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this Sony PlayStation 5 is an amazing console with next-gen graphics that can compete with high-end gaming PCs.
The problem is that next-gen graphics mean a huge installation size. Sadly, modern gaming means that even if you buy a physical copy of the game, you may need to download gigabytes of data.
Some sample game install sizes:
- Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War Cross gen Bundle/Ultimate Edition – 283 GB minimum
- Spider-Man Miles Morales Ultimate Edition – at least 170 GB
- Hitman 3 – at least 105 GB
- Destiny 2 – 101 GB minimum
- The Last of Us 2 – 93 GB minimum
Once you’ve installed the game, if it’s an online game, you’ll need a high-quality connection to minimize lag and improve your gaming performance.
If you rely on a WiFi connection and have good fiber internet, chances are you won’t get the best speeds from your ISP.
It should only take 26 minutes to download 100GB on my 500Mb Virgin connection (100000 / (500/8)), but if my WiFi is only connected at 50Mb, that’s 4 hours and 20 minutes.
WiFi 5 vs WiFi 6
The PS5 has WiFI 6, so a full 500Mb connection is theoretically possible, but for many, it’s unlikely.
Best WiFi speed I’ve usually seen on the web Wireless Router Almost 900Mbs next to my PC when transferring files between my PC and the server. When I’m outside a room (through a brick wall), I can usually connect at about 600Mbs. A few things outside the room quickly fell.
With WiFi 5, these numbers are usually around 600Mbs and 400Mbs, which is the case with a high-quality WiFi router. The router provided by your ISP may not perform well.
How to fix bad WiFi on my PS5
If you want the fastest download speeds, there are a few things you can try that can fix your WiFi easily, but chances are you’ll have to buy new hardware or make some more complicated changes.
Reset WiFi settings/restart router and PS5
For one-time or intermittent problems, it can be turned on and off again using ancient IT solutions.
It’s a simple solution that can solve a surprising number of problems.
Optimize router placement
This might not be the easiest solution, but it’s certainly the most obvious. Placing the router closer to the console will improve reception.
You’re unlikely to change the room your router is in, but simple things like putting it in the open air will improve the signal. Do not hide the router in a cabinet or behind a TV.
Optimize router and PS5 settings
The router should automatically choose the best channel to broadcast the signal, but when I look at the router, it’s not uncommon for me to have to mess with the channels to get the best performance.
Using a mobile app like WiFi Analyzer, you can see all routers broadcasting WiFi signals and which channels are the most congested.
Generally, in the UK you are better off sticking to 36-48. These UNII-1 channels are designed for indoor/home use. You can also try higher channel counts, but these can run into various issues with DFS and the router needs to scan the radar regularly.
You can also try setting up a DNS server, the server provided by your default ISP may be slow.
Options include:
- Google:
- Cloudflare:
- Turn on DNS:
- Quad9 DNS:
Skip WiFi and use wired
Ditching WiFi and using Ethernet is certainly your best option, but likely the hardest to implement. If your router is in the same room as the PS5, I highly recommend doing everything possible to connect it.
Assuming you don’t want to drill holes in things, the easiest option I’ve found is a thin or flat ethernet cable that runs along the sides of the room under the carpet.
I know someone who ran it up the corner and up the length of the ceiling. With a little paint, you can usually hide things pretty easily.
It’s not easy or pretty, but it’s cheap and probably the most efficient solution.
try the power line
Move to more expensive solutions. If you have decent quality home wiring, a powerline might be an option. This uses the cables in your home to transmit data.
You’ll never get the speeds they claim, so you’ll want to get the highest possible rating:
- TP-Link TL-PA717 – Gigabit class for under £30
- TP-Link TL-PA8033P – AV1300 rated with plug pass-through and multiple ethernet outputs, £60
- Devolo Magic 2-2400 Lan Powerline Starter Kit – Fastest yet, rated at 2400 Mbps, but also most expensive, £115
In older homes (like mine) the power lines may be compromised and you may want to buy a kit from an easy-to-return location so you can try it out.
Invest in a Mesh WiFi System
The most expensive solution is to invest Mesh WiFi 6 System. These work by letting multiple WiFI devices connect to each other wirelessly and can significantly improve WiFi throughout the home.
You can choose these reasonably, but if you want the best possible performance, you’ll want a tri-band system.
- Tenda MW12-3 – This isn’t actually WiFi 6, but it’s the cheapest tri-band system I can find and should work just fine.
- Netgear Orbi RBK753 – This is a three-pack, tri-band WiFi 6 system. I have the router where your internet comes in, a PS5 with its satellite physically connected to ethernet, and then a satellite located equidistant from the other two devices (which is also handy).
Last updated on May 2, 2022 / Affiliate Links / Image from Amazon Product Advertising API
