For every PS3 owner hoping to get online this week to play multiplayer games, chat with their friends or enjoy the online-enabled services associated with the PlayStation Network, Qriocity and SOE services, the wait’s been delayed longer than originally expected. Sony had originally hoped to restore services in the next day or so, but unforeseen complications arose as Sony dug deeper into the extent of the hack.
In a letter posted on its PlayStation blog, Sony did not provide a timeframe for the PSN to be back online. The goal, of course — as stated in the letter below — is to have all PSN, Qriocity and SOE services back up and running as soon as possible. Here is the full content of the letter.
As you may know, we’ve begun the process of restoring the service through internal testing of the new system. We’re still working to confirm the security of the network infrastructure, as well as working with a variety of outside entities to confirm with them of the security of the system. Verifying the system security is vital for the process of restoration. Additional comprehensive system checks and testing are still required, and we must complete that process before bringing the systems online.
As you’ve heard us say, our utmost priorities are the security of the network and ensuring your data is safe. We won’t restore the services until we can test the system’s strength in these respects.
When we held the press conference in Japan last week, based on what we knew, we expected to have the services online within a week. We were unaware of the extent of the attack on Sony Online Entertainment servers, and we are taking this opportunity to conduct further testing of the incredibly complex system. We know many of you are wanting to play games online, chat with your friends and enjoy all of the services PlayStation Network and Qriocity services have to offer, and trust me when I say we’re doing everything we can to make it happen. We will update you with more information as soon as we have it. We apologize for the delay and inconvenience of this network outage.
As more information about the PSN hack, including a likely date for PSN services coming back online, we will provide it as soon as possible.
