PlayStation Error WS-44571-1 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

WS-44571-1 means your PlayStation console encountered a problem accessing PlayStation Store content or completing a Store transaction. This error is most common on PS4 and PS5 when the Store servers have a temporary issue. It can also appear when your account has a restriction, your payment method has a problem, or your system clock is set incorrectly.

Affected Models

PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 Slim
PlayStation 4 Pro
PlayStation 5

Common Causes

PlayStation Store servers are temporarily unavailable or under maintenance
Incorrect date and time on your PlayStation — the system clock must be accurate for Store access
Payment method associated with your account is expired or declined
Account restrictions such as age verification failures or spending limits on child accounts
Unstable internet connection causing the Store session to drop mid-transaction

How to Fix It

Check PSN status at status.playstation.com. Look specifically at PlayStation Store status. If there is a known issue, wait for Sony to resolve it.

Store issues on Sony's end are resolved without any action on your part — just wait.
Verify your PlayStation's date and time. Go to Settings > System > Date and Time. Make sure 'Set Using Internet' is turned on, or manually set the correct date and time.

An incorrect system clock causes authentication failures with Sony's servers, which can produce WS-44571-1.
Check your PSN account's payment method. Log in to your PSN account through a web browser at playstation.com. Go to Account Settings > Payment Management and verify your card details are current.

An expired card is one of the most common silent causes of Store transaction errors.
Sign out of PSN on your console and sign back in. This refreshes your authentication session and often clears transient Store errors.

On PS4: Settings > Account Management > Sign Out. On PS5: Settings > Users and Accounts > Sign Out.
Restart your router and test your internet speed. A connection slower than 5 Mbps can cause Store session timeouts. If on Wi-Fi, move closer to the router or try a wired Ethernet connection.

The PlayStation Store requires a stable connection. Even brief interruptions during a transaction can trigger WS errors.

When to Call a Professional

WS-44571-1 does not require professional service. Check PSN status, verify your account settings, and ensure your system clock is correct. Contact PlayStation Support at playstation.com/support for account-specific issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a child account setting cause WS-44571-1?

Yes. Child accounts and family accounts on PSN have spending limits and content restrictions that can block Store access. If a child account has reached its spending limit or a purchase exceeds the content rating allowed, WS-44571-1 can appear. The family account manager must approve or adjust limits.

Does WS-44571-1 affect game downloads or just purchases?

It primarily affects Store transactions. Already-purchased games in your Library should still be downloadable without encountering this error. WS-44571-1 is most commonly seen when trying to buy or access new Store content.

Will a factory reset fix WS-44571-1?

No. WS-44571-1 is a network or account issue, not a system software fault. Factory resetting your console will not fix a PSN outage, an expired payment method, or an incorrect clock. Only the appropriate account or network fix will resolve it.