Ad Space — Top Banner

WV-33898-1

Sony PlayStation

Severity: Moderate

What Does This Error Mean?

The WV-33898-1 error means your PlayStation cannot connect to the server. This usually happens when you try to open the PlayStation Store or a web-based feature. The problem is typically related to your internet connection or PlayStation's servers being down.

Affected Models

  • PlayStation 4
  • PlayStation 4 Slim
  • PlayStation 4 Pro
  • PlayStation 5
  • PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

Common Causes

  • Your internet connection is unstable or has dropped out temporarily
  • PlayStation Network servers are experiencing an outage or maintenance
  • Your router's DNS settings are not resolving PlayStation's server addresses
  • A firewall or network security setting is blocking the connection
  • Your PlayStation's network configuration has become corrupted

How to Fix It

  1. Check if PlayStation Network is down. Visit the PlayStation Network status page on your phone or computer at status.playstation.com.

    If PSN is down, the only fix is to wait for Sony to resolve it. This is not a problem on your end.

  2. Test your internet connection on the PlayStation. Go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection and see if it passes.

    Pay attention to whether it fails at 'Internet Connection' or 'PlayStation Network.' This tells you where the problem is.

  3. Restart your router and modem. Unplug both devices from power, wait 60 seconds, then plug the modem in first. Wait for it to fully connect, then plug in the router.

    This clears your router's memory and refreshes its connection to your internet provider.

  4. Try changing your DNS settings to Google DNS. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection, choose your connection type, select Custom, and set Primary DNS to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS to 8.8.4.4.

    DNS is like a phone book for the internet. Switching to Google DNS often fixes server connection issues.

  5. If you are on Wi-Fi, try connecting with an Ethernet cable instead. Plug a network cable directly from your router into the back of your PlayStation.

    A wired connection is more stable and eliminates Wi-Fi interference as a possible cause.

When to Call a Professional

If your internet works fine on all other devices but your PlayStation still cannot connect, your router may need configuration changes. Contact your internet service provider if you suspect the issue is on their end. Sony support can also help if the problem persists after trying all troubleshooting steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is WV-33898-1 caused by my internet or by Sony's servers?

It can be either one. The fastest way to check is to visit status.playstation.com on your phone. If Sony's servers are listed as online, the problem is most likely on your end.

Why does this error only happen in the PlayStation Store?

The PlayStation Store runs as a web page inside the console's built-in browser. It requires a stable connection to Sony's content delivery servers. Games with their own servers may still work fine even when the Store does not.

Will changing DNS settings affect my other devices?

No. Changing DNS on your PlayStation only affects that one console. Your phone, computer, and other devices will continue using their own DNS settings. If you change DNS on your router instead, then all devices on your network will be affected.