Let’s be honest! In online gaming, every second counts when winning or losing is at stake. Whether in a party of friends or solo, if you have played online games, you should know that a seamless experience is the most enjoyable. That means having a smooth connection without delays or lags, which can only happen with low pings or zero packet loss. So now the million-dollar question remains – how do you stabilize your internet connection?
You should know that optimizing your internet connection for consistent ping is no rocket science. One option is getting a high-end link, such as a fiber-optic connection or using your carrier’s network like AT&T Internet. It will give you better speeds with great consistency.
Apart from this, there are a few tips and tricks that you can apply. These might not make you a better player but will most probably help you enjoy a lag-free experience.
Tips to Reduce Lags and Ping Issues
Of course, you can buy yourself a super-fast gaming PC with the latest specifications. Still, if your internet connection is bad, someone with a better ping will take you out, and you will be left making salty comments in chat. So, a speedy connection results in increased response time and better movement – a perfect recipe for victory.
Moving on, here we discuss how to optimize your internet connection for better online gaming. This guide has all the necessary tips and tricks to make that happen, so let’s jump right into it!
- Run a Speed Test
Before picking up your toolbox, check your current internet speed with free online tools. You have to check it at various times throughout the day to ensure no one is limiting your speed.
Remember, at least a 20mbps connection is ideal for a lag-free online gaming experience. That is especially true in the case of competitive or multi-player games. And if you are below this mark, you will probably feel lags or delays at some point.
So, running speed tests several times will tell you if your internet speed is optimum and also the time at which it is perfect.
- Restart Your Modem
Sometimes the issue is with your router, and restarting it may improve performance. It will reset your connection, but if you have to do this more often, the issue must be with your router. However, remember to run a speed test before and after a connection reset to know the difference.
If there is no real difference, it can be a software or hardware issue. One of the problems is the outdated drivers of the modem that restrict its functionality even if your internet package plan is decent. Another problem is with the hardware itself, as older devices may not be able to deliver the speed that you need for online gaming. And you need a better one right away.
- Change Router Position
If you use a wireless connection, the lag or delay may be due to the router’s position. If it is too far from your spot, then it will negatively impact your online experience. It is one of the most unnoticed issues; new players usually experience it the most due to less knowledge.
For this purpose, you may have to reposition the router in your home and bring it closer to your location. If it is the only internet for the whole house, consider selecting a position in the middle of your home.
- Use Wired Connection
Be advised; that wherever possible, a wired connection is always better than wireless connectivity. It is one of the significant issues, and solving it can remove pretty much every hurdle on your way to a stable ping.
Even if you don’t have a fiber-optic internet connection, a wired connection will make a huge difference. And it is always preferred for online gaming.
- Get a Better Quality Internet
Nowadays, every house has multiple devices like mobiles, smart TVs, and computers – all wanting a better piece of the bandwidth pie. At this point, no number of modems or settings can solve the issue, and you have to upgrade your internet plan.
If you haven’t tried AT&T Fiber yet, then better check out its amazing plans that offer symmetrical speeds as high as up to 5000 Mbps. Even better, if you consider AT&T bundles as they deliver a lot more value with TV and phone services.
Final Takeaway
Nowadays, even online games are being optimized to provide an uninterrupted experience. However, if the issue remains, you may have to upgrade your internet.
Another helpful tip is to play in the best server or region. Most games have plenty of regions for everyone’s ease.
Wrapping up, that was our guide on optimizing your internet for gaming, and we have covered just about everything. Whichever way you like, these will surely help you improve your online gaming connection and provide a smoother lag-free experience.