PlayStation Error Code NP-34957-8 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The NP-34957-8 error means your PlayStation could not connect to the PlayStation Network (PSN) server in time. The connection request timed out before getting a response. This is usually caused by PSN server issues or a slow internet connection on your end.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro
PlayStation 5
PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

Common Causes

PlayStation Network servers are down for maintenance or experiencing high traffic
Your internet connection is too slow or unstable to reach Sony's servers
Your router's NAT type is too restrictive, blocking the connection
A firewall or parental control setting on your router is blocking PSN traffic
DNS server issues are preventing your PlayStation from reaching PSN

How to Fix It

Check if PSN is down. Visit status.playstation.com on your phone or computer to see if there are any service outages.

If PSN is down, there is nothing to do but wait for Sony to fix it. This usually takes a few hours.
Test your internet connection on the PlayStation. Go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection.

Look at your download and upload speeds. For online gaming, you need at least 5 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload.
Restart your router and modem. Unplug both devices, wait 30 seconds, plug the modem in first, wait a minute, then plug in the router.

This refreshes your internet connection and often fixes timeout errors.
Try changing your DNS settings. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Custom. Set Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS to 8.8.4.4.

These are Google's public DNS servers, which are often faster and more reliable than your ISP's default DNS.
If you are on Wi-Fi, try a wired Ethernet connection instead. Wired connections are more stable and have lower latency.

If running a cable is not possible, at least move the PlayStation closer to the router.

When to Call a Professional

This error is almost never a hardware problem. It is a network or server issue that resolves itself or can be fixed with settings changes. No professional repair is needed unless your router itself is malfunctioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the problem is on Sony's end or mine?

Check status.playstation.com. If it shows service issues, the problem is on Sony's end. If PSN status is normal but you still get the error, the issue is with your internet connection or settings. You can also check social media — if PSN is down, many people will be posting about it.

What is NAT type and how does it affect PSN?

NAT type describes how open your network is to incoming connections. Type 1 (Open) is best. Type 2 (Moderate) works well. Type 3 (Strict) can cause connection issues. If you have Type 3, try enabling UPnP in your router settings or setting up port forwarding.

Why does this error only happen at certain times of day?

PSN servers get busier during peak hours — evenings and weekends. Your internet connection may also slow down during peak times if your ISP has congestion. If the error only happens at busy times, your connection speed may be borderline.