Fix Cannot Start the Application (CE-30005-8) Error on PS4

When error code CE-30005-8 appears on a PS4, the game or app won’t start, often showing a cross-mark. This usually means there is a problem with the internal hard drive or disc drive, preventing the PS4 from accessing game files. Common causes include corrupted game data, a damaged disc, a faulty game installation, or a malfunctioning hard drive.

An outdated system software version can also cause compatibility issues.

In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.

1. Restart the PS4 Console, Clean the Disc, and Re-plug the Power Cable

A quick PS4 reset and basic checks can fix temporary glitches. Restarting refreshes the system, cleaning the disc ensures proper reading, and re-plugging the power cable clears interference. This routine can address issues before trying more complex solutions.

1. Power off your PS4 and unplug the power cable.
   

   

2. Wait 2 minutes, then plug back the console’s power cable.
3. Remove the disc and clean it with a soft cloth.
4. Power on the console, insert the disc, and check if the issue is resolved.

2. Reinstall the Problematic Game

Incomplete installations can miss important files, stopping the game from loading properly. Deleting and reinstalling the game lets the PS4 download all files again, replacing any missing or damaged data. This clean install can fix access issues by restoring necessary game parts.

1. Open Library on the PS4’s Home screen, then go to the Games tab.
   

   

2. Select the problematic game (e.g., FIFA) and press the Options key.
   

   

3. Select Delete and confirm to remove the game.
   

   

4. Reboot your PS4 and check if reinstalling the game resolves the issue.
   

   

3. Update the System Software of PS4 to the Latest Version

Updating your PS4’s system software improves performance and fixes bugs that might stop games from running properly. Each update enhances compatibility and ensures a smoother gaming experience.

1. First, uninstall the problematic game and ensure no disc is in the drive.
2. Open Settings on the PS4 and navigate to System Software Update.
   

   

3. If an update is available, select Next, then click Update.
   

   

4. Allow the update to install, and check if the issue is resolved (you may need to reinstall the game).
   

   

4. Rebuild the Database of the PS4 Console

The PS4 may show error code CE-30005-8 if its database is corrupt. Rebuilding the database might solve the problem. Before proceeding, back up essential data and remove any discs from the drive.

1. Boot your PS4 into Safe Mode and connect the controller.
   

   

2. Select option 5: Rebuild Database.
   

   

3. Confirm by clicking OK and wait for the process to complete.
   

   

4. Once done, press the PS button and select your PS4 account.
5. Open Settings and go to Storage.
   

   

6. Open System Storage and select Saved Data.
   

   

7. Select the problematic game and press the Options button.
   

   

8. Select Delete and repeat for all game entries.
   

   

9. Try reinstalling the game and check if the issue is resolved.

If this did not work, enable the debug mode of the console and open Debug Settings. Then navigate to Game > Add Content Manager > Entitlement Control > Game, and delete Disabled Entitlement. Then check if the error code CE-30005-8 is cleared.

5. Reset the PS4 Console

Corrupt firmware can cause issues. Initializing the PS4, which resets the console to defaults, may solve the problem. Ensure you back up essential data to a USB device or create an online backup before proceeding.

1. Launch Settings on your PS4 and select Initialization.
   

   

2. Select Initialize PS4 and click Full.
   

   

3. Wait for the reset process to complete without powering off the PS4.
   

   

4. Once complete, check if the issue is resolved.

6. Reinstall the System Software of the PS4 Console

Reinstalling the system software resets the PS4 to factory settings, fixing software issues or file corruption that updates might miss. This process refreshes core files, removing glitches and ensuring stability, helping the PS4 run games and apps smoothly.

1. Connect a USB to a computer and format it as FAT32.
2. Create a folder named PS4 (all caps) on the USB.
3. Within the PS4 folder, create another folder named UPDATE (all caps).
4. Visit the official PS4 system software download page.
5. Download the PS4 Console Reinstallation File and rename it PS4UPDATE.PUP (all caps).
   

   

6. Copy the file to the UPDATE folder on the USB and connect it to the PS4.
   

   

7. Boot the PS4 into safe mode and select option 7: Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software).
   

   

8. Select Update from USB Storage Device and click OK.
   

   

9. Set up the PS4 once the system software is reinstalled.