How to Repair the PS5 Database in Safe Mode

Published on January 09, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Screenshot or diagram showing the safe mode screen of a PlayStation 5 console, with the 'Rebuild Database' option highlighted in the options menu.

How to Repair the PS5 Database in Safe Mode

The PlayStation 5 console may start functioning erratically, with a slow interface, failures when opening games, or even boot problems. Often, the root cause is that the system's internal database has become corrupted, which can happen after a power outage or a software error. The good news is that there is a solution that does not involve deleting all your data. 🎮

Accessing the Console's Safe Mode

To start the repair process, you must first turn off the PS5 completely. Then, hold down the physical power button until you hear a second beep (after about 7 seconds from the first). Connect the DualSense controller with a USB cable and press the PS button. In the menu that appears, select option number 5: Rebuild Database.

Key steps to enter safe mode:
  • Turn off the console completely, do not put it in rest mode.
  • Hold down the power button until the double beep.
  • Connect the controller with a USB cable to navigate the safe menu.
Rebuilding the database is a safe maintenance operation. It does not delete your games, screenshots, saved games, or personal settings.

What Happens When Rebuilding the Database

This function performs a complete scan of the console's internal storage. Its main goal is to reorganize all the information the system needs to efficiently find games, applications, and data. By doing so, it removes damaged or corrupted entries that cause errors and slowness.

Direct benefits of this process:
  • The user interface and main menu usually respond better.
  • Errors when launching specific games or applications are fixed.
  • It is a safe alternative to factory reset, which does delete everything.

Practical Considerations and Waiting Time

The database rebuild process can take from a few minutes to more than an hour. The time depends on the state of the storage unit and the amount of data you have installed. While it is running, it is crucial not to turn off the console forcibly. A common challenge is remembering where you left the necessary USB cable to connect the controller, a small but essential step to access this recovery tool. 🔧