With the rise of online PC and mobile games, digital marketing companies like digitalspotlight.com.au provide visibility to newly released games. It encourages users (of any age) to try these games for free. If you’re one of the many people who play online games, you can probably attest to the importance of good internet speed. Lag is one of the biggest complaints in the gaming world and leads to many undefeated battles and angry group chats.
If you happen to suffer enraged callouts from your co-players because you’re “lagging,” try out these quick fixes to increase your internet speed and get back to the game.
Perform an Internet Speed Test
Perform an internet speed test, an easy, free tool that will check your upload and download speed in seconds. It will also give you a list of popular services currently down. The optimal rate for online games is between 15 and 20 Mbps. Run the check three times to get an average. If your download speed is less than 10, you can expect lag.
Run a Ping Test
Using the same speed test, check the ping (latency) results. If your ping number is over 60ms, you will experience a lag in every game. Proceed to the next steps for possible solutions.
Restart Your Modem and Router
If your speed test returned less than satisfactory, try restarting your modem and router. It may seem too simple to fix the problem, but many issues can be rectified with a simple “Turn it off and turn it back on.” Restart both and wait for them to turn back on fully before performing another speed test.
Change Your Router’s Position
Do you live in a large house with many walls between you and the router? Simply moving your router to a more central location closer to your gaming area can help with internet speed issues. The more space and things in the way, the slower your speeds will be. Ensure the router is in a central location and disperses WiFi equally to all rooms.
Use a WiFi Extender
If you can’t get closer to your routing device, try using a WiFi extender. This handy gadget picks up your WiFi signal and broadcasts it out again. Instead of connecting to your router, you will directly connect to the extender. Just plug it into the wall and enjoy high-speed internet in all areas of your home.
Close Background Programs
Close down any websites or programs that use large amounts of data like Netflix, YouTube, or other streaming apps. Bandwidth-heavy sites can affect your ping (latency) rate and cause decreased speeds and lag.
Also, limit the number of devices connected to your WiFi. If you are gaming while playing movies on a Smart TV and watching content creators on your tablet, you may need to disconnect some items.
Use a Wired Connection
While cord-free living is fantastic and easy, hard connections are still more effective. The shorter the cord, the better. Plus, who wants to run a long cable across their entire house. Connecting an ethernet cable to your console or PC is still the best way to game, as you will experience an improved latency rate.
Replace Your Router
Most people don’t think about upgrading their routers to the latest edition, but it can drastically improve your internet performance. Look for new routers geared toward gaming that offer unique features that enhance ping rates and latency. Also, look for routers with QOS (quality of service) that prioritize your console speed over other devices.
Upgrade Your Ethernet Cable
Not all ethernet cables are the same. There are generations of ethernet cords, and some are better for gaming. The older models provide slower speeds, while the newer models are lightning-fast. Choose a cat 5e or a cat 6 cable for gaming.
Boost Your Internet Package
If none of these options work for you, it may be time to upgrade your internet package. It may be difficult to “Bite the bullet” and pay more to your internet provider, but it’s the most straightforward option for faster speeds.
Look into the best provider in your area if you experience patchy signals. Then, switch companies if necessary.
Before You Go
You don’t have to live with slow internet and failed game missions—there are many ways to increase your speeds and improve your latency.
First, perform your speed tests and ensure that your internet is not meeting the right metrics. Then, close down background programs and restart your router and modem.
If that doesn’t work, try moving your router to a central location or use a WiFi extender. It’s also good to hardwire your console or PC for optimal gaming conditions. If these tricks don’t improve your internet, try replacing your router and your ethernet cable with the latest models.
Finally, if all else fails, look into upgrading your internet package or switching providers.