Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsIf a PS5 system software update is stuck, first retry it from Downloads/Uploads. If the PS5 update failed and you cannot reach the Home screen—or retrying does not work—use Safe Mode to update. A USB update is the next step; reinstalling system software is a last resort because it deletes all console data.
Choose the recovery path that matches the problem
| Situation | Try this | Data impact |
|---|---|---|
| The download is stuck or failed, but you can use the Home screen | Retry the update from Downloads/Uploads; check the network if the error indicates a connection problem. | These steps do not erase console data. |
| The Home screen is unavailable, or ordinary updating fails | Start Safe Mode and choose Update System Software. If that fails, try Sony’s USB update procedure. | Updating is distinct from the reset and reinstall options; do not select a reset by mistake. |
| The console still cannot update after those steps | Consider reinstalling only after understanding the data loss, or contact PlayStation Repairs. | Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software) deletes all console data. |
Retry a stuck download from the Home screen
- Press the PS button to open the control center.
- Open Downloads/Uploads, highlight the system software update, and choose View Error Info.
- Choose Try Again.
If multiple download attempts fail, Sony directs users to its PC or Mac USB update instructions.
Check the connection for WS-116522-7
Error code WS-116522-7 indicates a problem updating system software. Sony recommends restarting the console and, if possible, connecting it to the internet with a wired connection. If you use Wi-Fi, move the console closer to the router and reduce obstructions between them.
- Turn off the router and modem.
- Wait at least five minutes, then turn them back on.
- Restart the PS5 and retry the update.
If you are updating from a game disc, check that the disc is clean and undamaged. Sony also lists updating through Safe Mode or USB as alternatives. See the official WS-116522-7 guidance.
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Update through Safe Mode
Use Safe Mode if the PS5 won’t update through the normal route or you cannot reach the Home screen.
- Turn off the console completely.
- Press and hold the power button. Release it after the second beep.
- Connect the controller to the console with a USB cable, then press the PS button.
- Choose Update System Software and follow the on-screen instructions.
Sony’s Safe Mode guide explains the available options. Avoid choosing a reset option when your goal is simply to update.
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Install the official update from a USB drive
If updating in Safe Mode fails, use Sony’s official update file and procedure. You need a PC or Mac and a USB drive formatted as FAT32 or exFAT. Sony’s current instructions call for approximately 1.1 GB of free space for the update file.
- On the USB drive, create a folder named PS5, then create a folder named UPDATE inside it.
- Download the update file from Sony’s PS5 system software page and save it in the UPDATE folder with the filename PS5UPDATE.PUP.
- Connect the USB drive to the PS5.
- Start the console in Safe Mode using the steps above.
- Choose Update System Software > Update from USB Storage Device > OK.
If the console does not find the update file
- Confirm that the drive is formatted as FAT32 or exFAT.
- Check the folder structure: PS5/UPDATE/PS5UPDATE.PUP.
- Use the exact uppercase folder and file names shown above.
- Make sure the file came from Sony’s official page and was saved with the correct name.
Do not use third-party firmware files or unofficial update methods. If the USB update still fails, Sony’s Safe Mode update instructions provide the official next steps.
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Reinstall only as a last resort
A system software reinstallation is not the same as an update. It uses a separate reinstallation file and the Safe Mode option Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software). Sony warns that this process deletes all data on the console. Back up what you can before proceeding, and do not choose this option unless you accept losing console data.
Sony warns: “Don’t turn off your console during the installation. Interrupting the installation can cause the console to be damaged.” Follow the official update and reinstallation instructions, and leave the console powered on while installation is in progress.
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Other Safe Mode choices are not interchangeable with an update: Restore Default Settings preserves console content, while Repair Console Storage does not erase data. Neither is a substitute for installing system software. See Sony’s explanation of Safe Mode options.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Contact PlayStation Repairs if the update still fails
If the console remains unable to update after the official steps, use PlayStation Repairs for diagnosis and service options. An update error by itself does not establish that the console has a hardware fault.
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