Tech Reference

How to update your PS4 console in 2 different ways, to access its latest features and security improvements

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You can update your PS4 automatically or manually. Charnsitr/Shutterstock
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It's a good idea to keep your PS4 updated with Sony's latest software. These updates include bug fixes, security improvements, and occasionally some new features. 

If you leave your PS4 configured for automatic downloads, your console will update on its own when you're not using it. But you can also update your PS4 manually. 

Here's how to do both. 

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PlayStation 4 (From $299.99 at Best Buy)

How to update your PS4 automatically

If you leave automatic downloads enabled, software updates will install automatically when you're not using the console. It's the best and most convenient way to ensure you stay up to date.

Here's how to set up automatic updates. 

1. Using the PS4 controller, select "Settings."

2. Select "Power Save Settings."

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Go to the Power Save Settings section of Settings to ensure your PS4 can automatically install updates.  Dave Johnson/Business Insider

3. Select "Set Features Available in Rest Mode."

4. Make sure both of these options have check marks:

  • Stay Connected to the Internet
  • Enable Turning On PS4 from Network
update 2 (2)
If you enable both options, your PS4 will wake from sleep and install updates automatically when you aren't using it.  Dave Johnson/Business Insider

How to update your PS4 manually

If you have automatic downloads disabled for some reason – or an update failed to install properly – you can run updates manually instead. If you check for and install updates manually, be sure not to unplug or turn off the PS4 while it's busy updating.

1. Using the PS4 controller, select "Settings."

2. Select "System Software Update."

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You can check to see if there are updates available in the System Software Update section of Settings.  Dave Johnson/Business Insider

3. Select "Update Now."

4. If there are updates available, select "Next" and wait for the download to complete. When it's done, it'll display the license agreement.

5. Select "Accept."

6. The update should now install on its own. Your PS4 may restart at least once during the update.

 

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Dave Johnson is a technology journalist who writes about consumer tech and how the industry is transforming the speculative world of science fiction into modern-day real life. Dave grew up in New Jersey before entering the Air Force to operate satellites, teach space operations, and do space launch planning. He then spent eight years as a content lead on the Windows team at Microsoft. As a photographer, Dave has photographed wolves in their natural environment; he's also a scuba instructor and co-host of several podcasts. Dave is the author of more than two dozen books and has contributed to many sites and publications including CNET, Forbes, PC World, How To Geek, and Insider.