Your Shadow is a start button away! Although Shadow automates much of the setup process, it may be helpful to know whether there are any settings you should specify to your needs, such as how much bandwidth Shadow should use. To learn more about the settings Shadow has to offer, launch the Shadow application, then click the gear  icon and refer to our guidelines for each setting below.

 Info: Some settings in this article vary depending on your device's operating system and your version of Shadow.

Allocated Bandwidth

Shadow automatically launches a speed test to confirm your internet connection can support Shadow and how much of your internet's bandwidth Shadow can use. This is referred to as the Automatic setting. If you'd like to choose how much bandwidth Shadow should use, turn the Manual setting on.

We recommend using the Manual setting if you:

• would like Shadow to use less data (ideal for mobile networks), or
• feel decreasing your bandwidth will improve your experience

How high should my allocated bandwidth be?

If you'd like to configure your bandwidth manually, set Shadow's bandwidth approximately 10Mb/s less than your current download speeds. For example, if your download speeds are approximately 42Mb/s, Shadow's bandwidth should be set to 32Mb/s. You can test your download speed for help.

Test Your Connection

To test your connection speeds, select the data center closest to you, then run the test on your local device:

• New York
• Chicago
• Texas 
• California
• Paris

Low Bandwidth Mode

This setting is ideal for customers who have unstable download speeds that don't always meet or exceed 15Mb/s. If Shadow is slow or refuses to start, try turning on Low Bandwidth Mode. If issues persist or worsen, Low Bandwidth Mode may not be compatible with your device. Turn Low Bandwidth Mode off, then try decreasing your Allocated Bandwidth.

Fullscreen on Start

Turn this setting on to have Shadow stream to your full screen by default when it starts. You can still enter Shadow in fullscreen, windowed mode, or minimize the application whether this setting is on or off.

Automatic Shutdown

Have Shadow and Windows shut down whenever you close the application window. If this setting is turned off, Windows will continue to run, but will automatically hibernate after 90 minutes.

USB Peripherals

If you want Shadow to detect or enhance its compatibility with your mouse, keyboard, or other USB devices, turn on USB Peripherals (formerly known as USB over IP). Shadow may prompt you to install the latest drivers for your peripherals, if necessary.

After you've adjusted Shadow to your preferences, start your Shadow. For assistance, contact a Support Hero.

💡 Need help setting up Windows? See the difference between Ready to Play and Manual Configuration.