Quick Summary
Error NW-31205-1 on PlayStation typically indicates that the PlayStation console is unable to connect to the PlayStation Network (PSN) servers. This issue often arises due to problems with your internet connection or temporary PSN service outages.
Common Causes
- PSN Service Outage: PlayStation Network servers might be temporarily down for maintenance or experiencing unexpected issues. This prevents your console from connecting.
- Internet Connection Problems: Issues with your home network, such as a weak Wi-Fi signal, router problems, or internet service provider (ISP) outages, can prevent the PlayStation from connecting to PSN.
- Incorrect Date and Time Settings: If the date and time settings on your PlayStation console are incorrect, it can cause connection problems with PSN servers.
- Router Firewall or Security Settings: Your router's firewall or security settings might be blocking the PlayStation's connection to PSN.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check PSN Service Status
Step 1: Visit the PlayStation Network Service Status page using a web browser on your computer or mobile device. You can find the official page on the PlayStation website.
Step 2: Check if all services are listed as 'Online'. If there are any reported outages or maintenance periods, you will have to wait until the issue is resolved by Sony.
Method 2: Restart Your PlayStation Console
Step 1: Completely power down your PlayStation console. Do not just put it into rest mode.
Step 2: Wait for at least 10-20 seconds.
Step 3: Power on the console and try connecting to PSN again.
Method 3: Restart Your Network Devices
Step 1: Power off your modem and router.
Step 2: Wait for about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Power on your modem first, and wait for it to fully initialize (all lights are stable).
Step 4: Power on your router and wait for it to fully initialize.
Step 5: Test the connection on your PlayStation console.
Method 4: Check and Correct Date and Time Settings
Step 1: Go to Settings on your PlayStation console.
Step 2: Select Date and Time.
Step 3: Select Set Automatically and choose 'Use Internet'.
Step 4: If 'Use Internet' is already selected, ensure the displayed date and time are correct. If not, try manually setting the date and time and then set back to 'Use Internet'.
Method 5: Check Your Internet Connection Settings
Step 1: Go to Settings on your PlayStation console.
Step 2: Select Network.
Step 3: Select Test Internet Connection.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions. If the test fails, note the specific error messages and troubleshoot those issues specifically such as DNS or IP address problems.
Method 6: Review Router Firewall Settings
Step 1: Access your router's settings page through a web browser on a computer connected to your network. The method for accessing the settings varies depending on the router model - consult your router's manual.
Step 2: Locate the firewall settings. Temporarily disable the firewall to see if it resolves the issue. Note: This is for troubleshooting purposes only. Remember to re-enable the firewall after testing.
Step 3: If disabling the firewall resolves the issue, investigate specific firewall rules that may be blocking the PlayStation's connection. You may need to open specific ports required by PSN. Refer to PlayStation's documentation for the necessary ports.
Method 7: Use a Wired Connection
Step 1: Connect your PlayStation console directly to your router using an Ethernet cable.
Step 2: Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection and choose 'Use a LAN Cable'.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the wired connection.
Step 4: Test the connection again to see if a wired connection resolves the issue.