PlayStation Error Code NW-31456-0 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error NW-31456-0 on PlayStation means the console could not reach the DNS server. DNS is like a phone book for the internet — without it, the console cannot find PlayStation Network servers. Changing to a faster public DNS server usually fixes this within minutes.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro
PlayStation 3

Common Causes

Your internet provider's DNS server is down or responding too slowly
The DNS server address stored in your PS4 network settings is incorrect
Your router is not properly passing DNS requests from the console to the internet
A temporary network outage at your ISP is affecting DNS resolution
Parental controls or router firewall settings are blocking DNS requests from the console

How to Fix It

On the PS4, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.

Choose either Wi-Fi or LAN cable depending on how your console is connected.
Select 'Custom' setup. Go through the settings until you reach the DNS Settings option.

When you reach IP Address Settings, choose 'Automatic'. Then choose 'Do Not Specify' for DHCP Host Name.
At DNS Settings, choose 'Manual'. Enter these Google DNS addresses: Primary DNS 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS 8.8.4.4.

Alternatively, use Cloudflare DNS: Primary 1.1.1.1 and Secondary 1.0.0.1. Both are free, fast, and reliable.
Complete the setup and run a connection test: Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection.

A successful connection test confirms the DNS change worked. All four steps should show 'Successful'.
If the connection test still fails, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

After the router restarts, run the connection test again. A router reboot often resolves underlying DNS routing issues.

When to Call a Professional

NW-31456-0 is always a network configuration issue that you can resolve yourself. No professional service is needed. If changing DNS servers does not help, the issue is likely with your router or ISP — contact your internet provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DNS and why does it matter for gaming?

DNS stands for Domain Name System. When your PS4 wants to connect to PlayStation Network, it first asks a DNS server to translate 'playstation.com' into a numbered IP address. If that DNS lookup fails, the console cannot connect to anything online — even if your internet is otherwise working fine.

Are Google or Cloudflare DNS servers safe to use?

Yes. Both 8.8.8.8 (Google) and 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) are widely used, reputable public DNS services. Millions of PlayStation users use them without any issues. They are typically faster and more reliable than the default DNS servers provided by most ISPs.

Will changing the DNS affect my internet speed?

DNS changes typically make browsing and online services slightly faster, not slower. DNS only handles looking up addresses — it does not limit your actual download or upload speed. Some users report noticeably improved PlayStation Network connection quality after switching DNS.