Low‑Latency Gaming Setup
Stability beats raw bandwidth. Use the steps below to deliver consistent ping.
Connection priorities
- Ethernet > Wi‑Fi. If Wi‑Fi is required, use 5/6 GHz and keep AP close.
- Avoid powerline/Wi‑Fi extenders for competitive play.
- Disable VPNs and background sync during matches.
Router configuration
- Enable SQM (Cake or FQ‑Codel). Set shaper to ~90–95% of real bandwidth.
- Optional: prioritize your console/PC MAC address in QoS.
- Update firmware; reboot if you notice creeping instability.
Wi‑Fi tuning (if wireless)
- Prefer non‑DFS 5 GHz channels to avoid radar-induced moves; drop to 40 MHz if neighbors overlap.
- Separate SSIDs for 2.4 and 5/6 GHz to steer clients.
- Target signal: −60 dBm or better at your play spot.
PC/Console tips
- Close launchers/downloading apps (Steam, Battle.net, cloud drives).
- Update NIC/Wi‑Fi drivers and game patches ahead of sessions.
- Choose servers in your region; avoid cross‑region queues.
Test routine
- Run a baseline latency test (idle).
- Start a controlled download/upload in the background.
- Tune SQM or Wi‑Fi; re‑test until spikes are minimal.