How to Factory Reset a PS5 – Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If your PlayStation 5 (PS5) is acting up, running slow, or you’re preparing to sell it, a factory reset can help. This process wipes all data, returning the console to its original factory condition—just like when you first unboxed it.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

  • What a factory reset does
  • When you should do it
  • And how to safely reset your PS5 in a few easy steps

🔍 What Is a Factory Reset on PS5?

A factory reset completely erases:

  • User accounts
  • Saved games
  • Installed games & apps
  • System settings
  • Network settings

Your PS5 will restart as if it’s brand new.
⚠️ Warning: This process is permanent. Make sure to back up your important data before you begin.


✅ When Should You Factory Reset Your PS5?

  • ✔️ Before selling or gifting your console
  • ✔️ After encountering major software problems
  • ✔️ To remove your PlayStation Network (PSN) account
  • ✔️ If troubleshooting steps didn’t work
  • ✔️ After severe performance issues or storage corruption

📥 Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Before you reset your PS5, back up important files, like:

  • Saved game data (upload to PS Plus Cloud or copy to a USB drive)
  • Screenshots and video clips
  • Game progress for titles that don’t support cloud saving

Go to:
Settings → Saved Data and Game/App Settings → Saved Data (PS5 or PS4) → Cloud Storage or USB Drive.


⚙️ Step 2: Factory Reset from System Settings (Recommended)

This is the easiest and safest method.

➤ Follow These Steps:

  1. Go to Settings on the PS5 Home Screen.
  2. Scroll down and select System.
  3. Choose System Software.
  4. Select Reset Options.
  5. Choose Reset Your Console.
  6. Select Reset to confirm.

⏱️ The console will restart and begin the reset process, which may take 5–10 minutes.


🔄 Step 3: Reboot and Set Up (If Needed)

After the reset, your PS5 will reboot to the initial setup screen, where you can:

  • Set your language
  • Reconnect to Wi-Fi
  • Log in to a new or existing PlayStation account
  • Redownload your games and apps

If you're selling the console, leave it on the setup screen for the next user.


🔧 Alternative: Factory Reset in Safe Mode (If PS5 Won’t Boot)

If your PS5 has software issues and won’t load normally, you can reset it from Safe Mode.

➤ Steps to Enter Safe Mode:

  1. Power off the console completely.
  2. Press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps (about 7 seconds).
  3. Connect your controller using a USB cable.
  4. Select Option 6: Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software) for a full reset.

➡️ This will erase everything, including the system software. You’ll need to reinstall it from a USB drive.
➡️ You can download the latest PS5 software from the official PlayStation website.


⚠️ What Happens After Resetting?

DataStatus After Reset
Games & AppsDeleted
PSN AccountsRemoved
Saved DataDeleted (unless backed up)
System UpdatesStays on the latest firmware
Console ActivationDeactivated from your PSN account

🔔 Important: Remove PS5 from Your PSN Account (Before Selling)

If you’re selling your PS5, remove it from your account using:

  • Settings → Users and Accounts → Other → Console Sharing and Offline Play → Disable
  • Or log in to account.sonyentertainmentnetwork.com and remove the console from your device list.

🛡️ Need Help with PS5 Repairs?

If your PS5 has hardware faults like:

  • HDMI port damage
  • Overheating
  • Power issues
  • Disk drive faults

Visit MLGFIX.com, where we provide:
✔️ PS5 HDMI port replacements
✔️ Cooling fan repairs
✔️ Power supply replacements
✔️ Full diagnostics & fixes

Contact us today to book a repair service!


🕹️ Final Thoughts

A factory reset is a great way to give your PS5 a fresh start, whether you’re troubleshooting problems or preparing it for resale. Just be sure to back up your data and follow the steps carefully.

linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram