PSNs

PlayStation Network, or PSN, is an online gaming and digital media service developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It provides online multiplayer for PlayStation consoles, access to the PlayStation Store for games, add-ons, movies, and other media, streaming apps, cloud saves, and social features such as friends lists, messaging, and activities.

Accounts are linked to a PlayStation Network ID (online handle) and are used across supported devices including PS3, PS4, PS5, PlayStation Vita, PSP, and mobile and web apps.

PlayStation Plus is the subscription service that adds benefits like online multiplayer access, free and discounted monthly games, and a game catalog. In 2022 Sony reorganized PS Plus into Essential, Extra, and Premium tiers, combining the former PlayStation Now streaming catalog with the Plus catalog and adding cloud streaming for certain tiers.

PSN launched in 2006 alongside the PlayStation 3, with subsequent expansion to PSP and PS Vita. The network experienced a significant security breach in 2011 that led to a lengthy outage and the release of enhanced security measures. Regional storefronts provide localized pricing and language support across North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions.

Today PSN remains a central component of the PlayStation ecosystem, supporting digital distribution, online multiplayer, and cloud-based features across multiple devices.