Ping / What It Is and How to Reduce It

1. What is Ping and What Does It Depend On

Ping (latency) is the time it takes for a data packet to travel "there and back" between your computer and the game server.

It depends on: the distance to the server, the bandwidth and quality of your internet provider's connection, the load and quality of the equipment along the route (router, switches), and the traffic load on your local network.

Important: Graphics settings in the game do not affect ping — they only impact the load on your GPU and CPU.

2. Ways to Reduce Ping

2.1 Host Your Own Public Server

Pros: You get almost zero latency.
Cons: The connection quality and your PC’s performance directly affect other players' experience.
Requirements: A stable internet connection with high upload and download speeds.

2.2 Ask a Nearby Friend to Host the Server

Pros: Minimal ping for you, provided your friend has a good connection.
Cons: Ping may be high for other players living farther away.

2.3 Rent a Cloud Server (VPS)

Advantage: Ability to choose a region closer to most players.
Tip: Compare prices and test the ping before making a payment.

2.4 Optimize Your Local Network

Use Ethernet instead of Wi‑Fi, update your network adapter drivers, disable background downloads and torrent clients during gameplay, configure QoS on your router, and prioritize game traffic.

3. Conclusion

Ping depends only on network-related factors: distance, channel quality, and routing equipment. Graphics settings will not reduce latency. Choose the optimal hosting method and keep your local network in good shape.