How to speed up Steam downloads
Date: 03/06/24
Author: Shia Mitchell
Why are my downloads in Steam so slow?
Ever been eagerly waiting to play a new game on Steam, only to be frustrated by super slow download speeds? If you have, let’s explore how to speed up Steam downloads.
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How to speed up downloads on Steam: 12 methods for faster gaming
It’s important to understand why Steam downloads can be slow. Large game files and server issues are common culprits, so resolving this can boost Steam download speeds.
Here’s how to overcome these obstacles and get a smoother, faster gaming experience:
1. Check your internet connection
Ensure your internet connection is up to speed. Use our speed test tool to assess your current download and upload speeds. You should ensure it matches the speed promised to you by your provider.
2. Select the nearest server
Steam allows you to pick a server location. Opt for one closest to your location to minimise download times. Explore your download settings to select the right server.
3. Disable any VPN or proxy
If you're using a VPN or proxy, consider disabling it. These services can route your connection through remote servers, often slowing down your Steam downloads.
4. Limit background applications
Shut down or pause other applications or devices on your network, especially those consuming bandwidth, such as apps streaming videos or starting large file downloads.
5. Use a wired connection
Steam gamers can opt for an ethernet cable connection instead of relying on the Internet over WiFi. Wired connections tend to be more stable and faster, ensuring smoother downloads.
6. Optimise Steam settings
Fine-tune your Steam settings to enhance download speeds. Go to "Steam" > "Settings" > "Downloads," where you can do things like set download restrictions for specific times to avoid peak hours.
7. Clear Steam’s download cache
Steam features a built-in option to clear the download cache. Navigate to "Steam" > "Settings" > "Downloads" > "Clear Download Cache" to do so.
8. Limit bandwidth usage
In Steam settings, you can restrict the bandwidth used for downloads. This prevents Steam from hogging all your bandwidth and causing slowdowns.
9. Check for background updates
Steam, its games, and other apps on your system might be running background updates, which can hinder your download speeds. Ensure no pending updates are queued.
10. Restart Steam
Sometimes, a simple Steam restart can do the trick for slow downloads. You can also restart the machine you’re using and see if that helps. Sometimes a classic ‘turn it off and on again’ is enough.
11. Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN)
Certain games offer the option to download from a Content Delivery Network (CDN), providing faster speeds. Check if this option is available for the game you're downloading. Steam makes extensive use of CDNs across the Valve network.
12. Consider multi-gigabit Internet
If you're a serious gamer craving lightning-fast speeds, explore multi-gigabit internet options if they’re available in your area. For example, our 3 Gbps broadband provides incredibly fast download speeds, perfect for gaming and simultaneous streaming.
FAQs on speeding up Steam downloads
Our full fibre connections are the best way to guarantee fast downloads, we provide Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) connections — that only use fibre optic cables.
Here are some common questions about how to speed up Steam downloads:
How do I increase download speed on Steam?
Quick tips to boost your Steam download speed include selecting a nearby server, disabling VPNs or proxies, limiting background applications, and optimising Steam settings. These actions often result in faster downloads.
Why are my Steam Downloads so slow?
Slow Steam downloads can be due to various reasons, such as a distant server, background applications consuming bandwidth, or a sluggish internet connection. Following the tips mentioned above can help improve download speeds.
What ways are there to increase downloading speed?
You can speed up downloads on Steam by ensuring you have a stable and fast internet connection, choosing a nearby server, avoiding VPNs or proxies, closing bandwidth-consuming background applications, and making use of Steam's built-in settings for downloads.
Speed up Steam downloads with London’s fastest internet
Checking your internet speed, disabling VPNs, and exploring 3 Gbps internet are potential steps to faster and more reliable Steam downloads — for flawless gaming.
Don't let slow downloads hinder your gaming enjoyment. Take control of your connection to the world of gaming with these tips, and enhance your Steam experience today.
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