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How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4? in Network Settings Menu

Introduction If you are searching for How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4?, you are probably trying to get a faster, more stable wireless connection for downloads, online multiplayer, streaming, or system updates. The PS4 network settings menu can look simple at first, b

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Introduction

If you are searching for How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4?, you are probably trying to get a faster, more stable wireless connection for downloads, online multiplayer, streaming, or system updates. The PS4 network settings menu can look simple at first, but the way your router broadcasts Wi-Fi, the name of your network, and your console model all affect whether 5GHz is actually available.

This guide explains the full process in plain language. You will learn which PS4 models support 5GHz Wi-Fi, how to open the correct menu, how to connect to a 5GHz network, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to troubleshoot problems when the console keeps choosing 2.4GHz instead. The goal is not just to connect, but to connect reliably and understand why the connection behaves the way it does.

Table of Contents

What Is 5GHz Wi-Fi on a PS4?

5GHz Wi-Fi is a wireless band used by many modern routers. It generally offers higher speeds and less congestion than 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, especially in homes with many devices. For gaming, that can mean quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and a more responsive online experience when the signal is strong.

On a PS4, 5GHz support depends on the console model. The PS4 does not have a simple toggle that says “use 5GHz only.” Instead, it usually connects to the network name, also called the SSID, that your router broadcasts. If your router broadcasts a separate 5GHz network name, you can select that name in the PS4 network settings menu. If your router uses one name for both bands, the PS4 may connect to either band, and you may need to adjust router settings to make the 5GHz connection more likely.

When people ask How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4?, the real answer is a combination of console compatibility, router configuration, and selecting the correct wireless network in the settings menu.

PS4 Models and 5GHz Compatibility

Before changing settings, confirm that your PS4 can actually use 5GHz Wi-Fi. Not every model supports it.

  • PS4 (original, CUH-1000/CUH-1100/CUH-1200 series): Typically supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only. It may not connect to a 5GHz network at all.
  • PS4 Slim (CUH-2000 series): Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi, including 802.11ac in many cases.
  • PS4 Pro (CUH-7000 series): Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi and is generally better suited for high-speed wireless gaming.

If you have an original PS4, searching for How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4? may lead to frustration because the hardware itself is limited. In that case, a wired Ethernet connection or a Wi-Fi range extender that bridges to 2.4GHz may be a better solution. If you have a Slim or Pro, you can usually take advantage of 5GHz by selecting the correct network.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather a few things before opening the PS4 network settings menu. This makes the process smoother and reduces trial and error.

  • A PS4 Slim or PS4 Pro for true 5GHz support.
  • A router that broadcasts a 5GHz network.
  • The Wi-Fi network name and password.
  • Knowledge of whether your router uses one combined SSID or separate SSIDs for 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
  • Access to your router admin panel if you need to change advanced settings.
  • A reasonably strong 5GHz signal where the PS4 is located.

5GHz signals do not travel through walls and floors as well as 2.4GHz signals. If your console is far from the router, 5GHz may be weaker even though it is technically faster. Distance and obstacles matter as much as the settings menu.

Understanding the PS4 Network Settings Menu

The PS4 network settings menu is where you tell the console how to reach the internet. The main path is:

Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection

From there, you choose between LAN cable and Wi-Fi. For wireless, you can usually choose Easy or Custom. Easy setup scans for available networks and lets you select one. Custom setup lets you adjust IP address settings, DNS settings, MTU, and proxy settings. Neither option directly lets you force 5GHz by frequency, but selecting the correct SSID is the key step.

There is also a useful option called Test Internet Connection. It does not prove you are on 5GHz by itself, but it helps confirm that the selected network is working. Another helpful screen is View Connection Status, which shows details such as the SSID, IP address, and connection type.

Easy Setup: Connecting to a 5GHz Network

For most users, Easy setup is the best starting point. It is simple and avoids unnecessary manual configuration.

  1. Turn on your PS4 and sign in.
  2. Go to Settings.
  3. Select Network.
  4. Select Set Up Internet Connection.
  5. Choose Use Wi-Fi.
  6. Choose Easy.
  7. Wait for the PS4 to scan for networks.
  8. Select your 5GHz network name from the list.
  9. Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully.
  10. Wait for the connection test to finish.

If your router broadcasts separate names, such as HomeWiFi and HomeWiFi-5G, choose the 5GHz name. If the list shows only one network name, the router may be using band steering. In that case, the PS4 may connect to 2.4GHz or 5GHz depending on signal and router logic.

When following How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4?, this is the most common successful path: select the correct SSID, enter the password, and complete the test. If the test passes, your console is online through that network.

Custom Setup: Advanced Network Options

Custom setup is useful when you need to change DNS servers, set a static IP address, adjust MTU, or configure a proxy. It is not required for basic 5GHz use, but it can help with performance or troubleshooting.

  1. Open Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
  2. Choose Use Wi-Fi.
  3. Choose Custom.
  4. Select your 5GHz SSID.
  5. Enter the password if prompted.
  6. Choose Automatic for IP address settings unless you need a static IP.
  7. Choose Do Not Specify for DHCP hostname unless your network requires it.
  8. Choose Automatic for DNS settings unless using a custom DNS service.
  9. Choose Automatic for MTU unless a specific value is required.
  10. Choose Do Not Use for proxy server unless your network uses one.
  11. Wait for the test to complete.

Custom setup does not create a 5GHz connection by itself. It only configures how the PS4 uses the network it selected. The band is still determined by the SSID and router behavior.

How to Choose the 5GHz Band

The PS4 does not let you directly pick 2.4GHz or 5GHz from a dropdown. You choose by selecting a network name. This is why router naming matters so much.

If your router broadcasts separate networks, you may see entries such as:

  • MyNetwork for 2.4GHz
  • MyNetwork-5G for 5GHz

Select the 5GHz entry. If your router uses one name for both bands, the PS4 may not give you a clear choice. In that case, you can try one of these approaches:

  • Temporarily disable the 2.4GHz band in the router, connect the PS4, then re-enable 2.4GHz.
  • Create a separate 5GHz SSID in router settings.
  • Use a guest network on 5GHz if your router supports it.
  • Move the PS4 closer to the router to make 5GHz more attractive to band-steering logic.

For users asking How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4?, the practical answer is often to make the 5GHz band easy to identify and select. A clearly named separate SSID removes guesswork.

How to Verify Your Connection

After setup, verify that the PS4 is connected and performing well. Start with the built-in test.

  1. Go to Settings > Network.
  2. Select Test Internet Connection.
  3. Check whether the test completes successfully.
  4. Note the connection speed shown, if available.
  5. Open View Connection Status to confirm the SSID and connection details.

The PS4 may not explicitly display “5GHz” in every menu, so use your router admin panel as a second check. Log into your router, find the connected devices or wireless client list, and look for your PS4. Many routers show the band, signal strength, or channel for each device. If the PS4 appears under the 5GHz client list, you are successfully using 5GHz.

You can also compare performance. If downloads are faster and latency is lower after connecting to the 5GHz SSID, that is a strong sign the connection is working as intended.

2.4GHz vs 5GHz Comparison

Understanding the difference between the two bands helps you decide when 5GHz is the right choice.

Feature 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 5GHz Wi-Fi
Speed Moderate Higher potential speed
Range Better through walls and floors Shorter range, more affected by obstacles
Congestion More crowded, many devices use it Usually less crowded
Interference More interference from household devices Less interference in most homes
PS4 Original Support Yes No
PS4 Slim/Pro Support Yes Yes
Best Use Long distance, basic connectivity Fast downloads, low latency, nearby console

5GHz is usually better for gaming when the console is close to the router. 2.4GHz may still be better if the PS4 is in another room, behind thick walls, or far from the access point.

Router Settings That Help 5GHz Work Better

Sometimes the PS4 network settings menu is not the problem. The router may be broadcasting 5GHz in a way the console does not handle well.

  • Use a clear, separate 5GHz SSID.
  • Set wireless security to WPA2 or WPA3 if supported, with a compatible mode.
  • Use a 5GHz channel that the PS4 supports, such as 36, 40, 44, 48, 149, 153, 157, or 161, depending on region.
  • Avoid DFS channels if the PS4 fails to connect or drops the connection.
  • Update router firmware.
  • Place the router in an open, central location.
  • Reduce interference by keeping the router away from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick metal objects.

If your router automatically changes channels, it may occasionally choose one that the PS4 does not like. Locking the 5GHz channel to a common, non-DFS option can improve stability.

Troubleshooting 5GHz Connection Issues

If the PS4 cannot connect to 5GHz, work through these checks in order.

Confirm Your Console Model

An original PS4 may simply not support 5GHz. Check the model number on the console or box. If it is an original model, use 2.4GHz or Ethernet instead.

Confirm the 5GHz SSID

Make sure you selected the actual 5GHz network and not the 2.4GHz network with a similar name. Passwords are case-sensitive, so enter them carefully.

Check Signal Strength

If the 5GHz network appears but connection fails, the signal may be too weak. Move the PS4 closer to the router or use a Wi-Fi access point in the same room.

Change the Router Channel

Some channels, especially DFS channels, can cause compatibility issues. Set the router to a standard 5GHz channel and restart both the router and PS4.

Check Security Settings

Very old or unusual security modes may prevent connection. WPA2-Personal with AES is widely compatible. Avoid mixed or legacy modes when possible.

Restart Everything

Restart the router, modem, and PS4. This clears temporary glitches and forces a fresh network scan.

Consider a Wired Connection

If wireless remains unstable, Ethernet is often the most reliable option for online gaming. It bypasses Wi-Fi interference entirely.

Tips and Best Practices

  • Use a separate 5GHz SSID so the PS4 selection is obvious.
  • Keep the console within a reasonable distance of the router.
  • Update PS4 system software regularly.
  • Update router firmware for security and compatibility improvements.
  • Use 5GHz for downloads and online play when signal is strong.
  • Use 2.4GHz or Ethernet when the console is far from the router.
  • Avoid overcrowding the 5GHz band with too many high-bandwidth devices.
  • Test the connection after any router change.

These habits make the answer to How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4? more practical. The settings menu is only one part of the process; the overall network environment matters just as much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can every PS4 use 5GHz Wi-Fi?

No. The original PS4 models generally support 2.4GHz only. PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro models support 5GHz Wi-Fi.

Where is the 5GHz option in the PS4 network settings menu?

There is no direct 5GHz toggle. You choose 5GHz by selecting a 5GHz network name under Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.

Why does my PS4 keep connecting to 2.4GHz?

Your router may use one SSID for both bands, or 2.4GHz may have a stronger signal. Creating a separate 5GHz SSID or temporarily disabling 2.4GHz can help.

How do I know if I am on 5GHz?

Check your router’s connected devices list. The PS4 may show the SSID and connection status, but the router is usually the clearest place to confirm the band.

Is 5GHz always better for PS4 gaming?

No. 5GHz is faster when signal is strong, but 2.4GHz can be more stable at longer distances. Ethernet is often best for competitive gaming.

What should I do if 5GHz shows but will not connect?

Check the password, signal strength, router channel, and security mode. Restart the router and console, then try again.

Does Custom setup let me force 5GHz?

No. Custom setup adjusts IP, DNS, MTU, and proxy settings. It does not directly force the Wi-Fi band.

Conclusion

Learning How to Use 5ghz Wifi Ps4? is mostly about understanding how the console and router work together. Open Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection, choose Wi-Fi, select the correct 5GHz network name, and complete the connection test. If your router uses one shared network name, you may need to create a separate 5GHz SSID or adjust router settings.

Also remember that not every PS4 supports 5GHz. Original models are limited to 2.4GHz, while Slim and Pro models can take advantage of faster wireless when the signal is strong. With the right setup, 5GHz can improve download speeds, reduce congestion, and make online gaming feel more responsive. If wireless remains unreliable, a wired Ethernet connection remains the most stable option.