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 using up bandwidth, such as apps streaming videos or downloading large files. This will help free up more bandwidth for your Steam download.

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, which can slow things down. 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 affect your download speeds. Take a look at your apps and software areas to 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:

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How do I increase download speed on Steam?

Try some of our quick tips to boost your Steam download speed. You could select a nearby server, disabling VPNs or proxies, limiting background applications, and optimising Steam settings. These can help you achieve faster downloads.

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Why are my Steam Downloads so slow?

Slow Steam downloads can be due to various reasons, such as a server located far away, background applications consuming bandwidth, or a sluggish internet connection. Following the tips mentioned above can help improve download speeds. 

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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.

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Speed up Steam downloads with London’s fastest internet

Checking your internet speed, disabling VPNs, and exploring 3 Gbps internet are your first steps to faster and more reliable Steam downloads — and 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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