DNS & Optimization

Best DNS for PS5 Settings

Struggling with slow PlayStation Store downloads, server communication time-outs, or high matchmaking queue times on your PS5? Learn how to configure custom DNS settings for maximum speed.

Top DNS Recommendations for PlayStation 5

These three public DNS clusters consistently score the lowest resolution latency and cleanest routing indexes on the PlayStation Network:

Cloudflare DNSFastest overall resolution times for online multiplayer.
1.1.1.11.0.0.1
Google Public DNSHighly robust download cache routing for large game patches.
8.8.8.88.8.4.4
Quad9 DNSCombines fast connectivity with security blocklists against phishing.
9.9.9.9149.112.112.112

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Resolution Flow

  1. 1

    Navigate to Your PS5 Network Settings Menu

    Turn on your PlayStation 5, go to the top right of the home dashboard, and select the Settings cog icon. Scroll down and click on Network -> Settings -> Set Up Internet Connection.

  2. 2

    Access the Advanced Settings for Your Connection

    Hover over your active internet connection (WiFi or Wired LAN), press the Options button (three horizontal lines) on your DualSense controller, and select 'Advanced Settings'.

    Expert Tip: Make sure you do this on the active connection currently marked with a green check.
  3. 3

    Switch DNS Settings to Manual

    Scroll down to 'DNS Settings' and change it from 'Automatic' to 'Manual'. This opens two new input rows: 'Primary DNS' and 'Secondary DNS'.

  4. 4

    Enter the Optimised Gaming DNS IP Addresses

    Enter Cloudflare's high-speed servers: Primary DNS: '1.1.1.1', Secondary DNS: '1.0.0.1'. Alternatively, use Google Public DNS: Primary DNS: '8.8.8.8', Secondary DNS: '8.8.4.4'. Select 'OK' to save configurations.

    Expert Tip: You can test different providers to see which has the fastest routing for your local ISP.
  5. 5

    Run a PS5 Network Diagnostic Check

    The console will automatically reconnect to your network. Click 'Test Internet Connection' and wait for the results. You should observe a rapid hostname lookup and excellent, stable upload and download speeds.

Expert Q&A & Troubleshooting Insights

Will changing DNS increase my raw PS5 download speed?

Yes. Many default ISP DNS servers have slow resolution times and poor CDN caching. By switching your PS5 to a premium public DNS like Cloudflare or Google, your console will resolve the hostnames of PlayStation's content delivery networks (CDNs) much faster, which can trigger higher parallel download streams and faster updates.

Does changing DNS solve the 'PS5 WS-116520-5' update error?

Yes. This PlayStation Network error is typically caused by a failure to resolve the official update hostnames. Overriding your automatic ISP DNS settings and inputting Google's public IP (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare's (1.1.1.1) immediately bypasses the routing block and allows the update to download successfully.

Is it safe to change DNS on my PS5?

Absolutely. Using reputable public DNS providers like Cloudflare, Google, or Quad9 is completely safe and highly recommended by network professionals. They offer much stronger privacy guardrails, faster lookup routing, and cleaner caching infrastructure than standard residential ISPs.