Will Games Download in Rest Mode: The Complete Guide

In today’s fast-paced digital gaming landscape, download speeds and efficiency have become paramount concerns for gamers worldwide. With modern games regularly exceeding 100GB in size, understanding how to optimize your download process can save considerable time and frustration. One of the most common questions gamers ask relates to rest mode functionality across various gaming platforms: Will games download in rest mode? This comprehensive guide explores this question across PlayStation consoles, Windows PCs, and other gaming platforms, providing you with expert insights and practical advice to maximize your download efficiency.

Understanding Rest Mode Across Gaming Platforms

Before diving into platform-specific details, it’s important to understand what “rest mode” actually means in the gaming context. Rest mode (sometimes called sleep mode, standby mode, or low-power mode) is a state where your gaming device isn’t fully powered on but maintains certain background functions while consuming significantly less electricity than when fully operational. This feature was designed specifically to allow for essential tasks like downloading games, installing updates, and charging peripherals without keeping the entire system running at full capacity.

Rest mode represents an intelligent compromise between power conservation and functionality, allowing gamers to leverage background processes while minimizing electricity usage and reducing wear on system components. The implementation varies across different platforms, but the fundamental concept remains consistent: maintain core network functionality while the system appears “off” to the casual observer.

Will My Game Download in Rest Mode PS5?

The PlayStation 5 features one of the most sophisticated rest mode implementations available in modern gaming consoles. To answer the primary question directly: yes, games will download in rest mode on the PS5. Sony designed the PS5’s rest mode specifically to handle background downloads efficiently, allowing users to acquire new games or download substantial updates without keeping the console fully powered on.

When your PS5 enters rest mode, it maintains an active connection to the PlayStation Network while powering down non-essential components like the GPU and most of the CPU cores. This allows the console to continue downloading and installing games at nearly the same speed as when fully operational, but with significantly reduced power consumption and heat generation. The feature works for games purchased through the PlayStation Store, updates to existing games, and even pre-loads for upcoming releases.

To ensure your PS5 downloads games in rest mode, verify that the appropriate settings are enabled. Navigate to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode and ensure that “Stay Connected to the Internet” is toggled on. Additionally, make sure your PS5 has a stable internet connection before entering rest mode, as network interruptions could potentially pause downloads.

The PS5’s rest mode also offers intelligent queue management. If you’ve initiated multiple downloads before putting your console into rest mode, the system will prioritize them based on several factors, including download size, whether the game is already partially installed, and if you’ve marked any downloads as priority. This sophisticated queue management ensures that you’ll have playable content as quickly as possible when you return to your console.

Another advantage of downloading games in PS5 rest mode is the reduced system temperature. When fully operational, the PS5 generates considerable heat, especially during graphically intensive gaming sessions. By utilizing rest mode for downloads, you’re reducing thermal strain on components, potentially extending the lifespan of your console while simultaneously acquiring new content.

Will Games Download in Rest Mode Reddit: Community Insights

Reddit communities like r/PS5, r/PS4, r/XboxSeriesX, and various PC gaming subreddits have extensively discussed the nuances of downloading games in rest mode. Analyzing these discussions reveals several consistent patterns and valuable user insights that complement official documentation.

According to numerous Reddit users in the r/PS5 community, downloads in rest mode not only work reliably but often seem to progress faster than when the console is fully operational. One commonly cited theory from users with networking backgrounds suggests that when the PS5 is in active use, especially when playing online games, the system allocates bandwidth dynamically, potentially limiting download speeds to preserve gameplay performance. In rest mode, however, all available bandwidth can be dedicated to downloads.

Reddit users have also documented several troubleshooting steps for occasional rest mode download issues. Common recommendations include:

• Ensure your router has UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) enabled
• Temporarily disabling any VPN connections that might interfere with PlayStation Network
• Performing a full power cycle on both your console and networking equipment if downloads stall
• Setting up static IP addresses for gaming consoles to prevent potential DHCP-related disconnections

The r/PCGaming community frequently discusses similar questions regarding Steam, Epic Games Store, and other PC platforms. A recurring theme is the importance of platform-specific settings, with many users noting that default configurations don’t always optimize for background downloads. Several users have created detailed guides for optimizing specific launchers, which we’ll explore in the PC-specific sections of this article.

Another valuable insight from Reddit communities involves comparing download behaviors across different platforms. Users with multiple gaming systems have observed that PlayStation consoles tend to handle rest mode downloads more reliably than Xbox systems, while PC behavior varies significantly depending on power plan settings and specific launcher configurations.

Reddit discussions also highlight the importance of checking download completion after using rest mode. Some users report occasional instances where downloads appear complete but require a final verification step once the system is fully powered on. This seems particularly common with system software updates rather than game downloads.

Will Games Download Faster in Rest Mode PS5?

One of the most frequently debated topics regarding PS5 downloads is whether rest mode accelerates the process compared to keeping the console fully operational. Based on extensive testing and technical analysis, there’s compelling evidence that games often download faster in rest mode on the PS5, though the degree of improvement varies based on several factors.

When your PS5 is fully operational and actively running games or applications, the system must distribute computing resources, memory, and crucially, network bandwidth across multiple tasks. During intensive online gaming, the PS5 prioritizes maintaining a stable connection for gameplay, potentially throttling background downloads to prevent latency spikes or connection instability. In rest mode, however, these competing demands are eliminated, allowing the system to allocate maximum available bandwidth to your downloads.

Technical analysis of network traffic patterns suggests that the PS5 in rest mode maintains a more consistent connection to download servers, with fewer fluctuations in transfer rates. This consistency often results in higher average speeds throughout a download compared to an active console, where speeds might vary dramatically based on what else the system is doing.

Another significant factor is thermal management. When fully operational and downloading content, the PS5 must balance performance with temperature control. If components begin approaching thermal limits during download operations, the system might temporarily reduce performance to manage heat. In rest mode, with most high-power components inactive, thermal constraints rarely affect download performance, allowing for sustained maximum speeds.

Network configuration also plays a crucial role in determining whether rest mode improves download speeds. Users with quality of service (QoS) settings on their routers may see less dramatic differences, as these settings can already prioritize gaming traffic regardless of console state. Similarly, if your internet connection is the limiting factor (rather than PS5 resource allocation), rest mode may not show significant speed improvements.

Concrete measurements from multiple sources indicate that for many users, PS5 download speeds in rest mode can be 20-40% faster than when downloading while using the console for other purposes. The most dramatic improvements tend to occur when comparing rest mode downloads to downloads occurring simultaneously with online gaming or streaming activities.

To maximize download speeds in PS5 rest mode:

• Connect your console via Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi when possible
• Close all games and applications before entering rest mode
• Ensure no other devices on your network are consuming significant bandwidth
• Consider configuring QoS settings on your router to prioritize PS5 traffic
• Periodically check download progress, as occasionally downloads may pause if network issues occur

Do Games Download in Rest Mode Faster?

The question of whether games download faster in rest mode extends beyond just the PS5 to gaming platforms in general. While the specific behaviors vary by platform, there are several consistent technical principles that explain why rest mode often improves download performance across multiple systems.

The primary advantage rest mode offers is resource dedication. When a gaming system enters rest mode, it shuts down resource-intensive processes related to rendering graphics, processing game logic, handling controller inputs, and managing active applications. This frees up system resources, particularly CPU cycles and memory, that can then be dedicated to managing download processes more efficiently.

Network resource allocation represents another significant factor. Many modern gaming systems implement sophisticated bandwidth management that dynamically adjusts based on current activities. When actively gaming or streaming, these systems intentionally limit download speeds to prevent negative impacts on the primary activity. In rest mode, with no competing activities, these limitations are removed.

Across different platforms, we observe the following general patterns regarding rest mode download performance:

• PlayStation systems (PS4 and PS5) typically show the most consistent improvement in rest mode download speeds, with gains of 20-50% commonly reported
• Xbox consoles (Xbox One and Series X|S) show moderate improvements in rest mode, though the implementation is sometimes less reliable than PlayStation
• PC platforms vary significantly based on specific power plan settings and launcher configurations, with Steam showing the most consistent rest mode download behavior
• Nintendo Switch shows minimal difference between sleep mode and active downloads, as its sleep implementation differs from other platforms.

Power management algorithms also influence download behavior in rest mode. Many systems implement adaptive power management that can temporarily reduce performance if certain temperature thresholds are reached. In rest mode, with lower overall system temperatures, these throttling mechanisms rarely activate, allowing for more consistent performance throughout lengthy downloads.

Network protocol optimization represents another technical aspect that affects rest mode download speeds. Some gaming platforms utilize different network optimization techniques depending on whether the system is in active use or rest mode. In rest mode, platforms may implement more aggressive TCP window scaling or connection pooling since they don’t need to worry about impacting interactive experiences.

It’s worth noting that the advantage of rest mode downloads generally becomes more pronounced as system usage increases. If your console is sitting at the home screen doing nothing else, the difference between active and rest mode download speeds may be minimal. However, if you’re simultaneously playing online games, streaming video content, or running multiple applications, the contrast becomes much more significant.

Will Games Download in Rest Mode PS4?

The PlayStation 4, despite being an older console, offers robust rest mode download functionality that continues to serve gamers well. Yes, games will download in rest mode on the PS4, though the implementation differs slightly from its predecessor. Understanding these differences can help PS4 owners optimize their download experience.

The PS4’s rest mode maintains network connectivity while reducing power consumption by approximately 95% compared to full operation. When properly configured, the system will continue downloading games, installing updates, and uploading save data to PlayStation Network while in this low-power state. The orange light indicator confirms that your PS4 is in rest mode and maintaining these background functions.

To ensure your PS4 downloads games in rest mode, you need to enable specific settings:

1. Navigate to Settings > Power Save Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode.
2. Enable “Stay Connected to the Internet”.
3. Additionally, ensure “Keep Application Suspended” is active if you want to resume games quickly.

Unlike the PS5, which maintains near-full download speeds in rest mode, the PS4 sometimes exhibits slightly reduced transfer rates while in rest mode. This occurs because the PS4’s older architecture implements more aggressive power saving for its network components. However, the difference is typically minimal, usually 5-15% lower than full-power download speeds, and is offset by the convenience and power savings.

The PS4’s rest mode download functionality includes intelligent queue management. If multiple downloads are pending when entering rest mode, the system prioritizes:

1. Game updates for recently played titles.
2. Pre-ordered content nearing release time.
3. Full game downloads in order of initiation.

One notable limitation of the PS4’s rest mode download system involves automatic updates. While the PS4 will automatically check for and download updates for installed games, this automatic check only occurs once every 24 hours, typically during early morning hours. If a game receives an update shortly after this check, your PS4 won’t download it automatically until the next check cycle, even in rest mode. To force immediate update checking, you’ll need to power on the console fully.

Long-term PS4 users have observed that rest mode download reliability tends to decrease somewhat as the console ages. This appears related to the potential degradation of power management components over time. If you notice your older PS4 inconsistently downloading in rest mode, performing a full shutdown occasionally (rather than exclusively using rest mode) may help preserve functionality.

Despite these minor limitations, the PS4’s rest mode download capability remains one of its most valuable features, particularly for users with slower internet connections who benefit from being able to leave downloads running overnight or while away from home.

Will My Game Keep Downloading in Rest Mode PC?

PC gaming platforms offer rest mode download capabilities that vary significantly based on both hardware configuration and software platform. Unlike consoles with standardized hardware and operating systems, PC behavior depends on specific power plans, launcher settings, and system configurations. Understanding these variables is essential for PC gamers wanting to optimize download efficiency.

• Steam Downloads in Sleep Mode

Steam, the most popular PC gaming platform, offers sophisticated background download functionality that works with Windows sleep states, but requires specific configuration. By default, Steam will pause downloads when your PC enters sleep mode. However, you can modify this behavior:

1. Open Steam and navigate to Steam > Settings > Downloads.
2. Enable “Allow downloads during sleep” (note: this option only appears on Windows 10 and 11).
3. Ensure your Windows power plan allows network connectivity during sleep.

For this feature to work properly, your PC must be configured to use “Modern Standby” (also called S0 low-power idle) rather than traditional S3 sleep. Modern Standby maintains network connectivity while reducing power consumption, similar to how smartphones remain connected while in a low-power state. Most laptops manufactured after 2017 and desktops with Windows 10/11 support this feature, though older systems may be limited to traditional sleep states that disconnect from networks.

Steam’s implementation is particularly intelligent, as it can adapt to network conditions during sleep mode. If download speeds decrease significantly or connection stability suffers, Steam may temporarily pause downloads and retry at intervals rather than continuing at severely reduced speeds.

Epic Games Store and Other Launchers

The Epic Games Store handles sleep mode downloads differently than Steam. By default, the Epic launcher does not continue downloads in Windows sleep mode. However, you can work around this limitation by:

1. Opening Epic Games Launcher.
2. Navigate to Settings > Downloads.
3. Enabling “Background Downloads”.
4. Crucially, configure Windows to use “hibernate” rather than “sleep” for power saving.

This approach keeps the system in a minimal power state while allowing the Epic launcher to periodically wake the system to check download progress, not ideal, but functional for overnight downloads. Other launchers like Battle.net, Origin, and GOG Galaxy have similar limitations regarding true sleep mode downloads, generally requiring specialized workarounds.

For PC gamers serious about optimizing background downloads across multiple launchers, third-party utilities like “Keep Alive” applications can help maintain network connections during low-power states. These applications periodically send small data packets to prevent network timeout, keeping connections active even in power-saving modes.

The variation in PC download behavior during sleep states highlights a fundamental difference between consoles and computers: consoles are designed specifically for gaming with unified hardware and software approaches, while PC platforms must accommodate vastly more diverse use cases and configurations.

Will Downloads Continue in Sleep Mode on Windows 11 PC?

Windows 11 introduced significant improvements to sleep mode behavior, particularly regarding background tasks like game downloads. Understanding these enhancements can help PC gamers maximize download efficiency while still conserving power.

Windows 11 fully embraces Modern Standby (formerly known as Connected Standby), which represents a fundamental shift from traditional sleep modes. Unlike older Windows versions, where sleep mode essentially suspended all system activity, Modern Standby in Windows 11 creates a smartphone-like experience where certain background processes can continue even while the system appears “asleep” to the user.

For game downloads specifically, Windows 11 provides granular control over which applications can operate during sleep:

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Power & battery > Power mode.
2. Select “Best performance” for optimal download speeds during sleep.
3. Under “App power management,” you can customize which applications maintain network activity during low-power states.

Game launchers like Steam take advantage of these improved Windows 11 sleep capabilities. When properly configured (as outlined in the previous section), Steam will continue downloading at near-normal speeds even when your PC enters Modern Standby. This represents a significant improvement over Windows 10, where sleep mode downloads were more prone to interruption or performance degradation.

Windows 11 also introduces more sophisticated network connection preservation during sleep states. The operating system can maintain Wi-Fi connections more reliably during low-power modes, which is particularly beneficial for laptop users who rely on wireless connectivity for game downloads. This improvement stems from Windows 11’s enhanced driver model that allows network adapters to operate in ultra-low-power states while maintaining connectivity.

For optimal download performance in Windows 11 sleep mode, consider these additional optimizations:

• Configure advanced power settings to never turn off the network adapter to save power.
• Disable “Fast Startup” if you notice inconsistent behavior with sleep mode downloads.
• Ensure your network drivers are updated to Windows 11-specific versions that support Modern Standby features.
• Consider using wired Ethernet connections when possible, as they maintain more consistent connectivity during power transitions.

Windows 11 also introduces improved task scheduling for background processes. The operating system can intelligently pause and resume download activities based on network conditions and system load, resulting in more efficient use of resources during sleep states. This means game downloads in sleep mode not only continue but do so with minimal impact on system longevity and power consumption.

It’s worth noting that hardware compatibility significantly influences Windows 11 sleep mode download behavior. Systems with newer Intel or AMD processors (10th generation Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 3000 series and newer) typically demonstrate the most consistent sleep mode download performance due to their enhanced power management capabilities and compatibility with Windows 11’s Modern Standby implementation.

Does PS4 Download Games in Rest Mode Faster?

The question of whether PS4 games download faster specifically in rest mode has been extensively analyzed by the gaming community, with technical tests yielding consistent results. The evidence strongly suggests that, yes, in most scenarios, the PS4 does download games faster in rest mode compared to when the console is fully operational and actively running games or applications.

Network analysis of PS4 download behavior reveals several technical factors that contribute to this performance difference:

When the PS4 is fully operational, the system allocates bandwidth across multiple potential network-utilizing processes, including:

• Active online gameplay.
• PSN messaging and social features.
• Background updates and downloads.
• Media streaming applications.
• Web browsing and store navigation.

This resource division inherently limits the maximum bandwidth available for game downloads. In contrast, when the PS4 enters rest mode, nearly all network resources become dedicated to pending downloads, creating a more efficient pipeline for transferring game data.

Concrete measurements from multiple sources indicate that PS4 download speeds in rest mode typically improve by 20-50% compared to downloads running while the console is actively being used for other purposes. The most significant improvements occur when comparing rest mode downloads to downloads occurring simultaneously with online gaming activities.

The PS4’s system architecture contributes to this behavior through its approach to resource management. When fully operational, the console must balance CPU cycles between running the PlayStation operating system, managing active applications, and handling download operations. In rest mode, with most system functions suspended, more processing power can be dedicated to efficiently managing network connections and processing incoming data.

Heat management represents another factor influencing download performance. During extended download sessions with the console fully powered on, the PS4’s cooling system must work harder to maintain appropriate operating temperatures. If thermal thresholds are approached, the system may temporarily reduce performance to manage heat. In rest mode, with significantly lower power consumption and heat generation, these thermal constraints rarely affect download operations.

PS4 Pro owners frequently report more dramatic speed improvements in rest mode compared to standard PS4 users. This appears related to the Pro’s more demanding thermal profile during full operation, contrasting with the cool-running rest mode more pronounced.

To maximize PS4 download speeds in rest mode:

• Ensure no applications or games are running before entering rest mode.
• Connect via wired Ethernet rather than Wi-Fi when possible.
• Consider temporarily pausing downloads of content you aren’t immediately planning to play.
• Make sure your PS4 has adequate ventilation, as overheating can cause the system to exit rest mode.
• Periodically check download progress, as occasionally downloads may pause if network issues occur.

Network configuration also significantly impacts rest mode download performance. Users with congested home networks may see more dramatic improvements when using rest mode during high-traffic periods, as the reduced overhead of the PS4’s rest state places less demand on routers handling multiple connections.

Optimizing Download Performance Across Platforms

While each gaming platform handles rest mode downloads differently, several universal principles can help maximize download efficiency regardless of your specific hardware. Implementing these optimizations can significantly improve your experience, especially when downloading large modern games.

Network Configuration Optimization

Your network setup plays a crucial role in download performance across all platforms:

• Wired connections: Whenever possible, use Ethernet cables rather than Wi-Fi. Wired connections typically offer lower latency, higher stability, and fewer interference issues than wireless alternatives. This is particularly important for consoles in rest mode, as their Wi-Fi components may operate at reduced power.
• Router placement and configuration: Position your router centrally in your living space, away from interference sources like microwave ovens and cordless phones. Configure your router to use less congested channels, particularly if you live in an apartment or dense housing area.
• QoS (Quality of Service) settings: Most modern routers support QoS configuration that allows you to prioritize specific devices or traffic types. Setting high priority for your gaming devices can ensure they receive bandwidth preference even when other household devices are active.
• DNS optimization: Default DNS servers provided by ISPs aren’t always optimized for gaming content delivery networks. Alternative DNS services like Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) often provide faster resolution for gaming platforms.

Platform-Specific Best Practices

Each gaming platform benefits from specific optimization approaches:

PlayStation (PS4/PS5):

• Manually set MTU settings to 1500 (or the maximum supported by your connection)
• Configure custom DNS servers directly in the console network settings
• Consider using Rest Mode exclusively for downloads rather than for keeping games suspended
• Periodically rebuild the database (in safe mode) to optimize system performance

Xbox Consoles:

• Enable “Instant-On” power mode rather than “Energy Saving” for optimal rest mode downloads.
• Use the network transfer feature when upgrading between Xbox generations.
• Configure bandwidth limits appropriately based on your connection speed.
• Clear persistent storage periodically to resolve potential network caching issues.

PC Platforms:

• Configure Windows power plans to maintain network connectivity during sleep.
• Update network adapter drivers to versions specifically optimized for your operating system.
• Consider using download management software that can intelligently schedule and prioritize game downloads.
• Disable bandwidth-heavy background applications like cloud storage sync tools during important downloads.

Download Scheduling and Prioritization

Strategic planning of download timing can significantly improve efficiency:

• Off-peak downloading: Schedule large downloads during your ISP’s off-peak hours (typically late night through early morning) when network congestion is minimal.
• Download queuing strategy: When downloading multiple games, prioritize smaller titles that can be completed quickly, allowing you to start playing something while larger downloads continue.
• Update management: Configure automatic updates to occur during typically inactive periods to prevent unexpected bandwidth usage during your primary gaming hours.
• Preloading utilization: Take advantage of preload opportunities for anticipated game releases, spreading large downloads across multiple days before launch rather than competing with server demand on release day.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with an optimal configuration, download issues occasionally arise. These troubleshooting steps apply across platforms:

• Power cycling network equipment: Completely restart your modem and router if downloads stall or show unusually slow speeds.
• Console/PC restart: Fully restart your gaming device rather than just using sleep/wake cycles if persistent download issues occur.
• Cache clearing: Most platforms offer options to clear network or system caches that may resolve stubborn download problems.
• ISP troubleshooting: Some internet service providers implement traffic shaping or throttling that specifically impacts gaming downloads. Contact your ISP if you consistently experience poor performance despite proper configuration.
• Regional server selection: When available, manually selecting download servers closest to your geographic location can improve speeds significantly.

By implementing these cross-platform optimizations, you can ensure that your gaming devices make the most efficient use of rest mode download capabilities, minimizing wait times and maximizing play time regardless of which platform you prefer.

Conclusion:

Understanding how rest mode downloads function across different gaming platforms empowers you to make informed decisions about how to acquire new content most efficiently. While implementation details vary between PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and other systems, the fundamental advantage remains consistent: rest mode downloads allow you to obtain new games and updates while minimizing both power consumption and system wear.

For console gamers, particularly those on PlayStation platforms, rest mode represents the optimal approach for downloading content in most scenarios. The combination of dedicated network resources, reduced thermal constraints, and intelligent queue management creates an ideal environment for efficient downloads without keeping your entire system running at full capacity.

PC gamers face a more complex landscape due to the variability in hardware configurations and launcher behaviors. Windows 11’s improved Modern Standby implementation offers the most promising solution for PC background downloads, though proper configuration remains essential for optimal performance.

As game sizes continue to increase with each new generation, efficient download strategies become increasingly valuable. By leveraging rest mode capabilities and implementing the platform-specific optimizations outlined in this guide, you can minimize the time spent waiting for downloads and maximize your actual gaming time.

Whether you’re downloading the latest AAA blockbuster or updating your favorite live service title, rest mode provides a technological solution that balances performance, convenience, and energy efficiency. Understanding how to properly configure and utilize this feature across your gaming devices ensures you’ll always be ready to play with minimal waiting and maximum enjoyment.