You’ve just set up your PS5 and want to connect it to the internet to play online or download games. Whether using Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable, your console offers several connection modes suited to your setup. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to configure internet access and troubleshoot the most common issues.
Internet Connection on PS5: Wi-Fi or Ethernet
To connect your PS5 to the internet, you can choose between Wi-Fi and Ethernet. Wi-Fi offers a convenient wireless setup, ideal if your router is far away. Ethernet requires a cable but ensures a more stable and faster connection, perfect for online gaming.
Other PS5 Connectivity Options
The PS5 offers many wireless connectivity options. Beyond internet access, a Bluetooth audio adapter for PS5 lets you use wireless headphones, and the PS5 controller connection on Android even lets you use your DualSense controller on other devices. The console also features advanced functions like the ability to play PS3 games on PS5, significantly expanding its game library.
Connecting via Wi-Fi
Connecting your PS5 to Wi-Fi takes just a few simple steps. Here's how:
Make sure your router or internet box is turned on
Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection
Select "Wi-Fi" as the connection method
Choose "Easy" mode (recommended for most users)
Once connected, your PS5 will remember the network and automatically reconnect each time it starts. If you have connection issues, make sure you're within Wi-Fi range. For best performance, keep your console within 5 meters of the router.
Connecting via Ethernet Cable
Using an Ethernet cable is the most reliable connection method for your PS5. Simply plug an RJ45 network cable between your console and your internet box. Then follow the same setup steps as with Wi-Fi, but select "Use a LAN Cable" instead.
The "Easy" setup mode is sufficient in most cases—the PS5 automatically detects the correct settings. If you're more tech-savvy, the "Custom" mode lets you adjust settings like IP address or DNS. But don’t worry, this step isn't required.
Once connected, your PS5 benefits from a stable and fast connection—ideal for online gaming or downloads. If any issues arise, just check the cable is properly plugged in on both ends. Pro tip: avoid bending or twisting the cable too much to preserve its lifespan.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Having trouble connecting your PS5? Don't worry—most issues have simple fixes. Follow these essential steps to quickly restore a stable connection and enjoy your console fully.
Checking Network Settings
The first step to fixing a connection issue is checking whether your PS5 properly detects the internet. Go to Settings > Network > Connection Status. This page instantly shows whether the console is online.
If the network access fails, run a test by selecting "Test Internet Connection." This quick diagnostic will show exactly where the issue lies. If the test points to a DNS problem, try using Google's DNS: 8.8.8.8 as primary and 8.8.4.4 as secondary.
Also check whether other devices like your smartphone can connect. If they can’t either, the issue is likely with your router or internet service provider.
Restarting the Console and Router
Fully restarting is often the simplest and most effective solution. Start by turning off your PS5—not in rest mode, but fully off. Unplug it and wait 30 seconds. Do the same with your modem or router: unplug it, wait, then plug it back in. Once your router’s lights are stable, turn your PS5 back on.
This reset helps restore connections and fix most minor bugs. If it doesn’t work on the first try, don’t hesitate to repeat it. Still no connection? Temporarily switch from Wi-Fi to Ethernet to see if the issue is with your wireless network.
Advanced Network Settings
If the basic solutions didn’t fix your connection issues, it’s time to explore your PS5’s advanced network settings. These options allow you to set a static IP address or modify DNS settings. Though a bit more technical, they can significantly improve your connection.
Changing DNS Settings
Changing your PS5’s DNS settings can improve connection speed. Once in the Internet Connection Settings (see above), follow these steps:
Select Advanced Settings > DNS Settings > Manual
Enter the DNS addresses of your choice
Here are some reliable DNS servers and their addresses:
Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (primary) and 8.8.4.4 (secondary)
Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 (primary) and 1.0.0.1 (secondary)
After changing the DNS, test your connection using the "Test Internet Connection" option. If you encounter problems, you can always revert to automatic settings. Try different DNS servers to see which works best with your setup.
Setting a Static IP Address
Assigning a static IP address to your PS5 can improve your online connection's stability. To do this, you’ll need to access your modem’s settings. Start by identifying your PS5 in the list of connected devices—it usually appears as a series of numbers and letters corresponding to its MAC address. Once identified, use the IP reservation option (sometimes called static DHCP) to assign it a fixed IP address.
This setup also allows you to open specific ports to optimize your connection. The most important ones are TCP ports 80, 443, and 3478-3480, and UDP ports 3478-3479. If you're having trouble with IPv6, disabling the DHCP v6 server on your modem might help. If this configuration doesn’t improve your connection, feel free to revert to automatic settings.
