PS5 update errors are one of the most searched PS5 problems in Australia, yet Sony's own error messages rarely explain what's actually gone wrong. You get a code, sometimes a vague phrase, and a suggestion to "try again." That's rarely enough. This guide breaks down the errors players hit most often, explains the underlying cause, and gives you a concrete fix for each one.
Why PS5 updates fail in the first place
Most PS5 update failures come down to four root causes: a network interruption mid-download, insufficient storage space, corrupted cache data, or a mismatch between a game update and the console's current system software version. The PS5 handles system updates and game updates through separate pathways, so an error on a game download doesn't always mean the same thing as an error on a firmware update. Knowing which type of update failed narrows your options immediately.
Rest mode is a frequent culprit. Downloads queued to complete in rest mode can stall if the console's network connection drops while it's in a low-power state, leaving you with a partially downloaded file that the system won't recognise as valid. If you're seeing consistent failures on downloads started in rest mode, disabling that feature is one of the first things to try. Our breakdown of PS5 rest mode problems covers why the feature behaves erratically and what's actually happening under the hood.
The most common PS5 update error codes
CE-107938-6
This is the most common game update error on PS5. It typically means the downloaded data is corrupted or incomplete. The fix is straightforward: go to the game in your library, press Options, select "Check for Update," then delete and re-download the update file if that doesn't work. Do not delete the base game unless you have to. Deleting only the update data is possible through Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps, where you can identify and remove specific corrupted components.
WS-116449-7
This error points to a PlayStation Network connectivity issue rather than a problem with the file itself. The PS5 couldn't reach Sony's servers to verify or complete the download. Check the PlayStation Network status page first. If PSN is up, restart your router and the PS5 fully (not rest mode). Also check that your DNS settings aren't causing latency spikes. Switching to Google's DNS (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare's (1.1.1.1) resolves this for some users.
CE-108255-1
This one shows up during system software updates, not game updates. It signals that the PS5 downloaded the firmware file but couldn't apply it. Two common causes: the internal SSD doesn't have enough free space to stage the update, or the firmware file itself is corrupted. Free up at least 10 GB before attempting a system update. If space isn't the issue, try updating via USB using a file downloaded from Sony's website rather than over the network.
SU-101311-5
This error appears when the system update process is interrupted. Power fluctuations, accidental shutdowns, or an unstable connection during the critical installation window all trigger it. Restart the PS5 and attempt the update again. If the console boots into safe mode automatically, use Safe Mode Option 3 ("Update System Software") to recover. A wired ethernet connection during system updates cuts the risk significantly compared to Wi-Fi.
Storage problems hiding as update errors
Many errors that look like network or corruption failures are actually storage problems. The PS5's NVMe SSD is fast, but the system needs free headroom to stage downloads, decompress files, and verify data integrity before installation. Sony recommends keeping at least 10–15 GB free at all times. If your drive is near capacity, updates fail in ways that produce misleading error codes.
If you've expanded your PS5 storage with an M.2 SSD and updates are still failing, check whether the drive is correctly seated and whether the PS5 recognises it under Settings > Storage. Our guide to PS5 storage upgrades covers the compatibility requirements in detail, including heat spreader rules and the speed thresholds Sony actually enforces.
How to force-update using safe mode
If normal update attempts keep failing, safe mode is the most reliable recovery path. To enter safe mode, turn off the PS5 completely (not rest mode), then hold the power button until you hear a second beep. Connect a DualSense controller via USB and press the PS button.
Safe mode gives you several options relevant to update errors:
- Option 3: Update System Software — downloads and applies the latest firmware directly, bypassing the standard update queue.
- Option 4: Restore Default Settings — resets system settings without wiping your data or games.
- Option 5: Clear Cache and Rebuild Database — fixes a large proportion of persistent update failures caused by corrupted cache files.
Option 5 is underused. Rebuilding the database doesn't delete your saves or games. It does take 20–40 minutes depending on how full your drive is, but it resolves stubborn errors that repeated normal restarts don't fix.
Updating via USB when network updates fail repeatedly
Sony publishes full PS5 system software update files for manual installation. Format a USB drive as FAT32 or exFAT, create a folder called PS5, create a subfolder called UPDATE, and place the file (named PS5UPDATE.PUP) inside it. Plug the USB into the PS5 while it's in safe mode and choose "Update System Software" followed by "Update from USB Storage Device."
This method bypasses every network variable and is the cleanest option when WS- or SU- errors keep recurring on firmware updates. Australian internet connections, particularly on some NBN technologies, can produce just enough packet loss to corrupt a large firmware download without triggering a visible dropout.
When to contact Sony support
If you've cleared the cache, rebuilt the database, attempted a USB update, and freed up storage space and errors persist, the issue is likely hardware. A failing SSD, whether the internal drive or an added M.2 unit, produces exactly the kinds of incomplete and corrupted file errors described above. Sony Australia's support page covers warranty claims and repair options. PS5 consoles still within their warranty period are eligible for repair or replacement, and Australian Consumer Law provides additional protections beyond Sony's stated warranty terms for products that fail to perform as expected.
Persistent errors on a console that was working fine and hasn't had any physical changes are worth escalating. Software fixes only go so far if a drive is beginning to fail.