The PlayStation 4 has now been release to the public, and now users can begin exploring the many different games available on the console, as well as the apps that Sony has brought to the platform. While many gamers have already set up their new PS4, others may only just be getting it. With that in mind, here is a guide for setting up the PlayStation 4 once you bring it home.

The whole setup process should take around 30-40 minutes, and it's faster for those who already have a PlayStation Account. First users must take care of some of the basic data for the console such as the time zone, the internet connection that the console will use, and so on. After these basic parameters are set, users can either sign into the PlayStation Network and establish their profile on the PlayStation 4, or set up their new profile on the console. Once the profile is established, privacy settings can be established for the console. Specifically, users can decide if they want their full name displayed online and who has the ability to see the user's real name on their friends list. Users also can set their profile as the primary profile on the console.

From here, players are free to start using the PlayStation 4, unless they want to go online. If they want to use the internet, users must download the day one patch that brings the console to user interface "1.50" before they can go online. This includes access to the PlayStation Store, as well as downloading updates for games and online play.

Once the day one patch is installed, users can then access the PlayStation Store and use the various gift vouchers that Sony has included with the PS4. However, to use these gift vouchers, a user must confirm their credit card information, so those who were not planning on putting that personal information on their console will be out of luck. However, once they register a credit card, they can redeem the voucher for a 30 day trial of PlayStation Plus, as well as a $10 gift card for the PlayStation Store.

Finally, users can begin downloading games and apps for their new PS4. Re-signing up for apps such as Netflix and Hulu Plus is smooth and easy. Netflix only requires a user to log in before the service is available, and Hulu Plus asks users to go online and type in a registration code in order to activate the streaming service. After that, new owners of the PlayStation 4 should be up and running - ready to take advantage of everything the next generation console has to offer.