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Ethernet Spiking in Task Manager: Fix Ping Spikes in 8 Steps
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6 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Ping (or latency) spikes are one of the main causes of lag in multiplayer games. Many users switch to Ethernet connections because they’re less susceptible to ping spiking.
So, if you require answers about Task Manager Ethernet spikes, the insights and solutions described below will help.
Why is my Ethernet spiking in Task Manager?
There are a lot of reasons why you experience Ethernet spikes in Task Manager, and we will highlight the most important ones:
Here is how to stop Ethernet spikes on Windows 10, or at least reduce random Ethernet ping spikes for games and software.
How do I fix ping spikes on Ethernet?
Before getting to the main solutions to fix Task Manager Ethernet send and receive problems, there are a few things you can do to improve the situation:
If you’ve crosschecked the prerequisite measure above, this comprehensive guide will help you learn how to stop ping spikes on Ethernet with simple steps.
1. Update your network drivers
Updating network adapters with outdated or faulty drivers might at least mitigate Ethernet lag spiking. Driver updater software provides the most convenient way to update PC device drivers.
A driver updater utility will instantly show you what devices need new drivers and enable you to quickly update them.
Besides this very useful element, thebest driver updater softwarewill prevent any sort of problems with missing drivers, as it will automatically install and update them as needed.
2. Change to Google DNS
1. First, click theStartbutton and chooseSettingsfrom the menu.
2.Next, selectNetwork & Internetto open the tab in the screenshot below.
- ClickonChange adapteroptions to open theNetwork Connections Control Panelapplet.
4.Double-click your Ethernet connection.
-
SelectInternet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)and press thePropertiesbutton.
-
Next, select theUse the following DNS server addressesradio button.
7.Enter8.8.8.8within thePreferred DNS serverbox and8.8.4.4for theAlternative DNS serverbox.
- Click theOKbutton and close the window.
If you’re experiencing ethernet spiking issues and you’re using an automatically selected DNS server address, you should change to Google’s DNS.
Google has a safe public DNS Server that offers reliable latency and should fix your internet issues.
3. Select the WPA2-PSK [AES] protocol
This procedure is different for any manufacturer and router, but if you have difficulties, we gave a dedicated article onhow to access your router’s page.
4. Close bandwidth-hogging background programs
This setting might be the reason whyWindows can’t get the network settings from the router.
5. Use a VPN
VPN servers often provide more stable network performance even during peak periods. For that reason, we recommend NordVPN, which is among the most high-rated VPN services. Ourfix gaming lag postprovides further details about how you can reduce ping spiking with NordVPN.
NordVPN packs in all the features you would expect from a quality VPN service, plus a bit more besides. It supports a variety of protocols, such as OpenVPN, L2TP, IPSec, and PPTP. Furthermore, this software also utilizes the next-generation AES-256-GCM VPN encryption algorithm.
Other useful NordVPN features
NordVPN
6. Reset the network settings using Command Prompt
7. Reset Windows 10’s network settings
We have a complete guide onhow to reset network settings in Windows 10that will provide more information.
8. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall
It’s recommended that you only temporarily turn off the firewall to reduce Ethernet spiking for gaming. Turn the firewall back on when not playing games.
If you have a third-party antivirus utility installed, that might also incorporate its own firewall. So, temporarily disable its shield whilst gaming. To do so, right-click the system tray icon for your antivirus software and select a disable or turn off the context menu option.
You might also be interested in our guide on how to fix network congestion because that might also influence the Task Manager Ethernet performance.
We also have a dedicated guide on thebest LAN VPNto use while gaming.
Those are some of the best ways to fix Ethernet lag spikes. If your Ethernet spiking is especially severe, however, consider contacting your ISP.
Your ISP can check for network issues causing the spiking and give you guidance for enhancing your connection quality.
Even more, this guide on what to do ifEthernet is not workingis worthy of your attention. Take a closer look and let u know which solution worked for you in the comments area below.
More about the topics:Ethernet,internet connection errors
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
