PlayStation 3 Error Code 80029721: How to Fix It
Easy 15-45 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 80029721
- Brand
- PlayStation 3
- Product Type
- game_platform
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 15-45 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Ethernet cable (optional but recommended for testing)
- USB flash drive (only if updating firmware offline)
- Phone or computer (to check PSN server status and router admin panel)
How to Fix Error Code 80029721
-
Check PSN Server Status
-
Restart Your PS3 and Router
Make sure to fully power down — not just put the PS3 in standby — to ensure a complete network stack reset. -
Test Your Internet Connection on the PS3
-
Switch to a Wired (Ethernet) Connection
-
Manually Configure DNS Settings
-
Disable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) or Adjust Router Firewall Settings
Only adjust router settings if you are comfortable doing so. Incorrect changes can affect all devices on your network. Write down your current settings before making any changes so you can revert them if needed. -
Restore PS3 Default Network Settings
Restoring default settings will erase your custom network configuration. Be prepared to re-enter your Wi-Fi password and reconfigure any custom DNS or IP settings. -
Sign Out and Sign Back In to PSN
-
Update PS3 System Software
Do not turn off the PS3 during a firmware update. A power interruption mid-update can brick the console.
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When to Call a Professional
Contact PlayStation Support (support.playstation.com) if you have completed all steps above and still cannot connect. A support agent can check whether your PSN account has been suspended, flagged, or is experiencing a back-end account issue that cannot be resolved through console settings. You should also seek professional help if you suspect a hardware fault with the PS3's Wi-Fi module or network card — this is rare but possible, and repairing internal hardware requires technical disassembly skills beyond normal DIY scope.Frequently Asked Questions
What does PS3 error code 80029721 mean?
Error 80029721 on the PS3 means the console failed to connect to or sign in to the PlayStation Network (PSN). It is most commonly caused by incorrect DNS settings, a router firewall blocking PSN traffic, a temporary PSN server outage, or an outdated system firmware version.
Is PS3 error 80029721 caused by my account being banned?
It is possible but not the most common cause. A PSN account suspension or ban can produce this error. To check, try signing in to your PSN account on the PlayStation website or a PS4/PS5 console. If you can sign in there but not on your PS3, the issue is network or firmware related, not an account ban.
Can I fix error 80029721 without changing my router settings?
Yes, in many cases you can. Start by checking PSN server status, restarting your console and router, and manually changing your DNS settings on the PS3 to Google DNS (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4). These steps alone resolve the error for most users without needing to touch router configuration.
Will restoring PS3 default settings delete my game saves?
No. Restoring default settings via Settings > System Settings > Restore Default Settings only resets system and network configuration options. Your game saves, downloaded games, trophies, and user accounts stored on the hard drive are not affected. However, a full factory restore (Restore PS3 System) will erase everything, so avoid that option unless absolutely necessary.
Does Sony still support PS3 and PSN for the PS3?
As of the current date, Sony still maintains basic PSN functionality for the PS3, allowing users to sign in and access online multiplayer for supported games. However, the PS3 store was closed in 2021, so you can no longer purchase new content directly through the console. Sony could discontinue PS3 PSN support in the future, so always check for official announcements if connectivity issues persist across all troubleshooting steps.