If you’re lucky enough to have gotten your hands on a PlayStation 5, you’ll want to set it up as your primary console. This will give you access to all of your games and saves, and it will also allow you to use your PS5 to play online with friends. Setting your PS5 as your primary console is a simple process, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started. First, you’ll need to make sure that you’re signed into your PlayStation Network account on your PS5. Once you’re signed in, you can follow these steps to set your PS5 as your primary console:
1. From the PS5 home screen, go to Settings.
2. Select System.
3. Select Console Sharing and Offline Play.
4. Select Set as Primary PS5.
Once you’ve followed these steps, your PS5 will be set as your primary console. You’ll now be able to access all of your games and saves, and you’ll be able to use your PS5 to play online with friends. If you ever need to change your primary console, you can follow these same steps to set a different console as your primary console.
Determining Your Current Primary PS5
Identifying your current primary PS5 is crucial before proceeding with the primary console designation process. Follow these detailed steps to determine your active primary console:
1. Sign In to Your PlayStation Account on Your PS5
To begin, ensure you are signed in to your PlayStation Network account on the PS5 you wish to check. This ensures that you have access to your account settings and can view your primary console status.
2. Navigate to the Settings Menu
Once signed in, navigate to the Settings menu on your PS5. You can access this menu by selecting the gear icon located in the top-right corner of the home screen.
3. Select “System” and Then “Console Sharing and Offline Play”
Within the Settings menu, scroll down and select “System.” From the System menu, navigate to “Console Sharing and Offline Play” to view your primary console settings.
4. Check the “Primary PS5” Status
Upon accessing the Console Sharing and Offline Play settings, you will find the “Primary PS5” section. This section will indicate whether the current PS5 you are using is set as your primary console or not. A checkmark next to “This PS5 is your primary console” confirms its primary status, while its absence indicates a non-primary designation.
| Primary PS5 Status | Indication |
|---|---|
| Primary | Checkmark beside “This PS5 is your primary console” |
| Non-Primary | Absence of checkmark |
Activating Your Desired PS5 as Primary
To designate your desired PS5 as the primary console for your account, follow these steps:
1. Sign in to Your Account on the Target PS5
Ensure you are logged into PlayStation Network using the account you wish to associate with the primary PS5.
2. Navigate to Settings
From the PlayStation home screen, navigate to the Settings menu, represented by a gear icon in the top-right corner. Within Settings, select “Users and Accounts” and then “Other.”
| Action | Steps |
|---|---|
| Access Home Screen | Press the PS button on the controller |
| Open Settings | Select the gear icon in the top-right corner |
| Select “Users and Accounts” | Scroll down and choose this option |
| Choose “Other” | Access this submenu under “Users and Accounts” |
Set as Primary PS5
In the “Other” submenu, select “Set as Primary PS5.” A confirmation prompt will appear, where you must choose “Activate” to finalize the process.
Deactivating Your Old Primary PS5
1. Sign in to your PlayStation Network account on your old PS5.
2. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Account > Deactivate Primary PS5.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
If you don’t have access to your old PS5, you can deactivate it remotely from a web browser or mobile device:
1. Sign in to your PlayStation Network account on the PlayStation website or mobile app.
2. Go to Settings > Device Management > PlayStation Devices.
3. Select your old PS5 and click “Deactivate.”
Once you’ve deactivated your old primary PS5, you can follow the instructions in the previous section to activate your new PS5 as your primary console.
Note: You can only deactivate your primary PS5 once every 6 months. If you need to deactivate it more often than that, you’ll need to contact PlayStation Support.
| Platform | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Web browser | Go to the PlayStation website and sign in to your account. Click on the “Settings” tab and select “Device Management.” Find your old PS5 and click “Deactivate.” |
| Mobile app | Download the PlayStation App and sign in to your account. Tap on the “Settings” tab and select “Device Management.” Find your old PS5 and tap “Deactivate.” |
Considerations for Changing Primary PS5
There are a few things to keep in mind before you change your primary PS5. First, only one PS5 can be designated as your primary console at a time. Second, when you change your primary PS5, all of your games and data will be transferred to the new console. This includes any games you have purchased, downloaded, or saved. Third, you can only change your primary PS5 once every six months. So, if you’re not sure whether or not you want to change your primary PS5, it’s best to wait until you’re certain.
What happens when you change your primary PS5?
When you change your primary PS5, a few things will happen. First, all of your games and data will be transferred to the new console. This includes any games you have purchased, downloaded, or saved. Second, you will be able to play your games on the new console without having to sign in to your PlayStation Network account. Third, you will be able to access all of your PlayStation Network features and benefits on the new console. Fourth, you will not be able to play your games on your old console unless you sign in to your PlayStation Network account. Fifth, you will not be able to access any of your PlayStation Network features or benefits on your old console.
| Account | Primary PS5 | Secondary PS5 |
|---|---|---|
| A | Yes | No |
| B | No | Yes |
Benefits of Having a Primary PS5
There are several benefits to having a primary PS5, including:
1. Share games with other accounts on your console
When you set a PS5 as your primary console, you can share your game library with other accounts on that console. This means that your friends and family can play your games without having to purchase them themselves.
2. Install games on multiple consoles
You can install your games on up to 5 PS5 consoles when you set one as your primary console. This is convenient if you have multiple consoles in different locations, or if you want to share your games with friends who have their own consoles.
3. Automatically download updates
When you set a PS5 as your primary console, your games will automatically download updates. This ensures that you always have the latest version of your games, and you don’t have to worry about checking for updates manually.
4. Access PlayStation Plus Collection
If you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, you can access the PlayStation Plus Collection on your primary PS5 console. This collection includes a variety of popular PS4 games that you can download and play for free.
5. Access Remote Play
Remote Play allows you to play your PS5 games on your PC, Mac, or mobile device. To use Remote Play, you must set your PS5 as your primary console. This will allow you to connect to your PS5 remotely and play your games from anywhere with an internet connection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Unable to Make PS5 Primary
If you encounter difficulties setting your PS5 as primary, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
Checking Your Network Connection
Ensure your PS5 has a stable internet connection. Insufficient connectivity may prevent you from making your PS5 primary.
Verifying Your PSN Account
Confirm that you are using the same PSN account on both your PS5 and the console you wish to deactivate as primary.
Deactivating Other Consoles
If you have previously set another console as primary, visit the PlayStation Network website and manually deactivate it before attempting to make your PS5 primary.
Dealing with Verification Errors
If you receive a verification error, try restarting your PS5 and attempting the process again. You may also need to update your PS5 firmware to the latest version.
Resetting Your PS5
As a last resort, consider resetting your PS5 to its factory settings. Note that this will erase all user data, so back up important information beforehand.
| Error Code | Description |
|---|---|
| WS-116402-6 | Unable to connect to the PSN network. |
| NP-103338-7 | Primary console already activated. |
Managing PS5 Families and Primary Accounts
1. Introduction
Understanding the management of PS5 families and primary accounts is essential for optimizing your gaming experience. By designating a primary console and managing family settings, you can ensure seamless gameplay and account security.
2. What is a Primary PS5?
A primary PS5 is the console designated as the main console for a particular PSN account. It grants access to all games and content purchased with that account, even when other users are signed in.
3. Setting a Primary PS5
To set a primary PS5, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other Users. Select the user’s profile and choose “Set as Primary PS5.” This process can only be done once every 6 months.
4. Benefits of a Primary PS5
- Access to all content purchased with the primary account
- Automatic download of updates and patches
- Ability to play games purchased with the primary account on other consoles
5. Managing Family Accounts
PS5 allows you to create up to 7 family accounts, each with its own settings and parental controls. To manage family accounts, go to Settings > Family Management. You can add new members, adjust privacy settings, and set parental controls.
6. Benefits of Family Accounts
- Parental controls to manage screen time, content, and spending
- Shared access to games and subscriptions within the family
- Personalized experiences for each family member
7. Guide to Creating and Managing Family Accounts
a. Creating Family Accounts:
Go to Settings > Family Management > Add Family Member. Select the family member’s PSN account or create a new one.
b. Adjusting Family Settings:
Under Family Management, select the family member’s profile. You can adjust settings for age restrictions, communication, and spending.
c. Parental Controls:
To set parental controls, go to Settings > Family Management > Parental Controls. You can restrict access to games, websites, and chat features.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Restrictions | Limits access to games and content based on the child’s age |
| Communication | Controls who the child can communicate with online |
| Spending | Sets limits on in-game purchases and subscriptions |
Sharing Games and Content with Primary PS5
By setting your PS5 as the primary console for your account, you can share games and other digital content with other users on your console. Here’s how to do it:
1. Log In to Your PlayStation Network Account
Ensure you’re logged into your PSN account on the PS5 you want to set as primary.
2. Go to Settings
From the PS5 home screen, navigate to the “Settings” menu.
3. Select “System”
In the Settings menu, scroll down and select “System”.
4. Choose “Console Sharing and Offline Play”
Under the “System” tab, select “Console Sharing and Offline Play”.
5. Enable “Set as Primary PS5”
Tick the checkbox next to “Set as Primary PS5”.
6. Confirm the Activation
A confirmation message will appear. Select “Activate” to confirm that you want to set this PS5 as your primary console.
7. Note the Activation Process
The activation process may take a few minutes. During this time, your PS5 will restart.
8. Benefits of Primary PS5
| Benefits |
|---|
|
Share games and add-ons with up to four other users on the same PS5. Play digital games purchased on your account on any activated PS5, even when you’re offline. Access PlayStation Plus benefits, such as online multiplayer and free monthly games, from your account on any activated PS5. Remotely download and launch games on any activated PS5 using the PlayStation App. |
Optimizing Your PS5 Primary Settings
To get the most out of your PS5, it’s important to optimize your primary settings. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
Storage Management
The PS5 has a built-in 825GB SSD, which can fill up quickly if you’re not careful. To avoid running out of space, make sure to manage your storage wisely. You can do this by deleting games and apps you don’t use anymore, and by moving games to an external hard drive.
Power Settings
The PS5 has a number of power settings that can help you save energy. For example, you can put your PS5 into Rest Mode when you’re not using it, which will use less power than if you leave it on. You can also adjust the brightness of your PS5’s display to save even more energy.
Network Settings
The PS5 requires a stable internet connection to play online games and access other online features. Make sure to connect your PS5 to a wired Ethernet connection if possible, as this will provide the fastest and most reliable connection. If you’re using a wireless connection, make sure to place your PS5 in a location where it will have a strong signal.
Account Settings
Your PS5 account settings allow you to manage your PSN account, as well as your privacy and security settings. Make sure to keep your account information up-to-date, and to enable two-factor authentication for added security.
Parental Controls
The PS5 has a number of parental controls that can help you protect your children from inappropriate content. You can use these controls to restrict access to certain games and apps, to set time limits for play, and to monitor your children’s online activity.
Game Presets
The PS5 allows you to create game presets for different games. This can be useful for quickly adjusting your settings for different games, such as changing the graphics settings or the controls.
Notifications
The PS5 can send you notifications for a variety of events, such as when you receive a message or when a new update is available. You can customize your notification settings to control which notifications you receive and how they are delivered.
Themes
The PS5 allows you to change the theme of your console’s user interface. There are a variety of themes available to choose from, so you can find one that matches your personal style.
Accessibility Features
The PS5 has a number of accessibility features that can make it easier for people with disabilities to use the console. These features include screen readers, closed captions, and the ability to remap the controls.
Maintaining Your Primary PS5 Status
To ensure your PS5 remains the primary console for your account and enjoys the associated benefits, follow these steps:
1. Ensure you are signed in to the PlayStation Network on your PS5 with the account you want to set as primary.
2. Navigate to the “Settings” menu from the PS5 home screen.
3. Select “Users and Accounts” from the left-hand menu.
4. Choose “Account” from the sub-menu.
5. Select “Activate as Your Primary PS5” from the “Console Management” section.
6. Confirm the activation by selecting “Activate.” Your PS5 will now be the primary console for your account.
7. To deactivate your PS5 as the primary console, follow the same steps and select “Deactivate as Your Primary PS5” in the “Console Management” section.
8. You can only have one primary PS5 console per account.
9. If you deactivate your primary PS5, any content you purchased or downloaded while it was primary will still be accessible, but you may need to re-download it.
10. As the primary PS5 console, you enjoy the following benefits:
| Benefits |
|---|
| Share purchased and downloaded games with other accounts on the same console. |
| Access to PlayStation Plus benefits for all accounts on the console. |
| Automatic game updates and downloads. |
| Remote play and Share Play functionality. |
How To Make My Ps5 Primary
To make your PS5 primary, you will need to sign in to your PlayStation Network account on the console. Once you are signed in, go to the Settings menu and select the System tab. Next, select the Console Sharing and Offline Play option. Finally, select the Make This Your Primary PS5 option.
Once you have made your PS5 primary, you will be able to share your games and other content with other users on your console. You will also be able to play your games offline without having to sign in to your PlayStation Network account.
