Instructions apply to the official DualShock 4 controller.

However, you could only do this if you have a second PS4 controller.

If you don’t have an extra controller, skip ahead to the directions on performing a hard reset.

A screenshot of the PS4 home screen with the Settings option highlighted

Lifewire / Miguel Co

sign on with your second (working) controller and navigate toSettingsin the PS4’s top menu.

This is the option that looks like a suitcase.

ChooseDevicesfrom the drop-down menu.

A screenshot of PS4 settings with the Devices section highlighted

You should see your PS4 controller listed.

Because you are using the working controller to navigate the menu, pick the inactive one.

Press theOptionsbutton on your controller, found to the right of the touchpad.

A screenshot of the PS4 Devices setting with the Bluetooth Devices option highlighted

This will bring up a new menu.

Now that we’ve forgotten the malfunctioning DualShock 4 controller, we want to power down the PS4.

Connect your misbehaving DualShock 4 controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.

A screenshot of the Bluetooth Devices screen on PS4 with an inactive controller highlighted

Turn on the PS4 and wait for it to boot up.

Press thePlayStationbutton on the controller and login to the PS4.

The PlayStation 4 controller should now be paired and you could test to see if it’s still misbehaving.

A DualShock 4 controller with the Options button highlighted

If a soft reset fails and you’re still having troubles, this process can frequently resolve any problems.

Power down the PS4.

Turn over the DualShock 4 controller and locate the small hole near the left shoulder button.

A screenshot of a controller menu in PS4 settings with the Forget Device option highlighted

Unfold one end of the paper clip and insert it to push the button buried inside the hole.

Hold down this button for about 5 seconds.

Connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.

A DualShock 4 controller with the reset hole highlighted

Press thePlayStationbutton on the controller to log into the PS4.

The light bar should turn blue indicating the DualShock 4 has paired with the console.

These instructions may not work for a modded PS4 controller.

Person resetting a PlayStation 4 controller with a paperclip

Lifewire / Miguel Co

If you have trouble following the directions, consult the manufacturer of your controller.

Lifewire / Miguel Co

Still Having Problems With Your PS4 Controller?

If you are still having problems with your controller, tryrestarting your router or modem.

Remember, you’ll lose Internet access, so warn anyone in the house before doing this step.

If that works, you need tochange the Wi-Fi channel on your router.

FAQ

Tosync a PS4 controller, start by plugging it into the console.

Turn on the PS4 and press the controllersPSbutton.

you’ve got the option to then wirelessly add additional controllers using the consoles Bluetooth tweaks.

Tofix PS4 controller drift, ensure your controller is turned off.

Try a soft reset, and a hard reset if that doesnt work.

you’re able to also clean your controller or replace its analog sticks.