PlayStation Error Code CE-36244-9 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The CE-36244-9 error means your PlayStation's internal database has become corrupted. The console stores a database of all your games, downloads, and files. When that database gets damaged, the console struggles to read or launch applications correctly.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro

Common Causes

The console was turned off during an update or installation, corrupting the database
A power outage or accidental disconnection happened while the hard drive was writing data
The hard drive is beginning to fail and has developed bad sectors
Too many failed downloads or partial installations have built up over time
The system software update did not install cleanly and left the database in a bad state

How to Fix It

Back up your save data before doing anything else. Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device.

This step is important. While rebuilding the database rarely deletes saves, it is always smart to back up first.
Turn off the PlayStation completely. Do not use Rest Mode — press and hold the power button until you hear a second beep and the console shuts down fully.

The console must be completely off before you can access Safe Mode. Rest Mode will not work here.
Boot into Safe Mode. With the console off, press and hold the power button. Keep holding it past the first beep. Release it when you hear the second beep (about 7 seconds).

You will need to connect your DualShock or DualSense controller using a USB cable — Bluetooth does not work in Safe Mode.
Select option 5 — Rebuild Database. Use the controller to navigate to this option and press X to confirm.

This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour depending on the size of your hard drive and how much is installed. Do not turn off the console while it runs.
After the rebuild completes, the console will restart normally. Test the game or app that was showing the error to confirm it is resolved.

Your games, saves, and settings should all be intact after the database rebuild.

When to Call a Professional

Rebuilding the database fixes this error in most cases and is safe to do yourself. If the error returns repeatedly even after rebuilding, your hard drive may be failing. A repair technician can test the hard drive and replace it if needed. All your data should be backed up before any hard drive replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will rebuilding the database delete my games and saves?

No. Rebuilding the database does not delete your installed games, saves, or settings. It reorganises and repairs the database of pointers that tell the console where everything is stored. Think of it like defragmenting a hard drive — it tidies things up without removing your files.

How long does the database rebuild take?

It depends on how full your hard drive is. For a mostly empty drive it may take only a few minutes. For a nearly full 1TB or 2TB drive it can take 30 minutes to an hour or more. Do not turn off the console during this time.

The error came back after rebuilding the database. What does that mean?

If the error returns quickly after a rebuild, your hard drive is likely developing physical problems. A failing hard drive cannot hold data reliably and will keep corrupting the database. Back up your saves immediately and consider replacing the hard drive.