'Why won't my PS4 connect to the internet?': 5 ways to fix your system when it won't get online

Advertisement
'Why won't my PS4 connect to the internet?': 5 ways to fix your system when it won't get online

Playstation 4 PS4 controller

Charnsitr/Shutterstock

Here are the five most common solutions for when your PS4 won't connect to the internet.

Advertisement
  • If your PS4 won't connect to the internet, there are a number of possible causes, from network connectivity to cable or Wi-Fi issues.
  • You should first ensure that your Wi-Fi network is working properly by testing other devices, and then troubleshoot the PS4's connection.
  • Try these five solutions to fix your problem and connect your PS4 to the internet.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

If your PS4 is unable to get online, you won't be able to take advantage of many of the console's most important features, like multiplayer gaming, streaming video, and installing new games.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

PlayStation 4 (From $299.99 at Best Buy)

Insider receives a commission when you buy through our links.

Complimentary Tech Event
Transform talent with learning that works
Capability development is critical for businesses who want to push the envelope of innovation.Discover how business leaders are strategizing around building talent capabilities and empowering employee transformation.Know More
{{}}

Why your PS4 won't connect to the internet, and how to fix it

Why your PS4 won't connect to the internet, and how to fix it

There are many possible reasons why you can't connect your PS4 to the internet.

You can troubleshoot the issue with these five quick solutions. If none of them work, you may need to contact Sony's PS4 support team or your internet service provider.

Check to see if the PlayStation Network is online

Check to see if the PlayStation Network is online

If you can get online but can't access the PSN, your first step should be to make sure it's online.

You can go to the PSN Network Status Page on another device to see if the status is green. If it's down, you might just need to wait a while for the issue to be fixed.

Advertisement

Determine if other devices can connect to the internet

Determine if other devices can connect to the internet

If your PS4 is having trouble connecting to the internet, you might want to narrow down where the problem is right away by determining if the issue is with your PS4 or with your Wi-Fi network.

1. Check to see if other devices on your home network, like computers and tablets, can connect.

2. You should also make sure that devices on the same kind of connection are working — for example, if your PS4 is connected to the router with a wired Ethernet cable, then plug a computer into the router as well. If the PS4 is using Wi-Fi, connect to Wi-Fi with your phone and see if it works.

3. If your other devices can't connect either, it's time to power off your modem and router, wait several minutes, and turn them back on. If that still doesn't work, contact your internet service provider for help.

Check your PS4's connection to the router

Check your PS4's connection to the router

If other devices are connecting to the internet but your PS4 cannot, it's starting to look like you have an issue with your PS4. It may be your wired or wireless connection, or your settings. We'll start with the connection.

  • If you are connecting via Ethernet, try swapping out the cable to see if it's the issue. You might also try plugging into a different Ethernet port on the router, in case the port has blown.
  • If you are using Wi-Fi, be sure you are using the correct Wi-Fi password (see the next section). If the password is correct, try moving the PS4 closer to the Wi-Fi router in case something is interfering with the signal.
Advertisement

Re-enter your PS4's Wi-Fi password

Re-enter your PS4's Wi-Fi password

Make sure your password is correct by re-entering it on the PS4.

1. Using the PS4 controller, select "Settings."

2. Select "Network" and then select "Set Up Internet Connection."

3. Select "Use Wi-Fi"

4. Select "Easy."

5. Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list, enter the password, and wait for it to connect.

Check your PS4's DNS settings

Check your PS4's DNS settings

If none of the previous steps solved your problem, some users have found that changing the PS4's DNS server settings — which is like an address book that tells your PS4 how to find locations on the internet — can fix connection issues.

1. Using the PS4 controller, select "Settings."

2. Select "Network" and then select "Set Up Internet Connection."

3. Select either "Use Wi-Fi" or "Use a LAN Cable" depending upon how you're connecting.

4. Select "Custom." If necessary, choose your Wi-Fi network from the list.

5. Select "Automatic." Then select "Do Not Specify" and then "Manual."

6. Select "Primary DNS" and then enter "208.67.222.222"

7. Select "Secondary DNS" and then enter "208.67.220.220"

8. Select "Next."

9. Select "Automatic."

10. Select "Do Not Use."

Now test your internet connection. If it's still not working, you should contact Sony's PS4 support for additional assistance.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:
Advertisement
Next StoryApple is admitting to 2 mistakes with its keyboards - and fixing them - with the new 16-inch MacBook Pro