Online gaming on PS5 is mostly about one thing: stability.
A fast speed test looks nice, but what wins matches is:
- stable connection (no random drops)
- low ping (less delay)
- consistent packet delivery (less “rubber-banding”)
Here’s how to optimize your PS5 setup in the order that gives the biggest real-world improvements.
Quick checklist
- Use wired LAN if you can (it removes Wi-Fi interference from the equation).
- If you must use Wi-Fi, connect using the PS5’s built-in network setup and prefer a stronger/cleaner signal.
- Check PlayStation Network status before you start changing settings.
- Keep PS5 system software updated (updates can include fixes and stability improvements).
- If matchmaking/party chat is a mess, you’re likely dealing with a NAT/router issue (UPnP/ports/etc.).
1) Start with the connection type: LAN beats Wi-Fi (almost every time)
If you can run an Ethernet cable to your console, do it.
PlayStation Support includes steps for setting up wired and wireless connections on PS5 through:
Settings → Network → Settings → Set Up Internet Connection.
Wired usually means:
- less jitter
- fewer disconnects
- more consistent ping during busy household usage
PlayStation Support (internet setup): https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/connectivity/internet-connect-playstation/
2) If you’re on Wi-Fi: set it up cleanly (and don’t ignore the basics)
Use the PS5 setup flow to connect to your network (same menu path above).
Then do the obvious-but-effective checks:
- bring the console closer to the router (or reduce walls between them)
- avoid placing the router behind the TV or inside a cabinet
- reboot router + PS5 if the connection has been flaky for days
Important note about IPv6
PlayStation Support notes that PS5 supports IPv6 connections but doesn’t support IPv6-only networks (you may need IPv4 enabled on the router).
Quote (PlayStation Support): “PS5® consoles support IPv6 network connections but do not support IPv6-only network connections.”
That line alone solves a surprising number of “everything connects except my PS5” situations.
3) Check PSN status before you troubleshoot your home network
If PSN is having issues, you can waste an hour “fixing” a router that isn’t the problem.
Sony’s official status page shows whether PlayStation services are running normally.
Also Check:
PSN status: https://status.playstation.com/
4) Keep your PS5 system software updated (don’t skip this)
System software updates aren’t just features — they can include stability improvements and fixes.
PlayStation Support documents how to update PS5 system software (and how to set up automatic updates).
Practical tip:
- If you play competitively, enable automatic updates so you aren’t hit with surprise downloads right before a session.
5) NAT problems: the “hidden reason” party chat and matchmaking break
If you can’t join certain friends, party chat drops, or matchmaking takes forever, it often points to router/NAT behavior — not your raw speed.
Your PS5 internet test screen can show NAT type and connection details (PlayStation’s connectivity guidance points you to the right area in network setup and testing flow).
What to try (simple first):
- enable UPnP on the router (many home routers support it)
- restart router after changes
- avoid double-NAT setups (ISP modem + your router doing NAT again)
6) DNS tweaks: worth trying, but keep expectations realistic
Changing DNS won’t magically turn bad Wi-Fi into good Wi-Fi — but it can help with name resolution reliability in some cases.
If you want a reputable reference for public DNS:
- Cloudflare documents 1.1.1.1 as their public DNS resolver.
- Google documents Google Public DNS and includes the IPs (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4).
Rule of thumb:
- Try DNS after you fix the connection type and signal quality.
7) Quick “lag vs input lag” sanity check (so you fix the right problem)
A lot of gamers call everything “lag,” but two issues feel similar:
- Network lag: rubber-banding, shots not registering, teleporting players
- Input lag: your controller feels delayed even offline (TV settings / game mode)
If your “lag” happens even in offline modes, it’s likely input lag — use the TV guide below.
Related Articles:
- How to Optimize Gaming PC for High Refresh Rates (144Hz / 240Hz / 360Hz)
- How to Fix Input Lag on a Gaming TV
- How to Optimize Xbox Series X for Low Latency Gaming
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FAQs
Is Ethernet better than Wi-Fi for PS5 online gaming?
Usually yes — it’s typically more stable and less affected by interference. PlayStation Support provides steps for both wired and wireless setup.
What should I do first if my PS5 is lagging online?
Check PSN status first, then confirm your connection setup (wired if possible).
Do system updates matter for online play?
Yes — PlayStation Support recommends keeping system software updated and explains how to update it.
Does changing DNS reduce ping on PS5?
Sometimes it helps with resolution reliability, but it won’t fix weak Wi-Fi or congestion. If you want reputable DNS references, Cloudflare and Google document their public DNS services.
References
https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/connectivity/internet-connect-playstation/
https://status.playstation.com/
https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/ps5/system-software/
https://developers.cloudflare.com/1.1.1.1/
https://developers.google.com/speed/public-dns/
