PlayStation Error Code NW-31253-4 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The NW-31253-4 error means your PlayStation has a problem with its DNS settings. DNS is what translates server names into addresses your console can use to connect. When DNS fails, the PlayStation cannot reach the internet — even if your Wi-Fi password is correct.

Affected Models

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

Common Causes

Your router's DNS server is responding slowly or not at all
Your internet service provider is experiencing a DNS outage
The DNS settings saved on your PlayStation are outdated or wrong
A firewall or parental control on your router is blocking DNS requests
Your Wi-Fi signal is too weak, causing DNS lookups to time out

How to Fix It

Restart your router. Unplug it from power, wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to fully reconnect, then test the PlayStation again.

Many DNS errors are caused by a router that has been running for weeks without a restart. A reboot often fixes the problem instantly.
Set a custom DNS on your PlayStation. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection. Choose your Wi-Fi, select Custom, and when you reach the DNS 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 public DNS servers.
Alternatively, try Cloudflare DNS. Use 1.1.1.1 as Primary and 1.0.0.1 as Secondary DNS instead of Google's servers.

Cloudflare DNS is often faster than Google DNS depending on your location. Try both if one does not resolve the error.
Move your PlayStation closer to your router. Walls, furniture, and other electronics can weaken the Wi-Fi signal significantly.

A weak signal can cause DNS timeouts. If possible, use a wired ethernet cable for the most reliable connection.
Delete the saved network on your PlayStation and reconnect from scratch. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection and choose your Wi-Fi network again.

This clears any old or corrupt network settings and creates a fresh connection profile.

When to Call a Professional

This is a network configuration issue, not a hardware fault. You do not need a repair technician to fix it. If the error keeps returning after trying all steps, contact your internet service provider. They can check if their DNS servers are having problems on your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DNS and why does my PlayStation need it?

DNS stands for Domain Name System — it is like the internet's phone book. When your PlayStation tries to connect to PlayStation Network, it asks a DNS server for the address. If no DNS answer comes back, your console cannot connect, even though your internet itself is working fine.

Is it safe to change my DNS to Google or Cloudflare?

Yes, completely safe. Google DNS (8.8.8.8) and Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) are free public services. Millions of devices use them every day, and they are often faster than your provider's DNS. You can always switch back to automatic DNS at any time in the same settings menu.

Why do my DNS settings keep reverting?

This usually happens when you delete the saved network and reconnect — the console defaults back to automatic DNS. Make sure to choose Custom when setting up the connection and manually re-enter the DNS each time. Some routers also push their own DNS automatically — check your router settings if this keeps happening.