A PS5 can block multiplayer because the game requires PlayStation Plus, PlayStation Network or the game’s servers are unreachable, a child account has restrictions, or the account or console is suspended. First check whether the problem affects one game or every game, then check that game’s PlayStation Store listing, the signed-in account’s Plus status, PSN status and the console’s connection test. An internet test alone does not confirm that every other requirement is met.
Start by narrowing down what is failing
Try to identify whether the issue is limited to one game or affects all online games. If only one title fails, check its PlayStation Store listing and any error or service information from the game. If all online games fail, check PSN, your connection, the account’s subscription and account status, and any family controls.
- One game: Check that title’s online-play requirements and whether its own servers are available.
- All games: Check PSN status, the PS5 connection test, Plus status where required, and account or console restrictions.
- An error code appears: Record the exact code; it can point to the relevant check.
Does the game require PlayStation Plus?
PlayStation Support says, “In order to play most PS4 and PS5 games in online multiplayer, you need to have a PlayStation Plus subscription.” Some games do not require Plus, so check the specific title’s PlayStation Store listing rather than assuming the rule applies to every game. PlayStation Plus online multiplayer requirements
- Open the game’s PlayStation Store listing and check its online-play requirements.
- If Plus is required, confirm the subscription is active on the account signed in to the PS5.
- If another household member subscribes, check whether Console Sharing and Offline Play is enabled on this PS5. Sony says selected Plus benefits, including online multiplayer, can be shared, subject to parental controls.
If the code is CE-117773-6, Sony advises checking the internet connection at Settings > Network > Connection Status > Test Internet Connection, confirming you are signed in, updating system software and checking whether Plus has expired. If sign-in works and Plus is active, Sony says the issue may be temporary. Sony’s CE-117773-6 troubleshooting
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- Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback
- Chat online through the built-in microphone or connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack
- Play on more devices Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth wireless technology so you can easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers, Android and iOS mobile phones.
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Check PSN and the PS5’s internet connection
Check PlayStation Network service status for an outage or maintenance before changing router settings. A connection test on the console and PSN status are separate checks: a working internet connection does not prove that PSN or a particular game server is available.
To set up or check the connection, go to Settings > Network > Settings > Set Up Internet Connection. For Wi-Fi, select your network and connect. For wired LAN, choose Set Up Wired LAN > Connect. Verify the Wi-Fi network name (SSID), password and security method if setup fails. Sony’s PS5 connection setup guide
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- DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
- PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
If you see WS-116520-5
Sony associates WS-116520-5 with a server connection problem. Try these steps in order:
- Check PSN service status.
- Restart the PS5. If possible, test with a wired Ethernet connection to determine whether Wi-Fi is part of the problem. Use a suitable cable you already have or can borrow; buying one is not necessary if you can test another way.
- If using Wi-Fi, move the console closer to the router and reduce interference.
- Turn off the router, wait at least five minutes, then turn it back on.
- Check for router firmware updates.
Sony says the problem may be temporary and recommends trying again after a few hours if those steps do not help. Its guidance lists TCP ports 80, 443, 3478, 3479 and 3480 and UDP ports 3478, 3479 and 49152–65535 to try opening if possible. Treat port changes as an advanced step, not a first fix; ask your ISP for help if you do not know how to configure them. Sony’s WS-116520-5 troubleshooting
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- Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
- Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
- A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
- Multi-device connectivity - Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth technology and easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers.
- Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.
Check for an IPv6-only or advanced router setup
PS5 supports IPv6, but not an IPv6-only connection. If your router is configured for IPv6 only, Sony says to change it to use IPv4 and consult the router manufacturer if needed. The PS5’s advanced connection settings include IP address, DHCP Host Name, DNS, MTU and proxy; Multi-Link Operation is also available for the CFI-7000 model group. Do not change DNS, MTU or other advanced values at random. Sony advises asking your ISP or network administrator if you are unfamiliar with them. Sony’s PS5 connection setup guide
Review child-account and parental controls
For a child account, multiplayer access may be limited by age restrictions or parental controls. A family manager can manage a child’s access, including communication with other players. Check the child account’s settings and the game’s age rating with the family manager. Communication restrictions and access to multiplayer are not necessarily the same setting. Sony’s PS5 parental controls guidance
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- Ultra Customizable Controls
- Mappable Back Buttons
- DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
- Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps
Check whether the account or console is suspended
An account suspension can prevent sign-in and access to PlayStation features, including online multiplayer. A console suspension can prevent every account on that console from playing games or modes that require online access. If you suspect a suspension, check the email linked to the sign-in ID, including its spam folder, and check My Support for details. A network change will not resolve a suspension. Sony’s account and console suspension guidance
What to give support if it still does not work
Collect the details that distinguish a game, network and account problem before contacting support:
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- Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.
- Easily pair the controller directly to your Windows PC via Bluetooth or play as you charge with the included USB Type-C cable
- Stay paired with up to four different Bluetooth devices, making it easy to enjoy the controller across Windows PC, Mac, PS5 consoles and smartphones. Discover more connection tips and tricks at playstation.com/pair-dualsense
- Access the latest available controller firmware directly from your PC with the free-todownload PlayStation Accessories app
- Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App
- The exact error code and game title.
- Whether other games can connect online.
- The PS5 connection-test result and whether you can sign in.
- Whether another account can play on the console, if appropriate.
- Whether testing a wired connection changes the result.
- Your router and ISP setup, especially if you need help with advanced network settings.
Contact PlayStation Support for account or console status. For unfamiliar router configuration or port settings, ask your ISP or router vendor.
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