# PS4 system software update: how to update your PS4

> PS4 system software update: use Settings > System Software Update, or save the PS4UPDATE.PUP update file to USB in PS4 > UPDATE and use Safe Mode.

To install a PS4 system software update, connect the console to the internet and go to **Settings > System Software Update**; it downloads and installs the latest version and restarts on its own. If the PS4 can't update online, download the PS4 update file from PlayStation's official system software page, save it to a USB drive as PS4 > UPDATE > PS4UPDATE.PUP, and install it from the same menu or from Safe Mode.

## Update over the internet

1. Open **Settings > System Software Update**.
2. If an update is available, select **Next** and then **Update**.
3. Keep the console powered on until it restarts and the update finishes.

The PS4 can also download updates automatically in Rest Mode if automatic downloads are enabled.

## Update from a USB drive

1. Format a USB drive as FAT32 or exFAT on a computer.
2. Create a folder named **PS4**, and inside it a folder named **UPDATE**.
3. Download the PS4 system update file from the [PS4 system software page](https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/ps4/system-software/) on playstation.com and save it in the UPDATE folder as **PS4UPDATE.PUP**.
4. Plug the drive into the PS4 and run **System Software Update**, or use Safe Mode as below.

## Update in Safe Mode

If the console won't start normally, turn it off, then press and hold the power button until you hear a second beep (about seven seconds). Connect the controller with a USB cable, press the PS button and choose **Update System Software**. Avoid "Reinitialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)" unless you have backed up your data — it erases everything.

## If the update fails

- Use a wired connection or move closer to the router.
- Free up storage space.
- Re-download the file if a USB update reports an error, and check the folder names.
- If errors keep appearing, check PlayStation Support for the specific error code.

## FAQ

**How do I know what version of PS4 software I have?**
Go to **Settings > System > System Information**; the system software version is listed there.

**Where do I download the PS4 update file?**
Only from PlayStation's official PS4 system software page on playstation.com. Avoid update files from other sites.

**What is the difference between the update file and the reinstallation file?**
The update file updates a working console and keeps your data. The larger reinstallation file is for a new or replaced hard drive or for Reinitialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software) in Safe Mode, and it erases everything.

**Should I back up before updating?**
Updates rarely affect saves, but backing up to cloud storage (with PS Plus) or USB is a good habit.

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https://gamevoyages.com/how-to-update-ps4-console-system-software/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-31