Experiencing lag during an intense gaming session can be incredibly unpleasant for an avid gamer. A poor internet connection that suffers lag often can literally change the entire dynamics of your game; putting you on the losing end. For this reason, we have come up with a rundown of tips that can help reduce lag during your gaming session.
First things first, are you satisfied with your current internet service? Because, if not – we have got a good news for you. On account of the increase in the number of ISPs and the commonality of this utility, most ISPs have dialed down the prices of internet service to facilitate the customers. Take a look at the incredibly low RCN internet prices to get a sense of what we are talking about.
Nonetheless, if you believe that, you have a decent enough internet provider, then let us look at ways to minimize lags and keep your gaming experience consistent.
1. Check the bandwidth of your Internet
To play games smoothly, you do not need business-speed internet, but you would at least need 15-20 Mbps. However, you must consider your bandwidth as well. Other internet-based activities (such as streaming shows, video conferencing, and surfing the web) can put a strain on the bandwidth if done simultaneously.
Streaming videos and downloading files, for example, use a lot of bandwidth – far more than games. If you do not have the bandwidth to support it all, this can substantially slow your internet and game down.
2. Examine your signal
While using a Wi-Fi connection, make sure that the signal strength is good. You can use any reputable program to assist you to choose an appropriate place or set up your PC to receive a stronger Wi-Fi connection so you do not have to battle with lags or slow speeds when playing a game.
3. Use Ethernet
Using an Ethernet connection for online gaming is considered a cardinal offense, as you may have heard. If you are using an Ethernet connection and still experience latency, the issue is most likely with your network. This is because wireless connections are unreliable, and playing online games necessitates a constant connection.
You receive a reasonably steady speed and connection with an Ethernet cable, and there are fewer instances of connectivity issues. To avoid being disrupted by any wireless dead spots in your home, consider using a hardwired connection. Using an Ethernet connection can significantly improve the game experience.
4. Buy a new router if necessary
This might come off as a shock but your old router might be the source of lag, as routers of the past have an impact on your connection strength, reliability, and speed. You may swap your worn-out router with specific gaming-optimized routers from a variety of sources on the market. Special features on the newly built routers can improve your online gaming experience.
They offer faster speeds, lower ping rates, and lower latency. As a result, it is critical to utilize a current router. It is suggested that you utilize a gaming-specific router for the best possible gaming experience. These have fantastic features that will improve your online gaming experience.
They aid in high-quality gaming by channeling maximum bandwidth to your gaming and console, resulting in an appropriate network for lag-free gaming.
5. Play on your own private server
We understand how it feels to play on an international server, and while beating other players may raise your ego, you may face lag during critical game times. As a result, playing on a server in your own nation is more feasible. The lower your ping rates, the closer the server is to you.
6. Temporarily turn off any updates
Automatic updates are certainly useful, but they may be incredibly frustrating when you are in the middle of a battle with your favorite foe. As a result, it is a good idea to turn off your automatic updates for the duration of your gaming session.
You may also schedule a reminder to apply the updates when your online gaming session is finished. Also, consider turning off your firewall or making exceptions for your favorite games. Because the game scanning attempt will be avoided, this can help improve your computer speed.
7. Consider upgrading your broadband package
You should think about upgrading your broadband package because it may be the most direct and effective approach to improve your internet speed. As a result of a more stable internet connection, you may be able to improve your gaming speeds. So, if nothing else works, talk to your ISP about upgrading your package.
8. Close all open tabs and downloads in the background
Background processes and apps that waste bandwidth on your computer should be turned off if you want to get the most out of your online gaming connection. Also, do not download any files while playing online.
If you want to go any further, you can turn off network connections on all devices that share the same connection. While this may seem implausible, it will boost the speed of your online gaming connection.
9. Look at the requirements
When you are ready to launch a game, make sure you verify the game’s requirements and compare them to the space available on your hard disc. You should pursue it if there is a good match. If there is a discrepancy, you will most likely encounter latency. If you keep your drivers up to date, you will not have to deal with any older versions of the game.
Final words
A champion’s reputation should not be harmed by latency. You may avoid latency and improve your score by following these simple procedures. To have a smooth online gaming session, you should definitely use the fastest internet connection available.
If you are confident in your internet service provider’s reliability and speed, the lag, and latency issue may not be entirely due to the internet speed. Your router and modem must be tested for functionality and positioning. It is most convenient to get a gaming-friendly router.