PlayStation USB ports not working? Try this

If you connected your controller to your PlayStation® 5 for a much-needed charge, only to find it's still dead, believe us: We've been there. Your console's USB port is supposed to be a reliable way to charge and connect your controller, PS5® camera, and other accessories. So when it doesn't work properly, it can be a pain. Don't worry though, we can help.

Asurion is your one-stop shop for protecting, troubleshooting, and getting the most out of your tech. Here's what to do when your PS5® USB ports aren't working.

1. Restart your console

Turning your PlayStation off then back on is a time-tested tool for resolving any bugs or hiccups your gaming console might have. If that doesn't work, try it again, only this time unplug it from the outlet for 30 minutes.

2. Make sure you're using the correct port

Nothing's worse than stressing over a small mistake. With all of the ports available on your console, it's possible that the accessory you're trying to connect might be in the wrong port—like trying to plug a USB cable into an HDMI port. Double-check to make sure it's in the right place.

3. Test different devices and cables

You've probably had to test your phone with different chargers to see if the cable or charging block was the issue or if it was your phone. The same concept applies here: Trying out different combinations of cables lets you gauge whether your controller is to blame or the port.

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4. Test all of the USB ports

An out-of-commission USB port is one thing, but multiple ports not working can indicate a bigger problem—like corrupted software files. Take the time to check each USB port individually, including the ones on the back. Doing so can help identify where the trouble lies.

5. Clear out any dust and debris

If your USB port still won't work properly, try cleaning the ports with canned air or a small vacuum to remove any accumulated dust. You might also consider having a pro perform an inside-and-out PlayStation deep-cleaning to keep your device working as it should.

6. Inspect your ports for damage

Warped or bent pins are a giveaway that the USB port is damaged and in need of a fix from a PlayStation repair expert.

7. Update your PS5 software

Your console may have encountered a glitch that's keeping its ports from working properly. Updating your console's software can solve your problem fast. Here's how:

1. Open Settings on your PS5.
2. Select System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software.
3. Select Update Using Internet.

Once the update is finished, restart your console and try to connect using the same port.

8. Try a factory reset

If the ports on your PlayStation still aren't working, you may have to factory reset your PS5. Doing so will delete your game files and restore your console back to its default factory settings. Before you do this, make sure to back up those files using PlayStation Plus cloud storage or with an external drive.

Back up your files using PlayStation Plus cloud

1. Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
2. Select Saved Data.
3. Select Console Storage, select a game, then select Upload to Cloud Storage.

Note: You can also set your PlayStation to back up automatically by going to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data > Sync Saved Data > Auto-Sync Saved Data and turning on Enable Auto-Sync.

Back up your files using an external drive

To back up this way, you'll need at least one working USB port to plug your external drive into. Follow these steps to get your gaming console backed up:

1. Connect your USB drive to one of the working ports on either the front or back of your console.
2. From the home screen, select Settings > System.
3. Select System Software > Back Up and Restore > Back Up Your PS5.
4. Select the item you want to back up, then select Next. The file name and file size will appear, then you'll select Back Up.
5. Your console will restart and start the back up. When Backup complete appears on screen, select OK. Your console will restart.

How to factory reset your PS5

1. Open Settings.
2. Select System Software > Reset Options > Reset your Console.
3. Select Reset.