how long does it take for fortnite to update

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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20-01-2025

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Fortnite updates are a regular part of the game experience, bringing new content, features, and fixes. But how long do these updates actually take? The answer isn't a simple number, as update times vary widely depending on several factors. This article breaks down what influences Fortnite update download and installation times, and offers tips to speed up the process.

Factors Affecting Fortnite Update Download Times

Several factors influence how long your Fortnite update takes to download and install:

• Update Size: Larger updates naturally take longer to download. Major season updates often involve gigabytes of data, significantly extending download times compared to smaller, hot-fix patches.

• Internet Speed: Your internet connection's speed is paramount. A fast, stable connection with high bandwidth dramatically reduces download time. Slower connections, especially those with high latency, will result in much longer waits.

• Hardware: While less of a factor for download speed, your console or PC's processing power influences the installation time. Older, less powerful hardware might take longer to unpack and install the update files.

• Server Load: Epic Games' servers handle millions of simultaneous downloads. High server load during peak hours or immediately following a major release can slow download and installation speeds for everyone.

• Download Location: The geographic location of your console or PC relative to Epic Games' servers also impacts download speed. Players further away from the nearest server will generally experience longer download times.

How Long Can I Expect to Wait?

It's impossible to give a precise time. However, we can offer some general ranges:

• Small Hotfixes: These usually take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on your internet speed.

• Mid-Season Updates: These can range from 30 minutes to several hours.

• Major Season Updates: These are the largest and can take anywhere from several hours to upwards of a full day, particularly on slower connections or during periods of high server load.

Tips to Speed Up Fortnite Updates

Several strategies can help you reduce update times:

• Improve Your Internet Connection: Consider upgrading your internet plan for faster speeds. Restart your router and modem to ensure optimal performance.

• Wired Connection: Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi. Wired connections generally offer greater stability and faster speeds.

• Pause Other Downloads/Streaming: Avoid downloading other files or streaming video while updating Fortnite. This frees up bandwidth and ensures your update gets priority.

• Update During Off-Peak Hours: Try updating during off-peak hours (late at night or early morning) when server load is typically lower.

Troubleshooting Slow Downloads

If you're experiencing unusually slow download speeds:

• Check Your Internet Connection: Run a speed test to ensure your connection is performing as expected.

• Restart Your Device and Router: A simple reboot can often resolve temporary network issues.

• Check for Server Issues: Look for news or social media posts from Epic Games indicating any server problems.

Conclusion

The time it takes to update Fortnite is variable. Factors like update size, internet speed, and server load all play a significant role. By understanding these factors and employing the tips mentioned above, you can minimize your wait time and get back to battling in no time. Remember, patience is key, especially during major season releases!