Waiting for your Valorant Download to finish can be frustrating — especially when your internet speed crawls along. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to speed up the download process without upgrading your internet plan. Whether you’re stuck with slow Wi-Fi or using mobile data, this step-by-step guide from FreedomX will help you optimize your PC, network, and settings to make your Valorant download as fast as possible.
Understanding the Valorant Download Process
Before learning how to speed it up, it’s important to understand how the Valorant Download actually works. When you start downloading through the Riot Client, the launcher connects to Riot’s servers to fetch compressed game files. These files are then extracted, verified, and installed on your system.
If your Valorant Download feels unusually slow, the issue might not be Riot’s servers — it’s often caused by your local internet setup, background apps, or limited system resources.
Check the Valorant Download Size
The total Valorant Download size in 2025 is around 30 GB, which includes the base game and necessary updates. Depending on your internet speed, this can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. On slow connections, optimizing every aspect of your setup can make a big difference.
Step-by-Step Ways to Speed Up Your Valorant Download
Step 1: Use a Wired Connection
The most effective way to improve your Valorant Download speed is to switch from Wi-Fi to Ethernet. A wired connection reduces latency, avoids signal drops, and provides a stable, uninterrupted stream of data from Riot’s servers.
If Ethernet isn’t an option, position your Wi-Fi router close to your PC, remove obstructions, and avoid interference from other devices.
Step 2: Pause Background Downloads and Updates
Background downloads — such as Windows updates, cloud syncing, or other game updates — can consume bandwidth. Before starting your Valorant Download, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and close any unnecessary programs or services using your network connection.
Also, check your browser tabs and disable auto-updating apps like Steam or Epic Games Launcher.
Step 3: Limit Other Devices on Your Network
If multiple users are streaming, gaming, or downloading on the same network, your Valorant Download will naturally slow down. Ask others to pause their online activities or schedule your download during low-traffic hours (such as late night or early morning).
You can also enable “Quality of Service (QoS)” settings in your router to prioritize the Riot Client over other devices.
Step 4: Adjust the Riot Client Settings
The Riot Client automatically manages your Valorant Download, but sometimes it can limit your bandwidth. Restarting the launcher or toggling pause/resume can help refresh the connection to Riot’s servers.
If the download remains slow, try these extra steps:
- Close the Riot Client completely and reopen it as Administrator.
- Make sure no firewall or antivirus software is blocking the connection.
- Restart your router to refresh your IP and connection route.
Step 5: Disable VPNs and Proxies
Using a VPN might seem like a good idea, but it often slows your Valorant Download by routing traffic through distant servers. Disable any VPN, proxy, or tunneling software before starting your download. Riot’s servers automatically choose the best route for your location — you’ll get faster speeds without interference.
Step 6: Temporarily Disable Windows Update Delivery Optimization
Windows sometimes uses your connection to share updates with other PCs, reducing available bandwidth. To disable it:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Advanced Options → Delivery Optimization.
- Turn off “Allow downloads from other PCs.”
This ensures your Valorant Download uses all available network resources.
Step 7: Clear Cache and Restart Your PC
If your Valorant Download stalls or freezes, clearing temporary files can fix it. Open the Windows “Run” menu (Win + R), type %temp%, and delete the temporary files. Then, restart your PC before relaunching the Riot Client.
Step 8: Choose the Right Download Time
Your Valorant Download speed often depends on your ISP’s network congestion. Downloading during peak hours (evenings) can be slower. The best times to download large games like Valorant are early mornings or late nights when fewer people are online.
Step 9: Update Network Drivers
Outdated network drivers can slow down your Valorant Download. To update them:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Network adapters.
- Right-click your adapter and choose Update driver.
An updated driver ensures maximum compatibility and stability during the download.
Valorant Download Speed Tips for Laptops
If you’re downloading Valorant on a laptop, there are extra tweaks you can make:
- Plug your laptop into power — power-saving modes can throttle download speeds.
- Keep your device cool and on a flat surface to prevent overheating.
- Disable battery optimization for the Riot Client to ensure full performance during the Valorant Download.
Common Valorant Download Issues and Fixes
Valorant Download Stuck at 0% or 99%
If your Valorant Download freezes, don’t panic. Restart your Riot Client, check your network connection, and run the installer as Administrator.
Valorant Download Error
When encountering download errors, clear the Riot Client cache. Go to C:\Users[YourName]\AppData\Local\Riot Games, delete the “Riot Client” folder, and try again.
Slow Valorant Download on Fast Internet
If your Valorant Download is slow despite a strong connection, try using Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). This can sometimes improve routing speed to Riot’s servers.
How Long Should the Valorant Download Take?
On average:
- Fast Internet (100 Mbps): 10–15 minutes
- Medium Speed (25 Mbps): 40–60 minutes
- Slow Internet (5 Mbps): 2–3 hours
Optimizing your setup can reduce the total Valorant Download time significantly, even on slower speeds.
Final Setup After the Valorant Download
Once the download completes, the Riot Client will automatically install the game and its anti-cheat system, Vanguard. Restart your PC, launch Valorant, and sign in to your Riot account. You’re now ready to enter the battlefield.
Conclusion
A slow internet connection doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying Riot’s tactical shooter. By following these proven steps, you can make your Valorant Download faster, smoother, and more reliable. Remember — small changes like using Ethernet, closing background apps, and adjusting settings can dramatically improve download times. At FreedomX, we believe every gamer deserves a seamless start, and with these tips, your Valorant Download will be complete in no time.
