How to Fix Your Playstation 4 SSL Connection Error
The “Cannot Communicate Using SSL” error on PS4 happens when the system fails to make a secure connection. The fix requires specific steps. First, check your internet connection and restart your PS4 and router. Go to PS4 Settings, select Network, then choose Set Up Internet Connection.
Select Custom setup instead of Easy. Keep all settings default except MTU – change it to 1473. For DNS settings, use Google DNS (8.8.8.8 for primary, 8.8.4.4 for secondary). If the error persists, adjust your date and time settings to automatic. These steps resolve most SSL communication issues on PS4.
What Causes the “Cannot Communicate Using SSL” Error?
Before diving into fixes, let’s look at what’s triggering this error. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) ensures secure communication over the internet, but when your PS4 struggles to establish this connection, you’ll see this message.
Here are the usual suspects:
- Wi-Fi issues: Weak or unstable internet connections can disrupt SSL handshakes.
- PSN server problems: SSL errors are more likely to occur if PSN is down.
- Incorrect date/time settings: SSL certificates rely on accurate system clocks.
- SSL certificate conflicts: Issues with SSL validation on networks or devices.
- EA account linking errors: A common issue when connecting third-party accounts.
Quick Fixes to Try First
Before exploring more detailed solutions, start with these quick troubleshooting tips. Sometimes, the simplest fixes can do the trick.
✅ Check the PSN Server Status to confirm if the issue is on Sony’s end.
✅ Test your internet connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
If these don’t work, keep reading for step-by-step fixes.
10 Ways to Fix the SSL Error on PS4
- Change DNS Settings (Most Effective)
- Update Date & Time Settings
- Disable Proxy SSL Settings
- Rebuild PS4 Database (Safe Mode)
- Update PS4 System Software
- Disable SSL Control on Router/Firewall
- Use HTTP Instead of HTTPS (Temporary Fix)
- Hard Reset PS4 (Factory Reset)
- Try a Wired Connection
- Disable IPv6
Fix 1: Change DNS Settings (Most Effective)
Changing your DNS can resolve connectivity issues, especially those tied to SSL. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose “Custom” and select your connection type (Wi-Fi or LAN).
- Under DNS Settings, select “Manual.”
- Enter one of these DNS servers:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Primary) / 8.8.4.4 (Secondary)
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Primary) / 1.0.0.1 (Secondary)
- Complete the setup and test your internet connection.
Changing DNS often bypasses SSL issues caused by slow or unreliable default servers.
Fix 2: Update Date & Time Settings
SSL certificates depend on the accuracy of your PS4’s system clock. If your date or time is off, here’s how to fix it:
- Go to Settings > Date and Time.
- Select Set via Internet.
- If this doesn’t work, choose Set Manually, then revert to “Set via Internet” again.
This simple adjustment ensures SSL certificates align with your PS4’s clock.
Fix 3: Disable Proxy SSL Settings
If you’re using a proxy, it might be interfering with SSL. Here’s how to turn it off:
- Navigate to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose “Custom” and go through your connection settings.
- Under Proxy Server, select “Do Not Use.”
This bypasses potential SSL handshake issues caused by proxy servers.
Fix 4: Rebuild PS4 Database (Safe Mode)
A cluttered or corrupted database might be the root of your problem. Rebuilding it can resolve SSL errors.
- Turn off your PS4 completely.
- Hold the power button until you hear two beeps (about 7 seconds).
- Connect your controller via USB and select Rebuild Database.
This process doesn’t delete your games or data but reorganizes everything for smoother operation.
Fix 5: Update PS4 System Software
Outdated system software can sometimes cause SSL errors. Updating ensures compatibility with the latest security protocols.
- Go to Settings > System Software Update.
- Download and install any available updates.
If your PS4 can’t connect to the internet, you can update manually via Sony’s official website using a USB drive.
Fix 6: Disable SSL Control on Router/Firewall
Some routers block PSN’s SSL certificates.
- Log in to your router admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1).
- Disable “Deep Packet Inspection” or “SSL Control” (varies by brand).
- Save settings and restart the router.
Fix 7: Use HTTP Instead of HTTPS (Temporary Fix)
Switching to HTTP is less secure but can bypass SSL blocks temporarily. If you’re desperate, this might be worth a shot:
- Open the PSN website in a browser and use HTTP instead of HTTPS to check if it works.
- If it loads, your ISP may block PSN’s HTTPS—contact them.
Fix 8: Hard Reset PS4 (Factory Reset)
A factory reset might be necessary to resolve deeper configuration issues when all else fails.
- Backup your data to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Go to Settings > Initialization > Restore Default Settings.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your PS4.
This is a last resort but often clears up persistent SSL errors.
Fix 9: Try a Wired Connection
Wi-Fi can introduce all sorts of issues, including SSL handshake failures. Switching to an Ethernet cable provides a more stable connection.
Fix 10: Disable IPv6
IPv6 can sometimes cause compatibility issues with SSL. To turn it off:
- Go to Settings > Network > Advanced Settings.
- Find the IPv6 option and switch it to “Off.”
This forces your PS4 to use IPv4, which is often more reliable for older networks.
Final Thoughts
The “Cannot Communicate Using SSL” error on PS4 can feel like a roadblock, but with the proper steps, it’s easily fixable. The most effective solutions include changing DNS settings, updating your date and time, or performing a factory reset.
Are you still having issues? You can contact PlayStation Support for more help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my PS4 show SSL communication error?
PS4 SSL errors occur due to incorrect date and time settings, outdated system software, or network connectivity issues. Users can resolve this by updating their PS4 system software and checking their internet connection.
How do I fix SSL certificate errors on PlayStation 4?
Reset your PS4’s date and time settings to automatic mode. Connect to the internet and restart your PS4. Clear your browser cache and cookies in the PS4 settings menu.
Can a weak internet connection cause PS4 SSL errors?
Yes, unstable or weak internet connections cause SSL communication errors on PS4. Users should test their network speed and ensure stable connectivity to prevent SSL errors.
Does changing DNS settings fix PS4 SSL errors?
Changing DNS settings to Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) can fix SSL errors. Users can modify DNS settings in the PS4 network configuration menu.
Will initializing PS4 fix SSL communication errors?
PS4 initialization can fix persistent SSL errors but should be used as a last resort. Users must back up their data before initialization to prevent data loss.
How do I prevent SSL errors from recurring on PS4?
Keep your PS4 system software updated. Use a stable internet connection. Maintain correct date and time settings. Check for PSN server status regularly.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
