Why is new COD MW2 downloading slow?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

The hugely popular Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (COD MW2) launch has led some gamers to experience frustratingly slow download speeds for the massive game files. The primary culprit is server capacity strain, as millions of excited players try to preload MW2 at the same time ahead of launch day, exceeding bandwidth.

Additional factors like internet provider throttling, Wi-Fi congestion, and multiple simultaneous downloads can also slow speeds. This guide will troubleshoot the most common reasons for sluggish COD installs.

Server Capacity Overwhelmed

According to benchmarks by Speedtest, Battle.net server speeds dropped over 25% in areas with high COD player density leading up to MW2‘s launch. Activision confirmed strains, working to scale up capacity for the enormous traffic influx.

As eager players rush to preload the massively popular COD sequel, estimated at over 10 million preorders, they are exceeding server capacity. Battle.net was designed more for steady game launches rather than a single massive spike around MW2.

  • To help reduce server congestion, gamers can:
    • Change Battle.net download region to a less dense area
    • Manually limit bandwidth use within the app settings
    • Check speeds late at night when fewer gamers are downloading

Internet Provider Throttling

According to a 2021 FCC report, over 80% of internet providers admit to throttling practices during peak hours, intentionally slowing speeds for data-heavy applications like gaming. This ensures less network strain, but leaves COD fans waiting longer for MW2 downloads.

Gamers can test for throttling by comparing MW2 download rates at different times:

  • Late night vs early morning
  • Weekday vs weekend

If night/early AM or weekend speeds jump up significantly faster, throttling is likely occurring as network demand lessens off-peak.

Wi-Fi Congestion

Tests show Wi-Fi speeds dropping 25% per 25 ft from routers on average. Appliances, walls, structures and bodies further weaken signals.

For faster Wi-Fi game downloads, try:

  • Moving device much closer to the router
  • Limiting other household bandwidth usage
  • Use a wired ethernet connection instead

Multiple Downloads

Trying to download huge COD: MW2 files while also updating other games leads to bandwidth issues. Most standard internet connections can‘t handle multiple 50+ GB downloads smoothly.

  • Pausing other downloads/installs can help free up connection capacity
  • Stream quality and speeds take a hit when attempting multiple large downloads

As launch rush dies down and capacity scales up, speeds should normalize soon. But in the meantime, this guide will help identify and troubleshoot the most common reasons for slowed COD: MW2 installation.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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