Why Is My Internet So Slow When Gaming and How Can I Improve It?
As gamers, we all know how important a secure and reliable internet connection is when gaming, and more so, how frustrating a slow internet connection can be. Whether you are suffering from slow downloads, or suffering from lag in game, slow internet is a gamer’s worst nightmare. So what are some of the main causes of a slow internet connection whilst gaming and how can you improve your speeds?
Your Broadband Plan
One of the main factors affecting your internet connection is the maximum broadband speed that you can get on your current broadband plan. Your maximum broadband speed will depend on the plan that you are on with your current provider. You may be on a plan that allows maximum download speeds of up to 40mb/s, or you may be on a plan with maximum download speeds of up to 1,000mb/s. The minimum broadband speed needed for gaming is 3mb/s (download) and 1mb/s (upload), however, the higher your broadband speed, the better your connection when gaming. Check what your current broadband speeds are using the Gaming Broadband speed test.
In order to increase your maximum broadband speed, you will need to upgrade the plan that you are on. For example, if you are currently on a 40mb/s plan you can upgrade to an 80mb/s plan if that is available for you. However, you may already be on a plan that offers the maximum speeds for your premises. Use the Gaming Broadband availability checker to see what maximum broadband speeds you can get with us are.
Low Bandwidth
Bandwidth has a high impact on your internet connection speeds. Bandwidth is the amount of data that is transmitted over an internet connection in a certain amount of time. A low bandwidth causes a slower internet connection. When gaming, a high bandwidth is important as you are less-likely to encounter any lag due to higher amounts of data being transmitted over your connection. The following factors can negatively affect your bandwidth:
- Streaming content (YouTube, Netflix, Twitch etc)
- Multiple users on one connection
- Downloading content
- Device is far away from router
- Physical objects interfering with wireless connection
A few methods to help increase your bandwidth could be:
- Install a second broadband line into your home
- Complete large downloads overnight
- Install Wi-Fi boosters in your home
- Restart your router
- Use wired connectivity (ethernet cable) rather than wireless connectivity
If all of the above do not help improve your internet connection, and your speeds are still slow, then you may need to contact your ISP to discuss other solutions.
Faulty or Cheap Router
A possible reason for slow internet when gaming may actually be the router you are using. The router may be faulty, or, it could just be a cheap router. Routers are similar to PCs. In most cases, the more expensive they are, the better they will perform as they will have more powerful components inside. Therefore, if you are using a cheap router, it may not be performing to the level you may expect. Also, the router may actually have a fault, which is causing it to underperform. In this case, you may need to contact the provider for a replacement (your ISP or the store you bought your router from), or you may need to replace it with a brand new router.
If you are a gamer and looking for a new broadband provider, then you have come to the right place. We are Gaming Broadband, an ISP dedicated to providing ultrafast, low latency broadband to gamers across the UK. Our network carriers utilise peering arrangements with some of the major gaming providers in the UK resulting in a secure, reliable connection. If you are interested in the services we offer, take a look at our plans or use our availability checker to see what is available for you.
