Microsoft finally wants to fix Xbox download problems

Fluctuating rates, overloaded servers and frozen updates often plague Xbox users. Microsoft is now intervening with a smart download client. The system changes the route dynamically, speeding up the installation of new titles.

Smart server choice for Xbox

Microsoft is testing a new feature for Xbox consoles that will speed up downloads and installations. After starting a download, an intelligent download client checks in the background which content servers are available and selects the fastest connection. The system continuously measures the speed of various server pools. The selection is checked regularly throughout the download. This is to avoid leaving a console on a slow or overloaded server when conditions change.

According to a report by Windows Central The change doesn’t just affect consoles. The update is also intended to improve general stability. A bug that could cause app and game updates to get stuck shortly before completion has been fixed.

PCs and handhelds benefit

The feature is currently available to Xbox Insider Program members in the Alpha Skip Ahead ring. According to the report, in tests with the handheld ROG Xbox Ally X and the shooter Halo Campaign Evolved, the available bandwidth was consistently exhausted. The adjustment should also have an effect on Windows PCs. Consoles traditionally download game data in packages that are unpacked and installed directly. This puts a strain on the processor. The new server selection starts earlier and optimizes the provision of data at the network level. Despite the improvements, local bottlenecks remain. If WiFi or internet connection slows you down, even the fastest server won’t help. For large downloads, a LAN connection is often the better choice.