The "Can't use this content" error on PS5 typically appears when the console cannot verify your ownership rights for digital games or apps. This usually stems from licensing validation issues or connectivity problems preventing your PS5 from confirming your purchases with PlayStation Network.
Quick answer
• Restore licenses via Settings → Users and Accounts → Other → Restore Licenses • Check PlayStation Network status for service outages • Test your internet connection and power cycle network equipment if needed • Enable Console Sharing and Offline Play to set as Primary PS5 • Update system software to the latest version
Symptoms
• Error message "Can't use this content" when launching games or apps • Game or application icons appear locked or greyed out • Cannot access previously owned or downloaded content • Issue persists even with active internet connection • Content that worked before suddenly becomes inaccessible
Quick checks
Check PlayStation Network status — Search "PlayStation Network Status" on your phone or computer to verify Sony's servers are operational. If PSN is down, wait for service restoration.
Test internet connection — Go to Settings → Network → Connection Status → Test Internet Connection. Ensure "PlayStation Network Sign-In" passes successfully.
Verify you're signed in — Confirm you're logged into the correct PlayStation Network account that owns the content.
Step-by-step fix
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Restore your licenses • Navigate to Settings → Users and Accounts → Other • Select Restore Licenses and confirm the action • Wait for the process to complete (may take several minutes) • Try launching the problematic content again
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Power cycle your network equipment • Unplug your Wi-Fi router and modem for at least 60 seconds • Plug them back in and wait for all indicator lights to stabilize • Restart your PS5 completely (not Rest Mode)
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Enable Console Sharing and Offline Play • Go to Settings → Users and Accounts → Other • Select Console Sharing and Offline Play • Choose Enable if currently disabled • Restart your PS5 and test the content
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Update system software • Navigate to Settings → System → System Software → System Software Update and Settings • Select Update System Software → Update Using Internet • Install any available updates (console will restart automatically)
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Power cycle your PS5 • Completely shut down your PS5 (avoid Rest Mode) • Unplug the power cable from the console for 60 seconds • Reconnect power and turn on your PS5 • Test the problematic content again
If it still isn't working
Contact PlayStation Support — Provide them with the exact error message and troubleshooting steps you've completed. They can investigate account-specific issues remotely.
Reinstall the specific game — If only one game is affected, delete and reinstall that title to address potential data corruption.
Rebuild PS5 database — As a last resort, access Safe Mode and rebuild the database, but only attempt this after consulting PlayStation Support first.
Check account restrictions — Verify your PSN account hasn't been suspended or restricted, which could prevent content access.
FAQ
Why does this error happen to content I already own? Digital content requires periodic license validation with PlayStation Network. Network issues, account changes, or console settings can disrupt this validation process.
Will I lose my game progress if I reinstall? No, your save data is stored separately. However, ensure cloud saves are enabled or manually back up saves before reinstalling games.
Can I play my games offline after fixing this? Yes, once you enable Console Sharing and Offline Play and restore licenses, you can access your digital content without an internet connection.
Does this affect physical game discs? No, this error only affects digital content. Physical discs don't require license validation, though they may need internet for updates or online features.