Explanation
What this error means
Sony documents CE-118446-4 as “there was a problem updating the system software.” It can appear when the main system update fails, or when one of the PS5’s internal system applications fails to update in the background. It’s an update-pipeline error, not a sign of damage.
Official reference: Sony support page for CE-118446-4
Diagnosis
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | Fixable at home? |
|---|---|---|
| Download was interrupted or arrived corrupted | Very likely | Yes — retry the update |
| Unstable connection during the update | Likely | Yes — use wired or better Wi-Fi |
| Sony’s update servers busy or in maintenance | Possible | No — wait it out |
| System feature updates stuck out of sync | Possible | Yes — trigger them manually |
Repair
How to fix it
Ordered easiest-first. Try the next step only if the error comes back.
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Retry the system update
Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings, and run the update again. Transient failures often clear on the second attempt.
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Check System Feature Updates too
In the same menu, open System Feature Updates and let any pending internal app updates finish — Sony’s own fix for this code.
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Restart and switch to a wired connection
Restart the console, then plug in a LAN cable if you can. A stable line prevents the partial downloads that trigger this error.
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Update from Safe Mode
Power off, hold the power button until the second beep, connect the controller by USB, and choose “Update System Software” > “Update Using Internet”.
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Update via USB drive
Download the official update file from playstation.com onto a FAT32 USB stick (PS5/UPDATE/PS5UPDATE.PUP), then use Safe Mode option “Update System Software” > “Update from USB Storage Device”.
⚠ Only ever install update files downloaded from playstation.com. Never install system software from any other source.
Escalation
When it's not your fault
Signs the problem is on Sony's side — or in the hardware — rather than anything you can change:
- The PlayStation status page shows maintenance or degraded services while the update fails.
- The same failure happens on a wired connection with normal internet — Sony’s CDN may be having a bad day.
- Social feeds light up with the same update failing for everyone on patch day.
Questions
FAQ
Is it safe to turn off the PS5 after this error?
Yes. The PS5 updates into a separate area and only switches over once the file verifies, so a failed update doesn’t leave the console half-flashed.
Why does it keep failing on Wi-Fi?
System updates are large and verify against a checksum. Packet loss on a weak wireless link can corrupt the download repeatedly — a wired connection removes that variable.
Will updating from USB delete anything?
No. The standard “Update System Software” path (including from USB in Safe Mode) keeps games, saves, and settings. Only “Reset PS5 (Reinstall System Software)” wipes data — avoid that option.