Fortnite is one of the most popular battle royale games today, and keeping it up to date is essential for accessing new content, skins, and features. Whether you’re a veteran player or a newcomer, learning how to update Fortnite is crucial to ensure smooth gameplay and the best experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to update this game on different platforms like PS5/4, Mac, and Windows, and give you tips to make the process faster.
Why Updating Fortnite Is Important
Every new update in Fortnite brings essential improvements like bug fixes, new content, and gameplay tweaks that keep the game exciting and fresh. Not only do updates add new features like skins and weapons, but they also fix performance issues and security vulnerabilities that could affect your gaming experience.
Therefore, learning how to update Fortnite is key to staying ahead in the game and enjoying the latest features.
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How to Manually Update Fortnite on Different Platforms
Here’s how to manually update Fortnite on different platforms.
Manually Update Fortnite on PS5/4
If you play Fortnite on the PlayStation 5 or PlayStation 4, updating the game is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. On the PS5/PS4 home screen, use the directional buttons to highlight the Fortnite game icon.
2. On your controller, press the Options button (on the right side, near the touchpad or menu button).
3. Select “Check for Update”. If an update is available, it will automatically begin downloading and installing.
4. Wait for the update to complete. The download time depends on the update size and your internet speed. Make sure your console stays on or in Rest Mode to complete the download.
Tip: You can also use a VPN on your PS5 to protect your IP address and data from being leaked in Fortnite.
Manually Update Fortnite on Windows and macOS
Fortnite on Windows and Mac is managed through the Epic Games Launcher. Follow these steps to ensure your game is up to date:
Step 1. Open the Epic Games launcher. Launch it from your desktop or Applications folder.
Step 2. Check auto-update settings. In the launcher, click your profile icon > Settings. Under the Fortnite section, make sure Allow Auto-Updates is enabled.
Step 3. Manually update Fortnite. Go to Library, find Fortnite, click the three dots next to the title, and select Update if available.
Step 4. Wait for the update. Progress will appear in the launcher. Once complete, launch Fortnite to play.
How to Enable Automatic Updates for Fortnite
Keeping Fortnite up to date ensures you always have the latest features, balance changes, and bug fixes. Most platforms support automatic updates, but you may need to enable them manually in your system settings. Here’s how to do it on popular platforms:
PlayStation (PS5 / PS4)
- Go to Settings on your console.
- Select Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
- Choose Automatic Updates.
- Turn on Auto-Download and Install for applications.
- Make sure your console is in Rest Mode (optional) to allow background updates.
Tip: Enabling automatic updates ensures Fortnite updates without you having to check manually.
Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One
- Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
- Go to Profile & System > Settings > System.
- Choose Updates.
- Enable Keep my games & apps up to date.
Fortnite will now update automatically whenever new patches are released.
Windows (Epic Games Launcher)
- Open the Epic Games Launcher.
- Click your profile icon (top right) and choose Settings.
- Scroll to Manage Games.
- Find Fortnite and toggle on Auto-Update.
- If you don’t see the option, right-click Fortnite in the launcher and enable Auto-Update.
Note: Keeping the Epic Games Launcher running helps ensure automatic updates.
macOS
- Launch the Epic Games Launcher.
- Open Settings from the sidebar.
- Under Manage Games, find Fortnite.
- Toggle on Auto-Update.
This ensures the launcher will update Fortnite when new patches roll out.
How to Increase Fortnite Update Speed
Large Fortnite updates can take time, especially with slower internet connections. Here are tips to help increase the download speed:
Use a Wired Connection: While Wi-Fi is convenient, a wired Ethernet connection is faster and more stable. Plug your device directly into the router to reduce download times.
Pause Other Downloads: Limit heavy internet usage on other devices to free up bandwidth.
Close Background Applications: On PC, close programs that use the internet or system resources to prioritize Fortnite updates.
Restart Your Router: Rebooting your modem or router can improve speed and resolve IP configuration issues.
Change DNS Settings: Use gaming-friendly DNS like Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222) to improve download speeds.
- Windows: Network & Internet Settings > Change Adapter Options > Right-click your connection > Properties > IPv4 > Properties > Set DNS.
- Mac: System Preferences > Network > Advanced > DNS > Add 8.8.8.8.
Update During Off-Peak Hours – Download updates when fewer users are online, such as late at night or early morning.
Following these tips can help you update Fortnite faster and get back into the game quickly.
Note: If you’re in countries with restricted networks, like China, Fortnite may update slowly. Using a reliable VPN (LightningX VPN) can help improve connectivity.
Final Thoughts
Keeping Fortnite updated is essential for enjoying the latest features and improvements. Whether you’re on PS5, PS4, Mac, or Windows, the process is relatively simple once you know what to do. Always check your settings for automatic updates to avoid delays, but if manual updates are necessary, you now know how to handle them.
