How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller?

Occasionally, you would want to do a factory reset on your PS4. The most likely reason would be experiencing bugs and glitches that can be fixed with a reset. However, there are cases where issues arise and affect even your controller. In this article, we’ll show you different ways on how to factory reset without the aid of a controller. In this guide, I’ll show you How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller?

If you are wondering How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller? This article will guide you on How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller?

Steps To Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller

Using An External Keyboard

You can make use of an external keyboard to serve as a substitute controller for your console

You can use an external keyboard as a substitute controller for your console. Simply connect your keyboard to your PS4 to navigate through the settings needed to go through a factory reset.

Make sure that you are using a USB type A connector for your keyboard, as this is the one compatible with the PS4.

Using A Mouse

How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller

If you don’t have a keyboard on hand, you can also use a mouse instead. You need a USB type A connector like a keyboard to link the mouse to your console. After connecting the mouse, choose a profile in your PS4 with which you want to use the mouse with.

Using An App

You can achieve this using an application

If you’re not able to attach a mouse or keyboard to your console, you can also opt to use your mobile device as an alternative controller. You can achieve this using an application.

The PlayStation app is available for Android and iOS users and can easily be downloaded from the Google Play Store or App Store.

Make sure your PS4 is connected to your local network so that you can use the app/your device to execute commands.

Using a Bluetooth Device

How to Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller

The last alternative requires having access to your console’s settings. You can use a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse instead of your controller. For that to happen, you need to access your mobile app and follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Go to Devices
  3. Select Bluetooth Devices

Wait for the scan to finish. The scan will pick up your available Bluetooth devices, which you can then link to your console as an alternative controller.

Refresher On Doing Factory Reset PS4 Without Controller

Now that we’ve covered the possible options you can use instead of a controller, let’s take a brief refresher on how to do a factory reset. Using your selected alternative, you simply need to follow the same steps as when you’d use your controller:

  1. Turn on your PS4 and open the main screen.
  2. Click on the “Right” button to open the settings menu.
  3. Click Settings.
  4. Scroll down the list and select PlayStation Network/Account Management.
  5. Select Activate as your Primary PS4. (Ensure/double check that your account is activated)
  6. Click Ok, then select Activate as your Primary PS4 again. 
  7. Select Deactivate, then click Yes.
  8. Restart the PS4.

FAQs On Factory Resetting PS4 Without Controller

 What connector is compatible with PS4?

They need a USB type A connector for external devices like a mouse or keyboard.

How do I save my PS4 data before the factory reset?

 You can back up your data on an external hard disk before a factory reset.

How can I factory reset without my password?

You have the option to restore your system at a lower level by turning off the console and then holding the power button for 10 seconds to access the service menu.

When will PS4 be out of service?

PS4 consoles are expected to stop releasing games and have support removed by 2025.

 What happens to my games when I factory reset them?

Your games will still be in your library and will only need to be downloaded again to be played on your PS4.

Read our other post, How do I link my Microsoft account to Minecraft PS4?

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