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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Before handing over a PS4 or PS5, protect your PlayStation account and erase the console’s local data as two separate steps. Preserve anything you want to keep, deactivate the console, sign out and review payment methods, then run the full data-erasing reset. Sony warns that deleted console data cannot be restored.
1. Preserve the data and hardware you want to keep
Back up or transfer wanted data before resetting. If you are moving to another console, transfer what you need and manually sync your trophies first. Available backup and transfer options depend on the console and type of data; a generic USB drive should not be assumed to copy everything. See Sony’s transfer or dispose guidance.
- Record the console’s serial number and keep it somewhere safe in case you later need proof of ownership.
- Remove any disc and USB devices you intend to keep.
- If you are keeping an installed PS5 M.2 SSD, remove it before handing over the console.
- Do not move a PS4’s internal HDD into another PS4 as a way to transfer data; Sony says it will be reformatted if installed in a different PS4.
2. Deactivate the console
Deactivation releases the console’s activation or sharing status; it does not erase local data. Use the path for your console:
- PS5: Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play > Disable.
- PS4: Settings > Account Management > Activate as Your Primary PS4 > Deactivate > Yes.
These are the paths in Sony’s console deactivation guidance. Labels can vary with software version and region.
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- CPU: x86-64-AMD Ryzen Zen 8 Cores / 16 Threads at 3.5GHz.GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based graphics engine.
- 16GB GDDR6/256-bit Memory; 825GB SSD Storage Capacity
- Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T), IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Bluetooth 5.1
- HDR technology, 8K output,4K TV gaming, Up to 120 fps with 120Hz output, Tempest 3D AudioTech
- What's Included: Sony PlayStation 5 Digital Edition; DualSense; USB cable, HDMI cable.
If you cannot access the console
Sony provides a remote option in Account Management to deactivate all devices. Its support page says remote deactivation is available only once every six months, so check the current account controls and guidance before relying on it.
3. Sign out and review account security
Sign out of your PlayStation account on the console you are handing over. Review payment methods in Account Management and remove any you do not want associated with the account. Sony recommends signing out across devices, deactivating consoles, and considering payment-method removal in its guidance for compromised accounts and unauthorized charges. Removing every payment method is not a requirement for a routine sale.
Rank #2
- Model Number CFI-2000
- Includes DualSense Wireless Controller, 1TB SSD, 2 Horizontal Stand Feet, HDMI Cable, AC power cord, USB cable, printed materials, ASTRO’s PLAYROOM (Pre-installed game)
- Vertical Stand sold seperately
If you see signs of unauthorized access, follow Sony’s recovery guidance, change your sign-in method, secure the email account linked to PlayStation, and contact PlayStation Support if you cannot recover access. Sony also lists passkeys as a sign-in option; availability and account controls may change. See Account & Security.
4. Choose the correct reset and erase local data
Run the data-erasing reset only after confirming you have preserved what you need. Sony says these operations cannot be undone and deleted data cannot be restored.
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Rank #3
![Playstation SONY 4, 500GB Slim System [CUH-2215AB01], Black, 3003347 (Renewed)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31aelHds6gL._SL160_.jpg)
- Includes a slim 500GB PlayStation4 system, a matching DualShock 4 Wireless Controller, Power Cord and HDMI Cable.
- Play online with your friends, get free games, save games online and more with PlayStation Plus membership (sold separately).
- All the greatest, games, TV, music and more. Connect with your friends to broadcast and celebrate your epic moments at the press of the Share button to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
- PS5: From the home screen, go to Settings > System > System Software > Reset Options > Reset Your Console.
- PS4: Go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 > Full.
Sony’s reset and restore-defaults guidance distinguishes these data-erasing options from Restore Default Settings. Restore Default Settings resets selected settings but does not delete user or game data, so it is not sufficient preparation for a sale or gift. Menu wording may differ by region.
What each option does
| Option | Effect | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Restore Default Settings | Resets selected settings; leaves user and game data on the console. | Settings troubleshooting, not preparing a console for handoff. |
| PS5 Reset Your Console or PS4 Full Initialization | Deletes user and game data and personal settings; the operation is irreversible. | Final local-data wipe after preserving what you want. |
| On-console deactivation | Releases activation or sharing status; does not erase data. | Before handoff when you can use the console. |
| Remote deactivate all devices | Deactivates devices through Account Management; Sony states the remote action is limited to once every six months. | When a console is lost, sold, or inaccessible; check current account controls. |
Your subscriptions and account stay with you
Sony says subscriptions apply to your account when you sign in on another console. Keep your account; do not transfer or sell it with the hardware. The buyer or recipient should use their own PlayStation account.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- "Suspend mode" eliminates the load time on your saved game and allows you to immediately return to where you left off by pressing the power button.
- Enables the greatest game developers in the world to unlock their creativity and push the boundaries of play through a platform that is tuned specifically to their needs.
- Engage in endless personal challenges between you and your community, and share your epic moments for the world to see.
- Gamers can share their epic triumphs by hitting the "SHARE button" on the controller, scan through the last few minutes of gameplay, tag it and return to the game.
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