Experiencing lag spikes, high ping, or sudden disconnects while gaming on your PS4? The problem is often your default DNS. Most PlayStation 4 users stick with the DNS servers provided by their ISP, and those are rarely the fastest option for gaming.
In this guide, we explain exactly how to fix lag on PS4 by switching to a better DNS. Once you change your DNS, you will notice a significant improvement in connection stability, lower ping, and fewer disconnects during online matches. This gives you a real competitive edge over players still using the default DNS on their PS4.
Whether you are into fast-paced shooters or open-world RPGs, a faster DNS helps your console connect to game servers more quickly. If you have also been dealing with network errors on other platforms, check out our guide on how to fix the no route error on Discord for more network troubleshooting tips.
What is DNS?
DNS (Domain Name System) is essentially the phonebook of the internet. When you type a website like meshpie.com or connect to a game server, DNS translates that domain name into an IP address so your console can establish a connection. Without DNS, you would have to memorize long strings of numbers for every site or server you want to visit.
In a gaming scenario, your DNS has to be fast to connect to game servers quickly. A slow DNS server adds unnecessary milliseconds to every connection, which can result in higher ping and noticeable lag. For the same reason, if you game on PC as well, check our article on how to increase Steam download speeds for related network optimizations.
How Does DNS Affect Gaming Performance?
Every time your PS4 connects to a game server, it performs a DNS lookup. The time this takes depends on the DNS server’s location, how loaded it is, and your distance from it. While individual DNS queries happen in milliseconds, slow DNS servers cause cumulative delays that result in noticeable lag during gameplay.
Even with a 100 Mbps internet connection, you can experience minor spikes and stutters caused by a sluggish DNS. Changing to a faster, more reliable DNS resolves these issues instantly. You do not need to upgrade your internet plan or buy new hardware. If you are also experiencing slow internet in general, our guide on how to increase internet speed in Windows 10 covers additional fixes.
The Best DNS for PS4 in 2026
After extensive testing, these are the fastest and most reliable DNS servers for PS4 gaming. We recommend trying Google DNS first, then experimenting with Cloudflare or OpenDNS to see which performs best for your location.
| DNS Provider | Primary DNS | Secondary DNS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Public DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4 | Best overall speed and reliability |
| Cloudflare | 1.1.1.1 | 1.0.0.1 | Excellent privacy and speed |
| OpenDNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 | Good parental controls included |
| Quad9 | 9.9.9.9 | 149.112.112.112 | Strong security and malware blocking |
| Comodo Secure DNS | 8.26.56.26 | 8.20.247.20 | Security-focused option |
Now that you know the best DNS options for PS4, the next step is actually changing the settings. Most PS4 users never touch their DNS configuration, which means they are stuck with the slowest possible option. By switching to one of the above providers, you eliminate a common source of lag and instability.
What Problems Does the Default DNS Cause?
- Slow and laggy connection during online matches
- Sudden freezes that cause your character to get stuck
- High ping spikes that make games unplayable
- Frequent disconnections from game servers
The fix is simple. Follow the step-by-step guide below to change your DNS and enjoy a smoother gaming experience on PS4. If you are also looking for general online security improvements, read our best VPN for Windows guide for privacy and speed recommendations.
How to Change DNS on PS4
Step 1: From the PS4 home screen, go to Settings.
Step 2: Scroll down and select Network.
Step 3: Choose Set Up Internet Connection.
Step 4: Select either Use Wi-Fi or Use a LAN Cable depending on your connection type. The steps after this are identical for both options.
Step 5: When asked for the setup method, choose Custom instead of Easy.
Step 6: For IP Address Settings, select Automatic. For DHCP Host Name, select Do Not Specify. For DNS Settings, select Manual.
Step 7: Enter your chosen Primary DNS and Secondary DNS from the table above. For Google DNS, enter 8.8.8.8 as Primary and 8.8.4.4 as Secondary. Leave the MTU Settings on Automatic and set Proxy Server to Do Not Use.
Step 8: Once configured, go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection to verify your new DNS is working. You should see improved connection speeds and lower ping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Updating your PS4 DNS settings takes less than five minutes and can dramatically improve your online gaming experience. Whether you play Call of Duty, Fortnite, Apex Legends, or FIFA, a faster DNS means faster server connections and fewer lag spikes. Give it a try and feel the difference in your next gaming session.
