If you enjoy playing games on PS4, you would be aware of the “database is corrupted PS4” error. This is quite frustrating because it does not allow us to play games on PS4. There are two types of corrupted errors: one where the database is corrupted and the second where the data is corrupted. In this blog, we have covered how to fix both of these errors, along with steps to recover data from a corrupted hard disk. Let us begin!
How To Fix PS4 Corrupted Database
The PS4 database includes all the game and system files the user saves to enjoy playing games. Your console is a plastic box without these files, collectively known as the PS4 database.
How do you know if the PS4 database is corrupted? Check for these symptoms –
- Your PS4 displays a corrupted database warning and reboots.
- All games take almost forever to load.
- Game discs do not load up.
- The PS4 menu becomes slow to navigate.
- Find unusual activities while playing games.
What Causes PS4 Database Corruption?
There are many reasons why this could happen. Some of the most common ones are –
- Disk Issues like bad sectors.
- Wear and tear of the hard drive.
- Corrupted file header.
- Frequent power outages
- Platform corruption.
Method 1: Boot PS4 In Safe Mode
PS4 console allows users to rebuild the corrupted database by initiating the option in Safe Mode. Here are the steps to fix the database corrupted by the PS4 error.
1. Power off the console and wait for the white light to fade completely.
2. Press and hold the power button on the console till you hear two beeps. This will start the PS4 in Safe Mode.
3. Connect your PS4 controller to the console using a USB cable.
4. You’ll see several options in Safe Mode. Select “Rebuild Database” and wait for the process to finish.
Also Read – PS4 Controller Not Working on PC: Ways to Troubleshoot & Fix
How To Fix PS4 Corrupted Data
The PS4 corrupted data relates to a particular game data only. It means that the data related to a particular game is corrupted but the remaining database is fine.
How To Identify PS4 Game Data Corruption
- The PS4 game is experiencing lag, with the screen going black or failing to load characters.
- Error codes such as CE-37732-2 and NP-32062-3 may appear on your screen.
- The following error messages may appear:
– “Corrupted Data – Unable to load the saved data because it is corrupted”.
– “Cannot continue using the application. The data for the following application is corrupted”.
Why Does The PS4 Data Get Corrupted
- Malfunctioning or underperforming hard drive
- Data corruption in certain installed games
- Improper installation of the downloaded file onto the system
- Potential corruption of data on the system
Method 1 – Remove The Corrupted Data Manually
1. Navigate to Settings > System Storage Management > Saved Data > Media Player.
2. Open the Media Player folder. Look for a saved file labeled as “corrupt data.”
3. Select the file, press the Options button, and delete the corrupted data.
4. Exit the Media Player, then reopen the app.
Method 2 – Redownload The PS4 Files After Deleting Them
The downloaded file may not have been properly installed on the system, and the data likely became corrupted during the download.
1. Delete the downloaded file by navigating to Notifications -> Downloads and selecting the content.
2. Press the OPTIONS button on your controller and choose to delete the downloaded file.
3. Afterward, attempt to re-download the file.
Method 3 – Rebuild PS4 Database
1. Connect your PS4 controller to the console using a USB cable.
2. Press and hold the power button on the PS4 until you hear a second beep, then release it.
3. Your PS4 will enter Safe Mode, and the screen will appear as follows:
4. Select “Rebuild Database” using your controller to fix the corrupted data error.
How To Prevent PS4 Database Errors
To prevent PS4 database errors, follow these tips to maintain the system’s health and minimize the chances of data corruption:
1. Regularly Rebuild the Database
Rebuilding the database periodically can help organize and optimize your PS4’s storage, reducing the risk of errors. You can do this through Safe Mode, as described earlier.
2. Avoid Interrupting Downloads or Installations
Avoid turning off or disconnecting your PS4 during game downloads, installations, or updates. Interrupting these processes can corrupt data.
3. Keep Your System Software Up to Date
Always install the latest PS4 system updates to ensure you have the latest bug fixes and performance improvements. Keeping your software updated can prevent issues with data handling.
4. Maintain Sufficient Storage Space
Ensure your PS4 has enough free storage to manage system files and game data. Low disk space can lead to errors or data corruption, so it’s a good practice to regularly delete unused apps or games.
5. Eject Discs Properly
When playing physical discs, always eject them properly rather than removing them abruptly, which could cause issues with the system’s data.
6. Avoid Using Unreliable Storage Devices
If you’re using external drives or USBs, ensure they are from reputable brands and are properly formatted for the PS4. Faulty or incompatible drives can lead to corrupted data.
7. Turn Off the PS4 Properly
Turn off your PS4 through the system’s menu rather than unplugging it. This ensures all data is properly saved and the system shuts down correctly.
8. Run Regular System Restarts
Occasionally restarting your PS4 (rather than keeping it in Rest Mode) helps refresh system memory and reduces the likelihood of issues with corrupted files or databases.
Bonus Tip: How To Recover Lost Data From A Corrupted PS4 Hard Drive
If the above methods do not work, you can disconnect your PS4 drive and connect it to a PC. Then, use Advanced Disk Recovery to help you recover your files and folders even if the hard disk has been corrupted or formatted. Here are the steps to use this application –
1. Download & Install Advanced Disk Recovery using the button provided below.
2. Open the app and choose the drive to be scanned.
3. Click on the Start Scan Now Button.
4. Select the Deep Scan option to recover all files and click on Scan Now.
5. Click on the box next to the files you wish to retrieve and click on the Recover button.
6 . Specify the folder where you wish to store these recovered files and click on OK.
Note : Always choose a different drive to store the recovered files/folder than that of the original drive.
Have You Fixed The PS4 Database Error
Whether the issue is a corrupted PS4 database or corrupted data, it’s important to address it promptly. Based on our experience, rebuilding the database can be effective in resolving both situations. Please write to us about your issue and how you solved it in the comments section below.
Also Read – PS4 Controller Flashing White Light – What Does it Mean
