Why is Steam Downloading so Slow? (+ Working Fixes)

We have all been there – waiting for a game to download on Steam, only to endure frustratingly slow speeds. Slow downloads not only extend your wait time but can also lead to in-game interruptions and lag, dampening your gaming excitement. This article goes deep into why is Steam downloading so slow and offers solutions to get you back to gaming at full throttle.

Why Does Steam Download so Slow?

Slow download on Steam can severely affect your gaming experience. Not only do they prolong the wait for game downloads, but they can also result in buffering and lag when playing online. Picture finally completing the download, only to face constant disruptions and latency issues during gameplay – it’s a gamer’s nightmare.

Furthermore, slow downloads can hinder your access to new content and updates. Steam frequently releases patches, bug fixes, and additional game content. Slow downloads mean you might miss out on the latest features, improvements, and a level playing field with other gamers.

How to Fix When Steam Is Downloading so Slow?

If your connection is slow or unstable, it will affect download speeds, especially when dealing with large game files that demand substantial data transfer.

Server load is another critical factor. Steam boasts millions of users worldwide, all downloading games and updates simultaneously. During peak times like game launches or sales, servers can become overwhelmed, leading to slower download speeds. Here are some tips to make it work:

Checking Your Internet Connection

Before troubleshooting, it’s essential to verify your internet connection. Begin by conducting a speed test to gauge your current download and upload speeds. Numerous online tools provide accurate results. Ideally, you should aim for a download speed of at least 10 Mbps for a seamless Steam gaming experience.

If your speed test results fall significantly below expectations, try resetting your modem and router by unplugging them for a minute before plugging them back in. This often resolves temporary issues. If problems persist, consider reaching out to your internet service provider for assistance.

Optimizing Your Computer for Faster Downloads

Beyond your internet connection, your computer’s performance can also affect Steam download speeds. Here are some tips to optimize your system for quicker downloads:

Clear out unnecessary files and programs: Over time, your computer accumulates redundant files and unused programs that can slow it down. Utilize a disk cleanup tool to remove temporary files and uninstall programs you no longer need.

Update your drivers: Outdated drivers can lead to performance issues, including slow download speeds. Ensure you regularly update essential drivers like graphics cards and network adapters for optimal performance.

Disable unnecessary background processes: Some background programs and processes consume valuable system resources, including bandwidth. Use the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to identify and close unnecessary processes.

Change Your Download Region

Steam permits you to select the server region from which you download games. Sometimes, the server you’re connected to may be overwhelmed, leading to slow downloads. Try switching to a different download region to test if it improves speeds.

Disable Firewall or Antivirus Software

Firewall or antivirus software can occasionally interfere with Steam’s download process, causing slower speeds. Temporarily disable these programs and check if your download speeds improve. Remember to re-enable them once the download is complete.

How to Fix Slow Steam Downloads for Windows Users?

For Windows users experiencing Steam downloading so slow, here are additional steps to resolve the issue:

Clear the download cache: Steam stores temporary files called the download cache, which can sometimes become corrupted and affect download speeds. To clear the cache, open Steam, go to Settings > Downloads, and click on “Clear Download Cache.”

Change your DNS settings: DNS (Domain Name System) translates website URLs into IP addresses. Sometimes, using a different DNS server can improve your internet connection and download speeds. To change your DNS settings on Windows, navigate to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Right-click on your active network adapter, select Properties, then double-click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).” Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter the desired DNS server addresses.

Disable Windows Update Delivery Optimization: Windows 10 includes a feature called Delivery Optimization, allowing your computer to download updates from other computers on your local network or the internet. While useful, it can also consume network bandwidth and slow down Steam downloads. To disable Delivery Optimization, go to Settings > Update & Security > Delivery Optimization > Advanced options, and toggle off “Allow downloads from other PCs.”

Final Thoughts

Now you know the reason why is Steam downloading so slow, you can solve it with easy steps. Even though slow Steam download speeds can be annoying, they don’t have to ruin your game experience. By understanding what causes slow downloads and using the fixing tips in this article, you can speed up your downloads and get back to gaming without having to wait too long.