Setting up a DualShock 4 (PS4) controller on a PC allows you to enjoy console-style gaming on your computer. While Windows does not natively support the controller for all games, a third-party program called DS4Windows bridges this gap by mimicking an Xbox 360 controller. Follow this step-by-step guide to get your controller connected and configured. Prerequisites and Downloads
Before starting, you need to download the official, modern utility software.
Download DS4Windows: Visit the official Ryochan7 GitHub repository to download the latest release.
Install .NET Desktop Runtime: Download and install .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 or newer from the Microsoft website, as the software requires it to run.
Extract the Files: Extract the downloaded DS4Windows ZIP file into a dedicated folder on your computer (e.g., C:\Program Files\DS4Windows). Step-by-Step Installation
Launch the App: Open the extracted folder and double-click DS4Windows.exe.
Choose Saving Location: Select Appdata when prompted for where to save settings and profiles.
Install ViGEmBus Driver: A setup window will appear. Click Install ViGEmBus Driver and follow the on-screen prompts. This driver allows your PC to recognize the virtual controller.
Optional Drivers: If you are using Windows 7, click Install 360 Driver. Otherwise, skip to the next step.
Finish Setup: Click Finish once the main driver installation completes. Connecting Your DualShock 4
You can connect your controller using either a wired or wireless method. Method 1: USB Cable Connection Plug a micro-USB cable into your controller. Connect the other end to an open USB port on your PC.
DS4Windows will instantly detect the controller and display it under the Controllers tab. Method 2: Bluetooth Connection
Press and hold the PS Button and Share Button simultaneously until the light bar flashes rapidly.
On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device. Select Bluetooth and click on Wireless Controller. Open DS4Windows to confirm the device appears in the menu. Configuration and Customization
Once connected, you can fully customize your gaming experience.
Default Profile: The software automatically maps your buttons to match standard Xbox layout configurations, making it compatible with almost all PC games.
Change Light Bar Colors: Click Edit next to your controller profile, navigate to the Lightbar tab, and select your preferred color or battery indicator mode.
Map the Touchpad: In the profile editor, you can set the PS4 touchpad to act as a mouse pointer for navigating your desktop between games. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Controller Not Appearing: If the software does not see your controller, close the app, unplug the USB or disconnect Bluetooth, and restart DS4Windows as an Administrator.
Double Input Bug: Some games detect both the DS4 and the emulated Xbox controller, causing double menu clicks. To fix this, go to the Settings tab in DS4Windows and check the box for Hide DS4 Controller.
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