Can’t Connect PS5 to Wi-Fi? Here’s How to Fix It

The PlayStation 5’s connectivity can be negatively impacted by other devices on the network that can create interference with the console. This interference may result in the PS5 being unable to connect to the network, which triggers the “Can’t connect to the Wi-Fi network” error message.

One way to troubleshoot this issue is to remove the problematic device from the network. Below, we explore various causes of this connectivity issue and provide solutions to help you resolve it.

Before beginning any troubleshooting steps, ensure that your PS5 is updated with the latest system software. System updates often include bug fixes and security patches that address known connectivity issues.

1. Check PSN Network Status

It’s important to first check the status of the PlayStation Network. If the PlayStation Network is down, you won’t be able to access the content on your console, which can appear as a Wi-Fi connection problem.

The PlayStation Network is regional, so you should check the status for your area. To do this, visit the official PlayStation Network Status page. Choose your country or region from the drop-down menu to see if there is an outage.

If there’s an outage, wait until PlayStation addresses the issue. If there is no outage, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.

2. Run PS5 Network Test

The PS5 comes with a built-in network test that can provide valuable insights into your network connection. This can help identify the root cause of connectivity problems.

To run the PS5 network test, proceed as follows:

1. Open the Settings menu.
2. Navigate to the Network section.
3. Select Connection Status > Test Internet Connection.

   

4. Wait for the test to complete and then review the results for potential issues.

3. Disconnect Nintendo Switch (if applicable)

A connected Nintendo Switch on the same network may interfere with the PS5’s connectivity. This interference is often due to software inconsistencies which may be resolved in future updates.

To address this problem, ensure both the Nintendo Switch and PS5 run the latest system software. You may need to disconnect the Nintendo Switch from the network during the PS5’s update process.

4. Change Wi-Fi Frequency Band

Wi-Fi frequency bands, either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, can also cause connectivity issues with your PS5. If one band is overcrowded or if the console struggles to maintain a stable connection on it, switching the band might help.

If you are having trouble with one frequency band, try switching to the other to see if it improves connectivity. Most routers allow both frequencies to be active simultaneously, so you should be able to choose the preferred band on the PS5 in the router settings.

For instructions on switching bands on your PS5, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings menu and navigate to Network.

   

2. Access the Network settings screen and select Set Up Internet Connection.

   

3. Select your Wi-Fi connection and press the Options button.
4. In the menu, switch between the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands to see if the problem resolves.

   

5. Change HDMI Cable

The HDMI cable used with the PS5 can also influence connectivity. If network sign-in issues arise after swapping HDMI cables, try reverting to the original cable that came with the console, or test with other high-quality cables to see if the problem resolves.

6. Disconnect Other Wi-Fi Devices

Multiple devices on the same network can also hinder the PS5 from connecting to Wi-Fi. Devices like Smart TVs or IoT gadgets can cause interference.

If possible, remove other devices from the network and see if that solves the PS5 Wi-Fi connectivity issue. Repositioning devices further apart can also reduce interference. Wi-Fi extenders can also improve coverage and signal strength to each device.

7. Forget Wi-Fi Connection

Forgetting the Wi-Fi network on your PS5 can help by clearing the console’s network cache.

To do this, follow these instructions:

1. Open the Settings menu on the PS5.
2. Navigate to Network.

   

3. Go to Set Up Internet Connection.

   

4. Choose your Wi-Fi network and select the Forget option.
5. Re-enter your Wi-Fi credentials and test the connection.

8. Change Wi-Fi Security Settings

Incompatible security settings on your Wi-Fi network can cause problems with the PS5’s connection. Unsupported security protocols or firewalls may need adjustment.

To change security settings, access your router’s admin panel and navigate to the Wi-Fi settings where you can adjust the encryption type and disable WPS mode. We recommend selecting WPA3-Personal or WPA2 if WPA3 is not available.

Save changes and check if the PS5 can now connect to the network.

9. Manually Assign IP Address

When DHCP fails to assign an IP address to your PS5, you might need to set it manually to establish a connection.

Here are the steps to do so:

1. Open the Settings menu and navigate to the Network option.

   

2. Select Settings > Set Up Internet Connection > Set Up Manually > Use Wi-Fi > Enter Manually.
3. Provide the necessary network details, ensuring your IP address is unique within the network. Use a similar device’s details for guidance.

   

4. Attempt to connect after ensuring no IP address conflicts.

10. Change DNS Server

Changing your PS5’s DNS server can resolve domain name resolution issues within your network.

To change the DNS server:

1. Open the Settings menu and proceed to the Network section.

   

2. Select Set Up Internet Connection.

   

3. From your list of networks, choose your Wi-Fi and enter Advanced Settings.
4. Locate DNS Settings and switch from Automatic to Manual.

   

5. For Primary and Secondary DNS, input 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 respectively.

   

6. Save and check the connectivity.

11. Update Router Firmware

Router firmware updates sometimes offer solutions for compatibility issues with new gadgets like the PS5.

Check for firmware updates on your router manufacturer’s website. After downloading the update, use the router admin panel to apply it. Verify if your PS5 can connect post-update.

12. Reset Router

If a firmware update does not work, resetting the router to factory settings may fix your PS5’s connection issues.

Press and hold the Reset button with a needle or pin until the router cycles off and back on. Try connecting your console again after the reset.

13. Factory Reset PS5

Software glitches within the PS5 itself can disrupt Wi-Fi connectivity, and a factory reset may be the necessary solution.

Warning: A factory reset will delete all data, so back up your PS5 files first.

To perform a factory reset:

1. Open the Settings menu and navigate to System.

   

2. Choose the System Software option and then Reset Options.
3. Select Reset Your Console.

   

14. Contact ISP

If none of the methods above fix the issue, your internet service provider (ISP) may be the root cause. Certain network configurations from the ISP’s end can obstruct your PS5’s internet access.

Reach out to your ISP for assistance. They can lift any imposed restrictions allowing for connectivity.

If these steps fail to solve the issue, it may be time to contact the official PlayStation 5 support team for further aid.