If you are experiencing frequent crashes when trying to access the PS Plus section on your PS5, you are not alone. Many users have reported this frustrating issue, which can occur when opening the PS Plus tab, browsing games, or claiming monthly titles. The good news is that there are several effective troubleshooting steps you can follow to resolve the problem and get back to gaming. Common causes include software bugs, corrupted data, network issues, or conflicts with system settings. In this guide, we will walk you through each potential fix, from the simplest to more advanced methods.
Understanding Why PS Plus Crashes on PS5
The PS Plus section on PS5 is essentially an integrated app that relies on both local system resources and Sony’s network infrastructure. When crashes occur, they are often tied to one of these underlying issues:
- System Software Bugs: The PS5’s operating system receives regular updates that can occasionally introduce instability. A recent firmware update may cause conflicts with the PS Plus interface.
- Corrupted Cache or Data: Temporary files and cached data stored by the PS5 can become corrupted over time, leading to app crashes.
- Network Connectivity: A weak or unstable internet connection may disrupt communication with PlayStation Network (PSN) servers, causing the PS Plus section to freeze or close unexpectedly.
- Server-Side Problems: Sometimes the issue is on Sony’s end. PSN outages or maintenance can make the PS Plus dashboard unresponsive or prone to crashes.
- Account or License Conflicts: If your PlayStation account licenses are not synced correctly, the PS Plus app may crash when trying to verify your subscription or entitlements.
- External Storage Conflicts: If you are using an external hard drive, it might interfere with the PS5’s ability to load PS Plus content properly.
Identifying the root cause can help you apply the most appropriate fix. Start with the basic steps below and work your way up if the problem persists.
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
Before diving into more complex solutions, try these quick and easy fixes. They resolve the majority of PS Plus crashing issues without much hassle.
Restart Your PS5
A simple restart clears temporary memory and refreshes the system processes. Press the PlayStation button on your controller, navigate to the Power icon, and select Restart PS5. Once the console reboots, try opening the PS Plus section again. If it still crashes, move on to the next step.
Check for System Software Updates
Sony frequently releases firmware updates to fix known bugs. Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software. If an update is available, download and install it. After updating, restart your PS5 and check if the issue is resolved.
Update the PS Plus App
Although the PS Plus section is integrated into the system, it may receive standalone updates from time to time. Highlight the PS Plus icon on the home screen, press the Options button on your controller, and select Check for Update. Install any pending updates and relaunch the app.
Verify PSN Server Status
Crashes can sometimes be caused by problems on Sony’s end. Visit the official PSN Service Status page to see if there are any ongoing outages or maintenance affecting PS Plus, account management, or the PlayStation Store. If the servers are down, you will need to wait until Sony resolves the issue.
Test Your Internet Connection
A poor network connection can cause the PS Plus interface to hang or crash. Run a connection test by going to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection. If your speed or stability is lacking, try the following:
- Switch from Wi-Fi to a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable link.
- Restart your modem and router.
- Move your PS5 closer to the router if you must use Wi-Fi.
- Disable other bandwidth-heavy devices on the network.
After improving your connection, relaunch PS Plus and see if the crashes stop.
Clear Cache and Rebuild Database
Corrupted cache files are a common culprit behind app crashes. Clearing the cache and rebuilding the database can refresh your PS5’s storage structure without deleting your games or saved data.
Clear System Cache
Power off your PS5 completely (do not enter Rest Mode). Once the console is off and the power indicator light has stopped blinking, unplug the power cable from the back. Wait for at least two minutes to drain residual power. Plug the cable back in, turn on the system, and check PS Plus again.
Rebuild Database via Safe Mode
Rebuilding the database reorganizes your storage and can fix crashing problems.
- Turn off your PS5 by pressing the power button until you hear two beeps.
- Press and hold the power button again. Release it after you hear the second beep, about seven seconds later. This boots the console into Safe Mode.
- Connect your DualSense controller with a USB cable and press the PlayStation button.
- Select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database (option 5).
- Choose Rebuild Database. The process may take a few minutes to an hour depending on your storage usage. Do not turn off the console during the rebuild.
- After completion, the PS5 will restart. Try accessing PS Plus now.
Restore Licenses and Sign Out/In
Your PS Plus subscription and game licenses are tied to your account. If these become out of sync, the PS Plus app may crash when trying to verify them.
Restore Licenses
Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Restore Licenses. Select Restore and wait for the process to finish. This refreshes your digital rights and can resolve crashing related to entitlement checks.
Sign Out and Back In
Sometimes simply signing out of your PSN account and signing back in can fix account-related glitches. Navigate to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Sign Out. After signing out, restart your PS5, then sign in again with your credentials. Launch PS Plus to see if the issue is gone.
Advanced Fixes
If the basic steps haven’t helped, you may need to try these more involved solutions.
Disable Rest Mode Network Features
Rest Mode’s network functions can occasionally cause conflicts. Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode and disable Stay Connected to the Internet. Turn off your PS5, wait a few minutes, then turn it back on and test PS Plus.
Disable HDCP
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) can sometimes interfere with PS5 apps. To disable it, go to Settings > System > HDMI > Enable HDCP and uncheck the box. Note that this may prevent certain streaming apps from working, but you can re-enable it later if needed.
Change DNS Settings
Using a custom DNS server may improve network stability. Go to Settings > Network > Settings > Set Up Internet Connection, select your network, and choose Advanced Settings. Under DNS Settings, select Manual and enter primary 8.8.8.8 and secondary 8.8.4.4 (Google’s public DNS). Save and test.
Reinstall the PS Plus App (If Possible)
On PS5, the PS Plus section is part of the system and cannot be deleted individually. However, if you have a PS Plus extension or related media apps, try deleting and reinstalling them. Go to Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps, find any PS Plus-related content, and delete it. Then re-download from the PlayStation Store.
Factory Reset Your PS5
If all else fails, a full factory reset can resolve persistent software issues. This will erase all data from your console, so back up your saves and game data to the cloud or a USB drive first.
- Go to Settings > System > System Software > Reset Options > Reset Your Console.
- Select Reset to confirm. The process takes a while and your PS5 will restart.
- Set up the console again, sign into PSN, and test PS Plus before restoring your backups.
Note: If the crashing only started after a recent system update, a factory reset may not help if the issue is a bug that Sony needs to patch. Check online forums to see if others are experiencing the same problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does PS Plus keep crashing on my PS5?
Crashes can stem from outdated system software, corrupted cache, network issues, or PSN server problems. Following the troubleshooting steps above usually clears up the most common causes.
Will rebuilding the database delete my games or saves?
No. Rebuilding the database simply reorganizes your storage without removing any data. Your games, saved data, and settings remain intact.
How do I clear the cache on PS5 without Safe Mode?
You can clear the cache by fully powering down your PS5, unplugging the power cord for two minutes, then plugging it back in. This forces the cache to clear without entering Safe Mode.
Is there a known bug causing PS Plus to crash on PS5?
Sony occasionally releases firmware updates that inadvertently introduce bugs. If crashes started after an update, check online communities or Sony’s support channels to see if a fix is in the works.
What should I do if nothing fixes the crashing?
If you have tried every step and PS Plus still crashes, contact PlayStation Support. They can check your account, provide further diagnostics, or escalate the issue if it is a widespread problem.
Can external hard drives cause PS Plus to crash?
Yes. Sometimes an external drive with corrupted data or connection issues can interfere with system functions. Try disconnecting your external drive and seeing if the crashes stop. If the problem resolves, reformat the drive or replace it.
