Steam is the ultimate platform for PC gamers, offering a massive library of titles from multiplayer hits to immersive single-player experiences. With frequent sales and a constant influx of new releases, building a backlog is practically inevitable. The only downside? Waiting for those games to download. If your Steam downloads are crawling, these tips will help you maximize your download speeds and get you gaming faster.
Ethernet on the 2022 Amazon Fire TV Cube. Phil Nickinson/MaagX / MaagX
Use a Wired Connection
Wi-Fi, while convenient, can bottleneck your download speeds. Even with a high-speed internet plan, a wireless connection will almost always be slower than a wired one. For optimal download speeds, connect your PC directly to your router with an Ethernet cable. This ensures you’re getting the full bandwidth your internet service provider offers, significantly reducing download times.
The Steam download settings menu. Valve
Optimize Steam’s Download Settings
Steam has a couple of settings that can inadvertently throttle your downloads. While typically disabled by default, it’s worth checking to ensure they aren’t hindering your download speeds. These settings are primarily designed for users with limited data plans or those who stream while downloading.
Step 1: Open the Steam client and navigate to the Settings menu.
Step 2: Select the Downloads tab. Locate the Limit download speed and Throttle downloads while streaming options. Ensure both of these settings are disabled.
Step 3: While in the Downloads tab, click the Clear cache button. This can resolve potential issues that might be slowing down your downloads.
Select the Optimal Download Region
Steam automatically selects a download server based on your location, but it’s not always the most efficient choice. Manually selecting a closer server can often improve download speeds.
Step 1: Go to Settings and then Downloads.
Step 2: At the top of the Downloads tab, find the Download region dropdown menu. Select the server geographically closest to your location. You’ll need to restart Steam for the change to take effect.
Conclusion
Optimizing your Steam download speeds is a simple process that can drastically reduce wait times. By using a wired connection, adjusting your Steam settings, and selecting the right download region, you can ensure you’re getting the fastest possible downloads and spending less time waiting and more time playing.
