Resolved: PS3 System Storage Insufficient, Not Found, or Corrupted

Q: Why is my PS3 saying there's not enough free space on the system storage, but there's plenty of space?

"Every time I download a new game on my PS3, it constantly informs me that there isn't sufficient free space on the system storage to install the downloaded game files. It's driving me insane because there should be extra room for the files. I've already deleted a few gigabytes since I first encountered this message, yet it still insists that I need to free up more space. What's going on with the PS3 system storage?"

Many PS3 users have encountered a message stating that the system storage is insufficient for installing games, despite available space. Doesn't make sense, right? First, let's understand the reason behind this issue, and then follow our guide to resolve the PS3 system storage problem using a few tricks.

Related post: Hard Drive Says Full But It Is Not

Translate into English

"Why does my PS3 System Storage show not enough space even though there is available space?"

Due to the PlayStation 3's digital download storage requirements, when attempting to download a game and install it on the PS3 system storage, you require DOUBLE the space. This implies that you need twice the amount of free space compared to the game file's size. For instance, if the game file is 8 gigs, you would need 8 gigs for the download and an additional 8 gigs for the installation.

Therefore, to successfully install the game, you'll require over 16 gigabytes of free space on the PS3 storage device. When installing a game or DLC, the original downloaded copy is retained as a backup in case any issues arise during installation. Should something go wrong, the installation file may become corrupted, but the original copy will remain intact, sparing you from having to re-download the entire file. That's how the downloading system functions.

How to Solve the "PS3 System Storage Not Enough Space" Issue

To resolve the issue of insufficient free space on the PS3 system storage, you can either attempt to free up space on your PS3 or acquire additional storage for it.

Fix 1: Free Up Space on PS3 System Storage

Most Blu-ray games store some of their files in the PS3 Game Data Utility, which can occupy a significant amount of disk space over time. You cannot simply format the PS3, as doing so would erase all the data on it. Instead, you can safely delete any game data folders to free up space. The data will be automatically reinstalled from the Blu-ray disc the next time you play the game.

要删除任何游戏数据实用程序文件，请按照以下步骤操作：

Step 1. On the PlayStation 3 Home Menu, go to Game > [Game Data Utility].

Note: Ensure that you select [Game Data Utility]. Do not choose Saved Data Utility, as this will erase all of your saved game files.

Step 2. Find the game data utility file (i.e., the specific game you want to delete) that you wish to remove. Press the Triangle button and choose Delete. Press the X button to confirm the deletion. This will eliminate the game data utility file for the selected game.

Fix 2: Increase or Get More Space on PS3 System Storage

"Not enough space in system storage"… On average, 6 out of 10 PS3 users might encounter the issue of insufficient storage when trying to install games or other file types. So, why opt for adding an external hard drive to your PS3 or upgrading its internal disk to a larger one? It is the most recommended solution to expand your PS3's storage capacity.

However, people hesitate because they don't want to lose the games and files saved on the old disk. Don't worry. A partition manager tool can alleviate your concern by cloning old disk data to the new one without the need for reinstallation.

If you're looking for a more detailed guide on upgrading your PS3 hard drive, click the link:

How to Upgrade PS3 Hard Drive without Losing Data

Upgrading your PS3's HDD or SSD can enhance your gaming experience. If you're unsure about how to do it without losing data, this comprehensive guide is here to assist you!

PS3 System Storage Related Issues & Solutions

PS3 system storage issues extend far beyond the simple "not enough free space to install games." If you encounter any of the following problems, continue reading to find solutions for your specific PS3 system storage troubles.

Q1: My PlayStation 3 is displaying the message "Cannot start, the appropriate system storage was not found." What steps should I take to resolve this issue?

How to Resolve the "PS3 System Storage Not Found" Issue

Compared to the issue of free space, the "PS3 system storage not found" error appears to be more complex. Generally, this error indicates a problem with the hard drive, which could be encrypted, damaged, malfunctioning, or disconnected from your system. Therefore, to resolve the unrecognized hard drive issue, there are several approaches you can take.

Step 1. If the hard drive is not damaged, you can screw it back into place.

On one side of the PS3, there's a plastic panel that you can remove by using a screwdriver or another suitable tool. After unscrewing it, find your hard drive - it will be secured with a square metal piece and a large blue screw. Gently slide out the hard drive, clean it, and reinsert it. Finally, reattach the panel with screws and power on the system.

Step 2. If the hard drive is faulty, you will need to replace it with a new one.

To replace a failing PS3 system hard drive without uninstalling all the games, utilize the same system migration software - Partition Master to initiate the swap. This method is convenient and time-efficient.

Q2: The file system on my PlayStation 3 hard drive is corrupted, and when I press 'OK' to restore it, it just keeps repeating the same message. What should I do?

How to Fix a Corrupted PS3 System Storage

According to the PS3 official guide, when your PlayStation 3 system HDD becomes corrupted or you receive a message about corrupt data, you need to follow two steps to identify the cause and attempt to repair the corruption.

Step 1. Make sure your PlayStation 3 system has the latest system software update installed.

1. To verify the system software, access the XMB Menu and select System Settings > [System Information]. 2. Visit the Sony PlayStation update page to update it to the most recent version of the system software.

Step 2. Access Safe Mode and restore your PlayStation 3 system's data.

• You can use Safe Mode on your PlayStation 3 to eliminate corrupted data from the HDD.
• In the Safe Mode Menu, select option 3, Restore File System.
• If the issue continues, choose option 4, Rebuild Database.

Option 3 - Restore File System: the PlayStation 3 system will attempt to repair any sections on the HDD where files can be saved.

Option 4 - Rebuild Database: the PlayStation 3 system will delete all data on the HDD and rebuild the database.