Cannot Start The Ps4 Connect The Dualshock 4

Okay, so your PS4 is staring at you. Mocking you. And your Dualshock 4? Dead weight. It refuses to connect! Ugh, the frustration is real. But hey, don't chuck it across the room just yet! We've all been there. Let's troubleshoot this connection conundrum, shall we?
The Unholy Alliance: PS4 and Dualshock 4
Think of your PS4 and Dualshock 4 as a super-couple. They need to be connected to make magic happen. Gaming magic, of course. But what happens when they're fighting? When the Bluetooth gods are angry?
Sometimes, it's something silly. Like, really silly. Did you know Bluetooth can be finicky around other electronic devices? Microwaves, routers, your neighbor's obsession with ham radios – they can all interfere. It's like a digital shouting match!
Must Read
And let's be honest, controllers go through a lot. We rage-quit. We accidentally fling them at the couch. They suffer. So maybe, just maybe, your controller needs a little TLC.
The Cable Conspiracy
First things first: the cable. That trusty USB cable. Is it actually trusty? Or is it a cheap knock-off you got for $2 from a sketchy website? Don't judge; we've all been there.
Use the one that came with your PS4. Seriously. It's like the perfect key for the perfect lock. Other cables might work, but why risk it? It's the gaming equivalent of using the right ingredients for grandma's secret recipe.
![[9 Fixes] How to Fix 'Cannot Start PS4. Connect the DUALSHOCK 4' error](https://streaming.humix.com/poster/bhlybPMPnQgDSnTn/d0e29f9e1ca6a6a60fbc34e3a8885a19b24902bd8b626ecdd604733491123e69_WDnINz.jpg)
Plug that cable into your controller and your PS4. Now, this is crucial. Press and hold the PS button. You know, the one with the PlayStation logo. Keep holding! Don't be impatient. Usually, a light bar flash signifies it's connecting. If not… well, keep reading!
The Reset Rumble!
Okay, plan B. The reset button. Yep, there's a tiny reset button hiding on the back of your Dualshock 4. It's like a secret weapon against connection chaos. You'll need something small and pointy, like a paperclip or a SIM card ejector tool (remember those?).
Turn off your PS4. Then, gently insert your pointy object into the reset hole. Hold it down for about 5 seconds. This is like giving your controller a digital brain reset.
![[FIXED] 'Cannot Start PS4. Connect The DUALSHOCK 4' | Yoodley](https://yoodley.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Add-a-heading-e1626692045379.png)
Now, try the cable trick again. Plug it in, press the PS button. Fingers crossed! Did the light bar finally light up? Victory is yours!
Bluetooth Blues: Untangling Wireless Woes
So, you got it working with the cable. Awesome! But what about wireless? That's where the real freedom lies. Bluetooth, when it works, is amazing. But when it doesn't... it's like trying to herd cats. Digital cats.
Go to your PS4's settings. Navigate to Devices, then Bluetooth Devices. Is your controller listed there? If not, that's probably the problem. If it is, try deleting it and re-pairing. It's like giving your PS4 and controller a fresh start to their relationship.

Ensure your PS4 has the latest software update. Outdated software can cause all sorts of weirdness. It's like trying to run Windows 95 on a modern gaming PC. Just don't do it.
The Curious Case of Multiple Controllers
Here's a quirky thought: How many controllers are connected to your PS4? PS4s can get confused if they are trying to talk to too many devices at the same time. Maybe you are trying to connect your second controller, while the first one is already connected. Is the light bar showing a color? The light bar helps identify which player is using which controller!
Turn off other controllers, or sign them out, and try again. Less is more, sometimes. In the world of Bluetooth, at least.
![[9 Fixes] How to Fix 'Cannot Start PS4. Connect the DUALSHOCK 4' error](https://techgeekish.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Cannot-Start-PS4.-Connect-the-DualShock-4-error-fixed.webp)
When All Else Fails...
Okay, you've tried everything. You've reset, you've updated, you've even yelled at your router (we won't judge). What now? Sometimes, the truth is harsh: your controller might be broken. Or your PS4's Bluetooth is acting up.
Consider trying your controller on another PS4, or a friend's PS4. If it doesn't work there either, the problem is probably your controller. Then, you could buy another one! Or, if you are feeling brave, you can try taking it apart and diagnosing the problem. Check out a guide online first! But be careful! Remember to unplug any devices and turn off power to your system before you start working!
Remember, gaming is supposed to be fun. Don't let a stubborn controller ruin your day. Take a break, grab a snack, and come back to it later. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need. Plus, staring at a broken connection for too long can make you go a little crazy. Trust me, I know.
