PlayStation Error Code SU-101388-4 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

SU-101388-4 means your PS5 was unable to download or prepare a system update. This is usually caused by a weak internet connection or insufficient storage space. The fix usually involves freeing up space or improving your network connection.

Affected Models

PlayStation 5
PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

Common Causes

Not enough free storage space on the PS5 SSD to download and extract the update
The internet connection dropped or was too slow during the update download
The PSN update servers are temporarily experiencing high load
A corrupted partial download from a previous failed update attempt is blocking the new one
The PS5 system time is incorrect, causing the update server authentication to fail

How to Fix It

Free up storage space. Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage. Delete games or media you no longer need to create at least 10 GB of free space for the update.

System updates need working space to download and extract. If the SSD is nearly full, the update process will fail before it completes.
Delete any partial update data. Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage > System Data. Look for any update-related items and delete them so the download starts fresh.

A failed previous download leaves behind partial files that can block new download attempts. Clearing them is a common fix.
Improve your network connection. Move your PS5 closer to your Wi-Fi router, or better yet, connect it via ethernet cable. Then go to Settings > System > System Software > Update System Software to retry.

Large update files (often over 1 GB) need a stable connection throughout the entire download. A wired connection dramatically reduces the chance of failure.
Set your date and time to automatic. Go to Settings > System > Date and Time and enable Set Automatically. Restart the PS5 and try the update again.

The update servers use your system time to authenticate the download session. An incorrect clock can cause the session to be rejected.
Install the update via USB. Download the latest PS5 system update from Sony's official website onto a USB drive. Format the drive as FAT32 or exFAT, create a PS5/UPDATE folder, and place the update file inside. Enter Safe Mode and choose Update via USB.

The Sony support page at playstation.com/en-us/support has full instructions and the download link for the USB update method.

When to Call a Professional

If SU-101388-4 persists after freeing storage and using a wired connection, contact Sony support. Visit support.playstation.com for guidance on forced system updates. In rare cases, a hardware fault with the SSD can prevent updates from completing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use my PS5 while it shows SU-101388-4?

Yes. Your console is not damaged by this error — the update simply did not complete. You can still play games and use most features. However, some new games may require the latest system software version, so fix the update error as soon as possible.

How much free space does a PS5 need to install a system update?

PS5 system updates typically require between 1 GB and 10 GB of free space, depending on the update size. Sony recommends keeping at least 50 GB free on your PS5 at all times for updates and game patches. If space is very tight, delete old game captures, screenshots, and games you have finished.

Will deleting games remove my save data when fixing SU-101388-4?

No. On PS5, save data is stored separately from the game installation. Deleting a game to free space for an update will not delete your saves. You can redownload the game later and your save progress will still be there.