October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

How to Install a PS5 System or Game Update and Fix Download Problems

Learn how to update PS5 system software and games, fix downloads that will not start or stall, use a USB update, and avoid confusing reinstallation with a normal update.
Length4 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To update PS5 system software, open Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings. To update a game or app, highlight it on the home screen, press the options button, and select the update option. If a download is stuck, start with the step that matches its state: pause and resume a queued game download, test the connection for a stalled one, and save Safe Mode or a USB update for problems that persist.

First, identify what is being updated

PS5 system software and individual games or apps update separately. Check the item’s name in Downloads/Uploads if you are unsure which update is waiting.

  • System software: Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings.
  • Game or app: Highlight it, press the options button, and choose Check for Update.

Keep the console powered on during a system software installation. Sony warns: “Don’t turn off your console during the installation. Interrupting the installation can cause your console to be damaged.” See Sony’s PS5 system software update instructions.

Fix a system software update that will not download

If the update has failed or is waiting in Downloads/Uploads

  1. Open Downloads/Uploads from the Control Center.
  2. Highlight the system software update, select View Error Info, then choose Try Again.
  3. If several attempts fail, use Sony’s manual update process with a PC or Mac and a USB drive, described below.

If the console reaches the Home screen but the update still fails, Sony also recommends connecting the PS5 to the router with a LAN cable and retrying the update from Settings. A wired connection is a troubleshooting option, not a guaranteed fix.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
BERLAT USB C Charging Cable 2-Pack 6.6ft for PS5 Xbox
  • 🎮【Widely used】Compatible with Playstation 5 PS5 Dual Sense Controller and Xbox Series X/ Xbox Series S/ Switch Pro controllers, and more devices with USB C (Type C) interface.
  • 🎮【Perfect Long】 With the perfect 6.6ft length, you can lie on the couch or sofa and play games while you are charging at the same time. and you can also pose in a variety of positions without worrying about your PS-5 Charger Cables are not long enough.Make it easy to stay in the game!
  • 🎮【SIMULTANEOUSLY CHARGE & PLAY】 No need to wait for the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S controller to be fully charged, you can enjoy the game continuously without the pause of a dead controller! With our USB C controller charger wire, you are able to charge your batteries while you play or in-between matches unlike a charging dock, making gaming night with friends a breeze!
  • 🎮【Perfect Connection】 This cable distinguished from the common USB cables, can withstand at least 9999 cycles of 90 degree bend test. Compact connector heads slot in easily and steadily, won't get loose or fall out of your devices. Just enjoy the best gaming experience.
  • 🎮【100% Satisfaction】This USB charger cable support maximum 2.0 Amp current and transfer data up to 480 Mbits via USB 2.0, High Speed charging and Data Transfer at the same time. If you have any questions, please feel free to let us know, we will resolve your issue within 24 hours.

Fix a game download that will not start

For a queued download that has not begun, try the reversible options first:

  1. Open Downloads/Uploads, select the game download, and choose Pause, then Resume.
  2. If it still will not start, select Cancel and Delete.
  3. Find the game in your Game Library and start the download again.

Before retrying, check PlayStation service status, confirm the PS5 has current system software, and make sure there is enough free storage. Sony’s game download troubleshooting guide covers these steps.

Rank #2
USBC to USBC 100W [10ft/2 Pack] USB C to USB C Fast Charging Cable Braided C to C Charger Cord for MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 17 16 15 Pro Plus,iPad Pro,Samsung Galaxy S26 S25 Ultra S24,Pixel,PS5,Switch
  • 【Latest USB C to USB C Cable】USBC to USBC cable, which means it has 2 SAME flat c port charging cable. NOTE: To achive max 100W charging speed, you need an USB type-c port charger that supports 100W of output. Note: ✘✘✘ DO NOT support video output
  • 【2026 Upgraded 100W/5A Fast Charging】Experience the next level of charging! With our lightning-speed 100W usb c to c cable, your iPhone 17 Pro Max reaches a whopping 71% battery in 30 minutes, fast charging MacBook Pro 16" up to 50%, also charge Samsung S26 Ultra to 85% while 60W cable is only 54%, notably knocks off 45mins of your waiting time. And data transfer speeds up to 480Mbps
  • 【MFI Certified Emark Chip】Yosou 100W c to c cable fast charging cord is build in the original power delivery E-Mark chip, which supports USB C PD fast charging. Also has passed 48-hour salt spray test ,ROHS,REACH USB-IF, provides comprehensive protection to devices battery and adapters, keep you in light-speed charging and safe
  • 【Wilder Compatibility】Yosou usb c to usb c fast charging cable for iPhone 16 Pro Max/Galaxy S26 supports PD fast charging. Fully compatible with iPhone17 16, 15, 15 Pro, 15 Plus, 15 Pro Max, M1 M2 MacBook Air/Pro 13 14 15 16 inch, iPad Pro 12.9''/11", iPad Mini 6, iPad 10, Samsung Galaxy S26 S25 S24, S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S22 +, S22, S21 Note 10/20, Z Fold, Z Flip, Tab, Google Pixel 8 Pro, 8, 7 Pro, 7. Xiaomi Redmi, Oneplus, Xbox, Switch, Steam Deck, ThinkPad, Surface, Chromebook, Dell XPS, HP and any Type-C device
  • 【Amazing Durability】Featured by a sandblasted aluminum shell and unibody plug and the body is made of revolutionary fishing net X Nylon braided wire, usbc to usbc cable provides a high-quality texture and enhance heat dissipation capability, Lasts 10x longer than ordinary cables-proven in a laboratory environment to withstand 40000 bends, resulting in a longer lifespan compared to ordinary TPE C to C cables

Fix a game download stuck in progress

  1. Check for a service alert. If PlayStation reports an issue, wait for service to recover before repeatedly restarting the download.
  2. Test the console’s connection. Go to Settings > Network > Connection Status > Test Internet Connection.
  3. Try Safe Mode cache and database maintenance. Turn off the PS5, then press and hold the power button until the second beep to enter Safe Mode. Connect the controller by USB, select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database, and follow the prompts.
  4. Look up any error code. Use Sony’s support page for the exact code, since the recommended fix can differ by error.

For error CE-107928-7, Sony recommends retrying the download and, if needed, turning off the modem or router for five minutes before restarting it. The instruction is on Sony’s CE-107928-7 support page.

Fix a game or app update that fails

  1. Test the internet connection at Settings > Network > Connection Status > Test Internet Connection.
  2. Restart the PS5 and check that its system software is current.
  3. If the update still fails, delete and reinstall the game or app, then try Safe Mode’s Clear Cache and Rebuild Database option if needed.

Deleting a game or app is different from reinstalling PS5 system software: it removes that installed content, and downloading it again may take time and requires access to the game and the account or content that provides it. Sony’s game and app update guidance lists the troubleshooting steps.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Hori USB Charging Play Cable for PlayStation® 5 - Officially Licensed by Sony
  • Simultaneously charge and play your DualSense Controller
  • 10 foot braided cable with durable metal housing
  • USB to USB-C charging cable
  • Officially Licensed by Sony
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Update PS5 system software from a USB drive

Use this when the console’s normal update fails. You need a PC or Mac with internet access, a USB drive formatted as FAT32 or exFAT, and a controller connected to the PS5 by USB. A suitable drive you already own will work; Sony does not require a particular brand.

  1. On the USB drive, create a folder named PS5, then create a folder named UPDATE inside it.
  2. Download the official update file from Sony’s PS5 system software page and save it in the UPDATE folder as PS5UPDATE.PUP.
  3. Turn off the PS5 and connect the USB drive.
  4. Press and hold the console’s power button. Release it after the second beep to start Safe Mode.
  5. Connect the controller with a USB cable, select Update System Software, then Update from USB Storage Device.

If the PS5 does not recognize the update, check that the folder names and filename are correct and use uppercase letters. Follow Sony’s official USB update instructions; do not use third-party firmware files.

Rank #4
KOOWOD PS5 Controller Charger – 2 Pack 5FT OEM Original 3A Fast Charging Cable USB C to USB C Data Cord Wire for PlayStation 5 DualSense, Xbox Series S X Core, Elite Series 2, Switch Controller
  • 🎮 SIMULTANEOUSLY CHARGE & PLAY - No need to wait for the PS5 Dualsense controller to be fully charged, you can enjoy the game continuously without the pause of a dead controller! With our PS5 controller charger wire, you are able to charge your batteries while you play or in-between matches unlike a charging dock, making gaming night with friends a breeze!
  • 🎮 BEST PS5 CABLE EVER - No power loss with this premium PS5 charging cable for full speed charge. Made with 23 AWG High Gauge Low Impedance wires which enable our USB cable charges 20% faster than regular USB cables. Supports maximum 3.0 Amp current via USB 3.0.
  • COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE: Embrace unmatched comfort and convenience with the ultra-soft silicone cable, featuring a sleek, tangle-resistant design for a smooth, knot-free experience every time.
  • 🎮 STRENGTHENED CONSTRUCTION - Built to withstand the rigors of daily use, this cable promises incredible flexibility and a lifespan of over 25,000 bends.
  • 🎮 UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY - USB-IF Certified, specifically designed for PS5 Dualsense and Xbox Core controllers, powers you up to take charge of your game. Also Compatible with Xbox Elite Series 2, Switch Pro, NS Switch, Switch Lite and almost all USB Type-C devices (New MacBook, Chromebook Pixel, LG V30, Samsung Galaxy S9, LG G6).

Reserve system software reinstallation for last

A system update and a system reinstallation are not the same operation. Sony describes reinstallation as a factory or hard reset, and the process deletes all data on the console. Back up what you can before proceeding. Try the ordinary update, USB update, and less destructive Safe Mode troubleshooting first.

If you decide reinstallation is necessary, follow Sony’s PS5 system software reinstallation instructions, which require the reinstallation file and the Safe Mode option Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software). For backup guidance, see Sony’s PS5 backup instructions. If updates continue to fail or you cannot access Safe Mode, contact PlayStation Support or use PlayStation Repairs.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

When a lock icon is not a download problem

If the game shows a lock icon, check access and licensing rather than treating it as a stalled download. Confirm that the PS5 is signed into the account that owns the game and review that account’s transaction history. For a PlayStation Plus game, check the subscription and whether the title remains available to you. If another user owns the game, check Console Sharing and Offline Play. Sony also recommends checking service status and system software, and restoring licenses where appropriate. See Sony’s license restoration guidance.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More quests from Patch Notes

  1. How to Set Up a Subnautica Nitrox Server (2026): Launcher, Port 11000 and server.cfgBlog8min
  2. Best Counter-Strike: Source Server Hosting (2026): Plans and Prices From 6 HostsBlog8min
  3. Best Euro Truck Simulator 2 Server Hosting in 2026: 6 Convoy Hosts Compared2026: 6 Convoy Hosts ComparedBlog9min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.