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How to Fix High Ping on Windows 10

Stop this piercing sound from interrupting your gaming

By Daniel N. Martin Daniel N. Martin Writer University at Buffalo Daniel Martin is a writer and researcher with 10+ years' experience. He is a professional librarian and an experienced tech and information literacy teacher. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on September 11, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email

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Expand Jump to a Section Addressing Common Router Issues Using Task Manager Change Windows Automatic Updates Settings Look for Problems With Your ISP Reset Windows Connection Settings The ability of your computer to send and receive signals over the internet is known as the ping rate. If your online games aren't responding quickly to your commands, or web pages aren't loading, you could be experiencing the dreaded high ping. To have a smooth and reactive gaming experience, you should know how to fix high ping and get your system working. The instructions in this article are intended to help Windows 10 users fix the issue of high ping.

How to Reduce Ping by Addressing Common Router Issues

Your computer’s ping can be impacted if there isn't a reliable connection to your router. These steps will show you how to fix high ping and resolve the issue: Move your PC closer to the router or connect your device to it with an Ethernet cable. Switch off other devices that are using the internet. Restart your router.

How to Lower Ping Using Task Manager

Windows 10 Task Manager lets you know what programs are eating up the most bandwidth. By using the Task Manager to identify and close these programs, you can significantly lower your ping rate. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete, then select Task Manager. You can also press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager directly. Select More Details to expand the Task Manager. The Network column of the Task Manager shows applications’ bandwidth usage in descending order from most to least. Right-click an application, then select End Task to close any unneeded applications using a lot of bandwidth. Make sure not to close any processes that are identified as system processes.

Change Windows' Automatic Updates Settings to Reduce Ping Rate

Windows downloads and updates can slow your system’s ping rate. As automatic Windows updates can’t be paused once they've begun, you could easily find your gaming experience spoiled. Thankfully, you can change your Windows 10 settings and decide how much of your bandwidth is dedicated to downloads. Select Settings > Update & Security. Select Advanced Options. Select Delivery Optimization. Select Advanced Options. Using the first slider, lower the bandwidth percentage for downloading updates to 10%. This setting should allow you to game without interruption while making sure your system is updated.

Look for Problems With Your ISP

Consider using a free bandwidth testing tool to test your internet connection. This will let you know whether you're receiving the bandwidth you deserve. Should you find that your internet connection is subpar, you should contact your internet service provider so they can address the issue. You can also potentially upgrade your bandwidth—different ISPs offer different tiers of service at different prices. You may even want to consider switching providers. The higher your connection speed, the lower your ping, and the faster your computer can send and receive data. Plugging your PC into a wired internet connection could help as well, as ethernet cables allow for better data flow, leading to better gameplay and lower ping. You can also ensure no other PCs are eating into your bandwidth and lowering your PC’s performance.

Reset Windows Connection Settings

If all else fails, consider resetting your Windows 10 network. Doing so will re-install the software and drivers that determine how your network connection functions. Performing a network reset should help resolve several network connection issues, including high ping. You'll have to re-enter your network information after the reboot, but it can be worth the trouble. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Fix an Authentication Error in Minecraft How to Fix It When Windows 11 Is Slow How to View Windows Uptime in Windows 10 Why Your Computer is So Slow and 16 Ways to Fix It Internet Speed Test Sites (Last Updated October 2022) How to Disable Startup Programs on Windows 10 How to Fix Netflix Error Code NW-2-5 on Any Device Windows 11 Search Not Working? Try These Fixes How to Fix It When Windows Spotlight Is Not Working on Windows 10 How to Fix an IPv6 No Network Access Error How to Fix High CPU Usage in Windows 11 Task Manager (What It Is & How to Use It) How to Improve Startup Time in Windows 10 How to Check Computer Specs Does Windows 10 Need Antivirus Protection? How to Fix It When Copy and Paste Isn't Working in Windows 10/11 Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies