PlayStation Error Code NW-31456-9 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The NW-31456-9 error means your PlayStation cannot connect because of a DNS problem. DNS is the system that translates website names into the addresses your console needs to connect. This error is usually caused by incorrect DNS settings or a temporary DNS server issue.

Affected Models

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

Common Causes

Your router's DNS settings are misconfigured or the DNS server is temporarily down
Your internet service provider's DNS servers are experiencing problems
Custom DNS settings on the PlayStation are incorrect or outdated
The router's firmware is outdated and causing DNS resolution failures
A network conflict is preventing the PlayStation from reaching the DNS server

How to Fix It

On your PlayStation, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection. Choose your connection type (Wi-Fi or LAN) and select 'Custom.'

Custom setup lets you manually change DNS settings while keeping everything else automatic.
When you reach the DNS settings screen, select 'Manual.' Enter 8.8.8.8 as the Primary DNS and 8.8.4.4 as the Secondary DNS.

These are Google's free public DNS servers. They are fast, reliable, and work well with PlayStation.
Complete the rest of the setup with default or automatic settings. Then test your internet connection from the network settings menu.

If Google DNS does not work, try Cloudflare DNS instead: Primary 1.1.1.1 and Secondary 1.0.0.1.
Restart your router and modem. Unplug them for 30 seconds, then plug the modem in first, wait for it to fully connect, then plug in the router.

This refreshes the DNS cache on your router and can resolve temporary DNS problems.
If the error persists, try connecting your PlayStation to a different network, such as a mobile hotspot from your phone, to test if the issue is with your home network.

If it works on a different network, the problem is with your router or ISP settings.

When to Call a Professional

This error does not require professional repair. If changing DNS settings does not help, contact your internet service provider. They can check if their DNS servers are working properly and reset your connection if needed. You can also contact PlayStation Support at 1-800-345-7669 for additional help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DNS and why does it matter for my PlayStation?

DNS stands for Domain Name System. Think of it as an address book for the internet. When your PlayStation tries to connect to PSN, DNS translates 'playstation.com' into a number address the console can find. Without working DNS, your console cannot find any online services.

Is it safe to change DNS settings on my PlayStation?

Yes, it is completely safe. You are just telling your console to use a different address book. Google DNS (8.8.8.8) and Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) are both free and trusted by millions of users. You can always change back to automatic DNS settings if needed.

Why did my DNS suddenly stop working?

DNS servers can have temporary outages just like any other internet service. Your ISP's DNS may also slow down during peak usage hours. Switching to a public DNS like Google or Cloudflare avoids depending on your ISP's servers.