How to Check if a PS3 Network ID Is Taken

The PlayStation Network (PSN) is the official matchmaking and content distribution service for all PlayStation consoles, including the PS3. A PSN account is free to create and links all of your trophies and friends together. At the time of publication, Sony does not allow you to check PSN ID availability on the PS3 itself without having to go through the entire registration process. However, since all PSN IDs are linked to the PlayStation website, a quick workaround allows you to quickly check which PSN IDs are in use.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Firefox.

   • 2

     Copy the following Web address or click the link directly in the "Resources" section: http://us.PlayStation.com/publictrophy/index.htm?onlinename=psnidhere. To copy, highlight the text, right-click and click "Copy."

   • 3

     Right-click the address bar, click "Paste" and press the "Enter" key. Replace the "psnidhere" at the end of the web address with the PSN ID you want to check for availability. If the ID is available, a "No User Profile" message will appear onscreen.