eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications company, has recorded the highest level of peak daily broadband traffic seen on its network this year, as gamers across Ireland download Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) ahead of its official launch on 19 November.
The advance download drove traffic 22% above typical daily levels and made 10 November the busiest day ever on eir’s broadband network. Demand exceeded even Christmas Day, typically one of the busiest days of the year for home broadband usage. Between midnight and 8am on Tuesday, traffic surged by 45% against the same day and time the previous week.
Gamers across Ireland have been rushing to download GTA VI since pre-loading opened on Monday night, ensuring they are ready to play when it launches next Thursday. At around 210GB, one of the biggest console games ever, downloading GTA VI is comparable to downloading almost 100 HD television episodes. The surge drove an immediate and sustained increase in traffic across eir’s fixed broadband network, demonstrating the importance of fast, reliable broadband when major digital events place exceptional demand on household connections.
The extraordinary level of demand reflects both the anticipation surrounding GTA VI and the significant size of modern game downloads. With thousands of players downloading the same title within a concentrated period, major gaming releases are now creating data peaks comparable with some of Ireland’s biggest sporting and entertainment events.
Fergal McCann, Chief Technology Officer, eir, said: “GTA VI is already making its mark on Ireland’s network, more than a week before anyone can play it. From the moment downloads opened on Monday night, traffic rose sharply and remained elevated, peaking at 22% above a typical Tuesday. Major gaming releases now create extraordinary, concentrated demand, with thousands of people downloading some of the world’s largest files at the same time.
eir’s continued investment in technology, capacity and resilience ensures our network can manage these exceptional peaks while maintaining a reliable experience for customers working, streaming and staying connected. We expect another significant surge on 19 November as players begin gaming and sharing content. Our network is ready, reflecting eir’s purpose to connect for a better Ireland by investing ahead of the country’s growing digital needs.”
Gaming launches are particularly demanding because large downloads can begin simultaneously across thousands of households. Unlike a sporting final or television event, the initial demand is driven by customers downloading exceptionally large files over a relatively short period. Players can prepare for launch day by completing the download in advance, checking that their console has sufficient storage and using a wired connection where possible for the most stable broadband experience.
eir expects network activity associated with GTA VI to rise again when the game becomes playable on 19 November. Further demand is anticipated as players launch the title, access any release-day updates, stream gameplay and share content online.