The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a popular gaming console that has been a staple in many gamers’ lives since its release in 2013. As technology advances, gamers are always looking for ways to improve their gaming experience, and one way to do this is by upgrading their internet connection. With the introduction of WiFi 6, many gamers are wondering if their PS4 console supports this new wireless standard. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of WiFi 6 and explore whether the PS4 is compatible with this technology.
What is WiFi 6?
Before we dive into the PS4’s WiFi capabilities, let’s take a closer look at what WiFi 6 is. WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is the latest generation of wireless networking technology. It offers faster speeds, better performance, and increased capacity compared to its predecessor, WiFi 5 (802.11ac). WiFi 6 is designed to provide a more efficient and reliable connection, making it ideal for applications that require high-bandwidth and low-latency, such as online gaming and 4K video streaming.
Key Features of WiFi 6
WiFi 6 offers several key features that make it an attractive upgrade for gamers:
- Faster speeds: WiFi 6 offers speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps, which is significantly faster than WiFi 5’s maximum speed of 3.5 Gbps.
- Better performance in crowded environments: WiFi 6 uses a technology called Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) to improve performance in crowded environments, such as public hotspots or large homes with many devices.
- Increased capacity: WiFi 6 can support more devices than WiFi 5, making it ideal for households with multiple devices connected to the internet.
- Improved battery life: WiFi 6 devices can enter a low-power mode to conserve battery life, which is especially useful for mobile devices.
PS4 WiFi Capabilities
Now that we’ve explored the features of WiFi 6, let’s take a closer look at the PS4’s WiFi capabilities. The PS4 supports WiFi 5 (802.11ac), which was the latest wireless standard at the time of its release. However, the PS4 does not support WiFi 6.
Why Doesn’t the PS4 Support WiFi 6?
There are several reasons why the PS4 does not support WiFi 6:
- Hardware limitations: The PS4’s hardware is not compatible with WiFi 6. The console’s wireless adapter is designed to support WiFi 5, and it does not have the necessary components to support WiFi 6.
- Software limitations: The PS4’s operating system is not designed to support WiFi 6. Even if the hardware were compatible, the software would need to be updated to support the new wireless standard.
- Release timing: The PS4 was released in 2013, while WiFi 6 was not introduced until 2019. It’s unlikely that Sony would have anticipated the need for WiFi 6 support at the time of the PS4’s release.
Alternatives to WiFi 6 for PS4
While the PS4 may not support WiFi 6, there are still ways to improve your gaming experience:
- Use a wired connection: A wired connection is always the best option for online gaming. If possible, connect your PS4 to your router using an Ethernet cable to ensure a stable and fast connection.
- Upgrade to a WiFi 5 router: If you’re using an older router, consider upgrading to a WiFi 5 router. This will provide a faster and more reliable connection than a WiFi 4 router.
- Use a WiFi range extender: If you’re experiencing connectivity issues due to distance or interference, consider using a WiFi range extender. This can help improve your connection and reduce lag.
PS5 and WiFi 6
If you’re looking for a console that supports WiFi 6, you may want to consider the PlayStation 5 (PS5). The PS5 supports WiFi 6, as well as other advanced wireless features like Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4GHz and 5GHz dual-band support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the PS4 does not support WiFi 6. While this may be a disappointment for some gamers, there are still ways to improve your gaming experience. By using a wired connection, upgrading to a WiFi 5 router, or using a WiFi range extender, you can ensure a fast and reliable connection. If you’re looking for a console that supports WiFi 6, you may want to consider the PS5.
Final Thoughts
The PS4 may not support WiFi 6, but it’s still a powerful console that offers a great gaming experience. With the right hardware and software, you can enjoy fast and reliable online gaming. Whether you’re playing popular titles like Fortnite or Call of Duty, or exploring new worlds in games like The Last of Us, the PS4 is a great choice for gamers of all levels.
| Console | WiFi Standard | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| PS4 | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | 2013 |
| PS5 | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 2020 |
By understanding the PS4’s WiFi capabilities and limitations, you can make informed decisions about your gaming setup and ensure the best possible experience.
Does the PS4 support WiFi 6?
The PS4 does not natively support WiFi 6. WiFi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is a newer wireless standard that offers faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks. The PS4 was released in 2013, and at that time, WiFi 6 was not yet available. As a result, the console only supports up to WiFi 5 (802.11ac).
However, it’s worth noting that some PS4 models may be able to connect to a WiFi 6 network using a WiFi 6 router, but the console itself will not be able to take full advantage of the WiFi 6 features. If you’re looking for a console with WiFi 6 support, you may want to consider the PS5, which does support WiFi 6.
What WiFi standards does the PS4 support?
The PS4 supports WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and WiFi 4 (802.11n). WiFi 5 is a faster standard that offers better performance and range, while WiFi 4 is an older standard that is still widely supported. The PS4 also supports Bluetooth 2.1, which allows for wireless connectivity with controllers and other devices.
In addition to WiFi 5 and WiFi 4, the PS4 also supports WPA2 encryption, which provides a secure connection to your network. The console also supports WEP and WPA encryption, but these are older standards that are not as secure as WPA2.
How do I connect my PS4 to a WiFi network?
To connect your PS4 to a WiFi network, go to the Settings menu and select “Network.” From there, select “Set Up Internet Connection” and choose “Use WiFi.” The PS4 will then scan for available networks and prompt you to select the one you want to connect to. Enter your network password, and the PS4 will connect to the network.
If you’re having trouble connecting to your network, make sure that your WiFi router is turned on and that you’re entering the correct password. You can also try restarting your router and PS4 to see if that resolves the issue. If you’re still having trouble, you may want to consider using a wired Ethernet connection instead.
Can I use a WiFi extender with my PS4?
Yes, you can use a WiFi extender with your PS4. A WiFi extender can help to boost the signal of your WiFi network, providing a stronger connection to your console. This can be especially helpful if you have a large home or if your router is located in a different room from your PS4.
When choosing a WiFi extender, make sure to select one that supports the same WiFi standard as your router (WiFi 5 or WiFi 4). You’ll also want to place the extender in a location where it can receive a strong signal from your router, such as a hallway or living room.
How can I improve my PS4’s WiFi connection?
There are several ways to improve your PS4’s WiFi connection. One of the simplest ways is to move your router to a central location in your home, such as a living room or hallway. This can help to provide a stronger signal to your console. You can also try restarting your router and PS4 to see if that resolves any connectivity issues.
Another way to improve your WiFi connection is to reduce interference from other devices. Try moving devices that use the same frequency band as your WiFi network (such as cordless phones and microwaves) to a different location. You can also try changing the channel on your router to one that is less crowded.
Can I use a wired Ethernet connection with my PS4?
Yes, you can use a wired Ethernet connection with your PS4. In fact, a wired connection can provide a faster and more stable connection than WiFi. To use a wired connection, simply connect an Ethernet cable to the back of your PS4 and the other end to your router.
Using a wired connection can be especially helpful if you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your WiFi network. A wired connection can also provide a faster connection speed, which can be beneficial for online gaming and streaming.
Will using WiFi 6 with my PS4 provide any benefits?
Using WiFi 6 with your PS4 will not provide any significant benefits, since the console does not natively support WiFi 6. However, using a WiFi 6 router can still provide benefits for other devices on your network that do support WiFi 6.
WiFi 6 offers several benefits over older WiFi standards, including faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks. If you have other devices that support WiFi 6, such as a laptop or smartphone, using a WiFi 6 router can provide a better overall networking experience.