Conquering Lag: A Journalist’s Guide to Fixing High Ping in Marvel Rivals

Updated: 6th June 2025 3 min read

The thrilling superhero showdowns of Marvel Rivals can quickly turn into a frustrating, lag-ridden experience when high ping strikes. Teleporting enemies, missed shots, and unresponsive controls are a common lament among players as the game’s community expands. However, the good news for aspiring heroes is that most network woes can be significantly improved with a few proven strategies, allowing for smoother, more enjoyable gameplay.

Based on expert advice and widespread community solutions, here’s a comprehensive roundup of the best ways to combat high ping in Marvel Rivals.

Server Savvy: Choose Your Region Wisely

The most impactful first step is to ensure you’re battling on the server geographically closest to you. Marvel Rivals offers manual server selection in the pre-match lobby. Opting for the nearest server drastically reduces the data travel distance, thereby minimizing latency and stabilizing your ping.

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Embrace the Cable: Go Wired with Ethernet

Wireless connections, while convenient, are often less stable. Switching from Wi-Fi to a wired Ethernet connection is a universally recommended fix. Ethernet cables provide a more consistent and reliable connection, effectively curbing packet loss and the dreaded ping spikes that can ruin a match. If a direct cable run isn’t feasible, powerline adapters offer a viable alternative.

Network Reboot and Refresh

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. A quick reboot of your router and modem can resolve temporary connectivity glitches. For persistent issues, consider resetting your PC’s network settings and, if comfortable, updating your router’s firmware for optimal performance.

Clear the Cache: Flush Your DNS

For the more tech-savvy, flushing the DNS cache has proven successful for many players. This can be done by opening Command Prompt (CMD) and entering ipconfig /flushdns. This command clears outdated network data, potentially lowering your ping for several rounds. Repeat as needed if the issue reappears.

DNS Overhaul: Explore Public Servers

Consider switching to a faster public DNS server. Options like Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s (1.1.1.1) can sometimes improve your connection to game servers. This adjustment is made within your network adapter settings.

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Prioritize Performance: Close Background Apps

Before diving into a match, ensure Marvel Rivals has priority access to your internet connection. Shut down any unnecessary applications and devices that might be hogging bandwidth, such as streaming services or ongoing downloads.

In-Game and System Tweaks

  • Monitor Stats: Enable “Network Stats” in Marvel Rivals to keep a real-time eye on your ping and packet loss.
  • Graphics Check: If your PC is struggling, lower your graphics settings. Hardware bottlenecks can sometimes manifest as lag.
  • Driver Update: Crucially, ensure your network drivers are up to date.

Optimize Your Network with Specialized Tools

For persistent and stubborn ping issues, specialized gaming routers or software like Netduma’s R3 or GearUP Booster can be game-changers. These tools offer advanced features such as geo-filtering (to avoid distant servers), bandwidth prioritization, and in-depth diagnostics to stabilize your connection.

Gaming VPN: A Potential Solution

Some players have reported success with VPNs optimized for gaming. These services can sometimes route your traffic more efficiently, leading to reduced ping and packet loss, especially if your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is causing routing problems.

Check the Source: Server Status

Occasionally, the problem isn’t on your end. Check community forums or tools like DownDetector to see if Marvel Rivals’ servers are overloaded or experiencing widespread issues. If so, patience and waiting for server stability may be the only remedy.

Quick Fixes for High Ping in Marvel Rivals

SolutionEffectivenessHow-To
Select nearest serverHighIn-game settings
Use Ethernet connectionHighPlug in cable or use powerline adapter
Reboot router/modemMediumPower cycle devices
Flush DNS cacheMediumipconfig /flushdns in Command Prompt
Change DNS serversMediumSet in network adapter properties
Close background appsHighTask Manager/Activity Monitor
Update network driversMediumDevice Manager or manufacturer website
Try gaming VPNVariableChoose VPN with gaming servers
Monitor server statusVariableDownDetector, community forums

When All Else Fails

If you’ve diligently tried all the above strategies and still find yourself battling debilitating high ping, the root cause might lie with your ISP or Marvel Rivals’ servers. In such cases, it’s advisable to contact your internet provider to inquire about local outages or consider upgrading your internet plan for improved stability.

With these comprehensive strategies, most players can significantly reduce their ping and return to enjoying Marvel Rivals’ action-packed battles as they were meant to be – no superpowers required.

Written by:

Christian