If your PS5 throws up error NW-102650-4 with the message “Unable to connect to the server,” you’re not alone.
This frustrating issue typically means your console can’t reach the PlayStation Network (PSN), blocking online play, downloads, and other network features. But don’t worry—there are several proven methods to troubleshoot and resolve it.
Reasons Why Your PS5 Cannot Connect To The Server

Here are the reasons why PS5 cannot connect to the server:
- Firewall or Port Blocking – PS5 requires specific ports to be open to communicate with PSN servers. If these ports are blocked, your console won’t connect properly.
- DNS Configuration Issues – Sometimes, your PS5 may struggle to resolve server addresses due to slow or misconfigured
- DNS settings. Switching to a manual DNS setup using Google’s public DNS (Primary: 8.8.8.8, Secondary: 8.8.4.4) can often improve connectivity and bypass regional DNS delays or restrictions.
- PSN Server Downtime – If Sony’s PlayStation Network servers are undergoing maintenance or experiencing outages, your console may fail to connect.
- Unstable Internet Connection – A weak or unstable internet connection—especially over Wi-Fi—can interrupt communication between your PS5 and PSN.
- Outdated Router Firmware – Older router firmware may not support the latest networking protocols required by your PS5.
- Wi-Fi Limitations – Wireless connections are more prone to interference, latency, and signal drops. Switching to a wired Ethernet connection can significantly improve stability and speed, especially for online gaming, streaming, and large downloads.
What To Do When You Get PS5 error NW-102650-4
Follow the step-by-step guide when you experience PS5 error NW-102650-4.
1. Check that Firewall is Not Blocking The PSN Connection
You experience error code NW-102650-4 on your PS5 mostly when the internet is blocked by the Firewall or, PS55 fails to connect to the PlayStation Network server.
When you get such an error, check that the Firewall is not blocking the PSN connection.
- Access your router’s settings. Log in to your router’s Control Panel using your web browser.
- Find the section related to firewall rules or port forwarding.
- Verify that the following PlayStation Network ports are listed as open and allowed:
TCP:80,443,3478,3479,3480.
UDP: 3478, 3479, 49152 to 65535.

- If any of the required ports are blocked, you need to add a new rule to allow traffic on those ports.
- You can contact your internet service provider for help. You can also restart your router or Modem and PS5 console and check if that helps.
2. Change DNS Settings
The next thing you can try is changing the DNS settings and see if that helps.
- For that, open the PS5 Settings then, select Network then, select Settings under Network.
- Now, select Set Up Internet Connection.

- Choose your Wi-Fi network. Then go to Options and select Advanced Settings.
- Scroll down to DNS Settings.
- Select it and set it to Manual.
- Now set the Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS to 8.8.4.4. Once done, select OK.
- Once done, head to the Network Page.
- Now select Test Internet Connection. You can Start Test and check the connection speed.

3. Check The PlayStation Network Page
To make sure there is no server issue, check the PSN server status.
- To do that, navigate to PS5 settings.
- Select Network.
- Then select View PlayStation Network Status.

- If there is any ongoing maintenance or issues with the server, then also, you may get the error. You can also open the
- PlayStation Network Server page to check for any issues.
- If there is any issue on the server side, then wait for some time and then check again.
4. Check Your Internet Connection
Another thing you should check is that your internet connection is stable. You can try connecting other devices to the same network to see if they work properly. You can also restart the router or modem and check if it helps.
- You can also open PS 5 settings.
- Then head to the Network Page.
- Now select Test Internet Connection.

- You can Start Test and check the connection speed. You can also connect your service provider for help.
5. Update The Router’s Firmware
The next thing you can do is update the router’s firmware. To do that, contact your internet service provider or network
administrator and request to update the firmware of your router.

6. Use a Wired Connection
Use an Ethernet cable to connect your PS5 directly to your modem or router.
Connecting your PS5 directly to your modem or router using an Ethernet cable can provide a
more stable and faster internet connection compared to Wi-Fi.
This can be especially beneficial for online gaming, streaming, and downloading large files. So,
try that, and check if this could resolve the connection error.
7. Contact PlayStation Support
If the methods shown could not fix the issue, you can visit the PlayStation Support page for further assistance. Follow the guide provided by the experts to fix the issue.
Wrapping Up
Error NW-102650-4 is annoying, but it’s usually fixable with a few targeted steps. Start by checking your router’s firewall and port settings, then try updating DNS configurations and testing your internet connection.
If the issue persists, switching to a wired connection or contacting PlayStation Support can help resolve deeper network problems.
For any suggestions or further queries, ask us in the comments section provided below.