GTA 5 Online is one of the most popular games in the world. But sometimes, PS4 players face a big issue — GTA 5 Online not loading on PS4. This problem can be very frustrating. You press start, wait, and nothing happens. The game freezes, stays on the loading screen, or just won’t connect.
This guide will help you fix the issue step by step in simple English. We will explain why this happens and give you many easy ways to fix it. No technical language. Just clear instructions.
1. Understand the Problem: Loading Screen Freeze or Infinite Loading
Sometimes the game gets stuck on the loading screen. It can show:
- A black screen
- The “GTA Online” logo forever
- Stuck at 90% loading bar
- The game crashes back to home screen
This means something is stopping the game from starting online mode. Let’s look at why.
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2. Common Reasons Why GTA 5 Online Won’t Load on PS4
There can be many reasons. Some of the most common are:
a. Internet Problems
GTA Online needs a strong, stable internet connection. If your Wi-Fi is weak or the server is far away, it won’t load.
b. Rockstar Servers Are Down
Sometimes the Rockstar servers are having problems. When the servers are down, no one can play online.
c. Outdated Game Version
If you didn’t update your GTA 5 game, it might not work properly.
d. Corrupt Game Files
Files inside the game may become broken or missing. This can stop the game from loading.
e. PS4 System Software Needs Update
If your PS4 system is old and not updated, some games might not work right.
3. Basic Fixes You Should Try First
Before trying big changes, try these easy things first:
a. Restart the Game
- Close GTA 5 completely.
- Go back to the PS4 home screen.
- Start the game again.
b. Restart Your PS4 Console
- Turn off your PS4 fully.
- Unplug it for 1 minute.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
c. Check Internet Connection
- Go to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection.
- Make sure download and upload speeds are okay.
- Try connecting with a LAN cable for better connection.
Related: How to Open Interaction Menu in GTA 5 on PS4
4. Check Rockstar Game Servers
Sometimes the game servers are down, and it’s not your fault. Here’s how to check:
- Visit Rockstar Games Server Status.
- Look at the GTA Online status.
- If it says “Limited” or “Down,” just wait. Try again later.
5. Update the Game to the Latest Version
Make sure your GTA 5 game is the newest version. Here’s how:
- Go to the GTA 5 icon on PS4 home.
- Press the “Options” button on your controller.
- Choose “Check for Update.”
- If there’s an update, download and install it.
6. Update PS4 System Software
Old system versions can cause problems. Update your PS4:
- Go to Settings > System Software Update.
- Let it check for updates.
- If one is found, install it.
7. Clear PS4 Cache (Without Losing Data)
Sometimes, PS4 stores bad memory in the cache. You can clear it easily:
- Turn off your PS4 (don’t use Rest Mode).
- Unplug the power cord from the back of PS4.
- Wait for 1 full minute.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
This clears the system cache and can help with loading issues.
8. Change MTU Settings to Fix GTA Online Loading
MTU settings control internet packet size. Changing it can fix loading problems.
How to Change MTU:
- Go to PS4 Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose Wi-Fi or LAN (whatever you use).
- Choose “Custom.”
- Set IP Address to “Automatic.”
- Set DHCP Host Name to “Do Not Specify.”
- Set DNS to “Automatic.”
- Set MTU to “Manual.”
- Type in 1473.
- Set Proxy Server to “Do Not Use.”
Now try launching GTA Online again.
9. Switch to Invite Only Session
Some players say that joining a public session causes problems. Try joining an Invite Only session.
Steps:
- Open Story Mode.
- Press “Options” on controller.
- Go to Online tab.
- Choose “Play GTA Online.”
- Select “Invite Only Session.”
This avoids loading issues caused by full or buggy lobbies.
10. Reinstall GTA 5 (If Nothing Works)
If all else fails, you might need to reinstall the game.
Steps:
- Go to GTA 5 icon on PS4.
- Press “Options” > Delete.
- Insert game disc or go to Library to reinstall.
- Let the game install completely.
- Start the game and download the updates.
Note: This may take time, but it often fixes corrupted files or bugs.
11. Use a Wired Connection Instead of Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi can be slow or unstable. Try using an Ethernet (LAN) cable.
- Connect the cable from your router to PS4.
- Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet > Use LAN Cable.
- Follow instructions and test connection.
You may see better speed and faster loading in GTA Online.
12. Port Forwarding for Better Connection
Advanced users can try port forwarding. This helps your router connect better to Rockstar servers.
Ports to Forward for GTA 5 Online:
| Type | Port Number |
|---|---|
| TCP | 5223, 3478-3480 |
| UDP | 6672, 61455, 61456, 61457, 61458 |
You’ll need to log into your router settings to do this. If you don’t know how, check your router’s manual or call your ISP.
13. Use Google DNS for Faster Connection
Change your DNS settings to Google DNS. This often helps with game connections.
Steps:
- Go to PS4 Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose Custom > Automatic > Do Not Specify.
- DNS Settings: Manual.
- Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
- Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
- Continue setup and test connection.
14. Disable Media Server Connection
Sometimes this PS4 feature messes with GTA Online.
How to Turn It Off:
- Go to Settings > Network.
- Scroll to “Media Server Connection.”
- Turn it OFF.
Now try GTA Online again.
15. Don’t Use Rest Mode to Start Game
Some players open GTA 5 after using Rest Mode. This can cause loading problems.
Tip: Always start the PS4 from full shutdown, not Rest Mode, before playing GTA 5.
16. Log Out and Log Back In to PSN
Sometimes your PSN (PlayStation Network) session is broken.
Fix It:
- Go to Settings > Account Management > Sign Out.
- Sign back in with your PSN account.
- Launch GTA 5 Online again.
17. Wait After New Update or Event
Sometimes after big updates or special events (like new DLC), the servers are very busy. This can cause delays in loading.
Best Tip: Wait a few hours or try later at night when traffic is lower.
18. Use Another Account to Test
If the game works on a different PSN account on the same PS4, your main account might be bugged.
- Create a new user.
- Try starting GTA 5 Online.
- If it works, the issue is in your original account or saved data.
19. Delete Saved Game Data (Last Resort)
Corrupt saved data can break the game. Deleting it might help, but you will lose progress if it’s not backed up.
How to Delete Saved Data:
- Go to Settings > Storage > Saved Data.
- Find GTA 5.
- Delete saved files (only if you have a backup or don’t mind losing progress).
- Start game again and test online mode.
