Downloading games and updates on your PlayStation 4 can sometimes be a time-consuming process, especially when you’re eager to jump into the latest title. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to boost your download speeds and get back to gaming faster.
1. Utilize Rest Mode
One of the most effective methods to speed up downloads on your PS4 is to utilize the console’s Rest Mode feature. By putting your PS4 into Rest Mode while downloading a game or update, you allow it to allocate more resources to the download process, resulting in faster speeds overall.
2. Close Background Applications
Running multiple applications in the background can hinder your PS4’s download speeds. Make sure to close any unnecessary apps or games before initiating a download to free up system resources and bandwidth for the download process.
3. Free Up Bandwidth
If you’re sharing your network with other devices, consider limiting their bandwidth usage while downloading on your PS4. This can be achieved by pausing or restricting the internet access of other devices to ensure that your PS4 receives the necessary bandwidth for a speedy download.
4. Opt for a Wired Connection
While Wi-Fi is convenient, a wired Ethernet connection can significantly improve download speeds on your PS4. By connecting your console directly to the router using an Ethernet cable, you can reduce latency and interference, resulting in faster and more stable downloads.
5. Choose the Right DNS Settings
Optimizing your PS4’s DNS settings can also help enhance download speeds. Consider switching to a faster and more reliable DNS server, such as Google DNS or OpenDNS, to improve the connection speed and reduce download times.
6. Update Your Router Firmware
Ensuring that your router’s firmware is up to date is crucial for maintaining optimal network performance. By regularly updating your router’s firmware, you can address any potential bugs or security vulnerabilities that may be impacting your PS4’s download speeds.
7. Avoid Peak Usage Hours
Downloading large files on your PS4 during peak usage hours can lead to slower speeds due to increased network congestion. Try scheduling your downloads during off-peak hours, such as late at night or early in the morning, to take advantage of faster internet speeds.
8. Monitor and Manage Queued Downloads
Keep an eye on the download queue on your PS4 and prioritize the most important updates or games. By managing the download queue effectively, you can ensure that critical downloads are completed first, allowing you to start playing sooner.
9. Clear Cache and Rebuild Database
Periodically clearing the cache and rebuilding the database on your PS4 can help optimize system performance and potentially improve download speeds. These maintenance tasks can remove unnecessary data and streamline the system’s operations for better overall performance.
10. Consider Upgrading Your Internet Plan
If slow download speeds persist despite trying various optimization techniques, it may be time to consider upgrading your internet plan. Look for packages that offer higher download speeds and more bandwidth to ensure a smoother gaming experience on your PS4.
11. Restart Your PS4 and Router
Occasionally, a simple restart of your PS4 and router can resolve networking issues that may be affecting download speeds. Power cycling both devices can refresh their connections and potentially improve the overall stability and speed of your downloads.
12. Stay Informed and Stay Gaming
By implementing these tips and tricks, you can maximize your download speeds on the PS4 and spend less time waiting for games to install or updates to complete. Stay informed about the latest networking and optimization techniques to ensure that you’re always getting the most out of your gaming experience on the PlayStation 4.
