To change NAT type on PS4 using a mobile hotspot, connect your PS4 to your phone's personal hotspot instead of your home Wi-Fi. This often switches your console from a strict NAT Type 3 to a more open NAT Type 2, improving your ability to connect with other players in online games.
What NAT type means for your PS4 and why a mobile hotspot can help
NAT (Network Address Translation) type determines how your PS4 communicates with other players online. NAT Type 1 (Open) connects directly to the internet with no restrictions. NAT Type 2 (Moderate) works well for most games but may have minor limitations. NAT Type 3 (Strict) blocks many connections, causing lag, failed party chats, and difficulty joining multiplayer sessions. Home Wi-Fi routers often enforce strict NAT due to firewall settings or double NAT configurations. A mobile hotspot bypasses those restrictions because your phone provides a direct cellular connection, typically resulting in a more open NAT type.
How to connect your PS4 to a mobile hotspot
- On your phone, enable the hotspot feature first, then connect your PS4 to that Wi-Fi network.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Set Up Personal Hotspot, or Settings > Personal Hotspot. If the option is dimmed, ensure Cellular Data is on and your carrier plan includes Personal Hotspot service.
- Android: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering > Wi‑Fi hotspot. You can also open Quick Settings and tap the Hotspot tile, or use Edit to add it if missing.
- On your PS4, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi.
- Select your phone's hotspot name (SSID) from the list and enter the password you set.
This method lets you connect hotspot on PS4 quickly, bypassing home network restrictions.
Check your NAT type on PS4 after connecting
To verify the result, go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection. The PS4 will display your current NAT type in the results. The console only reports the NAT type; it does not provide a setting to change it directly. If the test shows NAT Type 2, the hotspot connection improved your online experience.
iPhone hotspot settings that affect your connection
Apple documents that Personal Hotspot requires an activated carrier plan that includes the service. Cellular Data must be turned on. Apple says the device must have Cellular Data turned on if Personal Hotspot is dimmed or unavailable. Ensure Allow Others to Join is enabled. On iPhone 12 or later, iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation or later), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation or later), or iPad mini (6th generation), turn on Maximize Compatibility if needed. Personal Hotspot shares only the phone's cellular internet connection, not a Wi-Fi connection the phone is already using. Apple says Personal Hotspot only shares the phone’s cellular internet connection, not a Wi‑Fi connection it is already using. Devices should be within 30 feet (10 meters) for Instant Hotspot use.
Android hotspot settings that affect your connection
Google’s Android hotspot page documents Wi‑Fi hotspot and USB tethering, and says the hotspot controls are in the hotspot/tethering settings path above. You can also use Quick Settings to add the Hotspot tile via Edit if it is not visible. Google says you can open Quick Settings and tap Hotspot, or use Edit to add it if it is missing. The hotspot shares your mobile data connection, not a Wi-Fi connection the phone is already using. This allows you to connect PS4 to phone and unlock more features for online gaming.
What to do if your NAT type is still strict
If the network test still shows NAT Type 3, your carrier may restrict hotspot connections or enforce their own NAT rules. Contact your mobile carrier to ask if they support open NAT on personal hotspots. As an alternative, try USB tethering instead of Wi-Fi hotspot. On iPhone, connect via USB to your PS4 and check if the NAT type improves. You can also try moving your phone to a location with better reception to improve mobile signal strength at home, which can stabilize the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will using a mobile hotspot use a lot of my data?
Yes, online gaming on PS4 can consume significant data, especially during updates or extended play sessions. Check your data plan limits before relying on a hotspot for regular gaming.
Can I use a mobile hotspot for PS4 party chat?
Yes, a mobile hotspot typically supports party chat when NAT Type 2 is achieved. However, voice quality may vary depending on your cellular signal strength and data speed.
Does the hotspot need to be 5G to work well?
No, 4G LTE is usually sufficient for stable PS4 online gaming. 5G can provide faster speeds and lower latency, but it is not required to change NAT type.
Why does my PS4 show NAT Type 3 even on a hotspot?
Some mobile carriers restrict hotspot connections to strict NAT. You may need to contact your carrier to see if they offer a more open NAT configuration, or try USB tethering as an alternative. If you have multiple devices connected to the hotspot simultaneously, it may result in increased latency or decreased performance for online gaming.
Can I leave my phone's hotspot on all the time?
Keeping the hotspot active drains your phone's battery faster. It may also cause overheating if used for extended periods. Consider plugging your phone into a charger while gaming.
