How to Fix PS5 Can’t Connect to PlayStation Network
Your PS5 may fail to connect to PlayStation Network (PSN) due to server outages, network issues, or incorrect settings. Here are all the methods to fix PSN connection problems and get back online.
Method 1: Check PSN Server Status
PSN servers occasionally go down for maintenance or experience outages that prevent all users from connecting.
- Visit status.playstation.com to check the official PSN server status.
- Check downdetector.com and search for “PlayStation Network” for real-time user reports.
- If PSN is down, wait for Sony to resolve the issue before retrying.
Method 2: Restart Your PS5
A restart clears temporary network issues and refreshes the PS5’s connection to PSN.
- Press the PS button on your controller.
- Select the Power icon in the bottom menu.
- Select Restart PS5.
- After the restart, try connecting to PSN again.
Method 3: Restart Your Router
Network congestion or a stale connection can prevent your PS5 from reaching PSN servers.
- Unplug your router from power.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and wait for all lights to stabilize.
- On your PS5, go to Settings, then Network, then Test Internet Connection to verify connectivity.
Method 4: Use a Wired Connection
Wi-Fi connections can be unstable and cause intermittent PSN disconnections. A wired Ethernet connection is more reliable.
- Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the LAN port on the back of your PS5.
- On your PS5, go to Settings, then Network, then Settings.
- Select Set Up Internet Connection.
- Select the wired (LAN) connection.
- Test the connection by going to Settings, then Network, then Test Internet Connection.
Method 5: Change DNS Settings
Switching to a faster DNS server can improve your connection to PSN and resolve DNS-related connection failures.
- On your PS5, go to Settings, then Network, then Settings.
- Select Set Up Internet Connection.
- Select your current connection and press the Options button.
- Select Advanced Settings.
- Set DNS Settings to Manual.
- Enter Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare).
- Save and test your connection.
Method 6: Sign Out and Sign Back In to PSN
Signing out and back into your PSN account refreshes your authentication session and can fix connection issues.
- Go to Settings, then Users and Accounts.
- Select Other, then Sign Out.
- Restart your PS5.
- Sign back in with your PSN email and password.
- Try connecting to PSN features like the Store or online multiplayer.
Method 7: Update PS5 System Software
An outdated PS5 system software can cause compatibility issues with PSN services.
- Go to Settings, then System, then System Software.
- Select System Software Update and Settings.
- Select Update System Software.
- Install any available update and let the PS5 restart.
- Try connecting to PSN after the update.
Method 8: Restore Default Settings
Restoring default settings resets network and system settings without deleting your games or save data.
- Go to Settings, then System, then System Software.
- Select Reset Options.
- Select Restore Default Settings.
- This resets settings like network configuration without erasing your data.
- Reconfigure your internet connection and try connecting to PSN.
Reasons Xbox One Won’t Connect to Wi-Fi
When an Xbox One won’t connect to Wi-Fi, the problem can usually be narrowed down to three basic causes:
Distance and interference: Most Xbox One Wi-Fi problems are caused by the console being too far from the wireless router or too much interference on the same frequency that the router is using. These problems can be fixed by moving the console or router, removing the source of interference, or switching to a different type of connection.
Networking equipment problems: A lot of Wi-Fi connectivity problems are caused by networking equipment like routers and modems. You can usually fix these problems by power cycling your networking equipment.
Xbox One problems: Your console may have a hardware or software problem. If the wireless card has failed, there’s not much you can do. If it’s a software problem, then restarting your Xbox One usually helps.
Each of these basic categories encompasses multiple different root causes, with multiple different solutions. If you suspect a specific type of problem, then that’s the best place to start your troubleshooting procedure. If you’re unsure, then just start at the beginning and work your way through to the end.