DS4Windows is a portable application—there is no installer. You download a ZIP file, extract it to a folder, and run the executable. This guide walks you through downloading the latest version, installing the required drivers, and connecting your PlayStation or Nintendo controller via USB or Bluetooth so you can start playing on PC.

In this article

1. Download DS4Windows

Download the latest release from the official GitHub releases page. Choose the ZIP that matches your system: x64 for most modern PCs (64-bit Windows), or x86 for 32-bit. You can also use the Download section on this site.

  • DS4Windows_v3.3.x_x64.zip — 64-bit (recommended for most users)
  • DS4Windows_v3.3.x_x86.zip — 32-bit

Extract the ZIP to a folder you can access easily—for example Documents\DS4Windows or a dedicated folder on your drive. Do not extract to Program Files or the Desktop; those locations can cause permission issues. After extraction, you should see DS4Windows.exe and other files in the folder.

2. Install required drivers

When you run DS4Windows.exe for the first time, the app checks for the ViGEmBus driver. This driver creates virtual Xbox 360 controllers that Windows and games recognize. Without it, DS4Windows cannot emulate a gamepad.

  • If ViGEmBus is missing, DS4Windows will prompt you to install it. Click Install and follow the installer.
  • Administrator rights are usually required. If the installer asks to reboot, restart your PC.

You also need .NET 8.0 Desktop Runtime and Visual C++ 2015–2022 Redistributable. If either is missing, Windows or DS4Windows will direct you to download them. Install both for your system architecture (x64 or x86).

3. Connect your controller

USB connection

Use a USB cable that supports data transfer (not charge-only). Plug the controller into your PC. DS4Windows should detect it automatically. Open the Controllers tab to see the device, battery level, and current profile.

Bluetooth connection

Put the controller in pairing mode first:

  • DualShock 4 (PS4): Hold PS + Share for about 3 seconds until the light bar blinks rapidly.
  • DualSense (PS5): Hold PS + Create (or Share) until the light blinks.
  • Nintendo Joy-Con / Switch Pro: Hold the Sync button until the LEDs blink.

On your PC: open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Add device → Bluetooth. Select “Wireless Controller” (or the name shown). If Windows asks for a PIN, enter 0000. Keep DS4Windows running when you pair; that often improves detection.

4. First-time checklist

  • In DS4Windows, click Start if the controller is not yet active.
  • Under Selected Profile, “Default” means Xbox 360 emulation is active—this works with most PC games.
  • To avoid the game seeing two controllers (double input), install and configure HidHide—see our Double Input Fix and Drivers Guide.

Once the controller appears in the Controllers tab and shows a profile, you’re ready to play. If you use Steam, see DS4Windows and Steam: Avoiding Conflicts to prevent conflicts and double input.