How to fix Fortnite lag in 2024

Fortnite lag has been a detriment to countless lost games for numerous players. Be it server issues, a poor internet connection, or unoptimized hardware, technical problems sometimes decide matches on their own. This is especially noticeable in a competitive environment where split-second decisions mean the difference between victory royale and defeat.

Freezes, latency spikes, or interference from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) at crucial moments like end circles can easily cost you the game. Nothing is more infuriating than lag eliminating you from a match you had been fully dominating up until that point. And in my opinion, there's nothing worse than losing due to problems beyond your power.

Thankfully, there are a few solutions that may help reduce Fortnite lag, including tried-and-true gaming VPNs. By tunneling your internet traffic and optimizing routes, a VPN can give you more stable connections and improve your speeds by eliminating ISP throttling.

In this article, we will uncover the underlying reasons for Fortnite lag and give you 6 quick tips on how to avoid it. Plus, we’ll explain why online gaming with a VPN is beneficial and how to optimize your Fortnite experience on PCs, consoles, and mobile.

Why do you need a VPN to fix Fortnite lag?

Despite its immense popularity, Fortnite continues to struggle with server issues from the sheer number of concurrent players. Long login queues, lag, and other connection problems are just regular challenges arising from server congestion in certain regions.

Additionally, some ISPs are known to selectively slow down internet speeds if they see you doing network-intense tasks, such as gaming. Spying like this is a problem of its own, but it might also make Fortnite laggy without you even knowing it. As such, incorporating a competent gaming VPN into your daily play sessions can hide your activities and bypass this throttling entirely.

Adding to the network problems are also the players themselves. Fortnite hackers are known to use various network manipulation techniques like Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Hiding your true IP address with a VPN is a highly effective weapon against such disruptions for regular players and streamers alike.

Common reasons for Fortnite lag

A variety of potential culprits could be playing a role that makes Fortnite laggy. From issues like server performance problems, hardware-related concerns, or network factors, there are many reasons why latency is disrupting your gameplay experience. Some of the most common sources of Fortnite lag include:

• Wi-Fi issues. A poor Wi-Fi signal can lead to an unstable connection. Even though the wired connection is constantly recommended over the wireless, it’s not always an option considering some console and mobile players.
• ISP throttling. Sometimes ISPs may limit the bandwidth of your connection for specific types of activities, including gaming.
• DDoS attacks. While less common, some servers or high-profile players, like Fortnite streamers, may be subject to DDoS attacks, causing immense lag or downright disconnections.
• Background applications. Any programs running in the background can consume both system and network resources required for the game to run smoothly.
• Malware. Malicious software can degrade overall system performance. Some malware can also be an undetectable resource drainage devouring your hardware power and internet speeds.
• Server overload. Certain Fortnite regional servers have to deal with more players than others. Too many players connected to the same server can lead to lag for everyone involved.
• Geographical issues. Sometimes, being physically far from the game's server can result in latency.

Of course, where there’s a will, there’s a way and just as in Fortnite, these obstacles can be demolished. If you want to take matters into your own hands and bolster your gameplay experience right now, check out our best tips coming up next.

6 quick tips to fix lag on Fortnite

Fortnite is well known for its intense and fast-paced build fights and editing plays, so even minor lag can truly muddle the gameplay. However, savvy players can take proactive measures to smooth out their connection and combat Fortnite lag issues in the game. Try these before your next trip on the battle bus:

1. Wire up. A wired ethernet connection always provides faster, more stable speeds compared to Wi-Fi. If you’re playing on a PC or console, avoid wireless if you notice any inconsistent ping.
2. Close background apps. Downloads and programs like streaming apps consume copious amounts of bandwidth needed for smooth Fortnite gunplay. Shut them down before joining your next game.
3. Adjust game settings. Lowering graphics settings is a time-tested way to reduce hardware lag. Also, many Redditors recommend disabling the “cosmetic streaming” option to preload the game textures before the match and lessen the strain on your network during the match.
4. Driver update. Installing GPU driver updates can optimize performance, fix bugs, and improve overall game stability. To sport the latest software, check your GPU manufacturer’s site at least once a month.
5. Connect nearby. Matchmaking over long distances increases latency and lag. Connecting to VPN servers that are physically closer to the Fortnite servers noticeably minimizes ping times.
6. Shield Your Traffic. Some ISPs throttle internet speeds depending on their customers’ activities. Top-class VPNs prevent this through advanced encryption so your edits and builds aren’t slowed by your internet provider.

If your current VPN doesn’t have enough gas or you don’t use one yet, it’s a perfect time to try a proven solution. At this very moment, you can try NordVPN with a 7-day free trial and continue onward with a 74% discount.

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Best VPNs to fix Fortnite lag – overview

1. NordVPN – best Fortnite VPN to fix lag issues
2. Surfshark – Fortnite VPN for unlimited devices
3. TotalVPN – cheap and secure VPN for Fortnite

In our search for the top VPN to reduce lag in Fortnite, we went through the 23 most popular services out there. After extensive analysis of their speeds, stability, and feature packages, we selected the Top 3 for our final circle.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN to lower Fortnite lag

NordVPN is hands down the best VPN to deal with frustrating Fortnite lag and game-breaking disconnects. In fact, it’s one of the fastest VPNs on the market due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol. On top of that, it offers 7000+ RAM-only servers in 118+ countries, so you can always find speedy servers for that silky-smooth Fortnite gameplay.

Going with NordVPN will also equip you with AES-256 encryption, which is necessary for avoiding any speed throttling thrown in by your ISP. Moreover, since Fortnite is not particularly VPN-friendly, NordVPN’s obfuscated servers will help you hide any VPN activity from Epic Games’ snoopy eyes. Finally, NordVPN is extremely flexible and supports every platform you can play Fortnite on, including PCs, smartphones, and even gaming consoles through router configuration.

NordVPN already offers excellent value as it is, but getting discounts up to 74% using current NordVPN promo codes is even better. You can also try it risk-free with a 7-day free trial from the Google Play Store, and continue across all your devices. Every subscription is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you've got nothing to lose!

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – Fortnite VPN with loads of speedy servers

Surfshark is a top VPN choice if you’re looking to fix Fortnite lag for your entire team. With Unlimited simultaneous connections and fast WireGuard connectivity, Surfshark ensures top performance for you and all your friends. The use of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) further enhances stability and speed by routing all VPN traffic through a tight network instead of a single VPN tunnel.

Surfshark's huge network web of 3200+ servers across 100+ countries provides ample options to always find a server near you. You can also utilize dedicated IP servers for more consistent connections without the fear of connecting to a server with a blacklisted IP address. Surfshark's Camouflage Mode can also eliminate any traces of your VPN, so Fortnite can't even detect you're using one.

With its wallet-friendly pricing, this Fortnite VPN is already an excellent pick. However, you can go lower if you keep an eye out for the current Surfshark deals to further save 86% on your next subscription. Also, you can test out the service with zero risk by taking advantage of the 30-day money-return guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. TotalVPN – security-focused VPN for Fortnite

For Fortnite enthusiasts seeking the most budget-friendly VPN, TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN is a practical choice that gets the job done. With 50+ servers in 35 countries, TotalVPN may not boast the largest selection, but it offers stable connections thanks to ol’ reliable OpenVPN protocol. Notably, there are noticeable speed drops if you’re connecting to servers far away, but it maintains solid connections if you stay close to your yard.

You also get adequate security features, such as AES-256 encryption to avoid ISP throttling. Additionally, you can use either a manual or an automatic kill switch that keeps your IP safe if the VPN connection suddenly drops. Solid for streaming and torrenting

If you want decent performance without overspending, TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN is a sensible pick. Though not the fastest or most advanced VPN, it still provides a solid bang for your buck. The best thing is that you don’t have to take a shot in the dark if you take a chance to try the service with a 7-day free trial. After that, you can continue your test drive further with the backing of a 30-day refund policy.

For a deeper investigation of TotalVPN, read our TotalVPN review.

Why is Fortnite laggy on different platforms?

One of the greatest things about Fortnite is its wide availability on a whole range of different platforms. Whether you're on a Windows or Mac PC, maybe rocking the newest PlayStation or Xbox, or just a mobile gamer battling it out on your smartphone, Fortnite is available everywhere. However, lag can still rear its head on all these devices.

Let's take a quick look at what causes lag on different platforms and discover some effective fixes.

Why is Fortnite lagging on a PC?

Like with any other online video game, Fortnite lag on PC could be caused by a number of different issues. This could include problems with either your system, its settings, or your connection to the internet. Some of the most common problems are:

• High graphics settings. Running Fortnite with high graphics settings can destroy your framerate. To fix this, lower the in-game graphics settings or upgrade your PC.
• Outdated graphics drivers. Outdated graphics drivers can cause lag and overall instability. Ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date by visiting the manufacturer's website and downloading the latest drivers.
• Background applications. Running too many background applications consumes system resources. Close all unnecessary programs and background processes before launching Fortnite to free up resources.
• ISP throttling. If you notice poorer-than-usual network connectivity, particularly while playing online games, then your ISP is definitely meddling with your internet speeds. Avoid it by using a secure VPN with advanced encryption to conceal your internet traffic.

Why is Fortnite lagging on PS5 or Xbox Series consoles?

Even the newest and most powerful gaming systems are not immune to the occasional bout of lag. While gaming consoles are made for the plug’n’play experience and don’t have many settings to play with, there are quite a few potholes that you can fix:

• Overheating. Excessive heat can cause thermal throttling and lag on PlayStation and Xbox consoles. Make sure your console is well-ventilated and free from dust. If problems persist, try using external cooling solutions.
• Outdated firmware. Running outdated firmware can lead to various performance issues. Keep your console's firmware up to date by regularly checking for system updates in the settings menu.
• Storage space. A lack of free storage space can slow down your console. Delete unnecessary games or files to free up space.
• Network latency. High network latency can result in lag. Connect your console directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. For even better connectivity, try using a reliable Fortnite VPN on your router for optimal connections.

Why is Fortnite lagging on iOS and Android phones?

Despite the convenience and accessibility of gaming on mobile devices, lag can still be a frustrating issue, even on smartphones. In this case, due to an exorbitant amount of different iOS and Android devices on the market, it’s hard to optimize the game well for all of them. A few reasons why Fortnite might stutter on your gadget may include:

• Insufficient RAM. Having too many apps running in the background can eat up already quite limited mobile RAM resources. Close unnecessary apps or consider upgrading to a smartphone with more RAM.
• Outdated OS. Using an outdated operating system can cause compatibility issues and lag. Keep your smartphone's operating system up to date by installing the latest updates provided by the manufacturer.
• Storage limitations. Running out of storage space on your smartphone can impact its overall performance. Regularly delete unused apps and files to free up storage or expand your storage capacity with a microSD card if your device supports it.
• Slow internet. Poor network connectivity can result in high ping and lag during online gameplay. Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection, and consider using Wi-Fi instead of mobile data for gaming whenever possible. Using a reliable VPN optimized for low latency can also help reduce lag in online games.

Fortnite is still laggy with a VPN: solutions

While VPNs are incredibly useful tools, there are moments when you might feel like you could still squeeze a bit more performance. Fortunately, there are effective solutions to enhance their functionality in mere moments. Let's explore some strategies for boosting your VPN’s performance:

• Switch servers. Just like a congested Fortnite server, the VPN server you’re connected to may be overcrowded. A quick switch is usually enough to be back on track. Be sure to choose a server closer to your actual location for better ping.
• Update VPN software. Outdated VPNs can lead to inconsistent connections over time. Make sure the latest patch is installed to let it run like a well-oiled machine. If problems persist, a full reinstall of your VPN may be needed.
• Plug the leaks. Although VPN use is not illegal, it still goes against Epic Games’ TOS. A leaking DNS or IP address can rat you out, so test your connection with a tool like ipleak.net before logging into the game. Additionally, use a VPN with stealth capabilities, like obfuscated servers, to hide any traces of your VPN usage.
• Reinstall router drivers. The TAP drivers of your router can degrade over multiple VPN installations. A clean reinstall of the drivers is normally an effective remedy.

Of course, depending on the VPN of your choice, there could be even more ways. If you’re really after the 100% performance numbers, contacting support professionals could be the next best choice. Top VPN providers, such as NordVPN, offer round-the-clock customer support, so don’t hesitate to reach out for a helping hand.

Can I use a free VPN to fix Fortnite lag?

To be completely honest, rather than risking your data and performance, I first recommend opting for reputable VPNs with free trials instead. Top providers also offer money-back guarantees to let you try their software with no limits for a month or even longer. Combining both of these opportunities will let you experience the best there is completely free for over a month.

We generally don’t recommend costless VPN services as they usually limit connection speeds and place strict data caps. These poor performance issues can, in fact, worsen Fortnite lag dramatically instead of solving any issues. Also, data limits may unexpectedly disconnect you mid-match once the monthly data quota is reached.

Furthermore, going free can also raise risks for your online security and privacy. Many less-known free VPN providers make their money by logging and reselling users' private browsing data. On top of that, VPNs of this caliber don’t have appropriate security measures in place to either secure your connection or protect you from malware.

Try NordVPN risk-free today

Conclusion

Playing Fortnite is no fun when all you can look at is a stuttering mess caused by high ping and unbearable lag. Overcrowded servers, annoying DDoS attacks, and meddling ISPs regularly interrupt matches resulting in lag spikes and dropouts during intense build-offs. These flaky connections can ruin the flow of the game or, even worse, make it practically unplayable.

Fortunately, employing a few tricks and a reliable VPN can tremendously reduce Fortnite lag and high ping issues. If you’re looking for a proven solution, then a high-performance gaming VPN, such as NordVPN, can level up your Fortnite experience in just a few clicks. Throughout our tests, it rose up as the top choice for the best speeds and stable connections, leading to that sweet Victory Royale.

Have you faced lag and high ping problems playing Fortnite? What are your best tips to deal with them? Let us know by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

Why is Fortnite being so laggy?

Numerous factors can lead to Fortnite lagging, with ISP throttling being the most prevalent issue. Additional causes for Fortnite lag include spotty internet connection, outdated GPU drivers, and more. Problems like ISP throttling can quickly be solved by encrypting your traffic with a VPN.

What VPN do Fortnite pros use?

NordVPN is widely regarded as one of the best VPNs for online gaming, including Fortnite. Even the biggest names in Fortnite, such as Ninja, use VPNs to ward off DDoS attacks while streaming. On top of that, VPNs are a great way to avoid ISPs slowing your internet speeds when gaming online.

Why is my Fortnite lagging even with good internet?

If your internet connection is pristine, hardware and software issues might be a leading cause of Fortnite lag. The most common reason for that could be unoptimized game settings, outdated software, and many more. Furthermore, Fortnite lag on different platforms requires different solutions.

Is it legal to use VPNs for Fortnite?

Using a VPN with Fortnite is perfectly legal. However, it still violates Epic Games’ Terms of Service. Being caught using a VPN can lead you to a warning and can later result in a permanent ban. Top gaming VPNs, like NordVPN, use various stealth features and cannot be detected by the likes of Epic Games.

Is 60 FPS good for Fortnite?

Yes, 60 frames per second is an optimal framerate for a competitive shooter like Fortnite. Unfortunately, optimal framerate doesn’t guarantee smooth Fortnite gameplay if there are any network issues. To mitigate any instabilities, it’s recommended to use a reliable Fortnite VPN while gaming online.