Tweaking Windows Settings for Optimal Network Performance
Despite having the internet speed you pay for, network issues such as latency, lag spikes, and throttled download speed can persist. Fortunately, you can resolve most of these problems by optimizing Windows settings.
Settings and Control Panel
– Disable power management for network adapters to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
– Set Power Saving Mode to “Maximum Performance” for USB or wireless network devices.
– Enable “Metered connection” to prevent background network processes from using your bandwidth.
Command Prompt
– Execute the following commands in an elevated Command Prompt to improve network stability and latency:
– netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=normal
– netsh int tcp set global rss=enabled
– netsh int tcp set global chimney=enabled
Windows Registry
– (Caution: Back up Registry before making changes)
– Create DWORD keys with the following values in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesTcpipParametersInterfaces{Network Adapter GUID}:
– TcpAckFrequency: 1
– TCPNoDelay: 1
– TcpWindowSize: 65535
– In the same Registry key, create DWORD keys with the following values:
– TcpMaxDataRetransmissions: 5
– TcpMaxConnectRetransmissions: 3
Third-Party Applications
–
TCP Optimizer:
Simplistic tool for applying optimal network settings with one click.–
cFosSpeed:
Traffic shaper app that prioritizes low latency or high bandwidth based on your needs.–
NetOptimizer:
Similar to TCP Optimizer, offering additional optimization options.Group Policy Editor
– (For Windows Pro or Enterprise users)
– Set “Limit reservable bandwidth” to 0 in Group Policy Editor to prioritize personal apps over system updates.
By implementing these tweaks, you can drastically improve the speed and stability of your internet connection on Windows PCs. Note that changes may impact your system differently, so it’s advisable to create a restore point before proceeding.
