How to delete a PS4 account

If you have had a PlayStation 4 for a while, you have made several user accounts. However, you should delete unwanted accounts to free up some storage space. Moreover, you should deactivate your PS4 user account from the system if you’re selling the device. Even permanently deleting your PlayStation Network account is an option.

There are multiple methods to delete a PlayStation 4 account. Yet, you must remember that any saved data, pictures, and videos associated with your PS4 account will be lost if you delete them. Therefore, backup all data to an external hard drive or the cloud (through PlayStation Plus). 

This article will guide you on how to delete a PS4 account showing step-by-step procedures.

Method 1: Delete other users from a primary account

1. Connect your PS4 to the internet and log in. Other accounts cannot be deleted unless you are logged in as the device’s primary user.
2. Push up on the left joystick to open an options menu from the home screen. 
3. Scroll right until you reach the icon of a toolbox that says “Settings” while using the left joystick to navigate. To choose it, press “X.”
4. Open the “Login settings” page. Navigate to “User Management” in the options menu by scrolling down. 
5. Select “Delete User.”
6. To delete a user, scroll down to that account. To remove, click “X” and click confirm to finish. 
7. Adhere to the instructions after that.
8. After deleting your main account, you will be asked to confirm your choice to reset after selecting “Delete.” This will reset your console to its default settings. Any data that isn’t backed up will be lost forever.
9. Restart your PS4 after logging out. The user has been successfully erased from the system if they are no longer displayed on the options screen.

Method 2: Do a factory reset from the primary account

1. Connect your PS4 to the internet and log in. You must be logged in as the console’s primary user.
2. Push the left joystick to open an options menu from the home screen. Scroll right until you reach the icon of a toolbox that says “Settings” while using the left joystick for navigation.
3. To select, press “X.”
4. To access “Initialization,” navigate down in the options menu.
5. Select “Initialize PS4”. 
6. Choose “Full,” then proceed as directed. By doing this, your PS4 will be reset to its factory settings, and all data you have not saved up will be deleted.
7. It could take several hours to complete a factory reset. You could risk significant damage if you switch off the PS4 during this operation.

Method 3: Delete users by doing a manual factory reset

Note that you must use this method only to initialize a PS4 if you do not know the account’s password.

1. Hold the power button down firmly for a few seconds. Hold off until the light turns red and a beep is heard.
2. Now press the power button once more while holding it down. A single initial beep would be followed by a second one roughly seven seconds later.
3. Leave the button.
4. You will now be in Safe Mode when the PS4 powers up.
5. To “Restore Default Settings,” pull down the left joystick to scroll down.
6. Select it by pressing “X,” then follow the prompts. Any data that hasn’t been backed up will be deleted, and your PS4 will be reset to its factory settings.
7. While the console is in Safe Mode, the controller must be USB-connected to it.

Backup your PS4 data:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Open Application Saved Data Management.
3. Click Saved Data in System Storage. 
4. To save to the cloud or a USB storage device, such as an external hard drive, choose “Cloud” or “USB Storage,” respectively.
5. Click “Copy” after choosing the game you want to back up.

Reminder: Don’t turn off your PS4 when backing it up or risk severe harm.

Why do you need a VPN before deleting a PS4 account?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is ideal for encrypting your internet connection and protecting your online privacy and security. When you delete a PS4 account, you may be required to provide personal information such as your name, address, and email. 

Get PureVPN for enhanced security

However, a VPN can help protect your sensitive information from being intercepted by hackers or other malicious actors. A VPN can also help you access regional content and online services that may not be available in your location. Our recommendation goes with PureVPN.

• PureVPN allows you to connect to servers in over 78 countries, giving you access to a wide range of content and enabling you to bypass regional restrictions.
• PureVPN uses military-grade encryption to protect your online activity and secure your personal information.
• PureVPN offers a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is lost, ensuring that your personal information is not exposed.
• PureVPN also offers a dedicated app for PS4, which allows you to use the VPN on your PS4 console, and you can also quickly delete your PS4 account if you want to.

Frequently asked questions

How to delete a PlayStation Network account?

Visit the PlayStation support website, open Account & Security, and then open Change Online ID & Other Account Questions. From here, you may ask to talk to a support staff member through chat so they can help you finish the procedure.

If I delete my account, can I still use it on a different PS4?

Yes, using a deleted account on another PlayStation 4 device is still possible.

Can I remove a user without deleting the data?

The data associated with the user account will not be destroyed; instead, the deletion of the user merely results in its removal from the PlayStation.

Conclusion 

Deleting a PS4 account is a relatively simple process that can be completed by following the steps outlined in this guide. It is important to note that once an account is deleted, it cannot be recovered, and all associated data, such as game saves and DLC, will also be lost. Therefore, it is recommended to be sure of your decision before proceeding with the deletion.