Have you ever faced the annoying situation where your PlayStation 4 (PS4) won’t connect to WiFi while everything else in your home is smoothly sailing on the internet? It’s a common puzzle that many gamers encounter
In this article, we’ll explore this issue and figure out some simple steps to get your PS4 back in the game. Let’s dive into the world of WiFi troubles and find out why your PS4 might be acting up when everything else is working just fine.
Causes Why PS4 Not Connecting to WiFi But Other Devices Will?
Several factors could contribute to your PS4 not connecting to WiFi while other devices are working without a hitch. Here’s a list of potential causes:
- The PS4 might be too far from the WiFi router, experiencing a weak signal.
- PS4 may not support certain WiFi frequencies.
- Check if your router settings, such as security protocols and password requirements, align with what the PS4 can handle.
- Another device on your network might be using the same IP address that the PS4 is trying to use, causing a conflict.
- Incorrect DNS settings on the PS4 could hinder its ability to connect to the WiFi.
- Occasional glitches affecting the PS4’s connection.
- Security settings on the router or PS4 might be too restrictive, preventing a successful connection.
- There could be issues with your internet service. Contact your ISP for assistance.
- Outdated router firmware might cause compatibility issues.
- Ensure that your WiFi network’s SSID (network name) is visible. If it’s hidden, the PS4 won’t detect it.
Read Also: How To Fix PS4 Controller Wonβt Turn On Or Charge
How To Fix PS4 Won’t Connect to WiFi
Follow these fixes that we have gathered from tech forums in order to get the best result.
1. Move Closer to the Router
Adjust the placement of your PS4, bringing it closer to the wireless router. This factor is sometimes overlooked when troubleshooting Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
The physical distance between your PS4 and the router can affect its ability to connect to the internet.
Additionally, check for any potential interference or obstacles, such as dense walls or reinforced doors, that might be affecting the Wi-Fi signal.
Ensuring a closer proximity and minimizing obstructions can improve connectivity.
2. Change WiFi Frequency
There are chances that PS4 may not support certain WiFi frequencies. Access your router settings through a web browser.
Look for Wireless or WiFi settings and switch the frequency to 2.4GHz, which is generally more compatible with the PS4.
Read Also: How To Fix PS4 Controllers Not Working on PC Windows 10/11
3. Check Router Settings
Another reason that causes the PS4 won’t connect to WiFi issue is the mismatched router settings. Review the router manual or online documentation.
Ensure that the security settings and password on the router align with the requirements of the PS4.
4. Resolve IP Address Conflict
IP address conflict with another device is another cause that prevent PS4 from connecting to WiFi.
Access router settings, check the list of connected devices, and assign a unique IP address to the PS4 to avoid conflicts.
5. Verify DNS Settings
The incorrect DNS settings on the PS4 can also be the cause. On the PS4, navigate to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection. Choose the connection method, select Custom, and enter the correct DNS settings.
Read Also: Why PS4 Controller Works In Big Picture But Not In-Game
6. Restart Router or Modem
Try restarting both your modem and router to address potential connectivity issues. Manually reboot both devices, allowing them to fully restart, and wait for about five minutes.
After this, attempt to connect your PS4 to the Wi-Fi network again. Restarting the modem and router can often resolve network-related problems, so ensure they both undergo a complete reboot before checking your PS4’s connection.
7. Reboot or Update PS4
Restart the PS4 or update its software to fix glitches. To do that power off the PS4 completely, wait a minute, then turn it back on. If there’s a system update available, install it.
8. Update Router Firmware
Check for updates for your router’s software. Visit the router manufacturer’s website, locate the firmware update section, and follow the provided instructions.
9. Ensure SSID Visibility
Make sure your WiFi name is visible; hidden names won’t show on the PS4. Access router settings and ensure the SSID broadcast is enabled.
10. Confirm Your Wi-Fi Password is Correct
Ensure that your Wi-Fi password is accurate. Sometimes, the PS4 may struggle to connect to your Wi-Fi network due to an incorrect password. This issue can be a bit tricky to identify because of the vague error messages.
To verify, connect another device (like your laptop or smartphone) to the same Wi-Fi network using the exact password. Opt for a device that recently connected successfully.
If this alternate device recognizes the Wi-Fi network but fails to connect with the same password, it’s likely that the password is incorrect.
11. Disable N-Mode on your WiFi Settings
By default, N mode is often activated in the router, which can lead to PS4 internet connection issues. Users on Reddit have reported that disabling N mode in the wireless router resolves the problem.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to Disable Wireless N Network Support:
- Press Windows + R and type devmgmt.msc to open Device Manager.
- In the Device Manager, double-click on Network Adapters to expand the list.
- Select the appropriate wireless adapter, and double-click on it to open Properties.
- Click on the Advanced Tab.
- Under the Advanced Tab, locate and select 802.11n Mode.
- In the Value section, click to choose either Disabled or Enabled based on your preference.
12. Initialize PlayStation 4 Console
If all the previous fixes have been unsuccessful in resolving the PS4’s connection issues to WiFi, you may need to consider initializing the console. This step becomes necessary when there’s a possibility of corrupted system files, especially after updates or game downloads.
Follow these steps to initialize your PlayStation 4:
- Navigate to PS4βs Settings using the controller.
- Click on the Initialization tab.
- Choose Initialize PS4.
- Opt for the Full option.
Be aware that this process will delete all files on the storage device, essentially resetting the PS4 to a new state.
However, note that it may take several hours to complete. Use this option as a last resort when other solutions have proven unsuccessful.
