ps4 controller
You can deactivate your PS4 and add a new device on Sony's website.
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  • You can deactivate your primary PlayStation 4 console from Sony’s website, or from the PS4 itself.
  • You should deactivate a PS4 if you plan to sell or give it away, or just know you won’t be playing it anymore.
  • To deactivate your primary PS4 console from the PlayStation Network website, click the deactivation option in the “Device Management” section.
  • It’s important to note that a primary PS4 can only be deactivated once every six months, but once deactivated, you can add a new primary device at any time.
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If you are no longer using your PS4 because you have replaced it, sold it, or given it away, you need to deactivate it so it’s no longer associated with your account, and so that you can set up another PS4 using the same account. 

It’s important to have the correct console designated as the primary PS4, because this is where pre-ordered games are automatically installed. Other gamers can also share games on your primary PS4, and if you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber you can use the primary console for multiplayer gaming.

It’s easy to deactivate the PS4 from the console. Using the controller, select “Settings,” select “Account Management,” and then select “Activate as Your Primary PS4.” Select “Deactivate” and confirm your decision.

How to deactivate primary PS4 from website
You can deactivate a console using the Settings menu if you still have possession of the device.
Dave Johnson/Business Insider

But if you didn’t have a chance to do this while you still had the PS4 and no longer have access to it, don’t worry — you can still deactivate the PS4 using the Sony website — although Sony only allows you to deactivate consoles from the web sites once every six months.

How to deactivate your primary PS4 from the Sony website 

1. On a computer, open the PlayStation Network sign-in page in a web browser and sign in using your account information.

2. In the navigation pane on the left, click "Device Management."

How to deactivate primary PS4 from website
Start by clicking the Device Management option in the menu on the left of the web page.
Dave Johnson/Business Insider

3. Click "PlayStation Systems (Games)."

4. Click "Deactivate All Devices" and then confirm this decision.

How to deactivate primary PS4 from website
Click "Deactivate All Devices" to deactivate your PS4.
Dave Johnson/Business Insider

 

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