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Why is my terminal slow? (Fixing 4-5 minute transaction delays)

Melissa Good avatar
Written by Melissa Good
Updated over 2 weeks ago

A slow terminal can cause long lines and frustrated customers. If your Adyen terminal is taking several minutes to process a transaction, it is usually because the device is "behind" on its required software updates.

Follow this quick guide to get your speeds back to normal.


πŸ›  The Quick Fix: Manual Update

Adyen terminals need the latest security and performance software to communicate quickly with banks. If your terminal has been powered off for a few days, it may have missed an update.

  1. Open the Menu: Press the number 9 and then the Green button on your terminal keypad.

  2. Enter Passcode: Enter your admin passcode (If you don't know it, please contact Valpay Support).

  3. Check for Software: Select Software β†’ Update.

  4. Be Patient: If an update is found, the terminal will download and install it. This may take 10-15 minutes. Do not unplug the terminal during this process!


πŸ“Ά Check Your "Pulse" (Connection Test)

If your software is up to date but still slow, your internet might be the culprit.

  1. Press 9 + Green button.

  2. Select Diagnostics β†’ Network Test.

  3. If any part of the test says "Failed," try restarting your internet router or checking your Ethernet/Wi-Fi connection.


πŸ’‘ How to prevent this in the future

The "Overnight" Rule: To keep your terminal running at top speed, never turn it off at night. Your terminal is programmed to perform a "Maintenance Call" in the early morning hours (usually around 3:00 AM - 6:00 AM). During this time, it automatically downloads security patches and speed improvements. If the terminal is powered down, it misses these updates, which causes it to lag during your busy business hours.


Still running slow?

If you’ve updated the software and your internet is strong, but transactions are still dragging, we want to help.

  • Chat with us: Click the blue bubble in your Valpay dashboard.

  • Email us: Reach out to your dedicated level 1 support line.


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