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Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi? Latest Insight Explained

Introduction If you have ever asked yourself, Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi?, you are definitely not alone. PlayStation 4 owners frequently wonder whether their console can connect to the faster, less crowded 5GHz wireless band that most modern routers broadcast. The

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you have ever asked yourself, Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi?, you are definitely not alone. PlayStation 4 owners frequently wonder whether their console can connect to the faster, less crowded 5GHz wireless band that most modern routers broadcast. The answer matters because your wireless connection directly affects online matchmaking, download speeds for games and updates, streaming quality, and overall latency.

The truth is that not every PlayStation 4 handles WiFi the same way. Sony released multiple hardware revisions over the years, and wireless capabilities changed between them. Knowing whether your specific console supports 5GHz can save you from buying the wrong router, troubleshooting the wrong settings, or settling for a slower connection than your hardware is actually capable of.

In this comprehensive guide, we will answer the question Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi? in detail. You will learn which PS4 models support 5GHz, how to check your console, how to connect to a 5GHz network, the pros and cons of using that band, and how to troubleshoot common wireless issues. We will also compare 2.4GHz and 5GHz side by side, discuss wired versus wireless connections, and look at how the PS4 stacks up against the PlayStation 5.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi?

The short answer is: it depends on which PlayStation 4 you own. Not every PS4 model supports 5GHz WiFi.

  • Original PS4 (launch model, CUH-1000 series): No. This model only supports 2.4GHz WiFi.
  • PS4 Slim: Yes. It supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
  • PS4 Pro: Yes. It supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

If you own a PS4 Slim or PS4 Pro, your console is capable of connecting to a 5GHz wireless network. If you are still using the original launch-day PS4, you are limited to 2.4GHz. Later in this article, we will show you exactly how to identify your model so there is no guesswork involved.

PS4 WiFi Hardware: 2.4GHz vs 5GHz by Model

Sony did not use the same wireless card across every PlayStation 4 revision. The original launch console was designed when 2.4GHz was still the dominant home WiFi standard, while later models received updated hardware to keep pace with modern routers.

Original PS4 (Launch Model)

The original PlayStation 4, often identified by model numbers beginning with CUH-10xx, includes a wireless module that supports IEEE 802.11 b/g/n. That standard operates exclusively on the 2.4GHz frequency band. Because of this hardware limitation, the original PS4 cannot see, let alone connect to, a 5GHz network even if your router is broadcasting one.

If you try to scan for wireless networks on an original PS4 and your router only broadcasts a 5GHz SSID, the console will simply not display that network. This is not a settings issue or a firmware bug; it is a physical hardware restriction.

PS4 Slim

The PS4 Slim, released in 2016, uses model numbers beginning with CUH-20xx. Sony upgraded the wireless hardware to support IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac. The inclusion of 802.11ac means the PS4 Slim can operate on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This makes it much more flexible in homes with modern dual-band or tri-band routers.

Because the PS4 Slim is smaller and often placed in entertainment centers closer to the router, it is generally well suited to take advantage of 5GHz speeds when signal strength is adequate.

PS4 Pro

The PS4 Pro, identified by model numbers beginning with CUH-70xx, shares the same wireless capabilities as the PS4 Slim. It supports 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and can connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. The Pro was designed for 4K gaming and media streaming, so having access to the higher throughput of 5GHz aligns with its intended use case.

Like the Slim, the PS4 Pro will perform best on 5GHz when it is within a reasonable range of the router and not obstructed by thick walls or floors.

How to Check Your PS4 Model and WiFi Support

Before you attempt to connect to a 5GHz network, you should verify which PlayStation 4 model you own. The console does not explicitly advertise its WiFi band support in the system settings, so you need to check the model number physically.

  1. Locate the model number: Look at the back of your PS4 console. Near the bottom, you will see a regulatory label with barcodes and text.
  2. Read the CUH number: The model number starts with CUH followed by four digits. For example, CUH-1215A, CUH-2215B, or CUH-7215B.
  3. Interpret the first two digits after CUH:
    • 10xx: Original PS4. 2.4GHz only. No 5GHz support.
    • 20xx: PS4 Slim. Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
    • 70xx: PS4 Pro. Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
  4. Check your router: Even if your PS4 supports 5GHz, your router must be broadcasting a 5GHz SSID. Most modern routers do this by default, but some older or ISP-provided units may be 2.4GHz only.

If you cannot find the model number on the back of the console, you can also check the original packaging or the purchase receipt. The model number is sometimes printed on the box near the barcode.

How to Connect Your PS4 to 5GHz WiFi

Assuming you have a PS4 Slim or PS4 Pro and a router that broadcasts a 5GHz network, connecting the console is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully.

  1. Prepare your router: Make sure your router is powered on and broadcasting a 5GHz network. If your router uses a single name for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz (sometimes called Smart Connect or band steering), the PS4 may connect to either band automatically. For more control, consider giving the 5GHz band a unique SSID, such as HomeWiFi-5G.
  2. Turn on your PS4: Log in to your user profile and navigate to the main dashboard.
  3. Open Settings: Use the controller to select the Settings icon, which looks like a toolbox.
  4. Select Network: Scroll down and choose Network from the settings menu.
  5. Set Up Internet Connection: Select Set Up Internet Connection.
  6. Choose Use WiFi: When asked how you want to connect, select Use WiFi.
  7. Select Easy: Choose Easy rather than Custom unless you have specific IP or DNS requirements.
  8. Select your 5GHz network: The PS4 will scan for available wireless networks. Look for the 5GHz SSID you identified earlier and select it.
  9. Enter the password: Type your WiFi password using the on-screen keyboard and confirm.
  10. Review settings: For IP Address Settings, select Automatic. For DHCP Host Name, select Do Not Specify. For DNS Settings, select Automatic unless you want to use custom DNS. For Proxy Server, select Do Not Use.
  11. Test the connection: Select Test Internet Connection. The PS4 will check the IP address, internet connection, and PlayStation Network sign-in.

If the test succeeds, your PS4 is now connected to your 5GHz network. You can verify the connection quality under Settings > Network > View Status of Network Connection, although the PS4 does not explicitly label the active band as 5GHz in that menu.

Benefits of Using 5GHz WiFi on PS4

Connecting a compatible PS4 to a 5GHz network offers several practical advantages, particularly if you download large games frequently or stream video through the console.

Faster potential speeds: The 5GHz band supports higher data transfer rates than 2.4GHz. On a PS4 Slim or Pro, this can translate to shorter download times for game updates, patches, and full digital titles from the PlayStation Store.

Less interference: The 2.4GHz band is crowded. It is used by microwaves, Bluetooth devices, baby monitors, cordless phones, and many neighboring WiFi networks. The 5GHz band has more non-overlapping channels, so you are less likely to experience interference from household electronics or nearby apartments.

Better streaming performance: If you use your PS4 to stream Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, or other services in high definition, a 5GHz connection can provide a more stable stream with fewer buffering interruptions, provided the console is close enough to the router.

Improved responsiveness: While WiFi will never match a wired Ethernet connection for latency, 5GHz can offer lower and more consistent ping times than a congested 2.4GHz connection in the right environment.

Limitations and Drawbacks of 5GHz

Despite the advantages, 5GHz WiFi is not a magic solution for every situation. It comes with trade-offs that every PS4 owner should understand.

Shorter range: Higher frequency signals do not travel as far as lower frequency signals. A 5GHz network may not reach a PS4 located in a basement or a distant bedroom as reliably as 2.4GHz would.

Poor wall penetration: 5GHz signals struggle to pass through thick walls, floors, and furniture. If your router is on one floor and your PS4 is on another, the 5GHz signal may be weak or unstable.

Original PS4 incompatibility: As noted earlier, the launch-model PS4 cannot use 5GHz at all. If you own that hardware, you must rely on 2.4GHz or a wired connection.

Router compatibility: Some older routers or basic ISP gateways only broadcast on 2.4GHz. In those cases, even a PS4 Pro cannot connect to 5GHz because the network simply does not exist.

2.4GHz vs 5GHz Comparison Table

The table below summarizes the key differences between the two wireless bands as they relate to PlayStation 4 gaming and media use.

Feature 2.4GHz 5GHz
Maximum speed potential Lower Higher
Range and coverage Better Shorter
Wall and floor penetration Stronger Weaker
Interference from other devices High Lower
Number of non-overlapping channels Fewer More
Original PS4 support Yes No
PS4 Slim support Yes Yes
PS4 Pro support Yes Yes
Best use case Long-range, through walls, basic browsing Gaming, streaming, downloads when close to router

Troubleshooting PS4 5GHz WiFi Connection Issues

Even with a compatible PS4 and router, you may encounter problems connecting to or staying connected to a 5GHz network. Here are the most common issues and how to resolve them.

PS4 Does Not See the 5GHz Network

  • Verify your PS4 model: If you have an original CUH-10xx console, it physically cannot detect 5GHz networks. You must use 2.4GHz or connect via Ethernet.
  • Check router settings: Log into your router admin panel and confirm that the 5GHz radio is enabled. Some routers disable 5GHz by default or hide the SSID.
  • Separate the SSIDs: If your router uses band steering or a single network name for both bands, the PS4 might not show the 5GHz option distinctly. Try splitting the bands into separate names in your router settings.
  • Move closer: If the PS4 is too far from the router, the 5GHz signal may be too weak to appear in the scan results.

Connected to 5GHz but Speeds Are Slow

  • Check signal strength: Go to Settings > Network > View Status of Network Connection. If the signal strength is low, move the PS4 closer to the router or remove obstructions.
  • Change WiFi channel: In your router settings, try switching the 5GHz channel to a less congested one. Channels 36, 40, 44, and 48 are common choices, but the best option depends on your environment.
  • Reduce interference: Keep the PS4 away from other electronics, large metal objects, and thick walls.
  • Update router firmware: Outdated router firmware can cause compatibility issues with modern consoles.

DNS and Connection Test Failures

If your PS4 connects to WiFi but fails the internet connection test, try changing the DNS settings:

  1. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
  2. Select your active WiFi network and choose Custom.
  3. Set IP Address Settings to Automatic.
  4. Set DHCP Host Name to Do Not Specify.
  5. Set DNS Settings to Manual.
  6. Enter Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS), or 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare).
  7. Complete the setup and test the connection again.

Tips and Best Practices for PS4 Wireless Performance

Getting the most out of your PS4 wireless connection involves more than just picking the right band. These best practices can help you maintain a stable connection for online matches and fast downloads.

  • Use 5GHz when the PS4 is close to the router: If your console is in the same room or within one or two rooms of the router, 5GHz will usually provide the best speeds.
  • Fall back to 2.4GHz for distance: If your PS4 is far from the router or separated by multiple walls, 2.4GHz may offer a more stable, if slower, connection.
  • Give each band a unique name: Naming your 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks differently prevents the PS4 from automatically switching to the weaker band.
  • Position the router properly: Place the router in an open, elevated location rather than inside a cabinet or behind the TV.
  • Limit background activity: Pause downloads, streaming, or large file transfers on other devices while gaming on the PS4 to reduce network congestion.
  • Restart your router regularly: A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches and improve wireless performance.
  • Consider a static IP: Assigning a static IP to your PS4 in your router settings can improve connection consistency, especially if you use port forwarding.

Ethernet vs WiFi: Is Wired Better for PS4?

If you are serious about online gaming, a wired Ethernet connection is almost always superior to WiFi, regardless of whether you use 2.4GHz or 5GHz. Ethernet offers lower latency, higher stability, and no interference from neighboring networks or household appliances.

For competitive games like first-person shooters, fighting games, or sports titles where split-second timing matters, connect your PS4 directly to the router with an Ethernet cable if possible. If running a cable is impractical, powerline adapters can extend a wired connection through your home’s electrical wiring, though results vary based on your home’s electrical system.

Use WiFi for convenience, media streaming, and casual gaming. Use Ethernet when performance is the priority.

PS4 vs PS5 WiFi Capabilities

It is worth noting how the PS4 compares to its successor. The PlayStation 5 supports WiFi 6 (802.11ax) on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. This means the PS5 can handle higher theoretical speeds, better efficiency in crowded networks, and improved latency compared to the PS4.

The PS4 Slim and Pro top out at WiFi 5 (802.11ac), while the original PS4 is limited to WiFi 4 (802.11n) on 2.4GHz only. If you upgrade to a PS5, you will gain access to more modern wireless technology, but a PS4 Pro or Slim on a strong 5GHz connection is still perfectly capable for most gaming and streaming needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the original PS4 support 5GHz WiFi?

No. The original launch-model PS4 (CUH-1000 series) only supports 2.4GHz WiFi. It does not have the hardware required to connect to 5GHz networks.

Can the PS4 Slim connect to 5GHz?

Yes. The PS4 Slim supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, provided your router broadcasts a 5GHz network.

Does the PS4 Pro support 5GHz WiFi?

Yes. The PS4 Pro supports dual-band WiFi, including 5GHz, just like the PS4 Slim.

How do I know if my PS4 is connected to 5GHz?

The PS4 system settings do not explicitly state whether you are connected to 2.4GHz or 5GHz. The easiest way to verify is to check your router’s admin panel and look at the list of connected devices. If your router uses separate SSIDs for each band, you can also confirm by which network name you selected during setup.

Will 5GHz make my PS4 game downloads faster?

It can, especially if your internet plan offers high speeds and your PS4 is close to the router. However, your actual download speed is also limited by your internet service provider and PlayStation Network server conditions.

Is 5GHz better for PS4 online gaming?

5GHz generally offers less interference and higher throughput, which can improve online gaming stability. That said, a wired Ethernet connection is still the best option for competitive play because of lower latency.

Can I use 5GHz on PS4 with any router?

Only if your router supports and broadcasts a 5GHz network. Many older or entry-level routers are 2.4GHz only.

Why won’t my PS4 connect to 5GHz?

Common reasons include owning an original PS4 that lacks 5GHz hardware, the router not broadcasting 5GHz, the PS4 being too far from the router, or band steering preventing the console from selecting the 5GHz SSID.

Does PS4 support WiFi 6?

No. The PS4 supports up to WiFi 5 (802.11ac) on the Slim and Pro models. WiFi 6 is available on the PlayStation 5.

Should I use 2.4GHz or 5GHz for my PS4?

Use 5GHz if your PS4 Slim or Pro is close to the router and you want faster speeds with less interference. Use 2.4GHz if the console is far from the router or if you need better range through walls. If you own an original PS4, you have no choice and must use 2.4GHz.

Conclusion

So, Does Ps4 Get 5ghz Wifi? The answer depends entirely on your hardware. The original PlayStation 4 does not support 5GHz, while the PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro both do. If you have one of the newer models and a modern dual-band router, connecting to 5GHz can provide faster downloads, less interference, and a smoother experience for streaming and online play.

However, 5GHz is not always the best choice. Its shorter range and weaker wall penetration mean that 2.4GHz may be more reliable if your console is far from the router. And for the best possible performance in competitive online games, nothing beats a wired Ethernet connection.

By checking your model number, optimizing your router placement, and choosing the right band for your setup, you can ensure your PlayStation 4 stays connected and ready for whatever you want to play next.