PlayStation Error Code NW-31473-8 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

NW-31473-8 means your PlayStation failed to connect to your Wi-Fi network. The console found the network but could not complete the connection. This blocks all online features including PSN, multiplayer, and downloads.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro

Common Causes

The Wi-Fi password entered on the PS4 is incorrect or has changed
The router is too far away and the Wi-Fi signal is too weak
The router's DHCP settings are not assigning an IP address to the console
The router has a MAC address filter enabled that is blocking the PS4
A temporary router firmware glitch is preventing new devices from connecting

How to Fix It

Confirm your Wi-Fi password is correct. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Easy. Select your network and re-enter the password carefully.

Passwords are case-sensitive. A single wrong character will cause every connection attempt to fail.
Restart your router and modem. Unplug them from the wall, wait 60 seconds, plug in the modem first, wait for it to fully connect, then plug in the router.

A router restart clears temporary glitches and refreshes IP address allocation.
Move the PS4 closer to the router, or the router closer to the console. Thick walls, floors, and metal objects block Wi-Fi signals. The console should ideally be in the same room.

If moving is not possible, a Wi-Fi extender or powerline adapter can improve signal strength.
Set a manual IP address on the PS4. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Custom. Use your router's IP as the gateway and enter 8.8.8.8 as the primary DNS.

A manual IP avoids DHCP conflicts, which can prevent connections on busy home networks.
Check if MAC address filtering is enabled on your router. Log in to your router (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and look for a MAC filter or access control list. Either disable the filter or add the PS4's MAC address.

Find the PS4's MAC address at Settings > Network > View Connection Status.

When to Call a Professional

NW-31473-8 is a network configuration problem, not a hardware fault. You should be able to resolve it yourself using the steps below. If you suspect a router hardware fault, contact your internet service provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use Wi-Fi or a cable for PS4?

A wired Ethernet cable is always faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. For gaming, lag and dropped connections matter. A cable eliminates both problems. If Wi-Fi is your only option, connect to a 5 GHz network rather than 2.4 GHz for better speed.

What is a MAC address and how do I find it?

A MAC address is a unique identifier for your console's network adapter. On your PS4, go to Settings > Network > View Connection Status. You will see it listed as 'MAC Address (WLAN)' for Wi-Fi.

My neighbor's Wi-Fi appears on my PS4 — could that be interfering?

Yes. Neighboring Wi-Fi networks using the same channel can interfere with your signal. Log in to your router and change the Wi-Fi channel (try channel 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz). Many modern routers have an automatic channel selection feature that handles this for you.