My internet connection consistently measures above 140 Mbps on speed tests, but downloads on my Xbox are stuck around 4 Mbps. The Xbox is connected to the router with an Ethernet cable, and the only other device using the network is my daughter watching crochet videos on YouTube over Wi-Fi. What could be causing the huge difference in download speed?
3 Answers
If the Xbox network test reports normal speeds, changing DNS probably will not make a dramatic difference. The download server, network congestion, or the console processing and installing the files may be the bottleneck. Pausing other downloads and closing running games can sometimes help.
Make sure the cable is firmly connected to the router and try replacing it even if it appears to work. A damaged or older cable can negotiate a slower connection. Also check whether the Xbox is showing Mbps or MB/s, since those are different units.
First, run the network test directly from the Xbox settings and compare it with the download speed shown while installing a game. If the Xbox's own speed test is also slow, check the Ethernet cable, try another cable rated Cat 5e or better, and test a different router port. If the Xbox test is fast but a game download is slow, the problem is more likely server-side, temporary congestion, or the game being installed rather than your home connection.
It helps to check both cases separately. A general speed test can look fine while a particular game server is limiting the download.