What is Rest Mode on the PS4?
Rest mode on the PlayStation 4 allows the console to stay in a low power state while still having some key functions active. This includes keeping game or app data updated, charging controllers, and downloading updates or games from the PlayStation Network.
When the PS4 is in rest mode, the power indicator pulsates orange. The console is still on, but uses less power compared to being fully active. Rest mode is useful for keeping the PS4 up-to-date and ready to use quickly without having to wait for downloads or installs each time you start playing.
Why Would You Need to Power Off From Rest Mode?
There are a few reasons why you may want or need to power off the PS4 while it’s in rest mode:
- You’re finished using the PS4 for the day and want to completely power it down to save energy.
- An update or download has frozen or failed.
- The console is having some other technical issue and needs a full reboot.
- You need to unplug the console to move it or rearrange cables.
In these cases, it’s necessary to be able to turn off the PS4 without a controller while it’s in rest mode.
Powering Off From Rest Mode Without Controller
There are a couple different methods you can use to turn off a PS4 in rest mode without needing the controller:
Use the Power Button on the PS4
The most straightforward way is to press the physical power button on the front of the PS4 console. Here’s how:
- Make sure the console is in rest mode with the orange pulsating light.
- Press the power button on the front left corner of the PS4 once briefly.
- The console will beep twice and power off.
This will completely shut down the console even if it’s downloading something or in the middle of an update.
Unplug the PS4 Power Cable
If you can’t reach the power button safely or it’s not responding, you can also cut power to the console by unplugging it:
- Make sure the PS4 is in rest mode and the power cable is visible.
- Unplug the power cord from the back of the console or from the wall outlet.
- The PS4 will immediately lose power and turn off.
This may abruptly interrupt any downloads or installations in progress, so only use this method if the power button does not respond.
Turning the PS4 Back On After Forced Power Off
After force powering off the console from rest mode, here are some things to expect when turning it back on:
- The PS4 will go through a full startup sequence, including checking the storage system.
- Any suspended games or apps will be closed and you’ll start fresh from the home screen.
- If you unplugged the console, you may get a message about storage being improperly ejected.
- Some game or app updates may need to re-download if they were interrupted.
Give the PS4 a minute or two to startup completely and reconnect to PlayStation Network after a forced reboot. Your console should go back to normal, but expect downloads and updates to restart.
Tips to Avoid Needing to Power Off From Rest Mode
While it’s useful to know how to power off from rest mode without a controller, here are some tips to avoid getting into that situation:
- Fully power off when you’re done playing. Only use rest mode if you’re stepping away briefly or need background downloads.
- Make sure updates can complete. Don’t enter rest mode if a major system update is in progress.
- Check download queue. Cancel or pause any downloads before entering rest mode.
- Restart console regularly. Power cycle your PS4 fully every few days to clear memory.
Following proper shutdown procedures and managing your download queue can prevent many issues that would require force powering off from rest mode.
Troubleshooting Problems Powering Off From Rest Mode
If you’re having trouble getting the PS4 to power off from rest mode using the methods above, try the following troubleshooting steps:
PS4 Power Button Not Responding
- Press and hold the power button for at least 7 seconds to force a shutdown.
- Unplug the PS4 power cable for 10 seconds then reconnect it.
- Make sure nothing is obstructing the power button on the console.
- Try powering on the console normally and put it into rest mode again before shutting down.
PS4 Won’t Power On After Forced Shut Down
- Make sure all cables are securely connected to the console.
- Try using different power outlet in case of voltage issues.
- Press and hold power button for 30+ seconds in case console is frozen.
- Factory reset PS4 using safe mode if it remains unresponsive.
Games or Apps Not Working After Forced Shut Down
- Close any error messages or prompts about improper shutdowns.
- Check for corrupt data and reinstall affected games or apps.
- Restart console and verify licenses and installations.
- Rebuild PS4 database in safe mode to fix software issues.
Conclusion
While being able to turn off the PS4 without a controller while it’s in rest mode is useful in some situations, it’s best avoided if possible. Always make sure your console can safely enter rest mode and exit it normally before relying on this.
However, if you do need to force a shutdown from rest mode, using the power button or unplugging the power cable will work. Just be prepared to wait for the system to reboot and recheck downloads and installations afterwards. With some care taken to shut down properly and manage your rest mode use, you can avoid most situations where you’d need to power down your PS4 without a controller.
