PS4 is Up-to-Date

Access Safe Mode: If possible, boot your PS4 into Safe Mode by holding the power button until you hear two beeps.

Select 'Update System Software': Use this option to check for and install any available updates.

Follow On-Screen Instructions: If an update is available, follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Method 4: Rebuild the Database

Organizing Your PS4's Data

Enter Safe Mode: Boot your PS4 into Safe Mode as described above.

Choose 'Rebuild Database': This process can take a varying amount of time depending on your console's data.

Wait for Completion: The PS4 will restart once the database rebuilding is complete.

Method 5: Initialize PS4

Resetting Your Console to Factory Settings

Backup Data: Before initializing, ensure you backup any important data.

Enter Safe Mode: Boot into Safe Mode as previously described.

Select 'Initialize PS4': This will completely erase the system's hard drive and restore it to factory settings.

Confirm and Wait: Follow the prompts to initialize. This process can take a few hours.

Tip: Fix PS4 Safe Mode Not Working Without Losing Data

Accidentally delete or lose data when fixing PS4 safe mode not working issue? Do not worry, professional data recovery software MyRecover comes to solve your problems.

MyRecover
Powerful Data Recovery Software
  • Deep Scan Capability: MyRecover deploys advanced scanning algorithms for a thorough search, ensuring all deleted files are identified.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Designed with simplicity in mind, MyRecover caters to users of all experience levels.
  • More than 200 types of files can be recovered: Word documents, Excel, PPT, JPG, GIF, 3FR, MP3, MP4, MOV, VWM, ANI, ZIP, etc.
  • Selective Recovery: Preview recovered files and choose the ones you want to restore, enabling a personalized recovery experience.

Steps to Recover Deleted Data

Follow the easy steps here, and you can recover deleted PS4 data easily.

Step 1. Install and run MyRecover on your Windows. Connect the PS4 hard drive to your computer. Hover the mouse over the drive that saved deleted files before, and click Scan.

Step 2.MyRecover will automatically do Quick Scan and Deep Scan to show all recoverable files. You could pause and stop the process at any time if your files are found.

🌟Tips: Preview or filter encrypted files depending on Document Type, Size, Date, Path, etc. You can also specify the file name in the search box to locate it quickly.

  • Type: Select the file type (Documents, Images, Videos, Audios, Mails, Webpages, Compressed files, etc.)
  • Modification Date: Set the date (today, yesterday, last 7/30 days, etc.)
  • Size: Filter the file size (<128KB, 128KB~1MB, 1MB~ 512MB, 512MB above,etc.)

Step 3. Choose the encrypted files you want from the drive to recover and click "Recover x files". The restore button will display the number of selected files and their total size to determine the integrity of the recovered PS4 files.

Step 4. You will then be asked to choose a location. Please choose a new location rather than the old location to avoid overwriting data.

Conclusion

Solving the "PS4 Safe Mode Not Running" problem may seem difficult, but with these detailed methods, you can easily deal with it. And, professional tools like MyRecover can ensure that you don't lose important data in the process of solving the problem.

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FAQs

Can a corrupted PS4 database cause safe mode issues?
 
Yes, a corrupted database can prevent your PS4 from functioning correctly, including safe mode issues.
Is it safe to initialize my PS4?
 
Initializing your PS4 is safe but will erase all data on the console. It's recommended to backup your data first.
How long does it take to rebuild the PS4 database?
 
The time varies based on the amount of data on your console but typically takes a few minutes to an hour.