How to Fix a PS4 That Keeps Disconnecting from Wi-Fi

If you’re an avid gamer, chances are you’ve encountered the frustration of your PlayStation 4 continually disconnecting from Wi-Fi. Not only does this disrupt your gaming experience, but it can also be a major inconvenience if you’re in the middle of streaming content or downloading updates.

Fortunately, there are several fixes that can help resolve this issue and get you back to uninterrupted gaming. In this article, we will discuss eight possible solutions for fixing a PS4 that keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi.

Introduction to the Issue

The PlayStation 4 is one of the most popular gaming consoles on the market, with millions of users worldwide. However, like any electronic device, it is not immune to technical issues. One common problem reported by PS4 users is frequent disconnections from Wi-Fi.

This issue can be frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of a multiplayer game or streaming content. It can also be a hassle to constantly have to reconnect to Wi-Fi every time you turn on your console. But fear not, as there are several potential solutions to try that can help fix a PS4 that keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi.

Potential Causes of a PS4 Disconnecting from Wi-Fi

Before we dive into the fixes, it’s essential to understand what could be causing your PS4 to disconnect from Wi-Fi. By identifying the root cause, you can better troubleshoot and find a suitable solution.

1. Weak Wi-Fi Signal: If your PS4 is located far away from your router or there are physical barriers between them, such as walls or furniture, it can result in a weak Wi-Fi signal.
2. Network Interference: Other electronic devices, such as microwaves or Bluetooth devices, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal and cause your PS4 to disconnect.
3. Outdated Software: An outdated PS4 system software or router firmware can also lead to connection issues.
4. Overcrowded Network: If you live in an apartment complex or densely populated area, there may be too many Wi-Fi networks competing for the same channel, causing disruptions.
5. Faulty Hardware: A faulty Wi-Fi card or an internal component within your PS4 may also be the culprit.
6. ISP Issues: In some cases, the problem could be on your Internet Service Provider’s end, such as an outage or maintenance.

Now that we have a better understanding of what could be causing a PS4 to disconnect from Wi-Fi let’s explore potential fixes.

How to Fix a PS4 That Keeps Disconnecting from Wi-Fi

Reset Your Router

One of the first steps to try when experiencing Wi-Fi connection issues with your PS4 is to reset your router. This simple fix can often resolve the issue and get you back online without any further troubleshooting.

To reset your router, follow the steps below:

1. Locate the power button on your router and press it to turn off the device.
2. Wait for about 30 seconds before turning the router back on.
3. Once the router has finished booting up, try connecting your PS4 to Wi-Fi again.

If this doesn’t work, move on to the next potential solution.

Change Your Wi-Fi Channel

As mentioned earlier, network interference can cause your PS4 to disconnect from Wi-Fi. Changing the channel of your Wi-Fi network can help mitigate this issue.

To change your Wi-Fi channel, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your router’s settings page by entering its IP address into a web browser.
2. Once you’re on the settings page, navigate to the wireless settings section.
3. Look for the option to change the Wi-Fi channel, and select a different one than the default.
4. Save the changes and wait for the router to reboot.
5. Try connecting your PS4 to Wi-Fi again and see if the issue persists.

Update Your PS4 Software

An outdated PS4 system software can also lead to connection issues. To ensure that your console is up-to-date, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Settings menu on your PS4.
2. Select “System Software Update.”
3. If an update is available, follow the prompts to download and install it.
4. Once the update is complete, try connecting your PS4 to Wi-Fi again.

Check for Interference

Other electronic devices, such as microwaves or Bluetooth devices, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal and cause disruptions. To avoid this, try moving these devices away from your router or PS4.

You can also use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your phone to identify any potential sources of interference. If you find any, try moving your router or PS4 to a different location to minimize disruptions.

Reconfigure Network Settings

Sometimes, reconfiguring your network settings can resolve connection issues with your PS4. Follow these steps:

1. On your PS4, go to the Settings menu.
2. Select “Network,” then “Set Up Internet Connection.”
3. Choose the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to and enter your password if prompted.
4. Select “Custom” for the IP Address and DHCP settings.
5. For the DNS settings, choose “Automatic.”
6. Finally, select “Do Not Use” for the MTU settings.
7. Save the changes and try connecting to Wi-Fi again.

Use a Wired Connection

If your PS4 keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi, using a wired connection can be a more reliable option. This method may not be ideal for everyone, but it can help resolve connection issues, especially if you’re experiencing slow or unreliable Wi-Fi.

To use a wired connection, you will need an Ethernet cable:

1. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the back of your PS4.
2. Plug the other end into an available LAN port on your router.
3. Go to the Settings menu on your PS4 and select “Network.”
4. Choose “Set Up Internet Connection,” then select “Use a LAN Cable.”
5. Follow the prompts to complete the setup process.
6. Once connected, try downloading updates or streaming content to see if the issue has been resolved.

Replace Your Wi-Fi Card

If none of the above solutions have worked, it’s possible that your PS4’s Wi-Fi card is faulty. In this case, you may need to replace it with a new one. This solution may require some technical knowledge, so if you’re not comfortable with disassembling your PS4, it’s best to seek professional help.

Contact Sony Support

If all else fails, you can contact Sony support for further assistance. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or offer a replacement console if the problem cannot be resolved.

Conclusion

Experiencing a PS4 that keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi can be frustrating, but hopefully, the solutions outlined in this article have helped you resolve the issue. Remember to check for potential network interference, update your software, and try using a wired connection if all else fails.

If none of these solutions work, it’s possible that your router or PS4 may have a hardware issue, and it’s best to seek professional help. We hope this article has been helpful in getting you back to uninterrupted gaming on your PlayStation 4. Happy gaming!