How to Update the PS4 System Software

There are two methods to update the PS4 system software, either automatically, which requires that your PS4 has an active and fast connection to the internet, or manually, which allows you to update the PS4 offline without needing an internet connection. This quick guide will cover both cases.

How to automatically update the PS4 system software

This is the easiest and quickest method to update the PS4 system software, and most users prefer it to its manual alternative.

Make sure you have a stable and fast internet connection before starting the update process. It’s strongly recommended that you connect your PS4 to the internet router via a LAN cable.

1. Make sure your PS4 is connected to the internet, then go to Settings.
2. Select ‘System Software Update’.
3. If there are any available updates, you will see the option of ‘Update’. Select it if available.
4. Download the update package.
5. Once downloaded, go to ‘Notifications’ and then ‘Downloads’ and install the software update.
6. Turn off and then turn the console on to check if this solved the PS4 lag.

How to manually update the PS4 system software

This is an alternate to the most common method illustrated previously. It helps you update your PS4 offline without the need of an internet connection. But you’ll need a PC instead to download the update file to a USB storage device.

1. Prepare a USB with at least 1GB of free space.
2. Wipe the USB and create a folder called PS4 and a subfolder called UPDATE.
3. On a PC connected to the internet, download the latest PS4 system software update and copy and paste it to the UPDATE folder on your flash drive.
4. Turn off your PS4 and then slot the USB into one of the PS4’s forward-facing USB ports.
5. Press the power button for at least 7 seconds to boot into Safe Mode.
6. In Safe Mode, select Update System Software and follow the directions from there.

Reinitializing the PS4 system will restore your system giving you an out-of-the-box experience.