Checking packet loss on a console
Both consoles have a built-in connection test. On PS5 it is in Settings, Network, Connection Status, Test Internet Connection. On Xbox it is in Settings, General, Network settings, Test network speed and statistics, which reports packet loss directly. Both run for a few seconds, which is enough to catch a constant problem but can miss bursts.
For a longer look, run the packet loss test on a phone or laptop connected the same way as the console, on the same wifi band in the same spot, or on the same cable. It runs for 30 or 60 seconds and shows when loss happens, not just how much. Because the console and the test device share the same router and line, a problem that shows up on the test is almost certainly affecting the console too.
The fixes that matter most
- Use a cable. The single most effective change. Both consoles have gigabit Ethernet ports. If a cable run is impossible, a powerline adapter is usually better than wifi for gaming.
- Check the downloads queue. Consoles download game updates in the background, even in rest mode, and a large update will fill your line. Pause downloads before playing online.
- Restart the router. Especially if it has been on for weeks.
- Stop other heavy traffic. Other people streaming in 4K or uploading while you play take capacity and add queueing delay.
- Use 5 GHz wifi if you must use wifi. Consoles support it; it is less crowded than 2.4 GHz, though it reaches less far.
NAT type, DNS and other settings
NAT type (Open, Moderate, Strict on Xbox; Type 1, 2, 3 on PS5) controls which players you can connect to directly, and a strict NAT can cause failed matchmaking or party chat problems. It does not cause packet loss. If your NAT type is strict, enabling UPnP on the router usually fixes it.
Changing DNS servers is a common suggestion and does not affect packet loss or ping during a match, because DNS is only used to look up server addresses before connecting. It can occasionally speed up the store or matchmaking, but that is all. Similarly, setting a manual MTU below the default rarely helps and can cause problems; leave it on automatic unless your provider says otherwise.
Loss in one game only
If your connection tests clean but one game consistently shows loss or high ping, check that game's server status and your region setting. Loss that only affects one game is usually on the route to its servers or on the servers themselves, which nothing at home can fix. Packet loss for gaming covers what to look for in a game's own network display.