Are you sitting on your couch, PlayStation controller in hand, wondering how to browse the web on your PS4? You’re not alone. Many gamers don’t realize their console can do more than just play games.
Maybe you need to look up a walkthrough for that tricky boss fight, or you want to check your email without getting up. Whatever your reason, the PS4’s web browser is there to help. But if you’re finding it awkward to use, don’t worry – that’s normal at first.
This guide is here to solve that problem. Whether you’re using an original PS4, a Slim, or a Pro, you’ll learn how to navigate the web smoothly using your console. We’ll cover everything from basic controls to customizing your settings for a better browsing experience.
Ready to turn your PS4 into a web-surfing powerhouse? Let’s dive in and get you browsing in no time.
How do you open the PS4 web browser?
So, you’re ready to explore the internet on your PlayStation 4? Great! It’s actually pretty simple to get started. Here’s what you need to do:
- Turn on your PS4 and wait for the home screen.
- Scroll right through the row of large icons.
- Look for the “Internet Browser” icon (marked with “www“).
- Press X on your controller to open it.
Don’t panic if you can’t spot the browser right away. Sometimes, it likes to hide. If you can’t find it, take a quick peek in your Library under Apps. It should be lurking there.
What are the basic controls for the PS4 browser?
Now that you’ve got your browser open, you might be wondering, “How on earth do I use this thing?” Don’t worry. It’s not as tricky as it looks. Let’s break down the basics:
Here’s how to navigate:
- Move the cursor: Use the left stick (just like moving your character in a game).
- Click: Press X (think of it as your mouse click).
- Open a new window: Press R2 (handy for multitasking).
- Switch windows: Use L2 (great for jumping between pages).
- Toggle full-screen mode: Press Square (perfect for a more immersive view).
- Zoom in: Press down on R3 (right stick) (useful for those small text moments).
Want to visit a specific website?
Here’s how:
- Press R2 for a new window.
- Navigate to “Enter URL” at the top.
- Press X to bring up the keyboard.
- Type your URL and press R2 to go.
How to search for something?
Google’s got your back:
- Press the Triangle to focus on the search box.
- Type your search terms.
- Press R2 to see the results.
How do you manage bookmarks?
Found a page you love and want to come back to later? That’s where bookmarks come in handy. Here’s how to use them:
How to save a bookmark
- On the desired page, press OPTIONS.
- Choose “Add Bookmark”.
- Adjust the name and address if needed.
- Select OK to save.
How to revisit a bookmarked page?
- Press OPTIONS.
- Select “Bookmarks”.
- Use the left stick to navigate and X to open a site.
How to delete your bookmarks
Spring cleaning your bookmarks? Here’s how to delete the ones you don’t need:
- Navigate to the bookmark.
- Press OPTIONS.
- Select “Delete”.
- Check the boxes next to the bookmarks to remove them.
- Select “Delete” at the bottom.
How can you manage your browsing history and privacy?
Sometimes, you might want to check what sites you’ve visited, or maybe you want to keep your browsing private. No problem, we’ve got you covered:
How to view your history
- Press OPTIONS.
- Select “Browsing History”.
- Scroll and press X to revisit a site.
How to clear your tracks
Here’s how:
- Press OPTIONS.
- Choose “Settings”.
- Select “Clear Website Data”.
- Confirm by selecting OK.
Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, from the Browsing History screen, just press OPTIONS and select “Clear Browsing History”. It’s a quick shortcut to keep things private.
How do you manage cookies and tracking?
Cookies can be helpful, but sometimes you might want to control them. Here’s how you can manage your cookie settings:
How to block cookies
- Press OPTIONS and select “Settings”.
- Find “Allow Cookies”.
- Press X to toggle it off.
How to delete existing cookies
- Go to Settings.
- Select “Delete Cookies”.
- Confirm by selecting OK.
How to ask websites not to track you
Worried about being tracked online? You can ask websites not to track you:
- Go to Settings.
- Find “Request that Websites Do Not Track You”.
- Press X to toggle it on.
What are the pros and cons of the PS4 web browser?
Let’s be honest, the PS4 browser isn’t perfect, but it does have its perks. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s good and what’s not so great:
Pros:
- Big screen browsing: It’s pretty cool to surf the web on your TV.
- Seamless multitasking: You can quickly switch between your game and the web.
- No extra devices needed: You don’t have to reach for your phone or boot up your computer.
- Automatic updates: The browser updates with your system, so you’re always up to date.
Cons:
- Limited browser tools: You won’t find tabs or extensions here.
- No Flash support: Some websites might not work fully.
- Occasional slowdowns: It can get a bit laggy at times.
- Clunky typing: Using a controller to type isn’t exactly speedy.
Remember, your PS4 browser is great for quick searches or casual browsing while gaming, but it probably won’t replace your go-to devices for serious web surfing. Use it when it’s convenient, and you’ll appreciate what it can do!
The takeaway
Your PS4 isn’t just for gaming – it’s also a handy web browser. While it might not replace your computer or phone, it’s great for quick searches or browsing during gaming sessions.
You now know how to open the browser, navigate websites, and manage bookmarks. Remember, the left stick moves the cursor, X clicks, and R2 opens new windows. You can even customize your privacy settings by managing cookies and using the Do Not Track feature.
Some folks think the PS4 browser is too basic to be useful. That’s not quite true. While it has limitations, it offers unique advantages like big-screen viewing and easy multitasking between games and web browsing.
The most important thing to remember? Your PS4 browser is a useful tool when you need it. Next time you’re in the middle of a game and need to look something up, give it a try. You might be surprised how handy it can be!
