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How to Get Your PS4 to Recognize Your Controller

The most common reason a PS4 doesn’t recognize a controller is a disconnected or faulty USB cable. To fix this, try a different USB cable known to work with data transfer. If that doesn’t work, reset the controller by using a pin to press the small button on the back. If the problem persists, try restarting your PS4. If none of these work, you might need to update the controller’s firmware (if available via the PS4 settings), or there could be an issue with the controller itself requiring repair or replacement.

Troubleshooting Your PS4 Controller Connection

Having your PS4 controller not connect can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to jump into a game. Luckily, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to get your controller working again. We’ll walk you through the most common solutions, from simple fixes to more advanced troubleshooting, ensuring you get back to gaming as quickly as possible.

1. Check the USB Cable and Connection

The first and often simplest step is to examine your USB cable. Many issues stem from a faulty or incompatible cable.

Try a Different USB Cable: Some cables are only for charging and don’t transmit data. Ensure you’re using a cable that is designed for data transfer. A charging cable from another device might not work for pairing.
Inspect the Cable for Damage: Look for any visible signs of damage to the cable, such as frays, kinks, or exposed wires. Even a small amount of damage can prevent the cable from working correctly.
Test Different USB Ports: Try plugging the controller into different USB ports on your PS4. Sometimes, a port can malfunction.
Ensure Secure Connection: Make sure the cable is fully and securely plugged into both the controller and the PS4. A loose connection can cause intermittent connectivity issues.

2. Reset Your DualShock 4 Controller

Resetting the controller can often resolve minor software glitches that prevent it from connecting.

Locate the Reset Button: Turn your DualShock 4 controller over, and you’ll find a small hole on the back, near the L2 button.
Use a Pin or Unfolded Paperclip: Insert a small, thin object like a pin, paperclip, or SIM ejector tool into the hole.
Press and Hold for 5 Seconds: Press and hold the reset button inside the hole for about 5 seconds. This will reset the controller to its default settings.
Reconnect via USB: After resetting, reconnect the controller to your PS4 using a USB cable. The PS4 should then recognize the controller and prompt you to pair it.

3. Restart Your PS4 System

Sometimes, the issue lies with the PS4 itself, and a simple restart can resolve it.

Power Down Completely: Turn off your PS4 completely. Do not just put it in rest mode. Go to Power > Turn Off PS4 from the main menu.
Unplug the Power Cable: Once the PS4 is completely off, unplug the power cable from the back of the console.
Wait 30 Seconds: Wait for about 30 seconds to allow the system to fully discharge.
Plug Back In and Restart: Plug the power cable back in and turn on your PS4.
Reconnect the Controller: After the PS4 restarts, try reconnecting the controller using a USB cable.

4. Pair the Controller in Safe Mode

If the standard methods don’t work, booting the PS4 in Safe Mode can sometimes help.

Enter Safe Mode: Turn off your PS4. Then, press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps (the second beep will come about 7 seconds after the first).
Connect Controller via USB: In Safe Mode, connect your DualShock 4 controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
Select Option 2: Restart PS4: In the Safe Mode menu, select Option 2: Restart PS4. This can often resolve software issues preventing controller recognition.
If Still Not Working, Try Option 3: Update System Software: If restarting doesn’t work, choose Option 3: Update System Software. You can update via the internet, USB drive, or disc.

5. Check for Controller Firmware Updates

Outdated controller firmware can sometimes cause connection issues.

Navigate to Devices: On your PS4, go to Settings > Devices > Controllers.
Select Communication Method: Ensure that Communication Method is set to “Use USB Cable”
Look for Firmware Updates (if available): Unfortunately, there’s no explicit option to directly update the controller’s firmware within the PS4 settings. Controller firmware updates are typically pushed out as part of general system software updates. So make sure your PS4 is updated to the latest firmware.

6. Check for Bluetooth Interference

Even though you’re trying to connect via USB, Bluetooth interference can sometimes cause problems.

Minimize Interference: Keep your PS4 and controller away from other electronic devices that might cause interference, such as microwaves, routers, and other Bluetooth devices.

7. Test on Another PS4 (If Possible)

If you have access to another PS4, try connecting your controller to it.

Connect to Another PS4: Connect your DualShock 4 controller to another PS4 using a USB cable.
Observe the Behavior: If the controller works on the other PS4, the issue likely lies with your original PS4. If it doesn’t work, the controller itself might be faulty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions that cover common issues and solutions related to PS4 controller connectivity:

Why is my PS4 controller not connecting even with a USB cable? The USB cable might be faulty or not designed for data transfer. Try a different cable that you know works for data. Also, ensure the cable is securely connected to both the controller and the PS4.
How do I pair a new PS4 controller to my console? Connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable. Press the PS button on the controller. The console should automatically recognize and pair the controller.
My PS4 controller is blinking blue and not connecting. What does this mean? A blinking blue light usually indicates that the controller is trying to connect to the PS4 but is having trouble. Try resetting the controller and reconnecting it.
Can I use a PS3 controller on my PS4? Officially, no. The PS4 does not natively support PS3 controllers. There might be third-party adapters that allow it, but compatibility can be inconsistent.
My controller connects but disconnects frequently. What could be causing this? This could be due to Bluetooth interference, a weak battery, or a faulty USB cable. Try minimizing interference, charging the controller fully, and using a different cable.
How do I check the battery level of my PS4 controller? You can check the battery level in the Quick Menu. Press and hold the PS button to access the Quick Menu, and the battery level will be displayed.
Can I charge my PS4 controller using a phone charger? While you can use a phone charger, it’s best to use a standard USB port on your PS4 or a dedicated charging station. Some phone chargers might not provide the correct voltage or amperage, potentially damaging the controller.
My controller is not charging. What should I do? Try a different USB cable and ensure the cable is securely connected. Also, try a different USB port on your PS4 or another power source. The controller’s battery might also be faulty.
How many controllers can I connect to my PS4 at once? You can connect up to four controllers to your PS4 simultaneously.
I lost my USB cable. Can I use any USB cable to connect my controller? No, not any USB cable. You need a USB cable that supports data transfer. Some charging-only cables will not work for pairing or updating the controller.
What is the reset button on the back of the PS4 controller for? The reset button is used to reset the controller to its default settings, which can resolve software glitches that prevent it from connecting or functioning correctly.
Is it possible to use a PS4 controller on a PC? Yes, you can use a PS4 controller on a PC using Bluetooth or a USB cable. You might need to install drivers for the controller to work correctly. Steam also offers native support for PS4 controllers.
My controller is drifting. How can I fix it? Controller drift (where the character moves without input) can be due to wear and tear. Resetting the controller sometimes helps. Otherwise, cleaning the joystick mechanism (carefully) or replacing the controller might be necessary.
Can I use a wireless headset with my PS4 controller? Yes, many wireless headsets are compatible with the PS4 and connect via a USB dongle or Bluetooth. Some headsets also connect directly to the controller via the 3.5mm audio jack.
The light bar on my PS4 controller is not working. Is this a problem? A non-functioning light bar is not always a sign of a problem. It is mostly for aesthetics and sometimes used to indicate player number. If everything else functions correctly, you do not need to worry.

How do I get my ps4 to recognize my controller?