Recommended Free Tools
Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
CE-33986-9 is a general internet connection test error. Start by checking the official PlayStation Network status page, then restart your console, modem, and router before running the connection test again. If the problem remains, reconnect the console, test Ethernet or another network, and only then try DNS or router changes.
Sony currently documents CE-33986-9 under PS4 error codes. If a PS5 displays this code or a similar connection failure, use the PS5 menu equivalents below; Sony’s current documentation does not classify CE-33986-9 as a PS5-specific error.
What CE-33986-9 means
CE-33986-9 means that the console encountered an error while testing its internet connection. It is a broad diagnostic code, not a precise explanation of what failed.
The cause could be a temporary PlayStation Network outage, router or ISP trouble, unstable Wi-Fi, DNS resolution failure, NAT or firewall restrictions, or a console-specific network configuration problem. The code does not by itself prove that the console is damaged, that your internet is too slow, or that you need to initialize the system.
#1 Best Overall
- 40 Gbps 2000 Mhz High Speed: The Cat 8 ethernet cable support max. 40 Gbps data transfer and 2000 MHz Brandwith, ideal for gaming and streaming, greatly improving upload and download speed, sound, image and resolution quality
- Excellent Anti-interference: The ethernet cable comes with 4 shielded foiled twisted pairs (F/FTP), pure copper core and gold-plated RJ45 connector, reducing interference, noise and crosstalk, making network speed faster and more stable
- Marvelous Durability: Internet cable wrapped with quality cotton braided cord, which makes the LAN cable stronger and more durable. The test proves that this internet cable can be bent at least 10000 times without broken, very suitable for long-term use
- PoE Supported: All lengths of ethernet cord can support the PoE power supply function except 65ft. You don't need additional power supply when installing a PoE camera, which is very convenient and safe
- Wide Compatibility: With the RJ45 Connector, network cable can be perfectly compatible with computers, laptops, modems, routers, PS5, X-Box and other networking devices. It can also be fully backward compatible with Cat7, Cat6e, Cat6, Cat5e, Cat5
Sony’s dedicated CE-33986-9 support page recommends checking PlayStation service availability and then running the built-in internet connection test.
1. Check whether PlayStation Network is down
Open the PlayStation Network Service Status page on a phone or computer. Check every listed category, not only account management or gaming.
- If Sony reports an outage or maintenance, wait for the service to recover and test the console again.
- If the status page is unavailable or reports normal service, continue with the local troubleshooting steps below.
A PSN outage cannot be fixed by changing DNS, forwarding ports, or resetting your console.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute2. Restart the entire connection
A complete restart can clear a temporary router state or failed internet session. It will not fix an ongoing ISP or PSN outage, but it is the safest first local remedy.
- Turn off the PS4 or PS5 completely. Do not leave it in Rest Mode.
- Unplug the modem and router from power.
- Wait several minutes.
- Reconnect the modem first and wait until it finishes synchronizing with the ISP.
- Reconnect the router and wait for Wi-Fi and internet service to return.
- Turn on the console and run the connection test.
3. Run the connection test and identify the failed stage
PS4
- Open Settings.
- Select Network.
- Select Test Internet Connection.
PS5
- Open Settings.
- Select Network.
- Open Connection Status.
- Select Test Internet Connection.
Labels can vary slightly by region and system-software version. Use the equivalent connection-test option if your console’s wording differs.
Rank #2
- Cat 6 performance at a Cat5e price but with higher bandwidth
- High Performance Cat6, 30 AWG, RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable provides universal connectivity for LAN network components such as PCs,computer servers,printers,routers,switch boxes,network media players,NAS,VoIP phones
- Jadaol cat6 standard cable support Cat8 and Cat7 network and provides performance of up to 250 MHz 10Gbps and is suitable for 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX (Fast Ethernet), 1000BASE-T/1000BASE-TX (Gigabit Ethernet) and 10GBASE-T (10-Gigabit Ethernet)
- UTP(Unshielded Twisted Pair) patch cable with RJ45 gold-plated Connectors and are made of 100% bare copper wire, ensure minimal noise and interference
- The unique flat cable shape allows for a cleaner and safer installation. You can easily and seamlessly make the cable run along walls, follow edges & corners or even make it completely invisible by sliding it under a carpet.
| Failed result | What to investigate |
|---|---|
| Obtain IP Address | Wi-Fi password, signal strength, router DHCP, Ethernet cable, or the console’s saved network setup. |
| Internet Connection | Modem or ISP service, DNS, router WAN connection, filtering, or an unstable connection. |
| PlayStation Network Sign-In | PSN availability, account authentication, NAT, or traffic blocked by the router or ISP. |
| NAT Type | Router or ISP NAT restrictions. NAT Type 3 can limit online features, but it does not identify the complete cause by itself. |
| Download or upload speed | Congestion, Wi-Fi interference, or ISP performance. A low speed result does not automatically explain CE-33986-9. |
If only one game fails while the general connection test succeeds, investigate that game’s servers or account connection rather than assuming the console’s entire internet connection is broken.
4. Re-create the console’s internet connection
PS4
- Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose Use Wi-Fi or Use a LAN Cable.
- Select the network and enter the Wi-Fi password if requested.
- Choose Easy.
- Run Test Internet Connection.
If you need to inspect the settings more closely, choose Custom. Unless your network administrator supplied different values, leave IP address settings on automatic, set DHCP host name to Do Not Specify, leave MTU on Automatic, and set proxy server to Do Not Use.
PS5
On PS5, open Settings > Network > Settings > Set Up Internet Connection. Select the saved Wi-Fi network or configure the LAN connection again, then run the connection test. The exact wording may change with system software.
5. Test Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi
Connect the console directly to the router with an Ethernet cable and run the test again. Ethernet is useful both as a possible fix and as a diagnostic comparison.
- Ethernet works but Wi-Fi fails: investigate distance from the router, interference, wireless-band selection, mesh-node placement, or router Wi-Fi settings.
- Both Ethernet and Wi-Fi fail: the problem is more likely to involve PSN, the router or ISP, account communication, or console software.
Ethernet does not guarantee a fix; its main benefit is showing whether wireless connectivity is the problem.
Rank #3
- Designed for Outdoor & Direct Burial Installations – Heavy-duty double-shielded Cat8 Ethernet cable minimizes EMI/RFI interference and delivers stable long-distance performance. Waterproof, anti-corrosion PVC jacket allows safe direct burial and reliable use in outdoor or indoor environments.
- 26AWG for Stable High-Load Networks – Thicker 26AWG conductors provide faster, more stable data transmission than standard 32AWG cables. Ideal for high-performance home networks, gaming setups, smart homes, and data-intensive applications.
- F/FTP Shielding & Hyper-Speed Performance: Cat8 Ethernet cable constructed with 4 shielded foiled twisted pairs and 26AWG OFC conductors; supports bandwidth up to 2000 MHz and data transmission speeds up to 40 Gbps, effectively reducing signal interference and ensuring stable connections. Ideal for low-latency gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and high-speed internet connections.
- RJ45 Connectors & Wide Compatibility: Cat8 Ethernet cable with two shielded RJ45 connectors; compatible with networking switches, IP cameras, routers, Nintendo Switch, modems, PS3, PS4, Xbox, patch panels, servers, smart TVs, and more; works with Cat7, Cat6, Cat5e, and Cat5 devices
- Weatherproof & UV Resistant: Outdoor-rated Cat8 Ethernet cable with UV-resistant PVC jacket; withstands direct sunlight, extreme cold, humidity, and hot weather; anti-aging and durable; Includes 18-month support.
6. Test another network
When practical, connect the console temporarily to a phone hotspot or another trusted network. This can separate a home-network problem from a console or PSN problem.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- It works on another network: focus on your home router, DNS, ISP, filtering, or NAT.
- It fails on every network: investigate console software, PSN or account communication, and possible console-specific faults.
A hotspot may consume substantial mobile data, and some mobile providers restrict gaming traffic or use carrier-grade NAT. Treat this as a short diagnostic test rather than a guaranteed permanent solution.
7. Try a different DNS server
DNS is worth testing if the console obtains an IP address but cannot reliably reach the internet or PlayStation services. It is not the first or universal fix for CE-33986-9.
You can test either of these public DNS pairs:
- Cloudflare:
1.1.1.1and1.0.0.1 - Google:
8.8.8.8and8.8.4.4
These services are not being presented as Sony-endorsed solutions, and a DNS change will not repair a PSN outage, weak Wi-Fi, failed modem, or blocked traffic.
PS4 DNS setup
- Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose Wi-Fi or LAN.
- Select Custom.
- Set IP Address Settings to Automatic.
- Set DHCP Host Name to Do Not Specify.
- Set DNS Settings to Manual.
- Enter the primary and secondary DNS addresses.
- Leave MTU Settings on Automatic.
- Set Proxy Server to Do Not Use.
- Run Test Internet Connection.
Use the equivalent custom connection fields on PS5. If the connection becomes less reliable, return DNS settings to Automatic.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #4
- Cat 8 Speed, Cat 5/5e Value Enjoy Cat 8 Ethernet cable performance at a Cat 5/5e-level value. With up to 40Gbps speed and 2000MHz bandwidth, this high speed internet cable delivers more bandwidth than standard Cat 5 and Cat 5e cables, helping support smooth gaming, streaming, video calls, large file transfers and everyday wired network use.
- 40Gbps Speed, Wide Compatibility This Cat 8 Ethernet cable supports up to 40Gbps data transfer and 2000MHz bandwidth for fast, reliable internet performance. Standard RJ45 connectors are backward compatible with Cat7, Cat6, Cat6a and Cat5e devices, including routers, modems, switches, gaming PCs, PS5, PS4, Xbox, smart TVs, laptops and printers.
- Stable U/FTP Shielding Each of the 4 twisted pairs is individually wrapped with aluminum foil to help reduce crosstalk, noise, and signal interference. Combined with RJ45 connectors on both ends, the U/FTP design helps maintain cleaner signal transmission for a stable and reliable wired network connection.
- Nylon Braided Durability The nylon braided jacket adds everyday durability while keeping the cable flexible and easy to route. Reinforced construction helps the cord handle bending, pulling and frequent plugging, making it a reliable choice for desks, gaming rooms, home offices and long-term network setups.
- 50ft Reach for More Setups The 50 ft length makes it easier to connect devices across rooms, along walls, under desks or around corners. Great for router-to-PC connections, modem-to-TV setups, gaming consoles, workstations, printers and other home network equipment that needs a longer Ethernet cable.
8. Check router restrictions and NAT
A router can let phones and computers browse normally while blocking or mishandling console traffic. Check these settings if the error affects only the PlayStation or appears during PSN sign-in:
- Parental controls and access-control lists
- MAC filtering
- Guest-network isolation
- VPN or Smart DNS configuration
- Aggressive firewall or packet-filtering rules
- Double NAT caused by two routers
- ISP-level restrictions
Move the console off a guest network and temporarily disable custom filtering only if you understand the security consequences. Re-enable protections after testing.
Some game-support documentation cites these PlayStation-related TCP ports: 80, 443, 3478, 3479, and 3480. See the relevant PS4 network guidance and PS5 network guidance.
Do not forward ports as a default fix. Port forwarding is network-dependent, can expose devices unnecessarily, and may not solve the underlying issue. Consult your router and ISP documentation before changing firewall rules.
9. Update the console
Check for a system-software update using the console’s normal update option. An outdated system can interfere with network features or PSN sign-in, although it is not the presumed cause of every CE-33986-9 error.
Best Value
- [Flat Design, Zero Cable Clutter] - Lies perfectly flat against walls, under rugs, along baseboards, and through tight spaces without kinks, tangles, or messy coils. Customers praise it for effortless installation and clean cable management that blends into any room.
- [REINFORCED BRAIDED CONSTRUCTION FOR LONG‑LASTING PERFORMANCE] - Premium cotton braided jacket paired with reinforced RJ45 connectors delivers outstanding durability, rigorously tested for over 15,000 bend cycles. Many customers describe this ethernet cable as rock‑solid and well‑crafted, ideal for long‑term daily use with no worries about premature wear‑and‑tear or connection failure
- [10GBPS SPEED & 600MHZ BANDWIDTH — GAMING, STREAMING & FIBER READY] - Delivers 10Gbps data transfer rate with 600MHz bandwidth for PS5, Xbox, 4K streaming, and fiber internet. Customers report stable performance and fast speeds. Backward compatible with Cat 6 and Cat 5e devices
- [STP SHIELDING & GOLD-PLATED RJ45 — MINIMIZES EMI/RFI INTERFERENCE] - 100% bare copper STP shielding helps protect signal integrity when routed near power cords. Gold-plated RJ45 connectors resist corrosion. Compatible with 2.5GB network card
- [Works with Everything — Router, Modem, PS5, Xbox, PC, Smart TV, Printer More ] - Full backward compatibility with Cat7, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat5e devices means this one cable works with all your home or office equipment today, and future upgrades tomorrow. Works with 10/100/1000/10G/40G BASE-T speeds. Includes 36-month warranty with free replacement support
If the console cannot update online, try Ethernet or another network first. For an offline update, use Sony’s current official procedure and follow its latest USB format, folder-name, and update-file instructions. Do not rely on an old filename or USB guide.
10. Check account sign-in separately
If the internet test passes but PlayStation Network Sign-In fails:
- Check the PSN status page again.
- Confirm that you are using the correct account credentials.
- Sign out and sign back in if the console allows it.
- Check whether another account on the console has the same problem.
A working internet connection does not guarantee that PSN authentication will succeed.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →What not to do
- Do not initialize the PS4 or PS5 as an early response to this network error.
- Do not delete users or data unless a support specialist specifically directs you to do so.
- Do not rebuild the database or replace the hard drive merely because the connection test failed.
- Do not forward ports indiscriminately.
- Do not assume that a DNS change, Ethernet cable, or router restart is guaranteed to work.
When to contact PlayStation Support
Contact PlayStation Support if:
- PSN status is normal.
- You restarted the modem, router, and console.
- The console fails on both Wi-Fi and Ethernet.
- The console also fails on another network.
- Other devices work normally on the same home connection.
- The error is accompanied by wider system failures.
- Recreating the connection and installing available updates did not help.
Have the failed test stage, NAT result, connection type, and results from any Ethernet or alternate-network test ready when you contact support. That information is more useful than the error code alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CE-33986-9 a PS4-only error?
Sony currently lists and documents CE-33986-9 under PS4 error codes. If a PS5 shows this code or a similar network failure, use the PS5 connection menus, but do not treat the code as an officially documented PS5-specific error.
Does CE-33986-9 mean PlayStation Network is down?
No. It is a general internet connection test error. Check the official PSN status page before changing console or router settings.
Should I factory-reset my PS4 or PS5?
No. Initialization is not an appropriate early fix for this network error and can remove data. Start with service-status, restart, connection, Ethernet, and alternate-network tests.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
What if the connection test passes but online games still fail?
Check the individual game’s server status, account sign-in, NAT type, and router restrictions. A successful general internet test does not guarantee that every game service is available.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
