Why is my ps5 download speed so slow? In this article, we will show you how to fix PS5 slow download speeds instantly.
Slow download speeds on a PS5 can be incredibly frustrating—especially when you’re itching to jump into a new game or update your system. The good news? There are several straightforward tips and tricks you can use to speed things up.
Why is my PS5 download speed slow?
Slow PS5 download speeds can result from weak Wi-Fi signals, outdated router firmware, or congested networks. DNS misconfigurations, background downloads, and poor router placement also affect performance.
Switching to Ethernet, updating console and router firmware, adjusting DNS, and minimizing network traffic often resolve speed issues, ultimately leading to faster downloads.
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10 Ways to fix PS5 slow download speeds
Follow the steps on how to fix slow download speeds on ps5 below;
1. Test Your Internet Connection
Before changing any settings or swapping cables, start with a simple test.
How to test your PS5 connection:
- Go to Settings.
- Select Network.
- Choose Test Internet Connection.
This gives you a rough idea of your current download and upload speeds. If the numbers are significantly lower than what your internet service provider (ISP) promises, it’s time to do some troubleshooting.
2. Use a Wired (Ethernet) Connection
While modern Wi-Fi connections are generally reliable, wired connections tend to be more stable and faster. This is how to fix ps5 download speed immediately.
Why an Ethernet connection helps:
- Lower latency: Wired connections often have less lag.
- Consistent speeds: Wi-Fi signals can weaken through walls and over distance.
- Reduced interference: No need to worry about interference from other wireless devices.
If you can’t connect an Ethernet cable directly from your router to your PS5, consider powerline adapters or a mesh Wi-Fi system to help improve your network coverage.
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3. Move Your Router Closer or Reduce Interference
If you’re sticking to Wi-Fi, make sure your console has the best possible signal.
Tips to improve wireless signal:
- Place your router in an open space, away from walls or metal objects.
- Keep other electronic devices—like microwaves or cordless phones—away from the router.
- Use the 5GHz band if your router supports dual-band frequencies. The 5GHz band generally offers faster speeds (though at a shorter range).
4. Limit Background Downloads or Network Usage
We live in a world of multiple devices hogging the network at once. If you have other gadgets streaming 4K videos or downloading large files, it’ll slow down your PS5.
How to minimize network congestion:
- Pause or cancel downloads on other devices (PC, laptop, phone).
- Avoid streaming in Ultra HD while downloading games on your PS5.
- Turn off any automatic downloads or updates on your other devices during your PS5 download session.
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5. Update Your PS5 and Router Firmware
Keeping everything up to date ensures that bug fixes and optimizations are in place.
Updating your PS5:
- Go to Settings > System > System Software Update and Settings.
- Choose Update System Software if available.
Updating your router’s firmware:
- Log into your router’s admin panel (check the back of the router or your manual for instructions).
- Look for the Firmware Update section and follow the steps provided by the manufacturer.
Pro Tip: Manufacturers frequently release firmware updates to address security issues and to improve network performance. Regularly check to ensure you have the latest version.
6. Change Your DNS Settings
Sometimes, your ISP’s default DNS can slow things down. Switching to a public DNS might speed up the connection.
How to change DNS on PS5:
- Go to Settings > Network > Settings > Set Up Internet Connection.
- Choose your Wi-Fi or LAN network.
- Select Advanced Settings.
- Under DNS Settings, change it from Automatic to Manual.
- Enter a public DNS server. Popular options include:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Primary), 8.8.4.4 (Secondary)
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 (Primary), 1.0.0.1 (Secondary)
Save your changes, then retest your internet connection to see if it improves.
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7. Enable Rest Mode for Downloads
The PS5 allows you to keep downloading games and updates in Rest Mode—which often speeds up the process because fewer background processes are active.
How to enable downloads in Rest Mode:
- Go to Settings > System > Power Saving.
- Select Features Available in Rest Mode.
- Ensure Stay Connected to the Internet is checked.
When you put your console in Rest Mode, it will continue downloading any pending updates or games. Check back after a while to see if your downloads have finished or improved in speed.
8. Restart or Power Cycle Your Console and Router
Sometimes the simplest solutions yield the best results. A quick reboot can clear network caches and fix minor glitches.
Power cycling basics:
- Turn off your PS5 completely.
- Unplug your router from its power source for about 30 seconds.
- Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully restart.
- Turn your PS5 back on and check if your download speeds have improved.
9. Consider Your Internet Plan
If you’ve tried everything and speeds are still below expectations, it might be time to evaluate your internet plan. With games and updates reaching tens of gigabytes, a higher speed plan could be worth the investment.
Key questions to ask:
- Are you on a data-capped or throttled plan?
- Does your ISP limit speeds at certain times of the day (peak hours)?
- Is your modem or router outdated for the speed tier you’re paying for?
Reach out to your ISP to discuss upgrade options or potential issues in your area.
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10. Contact PlayStation Support or Your ISP
If all else fails and you’re still experiencing significant slowdowns:
- Contact PlayStation Support: They can walk you through advanced troubleshooting steps or help identify if there’s a known issue affecting download servers.
- Talk to your ISP: Ask them to run diagnostics on your line and equipment, or provide suggestions for network improvements.
Final Thoughts
PS5 slow download speeds can be due to various factors—from network congestion to router settings. By following these easy-to-implement tips, you can significantly improve your download speeds and get back to gaming faster.
Feel free to bookmark this page and revisit it anytime your speeds drop. After all, there’s no point in waiting around when there are new games to explore!
Did these tips help? Share your experience or any additional solutions you’ve discovered to improve download speeds on PS5. The gaming community is always evolving, and your insight could help someone else get the most out of their console.
Happy downloading—and even happier gaming!
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