PlayStation Error Code NW-31246-6 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

NW-31246-6 means your PS4 failed to connect to your Wi-Fi network. This can be caused by an incorrect Wi-Fi password, a router problem, or the PS4 being too far from the router. It is a fixable network error that rarely requires professional help.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro

Common Causes

The Wi-Fi password entered in the PS4's network settings is wrong or has changed
Your router is too far away or too many walls are blocking the Wi-Fi signal
Your router or modem needs a restart to clear a stuck connection
The PS4's network settings are corrupted and need to be set up again
Your router's 5 GHz band is not compatible with the PS4's Wi-Fi chip

How to Fix It

Double-check your Wi-Fi password. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Easy. Select your network and re-enter the password carefully, paying attention to capital letters and special characters.

A wrong password is the most common cause of NW-31246-6. Even one wrong character prevents connection.
Restart your router and modem. Unplug both from the wall, wait 60 seconds, then plug them back in. Once the router is fully back online, try connecting your PS4 again.

Routers can get stuck in a bad state. A restart clears this and often fixes connection problems immediately.
Move your PS4 closer to your router, or remove obstacles between them. Thick walls, large appliances, and other electronics can significantly reduce Wi-Fi signal strength.

The PS4 struggles to hold a connection if the Wi-Fi signal is weak. Moving it even a few feet can make a big difference.
Connect to the 2.4 GHz band instead of 5 GHz. When setting up Wi-Fi, choose the network name that ends in '2.4G' if your router shows two options.

The PS4 original has a weaker 5 GHz radio than newer devices. The 2.4 GHz band travels farther and is more stable for gaming.
Delete your saved network and set it up fresh. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Easy. If your network appears, select 'Forget' and then reconnect from scratch.

Corrupted saved network settings can cause repeated connection failures even with the right password.

When to Call a Professional

NW-31246-6 is a network error you can fix at home. If every device in your home has internet problems, contact your internet service provider. If only the PS4 has trouble connecting after all steps below, Sony Support can help at playstation.com/support.

Frequently Asked Questions

I know my Wi-Fi password is right but it still will not connect — what now?

Try setting up the connection manually using Custom settings. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Custom. Set DNS to 8.8.8.8 (Primary) and 8.8.4.4 (Secondary) and leave everything else as Automatic.

My other devices connect to Wi-Fi fine — why does my PS4 struggle?

Phones and laptops have stronger Wi-Fi antennas than the PS4. Your PS4 may be picking up a weak signal that other devices handle easily. The best solution is to move it closer to the router or use a wired Ethernet cable.

Will a Wi-Fi extender help with NW-31246-6?

Yes, a Wi-Fi range extender placed between your router and PS4 can significantly improve signal strength. Make sure you connect the PS4 to the extender's network, not your main router network. An Ethernet powerline adapter is an even more reliable option if you cannot run a cable.