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How to Reset the Playstation 3

When using your PlayStation 3 console, you may encounter technical issues that will require you to reset your system. There are several types of resets you can perform on a PlayStation 3, including power cycling the console, restoring default settings and restoring the PS3 system. Performing a reset is often part of the resolution process when troubleshooting a software or hardware issue with your PlayStation 3. Power cycling is common, however restoring default settings and system restoration should be used only when absolutely necessary.

Instructions

- 1
  Perform a power cycle of the PlayStation 3. Power cycling is most often used for instances when the console has locked up while playing a game or using an application on the unit. Hold down the power button on the front of the console until the light turns red in 10 seconds, then release the power button. Wait five seconds and then press the power button again briefly to turn the PlayStation 3 console back on.
- 2
  Restore the PlayStation 3 to default settings by using the Restore Default Settings feature. Log in to your PlayStation 3 and, from the XMB menu, navigate to "Settings" and "Restore Default Settings." The next screen will show you which settings will be set to the defaults, which include game, video, music, chat, system, theme, power, date and time. Your current PlayStationNetwork login and password will also be erased. Hit the "X" button to accept and run the default settings restoration process. Once this process is complete, you will be returned to the setup screen that will guide you through setting up your PlayStation 3 settings.
- 3
  Perform a PS3 system restore. Similar to restoring the PlayStation 3 to default settings, performing a factory reset will restore all settings to their factory defaults as well as wipe the hard drive of all user data. Factory resets are generally done when reselling the console or as a last resort troubleshooting technique. To perform a PS3 System Restore, log in to your PlayStation 3 and, from the XMB menu, navigate to "Settings" and choose "Restore PS3 System."

PlayStation 3