To pair a PS4 controller with your PS4 console, you can use either a USB cable or Bluetooth. Here are the steps for both methods:

Pairing via USB Cable (Easiest Method)

1. Turn on your PS4 console.
2. Connect the PS4 controller to the console using the included USB-A to micro USB cable.
3. Press the PS button (the round button with the PlayStation logo) on the controller.
4. The light bar on the controller will light up (usually blue), indicating it is connected.
5. Choose your user profile on the PS4 screen to start using the controller wirelessly after unplugging the cable

Pairing Wirelessly via Bluetooth

1. Turn on your PS4 console.
2. Make sure the controller is off. If it’s on, hold the PS button until it turns off.
3. Press and hold both the PS button and the Share button (located to the left of the touchpad) simultaneously until the light bar starts blinking rapidly. This means the controller is in pairing mode.
4. On the PS4, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices.
5. Select "DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller" from the list of available devices.
6. Once paired, the controller’s light bar will stop blinking and show a solid color, indicating a successful connection

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the controller doesn’t connect via USB, try a different USB cable or USB port.
• If Bluetooth pairing doesn’t work, ensure the controller is in pairing mode (light bar blinking).
• Charging the controller for a while may help if it’s not responding.
• If the controller or cable is damaged, replacement may be needed

This covers the main ways to pair your PS4 controller to your console. Using the USB cable for the initial pairing is the simplest and most reliable method. After that, you can use the controller wirelessly via Bluetooth.