Why are updates so slow?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, we often expect everything to be instantaneous, including software updates. However, many users find themselves frustrated by the slow pace of Windows updates despite having a high-speed internet connection. If you have a 5G connection with average speeds of 20-30 Mbps, this can be especially disheartening. So, what exactly causes these lengthy update processes, and what can you do to improve the situation?

Bandwidth and Update Size

One of the primary reasons Windows updates can take longer than anticipated is due to the sheer size of the updates themselves. Windows updates are often several gigabytes in size, especially for major updates. Even with a 20-30 Mbps connection, it can take time to download these larger files. For instance, at 30 Mbps, you could theoretically download around 3.75 MB per second, which means a 1 GB file could take approximately 4.5 minutes to download, not accounting for fluctuations in speed or the time taken for installation.

Background Processes

Another factor contributing to slow updates is the number of background processes running on your computer during the update. Other applications may also be using your internet bandwidth, which can slow things down even more. If you tend to multitask while an update is in progress or have automatic updates enabled for other software, this can further strain your connection and slow down the update process.

Update Mechanism

Windows employs a complex updating mechanism that verifies files and performs system checks before installing updates. This process is crucial for ensuring system stability but can also contribute to longer update times. The system must check whether to install the update for various components, meaning substantial processing is required even after the files are downloaded.

Your Choice of DNS Settings

You mentioned trying Cloudflare’s WARP app, which aims to improve your internet’s speed and security by using a different DNS (Domain Name System) server. While WARP may provide better performance for different tasks, it can sometimes introduce latency for specific services or during certain periods. It’s essential to remember that DNS settings primarily affect web browsing speed rather than file downloads. If you’re experiencing reduced speed since trying WARP, consider reverting to your ISP’s default settings or testing other DNS options like Google Public DNS or OpenDNS.

Tips for Faster Updates

To help speed up your Windows updates, consider the following:

1. Schedule Updates: Update your computer during times when you are not using it actively. Scheduling updates for late at night or during weekends can minimize disruption and allow for uninterrupted downloading.
2. Limit Background Usage: Close unnecessary applications during the update process. This will free up bandwidth and processing power for the update.
3. Check Your Network Connection: Ensure your connection is stable. Sometimes, using an Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi can enhance reliability and speed.
4. Optimize Windows Settings: Ensure your Windows Update settings are optimized. You can limit the bandwidth used for updates or prioritize important updates.
5. Keep Your System Clean: Regularly clean your system from unnecessary files, which can speed up processing times for installations.

Though slow updates can be a source of frustration, understanding the underlying reasons can help temper expectations. By employing some simple strategies, you can enhance your experience and reduce the time spent waiting for Windows updates to complete.