Grand Theft Auto VI: Experts share how to ensure your broadband is performing properly to avoid internet issues

The experts at Go.Compare broadband are encouraging gamers to check if their broadband is performing as well as it should ahead of the Grand Theft Auto VI release next week. That’s because slower speeds could result in longer download times and poorer loading speeds on other devices.

With reports suggesting a file size of over 200GB, downloading it onto consoles could take hours for those who aren’t on the fastest speeds. Some estimates suggest it could take 19 hours for those on slower speeds of only 25Mbps.* Downloading the game is also likely to take up a large amount of bandwidth, which could significantly slow down users’ other online devices.

Go.Compare’s experts are therefore encouraging gamers to check that they're receiving the broadband they're paying for ahead of release day. And they have shared the ways to rectify performance issues to prevent download delays and minimise disruption to their other internet activity.

Catherine Hiley, spokesperson at Go.Compare broadband, said: “After a very lengthy wait, Grand Theft Auto VI will be arriving soon and as expected, the game’s file size is extremely large. This means downloading it will take far longer than most other games and will likely slow down your internet usage on other devices, especially if you’re on slower speeds. If you want to play it on release day with minimal disruption, we’d recommend checking what broadband speeds you’re receiving and making sure they’re as fast as they should be.

“You can use the free online speed checker on our website or on your console to check what broadband speeds your devices are actually receiving. If they’re slower than they should be, it could be that your Wi-Fi signal isn’t strong enough to fully reach your console. Try moving your router closer to the console. Even raising your router off the ground onto a table or shelf can make a difference. And if possible, avoid placing it behind large pieces of furniture, which could partially block the signal. If you live in a large property, investing in a signal booster could help eliminate any broadband black spots and make sure your entire home is getting full signal."

Catherine added: “If your speeds are still slower than promised, consider contacting your provider about the issue. If they fail to resolve it after multiple attempts, you can leave for free and switch to a new provider. Although to do this, you’ll need to keep a record of all your speed tests and all the times you contacted them about the problem. You can find out more by reading our guide on how to complain about your broadband provider.

 “How you download the game can also help to minimise disruption to your other internet activity. The game is available to download now ahead of release. So if you’re on slower speeds, you could start downloading at the end of your day and leave your console on rest mode so that it downloads overnight. This way, it won’t disrupt your other internet usage throughout the day. You’ll just need to make sure auto downloads and rest mode downloads are enabled in your console’s settings to do this.”

Catherine also shared the following troubleshooting tips for slow broadband speeds:

• Restart your router and devices
• Disconnect or turn off any devices you’re not using
• Carry out any security updates needed on your devices and check for software updates
• Try plugging your device directly into the router with an ethernet cable
• Make sure your router is placed in a central location in your home, ideally off the ground and avoiding the kitchen or other rooms with many devices, as these can disrupt your connection
• Avoid placing your router behind large pieces of furniture, as well as reflective surfaces like mirrors

More tips for troubleshooting slow broadband speeds can be found on Go.Compare’s website, and further information about choosing a broadband package for gaming can be found here: https://www.gocompare.com/broadband/broadband-for-gaming/.

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