How to Resolve the PS5 Error Code CE-1173-6?

The PS5 error code CE-1173-6 typically occurs when attempting to play online games that require a PlayStation Plus subscription. This error often indicates a problem with verifying your digital ownership of the game you’re trying to play.

This issue commonly stems from a corrupted license on your console. Other factors contributing to this issue include PSN server overloading, maintenance, or an outdated system software.

1. Check the PSN Server Status

It’s helpful to check the PSN server’s status when you encounter error code CE-1173-6, as issues on Sony’s end can sometimes be the cause. Think of the PSN server status as a traffic report, letting you know whether PSN servers are operational or if an outage is contributing to the problem.

1. Go to the PSN server status page.
2. Select your region from the drop-down menu under “Select a region to check the network status,” and choose your country.
   
3. The PlayStation Network status page will display the server status for your selected region.

2. Restart Your PS5 and Network Router

Restarting your console can clear the temporary cache and prompt a fresh start, while restarting your router can resolve issues like IP address conflicts or routing errors. These simple troubleshooting steps typically take just a few minutes and may resolve the error.

Restarting the Console

1. Press the PlayStation button on your controller to access the Quick Menu.
   
2. Scroll to the right on your screen until you highlight the Power option.
   
3. Select Restart PS5 from the power options provided by the quick menu.
   
4. Confirm the restart and wait for the PS5 to power off and then turn back on.

Restarting Network Router

1. Unplug your router for at least 30 seconds to ensure it fully powers down. After restarting the router, check if the error persists.
   

3. Check Your PS Plus Subscription

An active PlayStation Plus subscription is required for some digital games, particularly online titles. When you try to launch your games, PlayStation checks to verify your license ownership.

1. Head to the PS5 settings menu.
   
2. Go to Users and Accounts, where you can manage user profiles, account settings, and PS subscriptions.
   
3. After selecting Users and Accounts, navigate to the Account section to access options specific to your PS Network Account.
   
4. Within Account Settings, find an option labeled Payment and Subscription.
   

4. Restore Your License

The PS5 verifies your ownership of digital content, including games and DLCs, through licenses. If there are glitches with the license on your console, restoring them can solve errors and ensure your PS5 has the most current license information.

1. Navigate to the Settings tab on your PS5.
   
2. Choose Users and Accounts from the options listed.
   
3. Select the Other category from the menu.
   
4. Choose Restore Licenses from the given options, initiating a re-verification process between your console and Sony’s servers.
   

5. Update System Software

Updating your console software improves the overall functionality and performance by introducing new features, fixing bugs and glitches that were discovered in the previous software version, and updating security patches.

1. Navigate to the Settings menu on your PS5.
   
2. Select System, followed by System Software.
   
3. Choose System Software Update and Settings.
   
4. If an update is available, select Update System Software and follow the instructions to complete the process.
   

6. Renew Encryption Key

When a user updates system software, the encryption key used to play Blu-ray disks is automatically renewed in the background. 

1. With the PS5 turned on, insert a game disc and allow the console to recognize it.
2. Follow any on-screen prompts to renew the encryption key.

7. Check for Game-Specific Updates

This option on PS5 allows the user to manually initiate and search for updates specific to a particular game you have installed, ensuring that you have the latest version of the game. 

1. Highlight the game on the PS5 home screen.
   
2. Press the Options button on your controller.
   
3. Select Check for Update.
   
4. Install any available updates for the game.

8. Rebuild Database

Rebuilding your database on PS5 is a troubleshooting step that can help improve performance and resolve certain issues. It helps in fixing database corruption and resolving fragmented data. 

1. Turn off your PS5 completely.
2. Press and hold the power button until you hear the second beep to enter Safe Mode.
3. Connect the controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.
4. Select Rebuild Database and wait for the process to complete.
   

9. Contact PlayStation Support

If none of the above steps work, it might be time to get professional help.

1. Visit the official PlayStation Support website.
2. Use their contact form, chat service, or phone number to reach out for assistance.