The PS5 error code CE-118861-5 can be frustrating to deal with. This error indicates there is an issue with your PS5 system software that is preventing games or apps from installing or updating properly. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this error. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common fixes for error code CE-118861-5.
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What Causes Error Code CE-118861-5 on PS5?
There are a few potential causes of the CE-118861-5 error code:
- Corrupted system software files
- Issues with the PS5 firmware
- Problems with game data or save files
- Hardware faults with the PS5 console
In most cases, the error is caused by corrupted data that prevents the PS5 from properly installing game updates or new games from a disc or download. The error specifically seems to occur when the console checks the validity of content you are trying to install or update.
Thankfully, there are several ways you can attempt to fix the corrupted data causing the issue.
1. Reboot Your PS5
The first step is the simplest – rebooting your PS5. Sometimes a basic restart can clear out minor software glitches causing issues.
Here is how to properly reboot your PS5:
- Fully power down your PS5 – hold the power button on the front of the console for at least 7-8 seconds until you hear a second beep. This performs a full shutdown.
- Unplug the power cord from the back of the PS5 and wait 60 seconds. This resets the console’s internal components.
- Plug the power cord back in and turn your PS5 back on.
Once restarted, try installing updates or games again to see if the error persists. A simple reboot fixes error CE-118861-5 for some users. If not, move on to the other solutions below.
2. Rebuild the PS5 Database
Rebuilding the PS5’s internal database can fix corrupted data causing issues like CE-118861-5.
Here are the steps to rebuild your PS5’s database:
- Fully shut down your console using the power button as explained above.
- Press and hold the power button again – your PS5 will beep once and turn into Safe Mode. Keep holding the button until you hear a second beep.
- Connect your PS5 controller to the console using a USB cable and press the PS button.
- Select the “Rebuild Database” option. This will scan your PS5 drive and check for corrupt files.
The database rebuild process can take anywhere from 5 minutes to a few hours depending on your drive size. Once complete, your PS5 will restart normally. Try installing the game or update again.
3. Update PS5 System Software
Another potential fix is making sure your PS5 is running the latest system software. Sony releases firmware updates to fix bugs, improve stability, and address issues like error CE-118861-5.
Here’s how to update your PS5:
- From your PS5 home screen, go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings.
- Select “Update System Software” to check for any new updates.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install it.
- Restart your PS5 after the firmware update completes.
Updating to the newest system software can resolve compatibility issues that may trigger the CE-118861-5 error. Check for updates after trying the other fixes too.
4. Clear PS5 Cache
You can also attempt to fix error CE-118861-5 by clearing your console’s cache. The cache stores temporary system files that can sometimes become corrupted.
Here are the steps:
- Enter Safe Mode like outlined above by holding the power button.
- Scroll down and select the “Clear Cache” option.
- Let the cleaning process finish. It should only take a few seconds.
- Your PS5 will then power down and restart normally.
After clearing the cache, try your download again. Deleting old system files may clear the error.
5. Move Games to an External Drive
If you primarily get the CE-118861-5 error when trying to install or update a game, try moving the game to an external USB drive. Then attempt the install or update from the external drive rather than the internal SSD.
Sometimes this can bypass bugs when updating or installing games to the main internal drive. Games load and perform the same when stored externally.
- Connect an external USB drive to your PS5.
- Go to Settings > Storage > Games and Apps. Select the game causing issues.
- Choose “Move to USB Extended Storage” to transfer the game over.
- Once moved, try updating or installing the game from the external drive.
If it works properly from the external USB drive, you know the issue lies with your console’s internal SSD.
6. Initialize PS5
The nuclear option if all else fails is initializing (factory resetting) your PS5. This will completely wipe your console back to its out-of-the-box state.
Note this will erase all games, saves, and settings – so only do so as a last resort.
To initialize your PS5:
- Power off your console and enter Safe Mode (keep holding the power button after the first beep).
- Select the “Initialize PS5” option.
- Follow the prompts to confirm the initialization.
Once your console restarts, you’ll have to re-download your games, sync your saves via cloud storage, and reconfigure your settings. Hopefully this completely fresh start resolves error CE-118861-5 though.
Contact PlayStation Support
If none of these DIY troubleshooting tips fix error code CE-118861-5, you’ll want to contact PlayStation Support. Reach out to their online chat or by phone. Explain exactly when the error appears and what steps you’ve tried.
PlayStation can investigate whether the issue may require console service or replacement if it is related to a hardware defect. They may also be able to provide customized troubleshooting guidance.
It’s rare, but some persistent error codes require inspection and repair by Sony’s repair centers. PlayStation Support can advise if this is necessary after walking through solutions with you.
Hopefully these fixes help resolve your PS5 error CE-118861-5! Let us know in the comments if any of the solutions worked for you or if you have any other tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About PS5 Error Code CE-118861-5
What causes the PS5 error code CE-118861-5?
This error is typically caused by corrupted or faulty system software files preventing games or updates from properly installing. Issues with PS5 firmware, hardware defects, or corrupted game data can also trigger the error.
Will initializing my PS5 fix error code CE-118861-5?
Initializing will factory reset the console and reinstall the system software, which can potentially fix the error. However, initializing erases all game data, so only do so as a last resort after trying other fixes.
Does error CE-118861-5 mean my PS5 is bricked?
No, this error does not mean your console is bricked. CE-118861-5 prevents installing or updating games, but the console will still power on. Following the troubleshooting guide should resolve the issue without bricking your PS5.
Can third-party SSDs cause error code CE-118861-5?
Possibly. Using a non-supported third party expansion SSD could potentially trigger incompatibility issues leading to error CE-118861-5. Stick to PS5-certified SSDs.
Does the CE-118861-5 error affect disc games too?
Yes, the installation error can happen when trying to install disc games too. The same troubleshooting steps apply – rebuild database, update system software, reinstall game if needed.
Conclusion
Error code CE-118861-5 can be annoying, but fixing it is doable yourself before you need to involve PlayStation support. Rebooting your console, rebuilding the database, updating system software, clearing the cache, and reinstalling games are simple first steps that resolve the issue for many users. Storing games on external drives or initializing your PS5 as a last resort may also do the trick if the error persists. Let us know in the comments below if you found a great fix for code CE-118861-5!
Table on PS5 Error Codes
| Error Code | Cause | Fix |
| CE-100005-1 | Can’t access PlayStation Network | Check internet connection, reboot router |
| CE-34878-0 | Game glitch or bug | Close game fully, clear cache |
| CE-118861-5 | Corrupted data | Rebuild database, reinstall game |
| WS-37398-0 | Can’t connect to PSN | Check status page, reboot PS5 |
| WS-116485-5 | Disc drive error | Power cycle PS5, reinsert disc |