How to Clear the Cache on Your PS5 (Safe Mode)

If your PlayStation 5 is sluggish, freezing, or acting oddly, clearing the system cache is a quick, low-risk troubleshooting step. Clearing the cache won’t delete your installed games, saved data, or account settings, but it can remove corrupted temporary files that cause lag or crashes.

Why clear the cache?

• Removes temporary files that may be corrupted or outdated.
• Can fix slow menus, crashes that boot you back to the home screen, or networking glitches.
• Safe and non-destructive compared with more drastic Safe Mode options.

Start PS5 in Safe Mode

1. Power off the PS5 completely (use controller: Hold PS button → Power → Turn Off PS5, or hold the console power button for ~3 seconds).
2. Wait for the power indicator to fully turn off (may blink briefly).
3. Press and hold the console power button; release after you hear the second beep (about 7 seconds).
4. Connect a DualSense controller with a USB cable, then press the PS button on the controller.

Clear the cache (in Safe Mode)

1. From the Safe Mode menu, select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
2. Choose Clear System Software Cache and confirm by selecting OK. Let the console complete the process; it may restart.
3. If problems persist, run Rebuild Database from the same menu — this reorganizes your drive and can fix deeper issues without deleting saved data or installed apps.

Back up your PS5 data (recommended)

1. Connect a FAT32 or exFAT USB drive to your PS5.
2. Go to Settings > System > System Software > Back Up and Restore > Back Up Your PS5.
3. Select the data types to back up (Games and Apps, Saved Data, Screenshots/Clips, Settings), then select Next > Back Up. The console will restart during the backup.

Important notes

• Clearing the cache or rebuilding the database does not delete saved games or installed apps.
• Do NOT select options like Initialize PS5 or reinstall system software unless you understand they will erase all data — back up first.
• For official instructions and more troubleshooting, see Sony’s support: https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/

Have you tried clearing the cache? Share what fixed your PS5 in the comments below.