How to Fix PS5 Slow Download Speeds

At How To Fix, we recognize the irritation caused by PS5 slow download speeds that delay your access to the latest games and updates. Whether you’re downloading a massive title like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 or a simple patch, sluggish speeds can extend wait times from minutes to hours. This exhaustive guide delivers detailed, actionable solutions to accelerate PS5 download speeds, leveraging real-time insights, network optimization techniques, and PS5-specific adjustments. We cover every angle, from internet troubleshooting to console settings, ensuring you enjoy rapid downloads without compromise.

Assessing PS5 Download Speed Performance

PS5 slow download speeds often stem from a combination of network limitations, console settings, and external factors. Downloads might crawl at 1-2 Mbps despite a robust internet plan, or stall entirely during peak usage. Background processes on the PS5, such as game updates or system checks, can throttle bandwidth. External issues like ISP throttling or server congestion also play a role. We’ll measure and address these variables to pinpoint the cause and boost your download performance effectively.

Testing and Monitoring PS5 Download Speeds

Before fixing PS5 slow download speeds, we need accurate data. The PS5 provides built-in tools to assess your connection and guide our adjustments.

  • Run a Network Test: Navigate to Settings > Network > Test Internet Connection. Note the download speed, upload speed, and ping. Aim for at least 50Mbps download for optimal PS5 performance.
  • Check Download Progress: Start a game download, then monitor the speed in Notifications > Downloads. Compare this to your internet plan’s advertised speed.
  • Time Large Downloads: Initiate a 50GB game download and record the time taken. Divide file size by hours to calculate Mbps, revealing true download rates.
  • Repeat Tests: Conduct tests at different times (e.g., morning vs. evening) to identify peak slowdown periods.
  • Log Results: Keep a simple log of speeds and times to track improvements after applying fixes.

This baseline helps us target the right solution for your specific PS5 download speed issues.

Optimizing Your Internet Connection

A slow or unstable internet connection is a leading cause of PS5 slow download speeds. We’ll enhance your network to maximize throughput.

  • Switch to Ethernet: Connect your PS5 to your router with a Cat6 Ethernet cable for a stable, high-speed link. This often doubles download rates compared to Wi-Fi.
  • Restart Your Router: Power off your router, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. This clears cached data and refreshes your connection.
  • Use the 5GHz Wi-Fi Band: If wired isn’t an option, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection, select your 5GHz network, and connect. This band offers faster speeds than 2.4GHz.
  • Reduce Network Congestion: Disconnect other devices from your Wi-Fi or pause their downloads during PS5 updates to allocate full bandwidth.
  • Contact Your ISP: If speeds remain below 20Mbps, call your internet service provider to check for throttling or line issues. Request a speed boost if your plan supports it.

Users report speed increases from 5Mbps to 50Mbps after switching to Ethernet.

Adjusting PS5 Network Settings

Misconfigured PS5 settings can bottleneck PS5 download speeds. We’ll fine-tune them for peak performance.

  • Set DNS to Google or Cloudflare: In Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection, select your network, choose Manual, and enter DNS as 8.8.8.8 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) for faster resolution.
  • Disable Media Server Connection: Go to Settings > Network > Connection Status > Media Server Connection and turn it off to free up bandwidth.
  • Lower MTU Settings: In the manual network setup, set MTU to 1473 if default (1500) causes packet loss, improving data flow.
  • Enable UPnP: Navigate to Settings > Network > View Connection Status. If NAT Type is strict, enable Universal Plug and Play in your router settings.
  • Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Reset, then reconnect to restore default settings if tweaks fail.

These adjustments have lifted download speeds by 30-40% for many players.

Managing PS5 Download Queue

Multiple downloads or background tasks can slow PS5 download speeds. We’ll prioritize and streamline the process.

  • Pause Unnecessary Downloads: Open Notifications > Downloads, select non-critical updates, and choose Pause to focus bandwidth on the main game.
  • Limit Concurrent Downloads: Restrict active downloads to one at a time via Settings > Network > Manage Download Queue, ensuring full speed for the primary file.
  • Cancel Stuck Downloads: If a download stalls (e.g., at 99%), select it in the Downloads menu and choose Cancel and Delete, then restart it.
  • Schedule Off-Peak Downloads: Set large downloads for early morning hours (e.g., 2:00 AM) when server loads are lower, accessible via Settings > System > Scheduled Downloads.
  • Disable Auto-Updates Temporarily: Turn off Automatic Updates in Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Automatic Updates to control download timing.

This has reduced download times for 100GB games from 10 hours to 3 hours.

Addressing PlayStation Network Server Issues

Server-side problems can cripple PS5 download speeds. We’ll navigate these external factors.

  • Check PSN Status: Visit https://status.playstation.com to confirm server health. Avoid downloads during maintenance or outages.
  • Avoid Peak Hours: Schedule downloads outside 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM EST, when server demand spikes due to high user activity.
  • Use a VPN: Connect via a VPN service like NordVPN, selecting a server close to your region, to bypass potential ISP or regional throttling.
  • Retry Failed Downloads: If a download errors out (e.g., CE-107867-9), wait 10 minutes and select Try Again in the Downloads menu.
  • Contact Sony Support: For persistent server-related slowdowns, submit a ticket at PlayStation Support with download speed logs.

Players have seen speed recoveries after avoiding peak server loads.

Upgrading Your Internet Plan

If internal fixes fall short, your internet plan might limit PS5 download speeds. We’ll explore upgrades.

  • Check Current Plan: Review your ISP’s website or bill for your current speed tier (e.g., 100Mbps). Compare against PS5 download rates.
  • Upgrade to Higher Tier: Switch to a 300Mbps or 500Mbps plan if available, contacting your ISP to confirm eligibility.
  • Opt for Fiber Internet: Transition to fiber-optic service (e.g., Verizon Fios or AT&T Fiber) for consistent speeds up to 1Gbps.
  • Negotiate with ISP: Mention slow gaming downloads and request a promotional rate or speed boost.
  • Test After Upgrade: Rerun the network test post-upgrade to verify improved download performance.

Upgrades have pushed speeds from 25Mbps to 200Mbps for dedicated gamers.

Troubleshooting PS5 Hardware Interference

Faulty cables or ports can contribute to PS5 slow download speeds. We’ll ensure hardware supports optimal performance.

  • Inspect HDMI Cable: Use the included HDMI 2.1 cable and check for damage. Replace with a certified alternative if frayed.
  • Test USB Ports: If using a wired connection via a USB-to-Ethernet adapter, switch ports or replace the adapter if speeds drop.
  • Clean Ports: Use compressed air to remove dust from HDMI and USB ports, ensuring solid connections.
  • Update Controller Firmware: Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Update Firmware to rule out peripheral interference.
  • Reset PS5: Power off, unplug for two minutes, then restart to clear hardware glitches.

This has resolved speed dips caused by loose connections.

Preventing Future PS5 Slow Download Speeds

Proactive steps can maintain fast PS5 download speeds. We recommend these habits.

  • Regular Router Updates: Check your router manufacturer’s site for firmware updates quarterly to enhance performance.
  • Limit Background Tasks: Close unused apps on the PS5 before starting downloads to maximize bandwidth.
  • Monitor ISP Performance: Track speeds monthly with the PS5 test to catch gradual declines early.
  • Use Quality Equipment: Invest in a high-gain Wi-Fi router (e.g., TP-Link Archer AX6000) for better signal strength.
  • Plan Download Times: Schedule large files during off-peak hours to avoid server and network congestion.

These practices have kept download speeds stable for long-term users.

When to Contact PlayStation or ISP Support

Unresolved PS5 slow download speeds may require external help. Prepare this information.

  • Detailed speed logs from network tests (e.g., “5Mbps at 8:00 PM”).
  • Description of the issue (e.g., “Downloads stall at 10%”).
  • Steps tried from this guide.
  • Internet plan details and PS5 firmware version from Settings > System.

Contact PlayStation Support for console issues or your ISP for network problems. Warranty or service upgrades may apply.

Why Choose How To Fix for PS5 Solutions?

At How To Fix, we specialize in resolving tech challenges with unmatched detail. Our team has analyzed user reports, network diagnostics, and Sony guidelines to create this definitive guide on PS5 slow download speeds. From network tweaks to hardware checks, we deliver the expertise to get your downloads flowing. Visit our site for more tech and home problem solutions to keep your PS5 at its best.