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Why is My Xbox Series X Downloading So Slow? (Easy Solutions)

  • - Updated:

If you’ve ever wondered, “why is my Xbox Series X downloading so slow?” you’re not alone.

Slow download speeds can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to jump into a new game or update your library.

Several factors, including network issues, console settings, or even Xbox Live server problems, could be contributing to the delay. Understanding these potential causes and knowing how to fix them can help you get back to gaming faster.

METHODS:

  1. Close All Games & Apps
  2. Pause Other Downloads
  3. Test Network Connection
  4. Test Wi-Fi & Restart Router
  5. Change your Xbox’s DNS
  6. Port-Forward the Network
  7. Change the Wi-Fi Network
  8. Update Your Xbox Console
  9. Switch to Wired Connection
  10. Relocate Your Xbox Console

Why Is My Xbox Series X Downloading So Slow?

Note: Have you tried restarting the download process?

1. Close All Games & Apps

Method 1/10

When too many games/apps are running in the background, they can use up valuable bandwidth and slow down downloads on your Xbox Series X. Hence, closing these activities ensures that the console dedicates all resources to downloading the game or update, helping to boost the speed.

 

Follow these steps to close all games and apps on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
  2. Navigate to the Home screen by pressing B on your controller.
  3. Highlight the game or app currently running in the background.
  4. Press the Menu button on your controller to open the options.
  5. Then, select Quit to close the selected game or application.
  6. Repeat this process for any other open games or applications.
  7. Confirm that no active apps are running in the background.
The image shows how to quit games and apps when you're wondering why is my Xbox Series X downloading so slow.

Closing unnecessary apps and games can significantly speed up your downloads by freeing up bandwidth. If your downloads are still slow, explore other methods to optimize your connection or console settings.

2. Pause Other Downloads

Method 2/10

Multiple downloads running simultaneously can split your bandwidth, slowing each download significantly. Pausing other downloads on your Xbox Series X ensures that the current game or update gets maximum network priority, improving its speed.

 

Follow these steps to pause other downloads on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
  2. Navigate to My Games & Apps → See All.
  3. Select Manage → Queue to view downloads.
  4. Highlight the download you want to pause.
  5. Press the Menu button and Pause installation.
  6. Repeat for any additional downloads in progress.
The image is showing how to pause all downloads on Xbox Series X.

Pausing other downloads can help focus your console’s bandwidth on the current task, speeding up the process.

Reminder: Once the priority download is complete, you can resume the others!

3. Test Network Connection

Method 3/10

If you’re dealing with Xbox Series X slow downloading, a faulty or unstable internet connection could be the culprit. Testing your network connection helps identify any issues, such as weak signals or connectivity errors, that might be affecting your download speeds.

 

Follow these steps to test your network connection:

 

  1. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
  2. Navigate to Profile & System → Settings.
  3. Select Network and then, Network settings.
  4. Choose Test network connection to begin.
  5. Wait for the console to complete the test.
The image is showing how to test network connection on Xbox Series X.

Testing your network connection ensures your console has optimal internet performance. So, if issues are detected, troubleshooting or upgrading your network may boost the download speeds.

4. Test Wi-Fi & Restart Router

Method 4/10

A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection is often the reason for slow downloads on the Xbox Series X. Testing your Wi-Fi and restarting your router can help fix connectivity issues and improve overall download speeds.

4.1 Test Wi-Fi Signal Strength

  • First, press the Xbox button on the controller to open the Xbox guide.
  • Go to Profile & System → Settings → Network → Network settings.
  • Select Test Wi-Fi speed and statistics to evaluate your signal strength.
  • If the signal is weak, consider moving your console closer to the router.

4.2 Restart Your Wi-Fi Router

  • Unplug your router from the power source and wait for 30 seconds.
  • Plug it back in and wait for it to fully restart and ensure to turn it on.
  • Reconnect the Xbox Series X to the network and retry to download.
Restarting your router and testing your Wi-Fi can resolve most connection issues and significantly improve download performance.

Note: If problems persist, consider upgrading your router or switching to a wired connection!

5. Change the Xbox’s DNS

Method 5/10

Sometimes, the default DNS server provided by your internet service provider may not be the fastest or most reliable, leading to slower downloads. Changing the DNS settings on your Xbox Series X to a more optimized server can improve download speeds.

 

Follow these steps to change the DNS on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. First, navigate to Profile & System → Settings.
  2. Go to Network → Advanced → DNS settings.
  3. Choose Manual to enter custom DNS settings.
  4. For the Primary DNS, enter 208.67.222.222.
  5. For the Secondary DNS, enter 208.67.220.220.
  6. Save the settings and return to the main menu.
  7. Test network connection and try downloading.
The image is showing how to access the DNS settings when you're wondering why is my Xbox Series X downloading so slow.

Note: Changing your DNS to a faster server can help resolve download speed issues. If you don’t see an improvement, try additional troubleshooting methods.

6. Port-Forward Your Network

Method 6/10

Port forwarding ensures that your Xbox Series X can communicate effectively with Xbox Live servers, reducing slow download speeds caused by blocked or limited network traffic. Configuring port forwarding involves adjusting router settings to allow specific ports to be open for Xbox Live.

6.1 Identify Your Xbox IP Address

  • Press the Xbox button to open the guide, then go to Profile & System → Settings → Network → Advanced settings.
  • Write down the IP address listed under Network settings, as you’ll need it for port forwarding.

6.2 Access Your Router’s Settings

  • Open a web browser on your PC or phone and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  • Log in using your router’s admin username and password (admin/admin or admin/password).

6.3 Configure Port Forwarding

  • Locate the Port Forwarding or Port Triggering section in your router settings.

Add new entries for the following ports:

 

👉Port 88 (UDP)

👉Port 3074 (UDP and TCP)

👉Port 53 (UDP and TCP)

👉Port 80 (TCP)

👉Port 500 (UDP)

👉Port 3544 (UDP)

👉Port 4500 (UDP)

 

  • For each entry, assign the Xbox’s IP address as the target device.
  • Save your changes and restart the router.

Note: When something with the settings is not intact, the downloads will stop entirely!

7. Change the Wi-Fi Network

Method 7/10

If you’re experiencing Xbox Series X downloading slow, the issue might be due to your Wi-Fi frequency band. Switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks can optimize your connection depending on your environment. The 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but has a shorter range, while the 2.4 GHz band provides more extended coverage but slower speeds.

 

Follow these steps to change the Wi-Fi network on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. Press the Xbox button and then go to Profile & System → Settings.
  2. Navigate to Network → Network and select Set up wireless network.
  3. Choose your desired network frequency, either 2.4 GHz or the 5 GHz.
  4. Enter the Wi-Fi password if prompted and connect to the new network.
  5. Test your network connection to confirm improved download speeds.
The image is showing how to set up internet connection on Xbox Series X.

Switching Wi-Fi bands can address speed issues caused by interference or range limitations. If your connection is still slow, consider using a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable and faster download experience.

8. Update Your Xbox Console

Method 8/10

If you’re experiencing Xbox Series X slow download, it might be because your console is running outdated software. System updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes that can resolve download issues. Keeping your Xbox Series X up to date ensures that your console runs smoothly and efficiently, optimizing download speeds.

 

Follow these steps to check for and install updates on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
  2. Navigate to Profile & System → Settings.
  3. Next, you must select System → Updates.
  4. Choose Update Console if one is available.
  5. Wait for the update to download and install.
  6. Once completed, restart your Xbox Series X.
The image is showing how to update your console when you don't know why is my Xbox Series X downloading so slow.

Updating your Xbox Series X ensures that you have the latest performance enhancements, which can help address slow download speeds.

Note: If the problem persists, consider trying additional troubleshooting methods or adjusting your network settings.

9. Switch to Wired Connection

Method 9/10

If you’re dealing with Xbox Series X slow download, switching to a wired connection can significantly improve your download speeds. Wired Ethernet connections are generally faster and more stable than Wi-Fi, reducing the likelihood of interference and connection drops.

 

Follow these steps to switch to a wired connection on your Xbox Series X:

 

  1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your router’s LAN port.
  2. Connect the other end to the Ethernet port on your Xbox.
  3. Using the Xbox button, go to Profile & System → Settings.
  4. Then, you must navigate to Network → Network settings.
  5. Select Wired network from the available connection options.
  6. Wait for the console to confirm the wired connection and test.

Using a wired connection offers more consistent and reliable speeds, helping to resolve download issues. If you’re still facing slow downloads, consider troubleshooting your network further or checking for hardware-related issues.

10. Relocate Your Xbox Console

Method 10/10

If the Xbox Series X downloads slow, your console’s location might be affecting its Wi-Fi signal. Wi-Fi performance can be hindered by walls, large furniture, or other electronics that cause interference. Moving your Xbox Series X closer to your router or placing it in an open space can improve signal strength and speed up downloads.

 

Additionally, avoid placing your Xbox Series X near devices that may cause signal interference, such as microwaves, cordless phones, or baby monitors. Ensuring that your console is in a well-ventilated and interference-free spot will help maintain a stable connection and prevent slow download speeds.

Note: If your console is not having a good internet connection, we recommend trying Xbox Cloud Gaming!

Wrapping Up:

We’ve answered your question–why is my Xbox Series X downloading so slow? 

 

To fix this, start by switching to a wired connection, testing your network settings, and relocating your console to improve signal strength. Additionally, updating your console and optimizing your Wi-Fi can significantly boost download speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.

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Kaloyan Petrov

Hey, I'm Kaloyan Petrov, a seasoned gamer with over a decade of experience. Dive into my world of gaming on GameScopes, where I share insights into the latest releases, industry trends, and the vibrant gaming culture. Join me on a journey through the digital realm, as my firsthand experiences and reviews offer a unique perspective shaped by years of gaming expertise. Let's explore the gaming landscape together!
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