Troubleshooting Lag

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For the purposes of this article lag is defined as network latency interfering with gameplay - it is recommended that you review the Troubleshooting Gameplay and Performance topic first to ensure that your machine is optimized for gaming before reviewing the steps below to reduce lag while playing online.

Check Server Latency

If you are attempting to connect to a server that is geographically distant or if you are not using a high-speed connection it is important to check the server's Latency (this will appear to the right of the window in the server browser).

Latency represents the amount of time it takes information to reach the server from your machine - higher latency means a greater likelihood of lag.

Examine Background Applications and Running Processes

Background applications - especially programs which require bandwidth (chat clients, FTP programs, web browsers, etc) - may contribute to choppy gameplay, a low framerate, and other symptoms of lag.

It is recommended that you disable any unnecessary background applications before loading Steam. If you need instructions to disable these background processes, please see the Disabling Background Applications topic.

Optimize Router Settings and Environment

It is important to maintain an appropriate environment for your router and other electronics. Ideally, your router should be in a well-ventilated area where it will not overheat. Overheating routers have been reported to cause network connectivity issues and symptoms of lag.

In addition to ensuring your router is operating at optimum levels, it may be useful to forward gaming-related ports to your machine if you are the only user on your home network who will be playing Steam games. Please see the Troubleshooting Network Connectivity topic for more information on the necessary ports for Steam operation.

Experiment with Client Rates

The Client Rate setting determines how many packets the game server sends to your machine to keep it synchronized - if this rate is set too high you may be missing some of the game data (which will cause lag).

Please see the Setting Client Rates topic if you would like more information on experimenting with your Client Rate setting to determine if a lower rate will reduce lag over your connection.