PS5 Internet Test: Know Your Baseline
Before making any changes, run the PS5 built-in connection test:
- Go to Settings → Network → Connection Status → Test Internet Connection
- Note the download and upload speeds, and the NAT Type
- Compare these to a speed test on another device on the same network
If your phone gets 200 Mbps on Wi-Fi and your PS5 gets 40 Mbps, the issue is PS5's Wi-Fi reception or settings. If both devices get the same slow speed, the problem is your router or ISP.
Fix 1: Switch to Ethernet (Biggest Impact)
This is the single most effective improvement for PS5 internet. The PS5 has a Gigabit Ethernet port built-in. Connecting via Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi typically:
- Doubles or triples download speed vs. Wi-Fi in another room
- Reduces ping by 10–30ms
- Eliminates jitter caused by wireless interference
- Eliminates wireless signal dropouts during downloads
If running an Ethernet cable to your PS5 isn't practical, a Powerline adapter or a wired switch connection is the next best option. Wi-Fi will always be less consistent than wired for a stationary gaming console.
Fix 2: Change DNS Settings on PS5
Changing DNS from your ISP's default to a faster public DNS improves connection initiation speed to PSN servers:
- Go to Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection
- Select your Wi-Fi or LAN connection
- Choose Advanced Settings
- Set DNS Settings to Manual
- Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google)
- Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1 or 8.8.4.4
- Save and reconnect
Fix 3: Adjust MTU Settings
MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) affects how data packets are sized. The default (1500) works for most connections, but some ISP configurations — especially DSL and PPPoE connections — work better at lower values:
- Go to Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection → Advanced Settings → MTU Settings → Manual
- Try setting MTU to 1473 if you're on a DSL or PPPoE connection
- Try 1492 for standard cable/fiber connections
- If speeds get worse, revert to 1500
Fix 4: Fix Your NAT Type
NAT Type affects matchmaking and connection ability in multiplayer games:
| NAT Type | Meaning | Effect on Gaming |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 (Open) | PS5 directly connected to internet | Best — no connection restrictions |
| Type 2 (Moderate) | Behind NAT router, ports open | Good — connects to most players |
| Type 3 (Strict) | Behind NAT with closed ports | Limited — matchmaking issues |
To improve NAT Type from 3 to 2: log into your router admin panel and enable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play). This allows the PS5 to automatically open the ports it needs. Alternatively, set a static IP for your PS5 and create port forwarding rules for PlayStation Network (TCP: 80, 443, 3478, 3479, 3480; UDP: 3478, 3479).
Fix 5: Put PS5 in Rest Mode for Large Downloads
The PS5 can download games in Rest Mode, and many users report faster download speeds in Rest Mode than when the console is actively in use. Enable this in Settings → System → Power Saving → Features Available in Rest Mode → Stay Connected to the Internet.
Also, large downloads are best started during off-peak hours (late night / early morning) when PSN servers are less congested.
Fix 6: Check PSN Server Status
On major game launch days or after PlayStation Network outages, download speeds are limited by Sony's infrastructure — not your connection. Check PlayStation Network service status before assuming your setup is the problem. If PSN is degraded, local fixes won't help — wait it out.
Fix 7: Pause and Resume Downloads
Sometimes a PS5 download gets stuck on a slow server. In the Downloads/Uploads section of the Control Center (accessed by pressing the PS button), pause and then resume the download. This can cause the PS5 to connect to a different, faster server.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my PS5 downloading so slowly?
Most common causes: using Wi-Fi instead of Ethernet, PSN server congestion on launch days, background downloads running simultaneously, or router placement reducing Wi-Fi signal. Switch to Ethernet for the biggest immediate improvement.
What DNS settings should I use on PS5?
Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection → your network → Advanced Settings → DNS Settings → Manual. Set Primary to 1.1.1.1 and Secondary to 1.0.0.1.
What should MTU be set to on PS5?
Default 1500 works for most. Try 1473 for DSL/PPPoE connections. If speeds get worse, revert to 1500.
Why is my PS5 ping high?
Most common causes: Wi-Fi instead of Ethernet (adds 10–30ms), distant game servers, background downloads causing bufferbloat, or peak-hour ISP congestion. Switch to Ethernet and select regional game servers.
What is NAT Type on PS5?
NAT Type determines how the PS5 connects to other players. Type 2 (Moderate) is the most common and works for most games. Enable UPnP on your router to achieve Type 2 or 1 and avoid matchmaking issues.