The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is one of the most powerful gaming consoles available today, offering high-performance gaming with 4K resolution, ray tracing, and ultra-fast SSD loading times. However, some users experience game crashes during online play, which can be frustrating—especially in competitive or multiplayer settings.
If your PS5 games crash while playing online, this guide will walk you through the causes and step-by-step solutions to fix the issue.
Common Reasons Why PS5 Games Crash Online
Before diving into the fixes, it’s essential to understand what might be causing the issue. Here are some common reasons why your PS5 crashes during online gameplay:
- Slow or Unstable Internet Connection – A weak connection can cause disconnections, freezing, or game crashes.
- Software Bugs or System Glitches – Outdated firmware or game bugs can lead to instability.
- Overheating Issues – If your PS5 overheats, it may crash to prevent hardware damage.
- Corrupt Game Files – If your game data is corrupted, crashes can occur frequently.
- Server-Side Problems – Sometimes, game servers experience downtime or errors.
- Faulty Hardware – Rarely, but possible, issues with the PS5’s SSD, RAM, or GPU may be causing crashes.
How to Fix PS5 Game Crashes During Online Play
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Since you are playing online, a weak or unstable internet connection can cause frequent crashes.
✔ Restart Your Router – Turn off your router for 10 seconds and turn it back on.
✔ Use a Wired Connection – If possible, connect your PS5 directly to your router using an Ethernet cable for a stable connection.
✔ Test Your Internet Speed – Go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection. Sony recommends at least 5 Mbps upload/download speed, but for a smoother experience, aim for 50 Mbps or higher.
✔ Change DNS Settings – Use Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1) for better connectivity.
2. Update Your PS5 Software & Game
An outdated system or game can cause instability, especially during online play.
✔ Update PS5 System Software:
- Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings.
- Select Update System Software to install any available updates.
✔ Update the Game:
- Highlight the game on the home screen.
- Press the Options button on your controller and select Check for Update.
- If an update is available, install it.
3. Clear Cache and Rebuild Database
If your PS5 crashes frequently, clearing the cache and rebuilding the database can fix performance issues.
✔ Clear Cache & Rebuild Database:
- Turn off your PS5 completely (not rest mode).
- Boot into Safe Mode – Hold the power button for 7 seconds until you hear a second beep.
- Connect your DualSense controller via USB and press the PS button.
- Select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
- Choose Rebuild Database – This will scan and fix any corrupted files.
4. Check for Overheating Issues
If your PS5 is overheating, it may automatically shut down or crash to protect itself.
✔ Ensure Proper Ventilation – Place your PS5 in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources.
✔ Clean the Air Vents – Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust from the vents.
✔ Check Room Temperature – Play in a cool environment to prevent overheating.
5. Reinstall the Game
Corrupted game files can cause crashes, especially when playing online.
✔ To reinstall a game:
- Delete the game – Go to Settings > Storage > Games and Apps, select the game, and delete it.
- Reinstall the game – Download it again from the PlayStation Store or insert the game disc.
6. Check PlayStation Network (PSN) and Game Servers
Sometimes, the problem is not with your console but with PSN servers or game servers.
✔ Check PSN Status:
- Visit PlayStation Network Service Status to see if PSN is down.
✔ Check the Game Server Status:
- Visit the official website or social media of the game developers for updates.
- If many players report crashes, wait for the developers to fix the issue.
7. Disable Rest Mode
Some users have reported that PS5’s Rest Mode causes crashes.
✔ Disable Rest Mode:
- Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Set Time Until PS5 Enters Rest Mode.
- Set both options to “Don’t Put in Rest Mode.”
8. Factory Reset Your PS5 (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, resetting your PS5 might fix the issue. Warning: This will delete all your data, so back up your saves first!
✔ Factory Reset Steps:
- Go to Settings > System > System Software > Reset Options.
- Select Reset Your Console > Confirm.
- After reset, reinstall your games and check if the issue is resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does my PS5 keep crashing during online multiplayer?
Your PS5 may crash due to network issues, overheating, corrupted game files, or outdated software. Follow the troubleshooting steps in this guide to fix it.
2. How do I stop my PS5 from overheating?
Ensure your PS5 is placed in a ventilated area, clean the vents regularly, and avoid playing in hot environments. If overheating persists, consider reapplying thermal paste (only if you have experience doing so).
3. Can a slow internet connection cause game crashes on PS5?
Yes. If your internet connection is unstable or too slow, it can cause disconnections, lag, and even game crashes. Use a wired connection, upgrade your internet speed, or switch to a better DNS server.
4. Should I enable Performance Mode to prevent crashes?
Yes. If your PS5 struggles with graphics-intensive games, switching to Performance Mode can reduce stress on the GPU and improve stability.
✔ Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Game Presets > Performance Mode or Resolution Mode and select Performance Mode.
5. What should I do if none of the fixes work?
If your PS5 still crashes during online play after trying all solutions, contact PlayStation Support or consider repairing your console.
Final Thoughts
If your PS5 games crash during online play, the issue could be related to internet stability, software bugs, overheating, or corrupted game files. By following the steps above, you can troubleshoot and fix most problems affecting your gaming experience.
If the crashes persist even after trying all these solutions, contact PlayStation Support or consider getting your PS5 checked by a professional technician.
Now it’s your turn! Let me know in the comments if you have found any other solutions to fix PS5 game crashes during online play. Happy gaming!
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