How to Fix the PS5 'Cannot Connect to the Wi-Fi Network' Error

What to do when the PS5 can't communicate with your wireless router

by
Robert Wells
Robert Earl Wells III
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Robert Wells is a professional writer and amateur game developer. His specialties include web development, cryptocurrency, and cybersecurity.
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Robert Earl Wells III
Updated on January 21, 2021
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Ryan Perian
Lifewire Tech Review Board Member
Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions.
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Article reviewed on Feb 06, 2021
Ryan Perian

You may encounter the 'Cannot Connect to the Wi-Fi Network' error when using features on your PS5 Standard or Digital Edition that require an internet connection. Specifically, this error indicates that the problem is on your side (rather than the PS5 servers). It doesn't necessarily mean your internet is down, just that the console can't connect to your wireless router.

Causes of the PS5 'Cannot Connect to the Wi-Fi Network' Error

The following issues can cause this PS5 error:

  • The console is too far away from the router.
  • Other devices are interfering with the wireless signal.
  • Problems with your router.
  • Problems with your modem.
  • Problem with your console's internal hardware.

There are other errors you may see related to internet issues. For example, if you get a message saying that your PS5 cannot connect to the server, the service you're trying to access could be down.

To rule out problems with your internet connection, plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the port on the back of the PS5, then connect the other end directly to your modem.


How to Fix the PS5 'Cannot Connect to the Wi-Fi Network' Error

Follow these steps in order until your PS5 can connect to Wi-Fi:

  1. Confirm that your Wi-Fi password is correct. If you get an error when setting up your wireless internet connection, make sure you're using the right password for your network. The default password can likely be found on the bottom of your router.

  2. Restart your PlayStation 5. Turn off the console, then turn it back on. Make sure to power down the console; don't put it in Rest Mode.

  3. Restart your router and modem. If you're having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi with your other devices, restart your router and modem to see if that fixes the problem.

  4. Move the PS5 closer to your wireless router. If the console is far away from your router, the wireless signal may not reach your PS5. Move them closer together if possible, and make sure there are no obstructions like thick walls.

  5. Use the PlayStation Fix and Connect web tool. Select My PS4 or PS5 Can't Connect to the Internet, then answer the questions to narrow down the problem's source.

  6. Change your Wi-Fi network's channel number. This advanced fix can help avoid interference from other wireless signals.

    If you get a PS5 DNS error, try changing the DNS settings on your PS5.

  7. Reset your router. A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, will restore your router to the default settings. You'll have to set up your Wi-Fi network all over again, so consider this a last resort if none of your devices can connect to the router.

  8. Factory reset your PS5. If you're sure that the problem lies with the console and not your router, you can restore your PS5 to factory settings. A hard reset will wipe the console's memory, so back up save data and anything else you want to keep to the cloud.

    You can redownload games and apps you've already purchased from the PlayStation store.

  9. Get your PS5 repaired or replaced by Sony. If your PS5 still doesn't connect to Wi-Fi, it could be a hardware problem. Go to Sony's PlayStation Fix and Replace page to see if you can get it repaired or replaced for free.

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