Valorant players often encounter a frustrating issue where game downloads or updates get stuck at an excruciatingly slow 0.1 KB/s speed. This problem can prevent you from enjoying the latest game content or even launching Valorant altogether. Let’s explore several effective methods to resolve this issue and get your game up to date.
Method 1: Restart the Riot Client
Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing the slow download speed.
Step 1: Close the Riot Client completely. Ensure it’s not running in the background by checking your system tray.
Step 2: Reopen the Riot Client and start the Valorant update again. Monitor the download speed to see if it improves.
Method 2: Optimize Your Internet Connection
A stable, high-speed internet connection is crucial for downloading game updates efficiently.
Step 1: Run an internet speed test to verify your connection is performing as expected.
Step 2: If possible, switch to a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for improved stability.
Step 3: Disconnect other devices from your network to free up bandwidth for the Valorant update.
Step 4: Restart your modem and router to clear any network issues:
- Unplug both devices from power.
- Wait at least 30 seconds.
- Plug in the modem and wait for it to fully restart.
- Then plug in the router and wait for it to establish a connection.
Method 3: Close Bandwidth-Intensive Applications
Other programs running in the background can slow down your Valorant download by consuming valuable bandwidth.
Step 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2: In the “Processes” tab, look for applications that might be using a lot of network resources, such as:
- Web browsers with multiple tabs open.
- Streaming services (Netflix, YouTube, Spotify).
- Other game launchers or updaters.
- File-sharing programs.
Step 3: Right-click on these applications and select “End task” to close them.
Step 4: Restart the Valorant update and check if the download speed improves.
Method 4: Switch to Google DNS
Changing your DNS settings can sometimes resolve connectivity issues affecting download speeds.
Step 1: Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
Step 2: Right-click on your active network connection and select “Properties”.
Step 3: Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties”.
Step 4: Choose “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter:
- Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
Step 5: Click “OK” to save changes, then restart the Riot Client and try updating Valorant again.
Method 5: Set Riot Client Priority to High
Adjusting the priority of the Riot Client can allocate more system resources to the update process.
Step 1: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
Step 2: Locate “RiotClientServices.exe” in the Processes tab.
Step 3: Right-click on it and select “Go to details”.
Step 4: In the Details tab, right-click on “RiotClientServices.exe” again.
Step 5: Choose “Set priority” > “High”.
Step 6: Restart the Valorant update to see if the download speed improves.
Method 6: Allow Riot Client Through Your Firewall
Your firewall might be interfering with the Valorant download process. Adding an exception can resolve this issue.
Step 1: Open Windows Security (type “Windows Security” in the Start menu).
Step 2: Click on “Firewall & network protection”.
Step 3: Select “Allow an app through firewall”.
Step 4: Click “Change settings” and then “Allow another app”.
Step 5: Browse to the Riot Client installation folder and select the executable.
Step 6: Ensure both “Private” and “Public” networks are checked for the Riot Client.
Step 7: Click “OK” to save changes and try updating Valorant again.
If you’ve tried these methods and are still experiencing issues, consider reaching out to Riot Games support for further assistance. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting steps or identify any ongoing server-side problems affecting your ability to update Valorant.