As a PlayStation 4 owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to sit down for a gaming session only to find out that your PS4 controller won’t connect to your console. Whether it’s a new controller or one that you’ve been using for a while, there are a few troubleshooting steps that you can take to get your controller connected and ready to play.

Step 1: Check the connection

The first thing you should do is check the connection between your controller and your PS4. Make sure your controller is turned on and press the PlayStation button in the center of the controller. This should cause the controller to connect to the console automatically.

If the controller still won’t connect, try plugging it into the PS4 with a USB cable. If the light on the front of the controller blinks a few times and then turns off, this usually means that the controller is charging but not connecting. You may need to use a different USB cable or try a different USB port on your console.

Step 2: Reset the controller

If your PS4 controller is still having trouble connecting, you may need to reset it. To do this, look for a small hole on the back of the controller, near the L2 button. Use a paperclip or something similar to press and hold the button inside the hole for a few seconds. This will reset the controller, and you should be able to pair it with your console again.

Step 3: Restart your PS4

If your controller still won’t connect after resetting it, it’s time to try restarting your PS4. Hold down the power button on the front of your console until it turns off, then unplug it from the wall. Wait a few minutes before plugging it back in and turning it back on. Once your PS4 has restarted, try connecting your controller again.

Step 4: Pair the controller manually

If none of the above steps have worked, you may need to pair your controller with your PS4 manually. To do this, turn off your PS4 and plug your controller into the console with a USB cable. Press the PlayStation button on the controller and turn on your PS4. The console should recognize the controller and pair it automatically.

If your PS4 controller still won’t connect after trying all of these steps, it may be a hardware issue that needs to be fixed by a professional. However, in most cases, these troubleshooting steps should help you get your controller connected and ready to play.