You might see a message in PS4 Safe Mode (option 3: Update System Software) when trying to install a lower firmware:
You replace a dead hard drive and try to install a firmware version you downloaded months ago. The PS4 rejects it because the console had previously been updated beyond that version.
We demonstrate the exploitation of this vulnerability by creating a custom firmware image that downgrades the PS4's firmware to a vulnerable version. We then use this image to exploit the PS4, demonstrating the potential for arbitrary code execution.
Many malicious websites host files named PS4_UPDATE_1302_DOWNGRADE.PUP or provide custom "UPD" configuration files. They claim these can be run through the PS4's Safe Mode menu using a standard USB flash drive. ps4 downgrade 1302 upd
Avoid any videos or websites promising a "magic USB downgrader" for PS4 version 13.02; these are designed to trick you, not help you.
Extracting the motherboard to access the main chips.
Given the extreme difficulty and high risk of the hardware revert, here are alternative paths for a user with a PS4 on 13.02: You might see a message in PS4 Safe
Engaging in hardware or firmware modification carries several severe risks:
Most users look for lower firmware versions (typically 11.00 or lower) to enable Jailbreaking
The "PS4 Downgrade 1302 UPD" is not a magic hack; it is a misunderstood piece of history. The file exists—it is the day-one update that shipped with launch consoles in late 2013. But for modern users hoping to unlock their systems, it is a dead end. We then use this image to exploit the
Hardware Swap: Some users choose to sell their updated console and purchase a "new old stock" unit or a used console confirmed to be on firmware 11.00 or lower.
The myth suggests that if you take this official update file, put it on a USB drive, and force your PS4 to "Initialize" or "Update," you can roll the clock back to 2013.
The PS4’s secure processor tracks the version number of the installed software. If a user attempts to install an update file with a lower version number than the current system, the console rejects it immediately.