The internet doesn't want me to play this game

[Fooldar]

The OP can also try bypassing the router: obtain an ethernet cable, connect the PS4 directly to the modem, test the FFXIV connection. If the connection is smooth, that means there is something wrong with the router. If so, the OP may wish to call the ISP for a replacement router. Take note that, as the router protects you when you are on the internet, bypassing the router should only be done for short tests.

[Limonia]

I can't really help you but also suggest to try an ethernet cable, it should at least make it a little bit better. Maybe the ethernet ports on your PS4 are broken or so and can be repaired? How many different cables did you try out?

I had similar problems recently as well. I thought it was my router because it fell down just a few days before the problem first occured. After going to my ISP and getting a new one the lags and disconnect were gone for like 2 days but then they were suddenly worse than ever. In the end it was a problem on my ISP's side that affected the whole area for like 3 weeks and they didn't know how to fix it. And I live in Vienna and not some backwater town. I also can't really change my ISP because there are like 2-3 half-decent providers and the one I have is already the one with the least problems. At least they fixed their internet service now. Maybe your connection issues are also because of problems from your ISP?

Maybe someone here who knows about this stuff can help you find out where the problem lies - if it's your router or your PS4, or something else entirely, like your ISP. Do you have a PC or laptop where you can test your connection somehow?

EDIT: I play on PC using an ethernet cable and my boyfriend plays on PS4 using WiFi. Other than slower downloads his connection doesn't seem worse than mine. So when there is no interference and the hardware functions like it should we don't see any difference in playing FFXIV wired or wireless. IF the connection is bad though, it seems a little bit worse on wireless PS4 than on wired PC.

[silverlunarfox]

Details that could maybe help? I dunno.

I have Spectrum internet. I have the best one they offer. In my area nothing else is feasible so as much as it pains me I can't change my ISP.

I play on PS4.

I'm using WiFi and have for a long time as the Ethernet port on my PlayStation hates every Ethernet cable ever. I haven't had any problems on Wi-Fi for a long time. My Wi-Fi is password protected and I seriously doubt anyone has guessed the password but to be safe I changed it, the issue persists.

I am awful at anything techy but my boyfriend isn't as bad.

The short version is my experience had been absolute trash lately In game because I have had the worst lag that I remember experiencing.

It's bad enough to cause my spells on RDM to start hardcasting because the dualcast proc doesn't make it onto my bar before I press the next spell, causes me to lose my targets because when I click to turn my camera (which I do often) it doesn't register that I held down the mouse button and untargets the thing I'm focused on. I basically can't heal for the time being because I can't reliably target anything.

I do the little 'test connection' thing in the PlayStation menu and get up to 50mbps which isn't awful but isn't what I used to get.

I don't know what else to do. I'm calling spectrum on Thursday to see what they say. This is really just making me lose my will to play as the two things I enjoy most (RDM and healing) are both basically unplayable with any semblance of competence.

Any actual suggestions would be very appreciated. Things like 'change your isp' or 'buy a PC' aren't really helpful. If there is something I can actually do in the short term that could help I am very interested. I dont mind spending some money but I'm not about to drop 1k on a gaming pc right now.

Thanks!

Wifi could be your biggest issue. PS4's have some WiFi issues. However I did use to play with a PS4 via wifi. I wonder what exactly is the issue when trying to use an ethernet cable? (sometimes after plugging it in via ethernet you need to reset your router in order for it to recognize it)

Since you are using wifi it is also possible youre getting interference. Whether from your own appliances or a neighbors. Try switching wifi channels in your router settings, see if it makes a difference.

One other thing, if youre using spectrum router/modem, consider buying your own. (I also have spectrum (was time warner)) Most of my issues were solved by buying my own hardware.

[MoroMurasaki]

Just wanted to pop in and say thanks to everyone. I'm on break at work right now and don't have time to address anything with any level of detail but I do really appreciate it. Hopefully by this weekend I can get some of this fixed up.

[Quinaeats]

First problem: PS4 wifi can only connect to a 2.4Ghz network which for an MMO isn't optimal. They really cheaped out on the wireless card in the base PS4, but they fixed it in the Pro (I think).

Second problem: What is your NAT type when you do the network test? Make sure you have UPnP turned ON on your router and that your PS4 isn't having its traffic restricted.


Both problems are resolved with a cable, which I understand if you can't connect. Don't let anyone tell you that your network isn't "fast" enough. I too am on Spectrum and get far worse speeds than you, but my connection is solid on my PS4 over wifi. I am going to assume its a NAT issue.

[Melichoir]

There was, at a point, an issue with my internet regarding lag and it was due to Throttling. It is worth while to know that at times, ISPs could throttle your usage if they feel youre sucking down to much bandwidth. VPNs may help with that.