I just installed the latest PS5 firmware update and now my external SSD, which I use for storing PS4 games, is frequently not being recognized when I boot the console from rest mode. I have to unplug and reconnect the drive to get it to mount, which is a new issue that started immediately after the update. I've tried rebuilding the database from safe mode, but the problem persists. Has anyone else experienced this specific problem with external storage after the recent system software patch? I'm wondering if this is a widespread bug that Sony will need to address, or if there's a specific setting or workaround I've missed, like changing the USB power settings or reformatting the drive, which I'd really like to avoid if possible.
Yep—that update drama is a headache. Quick checks: try a different USB port (front vs rear) and swap the cable if you can. Some folks see rest-mode mounts vary by port and cable quality. Also do a full power-off shutdown (not sleep), unplug for a minute, then boot and test the drive before putting the system back into rest mode.
Another classic trick is to power cycle the console: completely turn it off, unplug, wait 60 seconds, then plug back in and boot. Sometimes the USB subsystem gets stuck after a patch and needs a clean restart. If you still have trouble, try mounting the drive while the system is on, then put in rest mode.
Format and partitions matter for PS4/PS5 external storage. If your drive is NTFS or has multiple partitions, consider testing with a single exFAT partition (data preserved by moving off first). Reformat as exFAT may fix rest-mode mount issues. If you want to avoid reformatting for now, maybe try a smaller test drive to compare behavior.
Check for a known issues thread on Sony support or Reddit; if it's widespread, expect a patch. Note your firmware version and drive model when posting to help folks troubleshoot.
Power: using a powered USB hub can help stable power to the drive if you have multiple devices. Also avoid daisy-chaining unpowered hubs. If your drive is USB-C, ensure the cable provides enough current.
Could you share your drive details (brand/model, capacity), PS5 model (Standard vs Digital), and which port you plug into (front USB-C, back USB-A, etc.)? Those details help others pinpoint the cause.