SU-30728-9
Sony PlayStation
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
SU-30728-9 means your PS4 encountered an error while trying to install a system software update. This can be caused by a bad download, a storage problem, or a USB file issue. You can usually fix it by redownloading the update or using Safe Mode.
Affected Models
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 4 Slim
- PlayStation 4 Pro
Common Causes
- The update file downloaded incorrectly or became corrupted during download
- A USB drive used to install the update is formatted incorrectly or has errors
- Not enough free space on the PS4's hard drive to install the update
- The PS4 was turned off mid-update, leaving the installation in a broken state
- The update file on the USB drive is the wrong version or placed in the wrong folder
How to Fix It
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Delete the failed update and try again over the internet. Go to Settings > System Software Update and start the download again. Make sure your internet is stable during the process.
If the update file was corrupted during download, this is the quickest fix.
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Free up storage space. Go to Settings > Storage and check how much space is available. You need at least 10 GB free for most PS4 system updates. Delete old games or apps you no longer need.
The PS4 needs extra space beyond the update file size to unpack and install the update.
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If you used a USB drive, check the folder structure. The update file must be placed at: USB drive > PS4 > UPDATE > PS4UPDATE.PUP. The folder names must be in capital letters.
Even one lowercase letter in the folder name prevents the PS4 from finding the update file.
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Try Safe Mode. Turn off the PS4, then hold the power button for 7 seconds until you hear two beeps. Select option 3, 'Update System Software,' to retry the update in Safe Mode.
Safe Mode bypasses the normal OS and gives the update process a cleaner environment to work in.
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As a last resort, use Safe Mode option 7, 'Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software).' Download the full reinstall file from playstation.com/update, place it on a USB drive, and follow the prompts.
This erases all data on the console. Only do this after backing up your saved game data.
When to Call a Professional
SU-30728-9 is almost always a software issue you can fix at home. If Safe Mode reinstall fails and your PS4 still will not update, contact PlayStation Support. A failing hard drive can also cause repeated update errors — see CE-30002-5 if you suspect this.
Frequently Asked Questions
My PS4 updated halfway and now it will not start — what do I do?
Boot into Safe Mode by holding the power button for 7 seconds. Select 'Update System Software' and try the update again from there. If that fails, you will need to do a full reinstall using a USB drive and the update file from Sony's website.
Where do I download the PS4 update file for USB installation?
Go to playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/ps4/system-software/ on your computer. Download the 'Reinstallation File' (not the Update File) if your PS4 cannot start normally. It is about 900 MB to 1 GB in size.
Can I skip a PS4 system update?
You can delay updates, but eventually the PS4 will require an update to access PSN. Playing physical games offline does not require the latest update. However, skipping updates can cause compatibility problems with newer games.