Why is my PS4 internet speed slow and affecting my gaming experience?

Why is my PS4 internet speed slow and affecting my gaming experience?
I’ve been struggling with my PS4 lately because of its slow internet speed. Everything seems to be dragging, whether I’m trying to download a new game, stream content, or play online multiplayer games. It’s incredibly frustrating because I know my internet connection is generally fast on other devices. I can’t seem to pinpoint the exact reason behind this slowdown but it’s starting to take the fun out of my gaming. I’ve tried reconnecting my console, but the issue persists. It’s really puzzling and makes me wonder if there’s something specific to the PS4 that’s causing this lag. I just want to enjoy my games without constant interruptions and buffering.
8 Answers

You might not realize it, but having multiple applications running in the background can significantly slow down your PS4. Close any unnecessary applications by holding the PS button, selecting the application, and opting to close it. This frees up system resources and can improve your internet speed.

In my experience, adjusting the DNS settings on the PS4 can lead to significant improvements. By default, the console uses your ISP’s DNS, which might not be the fastest. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Go to Settings on your PS4.
2. Select Network.
3. Choose Set Up Internet Connection.
4. Select either Wi-Fi or LAN Cable.
5. Choose Custom.
6. Set IP Address to Automatic.
7. Set DHCP Host to Do Not Specify.
8. Change DNS Settings to Manual.
9. Use Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220).
10. Set MTU to Automatic and Proxy Server to Do Not Use.
Changing to a faster DNS server has significantly enhanced my PS4’s internet speed.

First, let’s consider the Wi-Fi signal strength, which is crucial for a stable internet connection. You can check this in the PS4 network settings. A weak signal might be the culprit, so try moving your PS4 closer to the router or eliminating any physical obstructions. Alternatively, using a wired Ethernet connection can often provide a much more stable and faster internet speed than Wi-Fi.

One solution that worked for me is keeping the PS4 firmware updated. An outdated system can lag due to inefficiencies or bugs. Here’s how to check for updates:
– Navigate to Settings.
– Select System Software Update.
If there is an update, the PS4 will download and install it. Periodically updating the system ensures optimal performance. Additionally, clearing the cache can help. Turn off the PS4 completely, unplug it for a few minutes, and restart it.

To enhance your PS4’s connectivity, delve into your router’s Quality of Service (QoS) settings. This feature allows you to prioritize your PS4 over other devices, ensuring it gets the most bandwidth. Steps vary by router model, but generally, log into your router’s settings and look for the QoS section to give the PS4 a higher priority.

The router’s firmware could be outdated, causing slow speeds. Here’s a quick guide to updating it:
1. Locate your router’s model number.
2. Download the latest firmware from your manufacturer’s website.
3. Log into your router’s admin page.
4. Follow the provided instructions for updating the firmware.
Updating the router can resolve many connectivity issues and boost performance.