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The Ultimate Guide to the Best DNS Settings for PS5 and PS4 Gamers

By Ivan Marchetti · June 4, 2026 · 4 min read

Choosing the right DNS (Domain Name System) can significantly enhance your gaming experience on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 by improving connection speeds, reducing lag, and potentially unlocking geo-restricted content. In this article, we’ll explore what DNS is, why it matters for gamers, and recommend the best DNS servers for your PS5 and PS4.

Understanding DNS and Its Importance for Gaming

DNS is essentially the phonebook of the internet. It translates human-friendly domain names (like www.playstation.com) into IP addresses that computers understand. For gamers, a reliable and fast DNS can reduce loading times, improve connection stability, and enhance overall online gaming performance.

When you’re online, your console communicates with various servers to access games, updates, and services. Choosing an optimal DNS can reduce the time it takes for your console to resolve these addresses, thereby improving your connection.

Benefits of Using Custom DNS Settings

While your Internet Service Provider (ISP) automatically assigns DNS settings, using a custom DNS can have several advantages:

1. Speed Improvements: Some public DNS servers are faster than those provided by your ISP, improving the speed of online gaming.
2. Reduced Latency: A faster DNS server can also reduce ping times, leading to smoother gameplay.
3. Enhanced Security: Certain DNS providers offer additional security features, such as filtering out malicious websites.
4. Access to Restricted Content: Some DNS servers allow you to bypass geo-restrictions, giving you access to content not available in your region.

Recommended DNS Servers for PS5 and PS4

Here are some of the best DNS servers to consider for your gaming console:

Google Public DNS

• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4

Google’s DNS is one of the most popular options and is known for its reliability and speed. It’s an excellent choice for gamers looking for a straightforward setup without additional features.

Cloudflare DNS

• Primary DNS: 1.1.1.1
• Secondary DNS: 1.0.0.1

Cloudflare’s DNS is designed for privacy and speed. It claims to be the fastest public DNS service available and is a good choice for gamers who prioritize both performance and security. Cloudflare also offers a privacy policy that ensures minimal data collection.

OpenDNS

• Primary DNS: 208.67.222.222
• Secondary DNS: 208.67.220.220

OpenDNS offers features like phishing protection and parental controls, making it a versatile choice for families. Gamers can enjoy reduced lag and additional security features, which can be especially useful for younger players.

Quad9 DNS

• Primary DNS: 9.9.9.9
• Secondary DNS: 149.112.112.112

Quad9 focuses heavily on security and privacy. It blocks access to known malicious domains, which is a significant advantage for players concerned about online threats. This makes it a great choice for those who frequently play multiplayer games.

How to Change DNS Settings on PS5 and PS4

Changing your DNS settings on either console is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

For PS4

1. From the PS4 home screen, go to Settings.
2. Select Network.
3. Choose Set Up Internet Connection.
4. Select either Wi-Fi or LAN Cable, depending on your connection type.
5. Choose Custom.
6. When prompted for IP Address Settings, select Automatic.
7. For DHCP Host Name, select Do Not Specify.
8. On the DNS Settings screen, choose Manual.
9. Enter your chosen Primary and Secondary DNS addresses.
10. Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

For PS5

1. Go to the Settings menu from the home screen.
2. Select Network.
3. Choose Settings.
4. Select Set Up Internet Connection.
5. Choose either Wi-Fi or LAN, based on your connection method.
6. Select Custom.
7. For IP Address Settings, choose Automatic.
8. For DHCP Host Name, select Do Not Specify.
9. On the DNS Settings screen, select Manual.
10. Enter your Primary and Secondary DNS values.
11. Complete the setup by following the on-screen instructions.

Testing Your New DNS Settings

Once you’ve changed your DNS settings, it’s essential to test your connection to ensure everything is functioning correctly. You can do this by going back to the Network settings and selecting Test Internet Connection. Pay attention to the speed and ping times; ideally, you want these numbers to be as low as possible.

Additional Tips for Optimizing Your Connection

1. Use a Wired Connection: If possible, connect your console directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. Wired connections tend to be more stable than Wi-Fi.
2. Optimize Your Home Network: Limit the number of devices connected to your network when gaming to ensure the bandwidth is primarily available for your console.
3. Firmware Updates: Keep your router firmware up to date to ensure optimal performance and security.

Conclusion

Choosing the right DNS settings can make a significant difference in your gaming experience on PS5 and PS4. Whether you opt for Google, Cloudflare, OpenDNS, or Quad9, the benefits of improved speed, reduced latency, and enhanced security are worth the effort. By following the steps to change your DNS settings and optimizing your network, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. For further reading on DNS and its importance, check out the Wikipedia article on DNS.

By investing a little time into configuring your network settings, you can significantly enhance your gaming experience and enjoy everything that your PlayStation has to offer.