Question
Issue: How to fix GOG Galaxy slow download speed in Windows?
I seldom use the GOG platform to purchase games, but sometimes I do grab a few whenever I see a good discount or when I want to buy something that's not available on Steam. Once I launched GOG Galaxy, I was told there was a new version available, so I updated it. After purchasing the game, I started its download, but I've noticed that the download speed is around five times slower than my usual one, and it is taking forever. Any tips on this, please?
Solved Answer
GOG Galaxy is a digital distribution platform developed by GOG (formerly known as Good Old Games – a subsidiary of known Polish studio CD Projekt Red). This platform has carved a niche for itself in the vast gaming market by offering DRM-free releases, which means users can play games without any digital rights management restrictions.
Another attractive feature of GOG Galaxy is its capability to consolidate game libraries from different platforms, ensuring users can access their entire collection from one application. Furthermore, it provides a haven for older games that are not readily available on other platforms, reviving nostalgic gaming experiences for users.
However, despite these unique selling points, the platform is not without its issues. One recurring concern cited by some users is slow download speeds on the GOG Galaxy platform. Interestingly, this issue might not be universally present: while it plagues the GOG Galaxy application for some, the GOG web page might work flawlessly for others.
The speed of downloads on gaming platforms is a multifaceted concern. A platform's servers, the user's internet connection, and even the physical distance from the server can influence download rates. Just as some Steam users occasionally report reduced download speeds, GOG Galaxy users have also encountered this problem. It is not uncommon to find complaints about download speeds dropping to as low as 10Mbit/s, which is significantly slower than what many users are accustomed to.
Several factors could contribute to these diminished speeds. The server's load, at a given time, might be overwhelming, causing it to prioritize certain requests over others. A user's personal internet service might be experiencing interruptions or throttling. Additionally, software conflicts or specific settings in one's PC could impede optimal download speeds.
While pinpointing the exact cause of the slow download might require some diagnostic work, there are potential solutions. Adjusting the platform settings, ensuring a stable internet connection, or troubleshooting software issues can help. For those facing technical challenges on a Windows PC, the FortectMac Washing Machine X9 PC repair tool can be a valuable asset, simplifying the resolution process.
Fix 1. Run Network troubleshooter
The network troubleshooter is a built-in Windows tool designed to diagnose and resolve common connectivity problems.
- Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet section.
- On the right side, find the Advanced network settings section.
- Click Network troubleshooter and wait.
- The fixes will be automatically applied.
Fix 2. Use the GOG web version
The GOG web version can be an alternative to the application and may not have the same download speed issues.
- Open your preferred web browser.
- Visit the official GOG website.
- Log into your account by clicking Sign in at the top.
- Download your desired game directly from the website.
Fix 3. Allow GOG Galaxy through the Firewall
Windows Firewall can sometimes block certain applications from accessing the internet. Allowing GOG Galaxy through can resolve connection issues.
- Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
- Go to System and Security and click on Windows Defender Firewall.
- On the left side of the window, click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click Change settings (if you are not on an administrator account, you will be asked to enter a password).
- Scroll down and enable Private and Public access to the following entries:
GalaxyClient Helper application
GalaxyClientSertvice
GOG Galaxy - If any of these entries are missing, click Allow another app > browse the location of GOG installation > Add.
- Finally, click OK.
Fix 4. Clear GOG Galaxy cache
Clearing the cache can resolve any potential conflicts or corruption that may slow down downloads.
- Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
- Navigate to the following location (make sure the hidden files are visible):
C:\ProgramData\GOG.com\Galaxy\webcache - Delete contents here.
Fix 5. Temporarily disable third-party anti-virus
Some anti-virus software can interfere with application downloads. Temporarily disabling it may improve speed.
- Open your third-party anti-virus application.
- Locate the option to disable or pause protection (this varies by software).
- Choose to disable protection temporarily.
- After downloading, remember to enable your anti-virus again.
Fix 6. Reset your internet connection
Refreshing your internet connection can resolve any temporary connectivity issues.
- Type cmd in Windows search.
- Right-click on the Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator.
- Copy and paste each of the following commands, pressing Enter every time:
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /registerdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset - Restart your PC.
Fix 7. Use alternative DNS settings
Switching to a different DNS can sometimes improve internet performance. Google, for example, provides free DNS for everyone willing to use it.
- Right-click on Start and select Settings.
- Go to Network and Internet section.
- Click on Change adapter options.
- Right-click on your internet connection and pick Properties.
- Click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) once and go to Properties
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses option and set your DNS to Google's:
Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 - Click OK.
Fix 8. Reinstall GOG
A fresh installation can resolve any corrupted files or conflicts.
- Type Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
- Go to Programs > Uninstall a program.
- From the list, locate GOG Galaxy.
- Right-click and select Uninstall, then follow the prompts to finish the process.
- Restart your PC and reinstall the app from the official website.
Repair your Errors automatically
ugetfix.com team is trying to do its best to help users find the best solutions for eliminating their errors. If you don't want to struggle with manual repair techniques, please use the automatic software. All recommended products have been tested and approved by our professionals. Tools that you can use to fix your error are listed bellow:
Protect your online privacy with a VPN client
A VPN is crucial when it comes to user privacy. Online trackers such as cookies can not only be used by social media platforms and other websites but also your Internet Service Provider and the government. Even if you apply the most secure settings via your web browser, you can still be tracked via apps that are connected to the internet. Besides, privacy-focused browsers like Tor is are not an optimal choice due to diminished connection speeds. The best solution for your ultimate privacy is Private Internet Access – be anonymous and secure online.
Data recovery tools can prevent permanent file loss
Data recovery software is one of the options that could help you recover your files. Once you delete a file, it does not vanish into thin air – it remains on your system as long as no new data is written on top of it. Data Recovery Pro is recovery software that searchers for working copies of deleted files within your hard drive. By using the tool, you can prevent loss of valuable documents, school work, personal pictures, and other crucial files.
Ugnius Kiguolis is the founder and editor-in-chief of UGetFix. He is a professional security specialist and malware analyst who has been working in IT industry for over 20 years.
