Using a VPN on your smartphone, laptop, or PC is a breeze, isn’t it? However, when it comes to setting one up on your PS4 or PS5, that’s a whole other story. Sony, in its infinite wisdom, believes that VPN applications should be as welcome on their consoles as a Newcastle fan in the Sunderland stands. Indeed, you can’t just waltz into the PlayStation Store and grab NordVPN or ExpressVPN. And attempting to sideload one? Forget it, mate. The consoles absolutely won’t permit it.
But hold on, don’t start sulking just yet. There are alternative methods to get you sorted out. Whether you’re eager to access a region’s Netflix, snag a game before its release in the UK, or simply enhance your online gaming experience, I’ve got your back. Let me guide you through four techniques to get a VPN working on your PS4 or PS5.
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Why Use a VPN on Your PS4 or PS5? Let’s Discuss
Now, before we get into the details of how to accomplish this, let’s discuss the reasons you might want to do it to begin with.
To start, a VPN can help lower your ping, which means reduced lag when you’re trying to dominate someone online. If you’re a streamer, it’s also a fantastic way to fend off a DDOS attack. Because let’s be honest, there’s always a sore loser who can’t handle losing.
But that’s not all. You might also find yourself playing new games before they’re available in your area. No joke. Titles get launched in Australia hours ahead of their UK and US releases. With a VPN, you can trick your console into thinking you’re Down Under and grab the latest PlayStation games just a bit sooner.
Additionally, you can utilize the console’s streaming applications to watch content that’s restricted to other countries. Want to check out US Netflix? This is how you do it, my friend.
The major drawback? You can’t just slap a VPN on the console like you would on a mobile device or PC. No, that would be too straightforward. But don’t fret, I’ve got four methods that will sort you out.
Method 1: Configure a VPN on PS4 or PS5 via Your Wi-Fi Router
Let’s start with your router, the unsung champion of your home network. Since your PS4 or PS5 gets its Internet connection through the router, it’s the ideal spot to integrate a VPN.
If you’re tech-savvy, you might already possess a router that can accommodate a VPN connection. If so, simply access the router settings and begin entering your VPN information. It can be a bit of a hassle as each router brand and VPN service has its unique settings, but the fundamentals are usually the same. You’ll generally need to input:
- Service Name
- Server Address
- Your Account Name or Email
- Your Password
- Encryption Key (it sounds complex, but just replicate what it provides)
Now, if your router is somewhat basic and doesn’t support VPN connections, you have two options: upgrade to one that does, or opt for a dedicated VPN router like those from FlashRouters. Sure, it’s a bit of an expense, but it’s by far the simplest method to get a VPN operating on your console.
One final note—you’ll need to decide which VPN service you wish to utilize. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are reliable options with comprehensive guides to assist you, but there are numerous other choices that may fit your needs better. Check out our overview of the top VPN services to see which one appeals to you.
**Heads up**: If you take this route (pun intended), every device in your household will be routed through the VPN. This could be a benefit or a downside, depending on what you have connected. Just a consideration.
Method 2: Use Smart DNS on Your PS4 or PS5
Perhaps the router option seems a bit too intricate or excessive for your needs. No worry. There’s an alternative way to change the location on devices that don’t officially support VPNs—Smart DNS. It’s simpler to set up, but there are a few caveats.
To start, not every VPN service provides Smart DNS. Moreover, it lacks the functionalities of a complete VPN, such as encrypting your data or enabling location switching on the fly. But if you’re just looking to access US Netflix or play an early release game by pretending you’re in Australia, it gets the job done effectively.
The good news? Major providers like Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN all deliver Smart DNS. If you’re inclined towards this method, you’ll need to subscribe to one of these services. Check out ExpressVPN’s helpful guide to obtain a Smart DNS address for use on your PlayStation.
Now, once you have the Smart DNS address from your VPN provider, here’s how to implement it:
PS4
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network.
- Select Set Up Internet Connection – pick LAN or Wi-Fi based on your setup.
- Choose Custom.
- Set IP Address to Auto.
- DHCP Host Name? Do Not Specify.
- Set DNS to Manual, then enter the Smart DNS information provided by your VPN.
- Set MUT Settings to Auto.
- Proxy Server? Do Not Use.
- Lastly, Test Internet Connection to confirm everything’s operational.
PS5
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network.
- Select Settings.
- Proceed to ‘Set up Internet Connection’ – pick LAN or Wi-Fi based on your setup.
- Highlight your connection and hit Options to display the options menu.
- Select Advanced Settings.
- Set IP Address to Auto.
- DHCP Host Name? Do Not Specify.
- Set DNS to Manual and enter the Smart DNS details from your VPN.
- Set MUT to Auto.
- Proxy Server? Do Not Use.
- Lastly, Test Internet Connection to ensure everything’s operational.
Boom, you’re done! Now, you should be able to access content from abroad. Order some Vegemite with your next Amazon purchase—because mate, you’re practically Australian now.
Method 3: Set Up a VPN for PS4 or PS5 Using a Windows PC
No Smart DNS? No problem. You can still share a VPN connection from your Windows PC to your PlayStation. It’s a bit of a workaround, but it works well. Essentially, you’ll turn your PC into a virtual router. For this, you’ll need a VPN subscription (of course), an Ethernet port, and Wi-Fi on your computer.
Here’s how to do it:
- Install your VPN software on the PC and connect to the VPN.
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your PC and the other to your PS4 or PS5. Old school, I know.
- On your PC, navigate to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. Select Change Adapter Settings on the left sidebar.
- Right-click on your VPN connection and select Properties.
- Go to the Sharing tab and check ‘Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection.’
- Select Home Networking Connection and choose your internet connection from the drop-down menu (should be Wi-Fi).
- On your PS4, go to Settings > Network Settings > Set Up Internet Connection > Use a LAN Cable. On PS5, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose the Easy connection method.
- Select “Do Not Use a Proxy Server” when prompted.
- You can test the internet connection if you wish. If all goes as planned, your console should now be online via the VPN.
There you have it, a bit of a hassle but it works. Now you can enjoy your unrestricted gaming experience.
Method 4: Set Up a VPN for PS4 or PS5 Using Your Mac
Got a Mac? Prefer it over a PC? You’re in luck. You can follow a similar method to the one above, using your Mac as a conduit to link your PlayStation to a VPN. First, ensure your Mac has an Ethernet port and Wi-Fi, and that you’ve secured a VPN subscription.
Here’s how to do it:
- Install your VPN software on the Mac.
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your Mac and the other end to your PlayStation.
- Head to System Preferences > Sharing, then select Internet Sharing from the left-hand list.
- From the ‘Share your connection from’ dropdown menu, choose Wi-Fi.
- In the ‘To computers using’ list, ensure Ethernet is checked.
- Tick the box next to Internet Sharing to activate it. Confirm if prompted. You should see a green icon when it’s successful.
- Launch the VPN software on your Mac and connect to your desired server.
- On your PlayStation, go to Settings > Network Settings > Set Up Internet Connection > Use a LAN Cable. Choose the Easy connection method.
- As before, select “Do Not Use a Proxy Server” when prompted.
- You can test the internet connection if you like. If all has gone well, you’re now connected to the internet via the VPN.
And there you have it. Relax, you’re set up, and enjoy the perks of your VPN connection.
Recommended Reads from GadgetLad
- All security news
- How to hide your IP address
- What is a VPN and why you need one
- How to use a VPN
- How to speed up a VPN
- Best VPN services (and free options)
- Best VPN deals
Summary: VPN for PS4/PS5 – Creative Workarounds That Actually Work
So, there you have it. Establishing a VPN on your PS4 or PS5 isn’t the straightforward plug-and-play experience that you get with your phone or PC, but it’s certainly achievable if you’re willing to put in a little effort. Whether you choose the router method, Smart DNS, or the trusty “borrow-your-PC-or-Mac” approach, you’ve got choices. So go ahead, dive into your gaming, and don’t let Sony dictate what you can or cannot do. Cheers!
